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General - Travel Agents 2010 

Hi Ted, Welcome Home!
I’m just wanting to let you know what a fabulous trip we had to Eduador. There was a few times that I just had to pinch myself to make sure I Wasn’t dreaming. Metropolitan Touring were incredible.  All of the staff we came across Couldn’t do enough for us. Alan was lovely.  He infected all of the group with his love of birds. Even the diehard non birdos were identifying and photographing as many birds as possible.  It added another dimension to the trip. It was also good for us to see touring through the eyes of someone who was new to it. Thanks again for allowing me the opportunity to travel to such a spectacular destination.  I will definitely be recommending it to everyone and will be taking a birding group back.
Kind regards
Carol McCarthy
Director
Harvey World Travel Drysdale, Leopold & Ocean Grove
Tel:  52511125   Fax: 52511126
carol.drysdale@harveyworld.com.au
May 2010

Dear Ted
I just wanted to send you a huge Thank You for inviting me and allowing me to participate in the Ecuador and Galapagos famil. I had an amazing time and learnt so much about this region and how things work. The trip was magic, the Galapagos exceeded my expectations, and the people we met on the way were wonderful. Metropolitan were fantastic and we met the famous Pancho who kept us entertained and very informed in the Galapagos. Alan was a credit to Contours and his passion for Ecuador is evident in the number of photos he took whilst there!!!
Thank you again and I look forward to sending more bookings your way hopefully in the near future.
Kind regards
Lauris White
Harvey World Travel
16 Bowra St
NAMBUCCA HEADS NSW 2448
Tel: 02 6568 6455
Fax: 02 6568 7017

Hello Alan,
It’s e-mails like this, that make all our efforts worthwhile, isn’t it?!
As being their BEST TRAVEL AGENT has been very reliant on your advise.
Thank you for making this great trip happen for them!
Have a lovely week!
Cheers,
Barbara O'Rourke
Manager/Owner
Gippsland Global Travel Company
71 Commercial Street
Korumburra Vic 3950
phone 61 3 5655 2655
fax 61 3 5655 2822

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General - 2010 

Dear Barbara,
We are surviving Cuba and really enjoying it. It is alot more adavanced that what we expected. The people are friendly and clean and also the streets. Everything has gone well so far and accommodation has been good. Much of Cuba is dry but we are in an Eco Village built by monies of UNESCO like many other projects it is a has been!!! We are quite enjoying the slow pace and meeting the people. Cuba is also very safe as there is severe pumishment for Crimes. Tomorrow we go to see the Tobacco Farms and Cigar Factory. We really enjoyed Trinidad and The Hotel was especially nice and the staff friendly. Not as busy as Havana. We have travelled on 6 lane divided highways with very little vehicles so unlike home. The locals cannot afford petrol and there is not much public transport. The Horse and Cart is often used. Just wanted to tell you we are okay and having fun in Cuba because we HAVE THE BEST TRAVEL AGENT!!!!!!. sent Postcard yesterday. and haven't seen Fidel yet He didn't meet us at the airport.!!!!! Even the locals don't know where he lives or if he is still alive.!!!
Had better close as I only have an hour on the Internet and have to email family.
Regards, Ian & Beris. April - 2010

Just received the new 2010 Travel brochure.
A fantastic publication full of colour , information and layers of expectation for those intending to visit Sth America or Mexico etc. The layout was so easy to read , with plenty of explanations and descriptive options to visit. Congrats on this compilation. Hopefully we can make it useful to intending friends , soon to become Contours clients.
Pauline and Mike - January 2010

Hi there Ted and Judy.
Thank you so much for the brochure. It has just wetted our appetites again for the trip. We intend to travel to South America in 2011. Please keep us in mind as we will definitely be with you if you are going. You can lock us in.  We want to do the 35 day South American trip or longer just so long as it takes in the jungle and the snow. Hope 2010 is successful for you and looking forward to catching up soon.
Carol and Alan - January 2010

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Group Departures 2009 

"Hi Jacqueline
Just a quick note to say how much we enjoyed the South America trip that you put together for us. It is a fascinating destination and we came away feeling much more knowledgeable about the area and with a great admiration for it's peoples and keen to go back again sometime. The itinerary worked very well for us and the local guides that were used were so fantastic - very well organised and knowledgeable - they added so much enjoyment to the trip. After being there we particularly enjoyed the gradual acclimatization to altitude that the itinerary allowed. Made Machu Picchu so much more enjoyable.
The only bad bit we had was getting into the airport at Rio and that was due to the weather which was well outside anyones control. So I think that counts as a very successful trip.
The Santa Cruz on Galapagos was a very good suggestion. It was very comfortable and the crew were great - they worked very hard to make the cruise enjoyable for us. The naturalists were excellent. We enjoyed Ecuador - that was a nice addition to the trip.  We also appreciated your warning about LAN and how they might try to ignore our international baggage entitlements. They certainly did try to charge us excess baggage but with your timely advice we stood our ground and "argued" with them for a while and then they agreed that we were entitled to the 2 x 23kg and all was good. It was much appreciated to be ready in advance for that.
And of course Ted & Judy - it was fantastic to have them join us for the latter half. They were great company and also helped oil the wheels of the trip. Once again thank you for your efforts in putting the trip together for us - you did a great job !  The Premium Economy (Business) class seats were certainly worth the money too - that was also a valuable piece of advice that helped to make the trip so enjoyable."
Owen & Fran; Contours Travel October Group Tour 2009

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Group Departures 2008 

“Just a quick note to let you know how much Pauline and I loved our South American Dream trip. It was all and more then we expected. Our congratulations to you and the company for the compilation of such an interesting and varied itinerary. Whilst we are all aware it was physically challenging at times, I believe that this aspect was part and parcel or the context of the demographics of the countries we visited.  The accommodation, facilities, meals offered etc were first class for such a broad cross section of third world civilisation. A major factor when travelling in so many modes of transport is the connections, transfers, pick up times etc being on time. This is where Contours Travel excelled. The organisation could not be questioned.
Another major factor was the splendid character and personalities of the guests on the tour. While Contours Travel can not individually select people to tour, the fabulous combination and jellying of those on the trip was a credit to you and your beautiful wife Judy, for your excellent companionship and attention to care which you both showed us unremittingly.
Thank you once again for the opportunity. It was the trip of a lifetime- one we certainly will not forget.”
Pauline & Mike, Ted & Judy’s Fully Escorted Tour 2008

"We would both like to thank you for the wonderful support you provided on our recent trip to South America. Your knowledge of the area and how to deal with the various day to day proceedings were certainly appreciated. The contacts you have made everything run smoothly and gave us extra insight into the people and customs. We learnt much about the "Incas" (!!) and their amazing feats. Different aspects of the trip appealed to each of us and the balance of history and natural experiences were wonderful. Richard and I especially appreciated the way you helped to join the group together, supported us all when sick, encouraged the sharing between the group and provided us all withlots of laughs. I think everyone on the trip mentioned the way the group got on together as the main highlight. We have had no hesitation in recommending your selves and the company to several others."
Helen & Richard, Ted & Judy's Fully Escorted Tour 2008

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Group Departures 2007 

We wish to take this opportunity in thanking Jaqueline for the manner she handled our many enquiries and itinerary for the group and for the interest she took in making sure that everything was perfect.
We have organised many groups to various parts of the world over our 45 years in Business and must say that Jaqueline is one of the best consultants we have ever dealt with and you as Managing Director of Contours can be proud as she is an asset to your organisation.
We shall have no hesitation in dealing with you again when the opportunity arises."
Guido, Manager Canale Travel, September 2007

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Group Departures 2005 

"Our group had a wonderful tour and some told us it was great value for money and all the operators were really excellent and sorted out any problems immediately. Two of my clients even told me I had undersold the destination and it was so much better than even we said.I like to hear that as while I am always enthusiastic it is always better if the experience exceeds expectations.They thought Machu Picchu was awesome and the glaciers bigger and better than Alaska. They found the Bolivians the most friendly of all countries visited! Those that extended to Rio while visiting the Statue of the Redeemer said it was in low cloud but the head kept suddenly appearing out of the mist in golden sunlight."
Malcolm, Diploma Travel, November 2005

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Independent Itineraries 2010 

Hi Alan,
I have recently completed a tour of Bolivia with your company, 3/6-12/6 and want to pass on my thanks for a wonderfully organised tour especially considering that I was travelling solo.
It can be a nervous time arriving in unknown places with limited language skills and it was such a relief when there were your people to meet me at destinations and organise tours and transfers etc. Everything ran like clockwork, your people were friendly, spoke excellent English, very knowledgeable and only to happy to pass on their knowledge.
I want to thank Alan Huyman in La Paz for a very informative tour of the city and for ensuring I made the bus and train to Uyuni. To Wilbur for the awesome tour of the Salt desert, the sensational 4wd trek to Potosoi through the most incredible landscape ( and his highly experienced driver who’s name I cannot recall ) and the scary but worthwhile tour through the mine in Potosoi.
I would also like to pass on thanks to the lady tour guide ( name escapes me ) in Sucre.
I was extremely impressed the way an issue was solved which could have been a real drama but due to the efficiency of all the people involved was sorted. On the day I was meant to leave Potosoi there was apparently a demonstration(?) near Sucre that was preventing transport entering the city, but in a nutshell another nights stay  was organised and the bus organised for the next day and when I arrived in Sucre my guide was there to meet me. All I missed out on was extra time in Sucre, a shame but I got there.
The accommodation was good everywhere, better then I expected although Potosoi was extremely noisy and the Hostel Naira in La Paz had no heating in the room. Apart form that I cannot fault the trip.
Thanks to everyone involved, both here and in Bolivia.
Cheers Andrew M (June 2010)

Hi Alan,
Thank you for a wonderful holiday. Greg & I had an amazing time in Peru and we made it to Machu Picchu.
I thought you might like some feed back on the hotels and guides etc.
Puerto Montt- he was a very good driver/tour guide and informative.
The Cumbres Patagonicas Hotel was outstanding with a very good restaurant. Staff were very helpful.
 Bariloche- again we had a driver/tour guide and had a very good day tour.
Llao-Llao Hotel was very impressive. The room looked out onto the lake and surrounding mountains. A most stunning and breathtaking view. 
Buenos Aires - This time we had a driver and a separate tour guide. She was able to take us to places and continue the informative tour whilst the driver looked after the vehicle. The Tango Show was a highlight of Buenos Aires.
Mine Boutique Hotel - A very small hotel but had all that was required. A nice cafe style restaurant and small swimming pool. Comfortable rooms with a kettle to make your own tea/coffee. This is not found very often in overseas hotels. 
Cuzco - We again had a driver and separate tour guide. I highly recommend this agency. It was very well run with the manager keeping an eye on all the operations on site.
Villas Urubamba - What a lovely out of the way place of serenity. We had our own cook and housekeeper who didn't speak any English but was very helpful and a good cook. The villa had 2 ensuite queen sized bedrooms with an upstairs bunked area for children. I highly recommend this accommodation. It would be very hard to locate the accommodation if you where travelling there on your own. You drive off the main road and down a dirt road that winds around and through walled and gated residences for about 2kms. The driver tooted his horn and a gate swung open for the vehicle to enter Villas Urubamba. Urubamba was a very good starting place because of the lower altitude. We were able to acclimatize without altitude sickness, only headaches.
Machu Picchu Pueblo - A large hotel with rooms dotted through the forest so you were unaware of how many people were there. The restaurant was very good with an enormous number of staff. From what I could see this was the best hotel in town.
Monasterio Del Cuzco - What an amazing transformation from a monastery to an up market hotel facility.
We had the same tour guide for all our tours in Peru. A very talented man.
Hotel Santiago Park Plaza - A nice older style hotel with a very nice restaurant. The concierge was most helpful with places to go to and restaurants. He has been the best concierge I have come across in all my travels.
The trip was a great experience and Greg and I thank you for your expert assistance.
Kindest regards, Chris G. 2010

"I've been meaning to write to you but things have been hectic since we got back - writing thank you cards, getting back to work and unfortunately cleaning up after the storm!
Our honeymoon was absolutely fantastic. The only thing we would have liked different was the weather, but that can't be helped! We love hot weather and unfortunately the coldish weather followed us around.
Oaxaca was great. We loved the cooking course however it was more like a cooking demonstration. We just watched and didn't participate. That didn't bother us but thought we'd mention it in case you didn't realise. I would highly recommend it to other travellers though as the food was delicious and the lady who ran it was a Canadian that had lived in Mexico for 25 years after marrying a local. She was great at giving us tips on what to see in Oaxaca and where to eat. She actually does horse riding adventures as well. Neither of us have had any experience riding horses but we decided to do one anyway. It was a four hour horse ride through a protected biosphere and then it finished with a picnic lunch and a tour of the Yagul ruins. It was one of our favourite and most memorable experiences of the whole holiday.
The place we stayed in Mexico City (Condesa DF) was quite a nice hotel but the staff weren't fantastic. We had to leave the hotel for the airport at 4am one morning and because we had paid for breakfast (which was a serve yourself fruit, yoghurt, granola & variety of breads and pastries set up) we asked the evening before we left if we could just get a few sandwiches made to take in the morning instead. They said no so I asked if we could just have two plain breadrolls or a few slices of bread and they still said no so I wasn't very happy with that. Maybe I was just grumpy about having to get up early :-)
Lamanai Outpost Lodge was really cool. The food was amazing and the staff were great. It was absolutely freezing getting there on the boat and on the evening tours though - make sure people take warm clothes!!
Ambergris Caye was beautiful. We like to stay a little away from things so it was nice to stay out of San Pedro. The hotel had a few boats back and forth during the day that you could hop on for free but other than that there were two water taxi companies which meant there was basically a service every hour during the day and every half an hour at night until quite late - like 2am on Friday and Saturday. They cost about $10 USD pp one way. We did a snorkelling trip and the reef was absolutely beautiful, swimming with a sea turtle was another highlight of the trip! The Mata Chica was great and again the staff were lovely. The food and drink both at the resort and in town was more expensive than Mexico but still not as expensive as an Australian resort.
Anyway thank you again for everything. The trip was amazing and we definitely want to go back to explore more of South and Central America as soon as possible!
Kelly & James; February 2010

"I’ve been meaning to write to let you know how it’s going but was having trouble sending emails in Easter Island. The flights to Lima were pretty horrendous. The break in Santiago was good. Lima exceeded all of our expectations. It’s really nice how it is on a cliff overlooking the Pacific.
Condor Peru were exceptional (and I don’t often use that word when travelling). They were always where they were supposed to be, their buses were clean and their guides spoke good English and were knowledgeable. The most impressive thing was on our arrival in Lima at about midnight when we decided that we wanted to do a couple of ½ day tours, and the guide arranged them within the 30 minutes it took to get to our hotel.
The Amazon lodge was really nice, although very hot and humid. There was a bit of an issue with what we were going to get for the extra $100 we paid for New Years Eve dinner, but we got Louise to speak to the manager and we had free champagne all night and the prize position at the table. Cuzco was great (or Cous cous as Yvonne called it) and Machu Picchu exceeded all expectations. There have been a couple of people with tummy troubles or a little altitude sickness, but not a lot.
So in summary, a good trip. Well organised. Nothing really to complain about (except that Wendy is now a felon in Chile). Thanks a lot for all the organisation. Would you please also let Condor know how happy we were with their Peruvian operation."
Geoffrey, January 2010

I am forwarding this letter i sent to Marcella,for you to know what a wonderfu guide she is.She made our holiday in Buenos Aires,and you are very lucky to have her working for you.
All the tours and hotels you booked for us we couldn't fault. Thank you very much.I would certainly recommend you to anyone thinking of taking a holiday in South America.
Regards
Rosalind and Malcolm Jan 2010

Dear Jaqueline, we are back. The trip went well and we were delighted with your planning and organisation.
Rachel.K 2010

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Independent Itineraries 2009 

"What an unbelievable trip we had thanks to your planning and knowledge of South America. From our first glimpse of Buenos Aires to our last views of the glaciers it was all just so spectacular. There is no special place that stands out more than everything else except for Machu Picchu. This was very special for I had wanted to come here since my mum had visited in 1979 and her love of Ancient cultures had inspired my own desires to explore the land of the Incas. Our kids have been, Marc having walked the Inca trail in 2008 so it was the culmination of something very special as my mum had recently died and I felt her with me as we explored this awe inspiring land. Greg also ventured up to the Sun Gate.
I remember you telling me that the trip to the Salt Desert would be a highlight and it certainly was. I can’t believe what I saw the flamingos, the endless kms, not seeing another jeep, the train cemetery it was all like being transported back to another century. 
I think now that it certainly was adventurous and all that have seen our photo’s have commented on the isolation and desolation. These memories will be with us forever.
Our guides were wonderful .So informative, friendly and helpful.
The cruise, well it is hard to describe the scenery, the rides in the ice breakers, the soaring snow covered Andes, being moored in front of a glacier only brought more photo opportunities. Oh and the food was just great. And yes the final night dinner was for most a dressed up occasion.
Thank you again Heather, your insights gave us a trip that has made many of our friends want to go and we have certainly recommended you. I would also like to again thank you for checking out little things for me before we left."
Greg & Kathleen; September 2009

We have been home just over a week, and already it seems like we have never been away. Just wanted to let you know we had a fantastic holiday. All the hotels were really good, some were excellent. (nice surprise after a long flight) We got an upgrade at Aguas Calientes (not sure why) but it was beautiful there, and would have liked at least another day to enjoy it. Loved Machu Picchu and the train journey and scenery. Loved Cusco too, and no worries at all with security. Backtracking a bit, Keith and June weren't looking forward to the winery tour in Chile, but ended up thoroughly enjoying the day out, as did Murray and I. Absolutely stunning flying into Santiago.
Had our day tour in Lima, which was good and walked around the local area quite a bit, and went to a cabaret show there which was very entertaining.
Iguazu Falls was in flood and beautiful to see from both sides. Went on the boat trip which was very wet but great fun. Hotel and tourist guide (Eduardo) there was excellent. He looked after us and was very informative.
Onto Manaus and The Tucano, we all had a wonderful trip. It was full on, being woken at 5.30 am for a 2 hour excursion (either in canoe or through jungle). Then again at
10 am, 4 pm and sometimes at 8 pm again. The guides on the boat were very good and certainly knew their facts. The food was excellent, and except for a storm when the boat leaked and a few of us got wet beds very comfortable. We have been given a DVD by the company to pass onto you. It is very much a Bird Watchers paradise, all the others on the boat had binoculars, which we didn't, as as we travelled "carry on". Fished for and ate Piraha. Swam in the Rio Negro and saw lots of pink dolphins, caimans, sloth, monkeys, tarantula and of course lots of birds.
Our two weeks in Cumbuco was very relaxing after the boat trip, and then onto Rio De Janeiro which was all good except for the low cloud obscuring "Christ the Redeemer Statue" but went up the cable car to Sugarloaf.
We often commented during the trip, what a good job you had done with all the arrangements, as the hotels, tour companys and guides were excellent. The tourist company in Manaus did not meet our flight though due to being fogged in at Foz de Iguazu for 10 hours and being rerouted, but this was the only one.
So thank you Heather for the wonderful job you did for us and we have been recommending your company to people we have told about our trip.
Thanks again, and will drop the DVD in next time we are in Melbourne.
Diane & Murray; September 2009

Dear Ted and Heather and all in the office.
Just wanted to thank everyone in there for organizing the most fantastic trip. We made the best of every place we went, doing as much as we could fit in. I dont have a favourite place, i just loved it all. It was great the whole way through.
Flawless pickups and deliveries to airports. Nice accomodation in central locations. Great tours, tour leaders and drivers. Awesome destinations. Fantastic food. Can't ask for much else. Wish i had taken an empty suitcase, i had no idea the market shopping would be so enticing. Our suitcases were bulging at the end. Just wish we could have had more time to stay longer. Guess we will just have to return to see & enjoy the rest. Keep up the good work,
regards, Carol and Bill, August 2009

"Just wanted to say that Peru is truly amazing, it´s extremely hot and humid in Lima, Chiclayo and Trujillo. I cant wait to see Cusco and Machu picchu and get some relief from the heat.
As your probably aware I had a slight hip up with one of the hotels in Lima. Also my luggage got damaged while traveling to Chiclayo. The tour agency has contacted LAN airlines and have spoken to them. Hopefully I can have it repaired by Samsonite when I get back into Lima after Trujillo.
I took a tour of the city of Lima and visited the Cathedral, Museum and City Square of downtown Lima.
I have taken some incredible shoots. The files are too large to send via email so I show you when I get back to Melbourne.
The tour guides and my driver in Chiclayo and Trujillo are just great people, extremely professional. We connected straight away and we have had a ball during the last few days.
The Tucume Pyramids, Sipan Pyramids, Sun gate and Moon gate ruins were spectacular. Some places the site was only occupied by just myself and my guide. Talk about private tour. It doesn´t get more private than that.
I´m seeing the Chan Chan ruins today. It´s 6:28am local time. Off to have breakfast now, so I keep you posted..."
George, February 2009

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Independent Itineraries 2008 

"Where to start? Antarctica is so magnificent I have run out of superlatives. It is a wonderland, white with penguins strutting their stuff like little waiters on a pure white tablecloth. In many places we have seen seals lolling on ice floes like marvelous overstuffed sausages. Huge whales, but not many, it's too early, and no Orcas. Our friends have kayaked between great sheets of crushed ice, skied down impressive snowy slopes and mountain climbed, roped to go down impossible crags.
We have also had enormous fun on board with a great bunch of people. The captain was Russian and an absolute spunk. We dined a number of times at his table with a Russian couple who were great company. I've been invited to Russia for a big holiday. Wow!
The cabin was adequate for two dwarfs but we had fun. The shower was an experience, when the ship rolled we were flung around like a cork wrapped in the curtain. Water sloshed all over the floor needing to be cleaned straight away or you remained wet. A stick insect would have found it a tight squeeze.
It was really sad saying goodbye to all the wonderful friends we had made, but here we are in El Calafate. Today we have just returned from the Perito Merino glacier which was mind blowing. It's not just another glacier, it calved many times, an awesome sight."
Jan, December 2008

"We're back from our wonderful trip! We're so glad we used you to help us plan our holiday, as there is absolutely no way of imagining how expansive S America is or how difficult it can be to make choices and get from A to B until you actually get there.
So a BIG THANK YOU to you. It was fantastic to have a kind and helpful operator greeting us at every point. Wonderful."
Jan, October 2008

"I am writing this in appreciation of the wonderful and hassle free 6 weeks South American holiday organised for my wife and I by Jaqueline at Contours Travel. All facets of the holiday were co-ordinated and all we had to worry about was enjoying the magnificent sights and scenery . Hotels were all of a very good standard and some, such as the Hotel Patio Andaluz in Quito, became highlights in their own right.
All airport pick ups and transfers were on time and the local tour companies used were excellent.
Jaqueline was also most helpful in pointing out attractions we should see at various stops and she was even able to update our holiday while we were in South America, and advise us of the update via e-mail, delivered by the local tour operator.
We thoroughly recommend the services of Jaqueline and Contours Travel."
Leo and Elaine, October 2008

“John and I would like to pass on our sincere thanks and appreciation for your contribution to our fantastic holiday experience in South America. We were blessed with the most amazing opportunity to enjoy such a holiday as a result of your guidance and support. Thank you! We will always treasure the lifetime memories. Your professional and efficient service along with your attention to detail was most evident. We are most grateful. Many thanks and warmest wishes.”
John & Annette, September 2008

“Yes the trip was absolutely fantastic. Your choices of accommodation were all great and everything went very smoothly, we thought the itinerary was perfect. Apart from a couple of bouts of food poisoning (one on the Uyuni tour, one in BA) - we didn't have any dramas at all, and all your local operators were great to us, except that they forgot to pick us up at the airport in Santiago when we first arrived.
Our highlights were probably:
- New Years Eve on Copacabana Beach - our hotel was in a very convenient spot for that
- The Inca Trail – the local company did a great job on the trail
- The Uyuni tour
- The glacier trekking in El Chalten
We also did some great horse riding, white water rafting and kayaking in Bariloche and El Calafate which was really well done.
Thank you very much for your work in setting up the trip, it took out a lot of the unknowns and made travelling much easier. We met many people who thought our itinerary was clever, particularly things like staying at Ollantaytambo before the Inca trail and Aguas Calientes afterwards and how much we could pack into 2 months by going the way we did.”     
Heath, December 2008

First of all I would like to thank Contours Travel for all your advice and assistance in planning aspects of our trip to South America last year. I was also able to enjoy a chat with you where you kindly offered further advise, outside of tours that we had booked with you, and this proved very valuable - particularly when it came to cruising the Amazon. The Galapagos Islands was the main component of our travel was organised with Contours travel and was an unforgettable experience.
2008

"Hello. Just a quickie as we head of the Brazilian side this morning. Our flight back today has been cancelled so we are leaving earlier - no problem we just start earlier this morning and move faster. Feel as if we are just one step ahead of the posse thus far. We seem to just scrape by with our flight delays and changes. Thank goodness I don't have a large group is all I can say. Yesterday was great. Did the big walking day on the argentine side, and got soaked of course. Pls tell ted from contours how wonderful everyone is. Last year's guide saw me at the airport yesterday and recognized me after a year.
We couldn't survive here without contours - I already have stories of two lots of groups who did internet bookings for their supplementary arrangements which of course have been a disaster because we had to change everything."
Anne, February 2008

"We are back from our trip and we had a wonderful time. Just for your future bookings Colonia del Sacremento is like heaven and needs more nights whereas Colonia del Suisa has nothing to offer and should come off your itinerary. All accommodation was wonderful and representatives were great. Thank you for a memorable holiday."
Paul, January 2008

"Did not want another day to pass without telling you what a fantastic job you have done with our tour to date. Now in day 8 and just arrived into Puno and checked into the hotel. The itinerary you and Ted put together has been quite simply - brilliant! The standard of hotels above our expectations but you sure spoilt us in Machu Picchu -what an incredible hotel but the actual ruins etc currently the highlight of the trip to date. All the arrangements have been near perfect and the excellent service from your ground handlers to date - outstanding.
Please pass on our thanks to Ted as well. Tell him we just love S A and reckon heaps and heaps more Australians need to experience this place and I am going to help him to ensure they do!
Thanks again for everything to date."
John, January 2008

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Independent Itineraries 2007 

"Trying to obey your rules re drinking… BUT…you forgot to mention Pisco Sour!!! Mmmm!! Having wonderful time and loving Peru. No problems with altitude and we had the BEST guide… Juan… who knows and like Snr Ted. He knows EVERYTHING. We were thrilled to have him. I have lots of funny stories to tell!!! See you soon…"
Susan & Paul, December 2007

"I've just read the whole email to the girls in the office and we think your 'service' is fabulous. You may not realise it but we seem to just BATTLE with some of our wholesalers and it really does wear you down. We have had massive issues with some of them and they actually send back emails saying they will answer within 5 working days! So please pat yourselves on the back for providing a REAL service and those of us that struggle with some of the things we have to do every day really do appreciate it. You make us look good and I can't say that about too many of our 'preferred' wholesalers at the moment. Many thanks and we will think of Contours as often as we possibly can as regards to pushing business your way.
Many thanks."
Cyd B, Travel Consultant, December 2007

"Well what a wonderful trip we have had thanks to your excellent advice and planning.
We have kept a diary and are now up to day 93. We are in Temuco and have handed the car back. No dramas with the driving. It has been a good few days. We enjoyed the freedom and it has helped us wind down ready for home. Our favourite places (not necessarily in order) were Cusco/Sacred Valley/ Machu Picchu, Patagonia/Southern Chile, Iguassu and the Amazon. We loved Brazil too.
Perhaps we can catch up with you sometime if its convenient. Just let us know. We will certainly be able to recommend you to our friends."
Regards, Laurie & Jo, November 2007

"I had lunch with the clients yesterday and found out what a wonderful time they had and that they are happily betrothed. I saw their Sandals Wedding Album which is beautiful and classily put together, such a wonderful keepsake.
I also saw tonnes of photos which has certainly increased my dreaming of getting to Jamaica myself one day.
Thank you again for all of your help and you couldn't ask for happier clients.
Have a Great Day!
Kind Regards"
Sharron, November 2007

"We are now 6 wks into our trip so have reached the half way mark. South America continues to delight and amaze. We've just spent a couple of days in Cusco, Peru one of the most important Inca cities set beautifully in a valley with some high mountain ranges with a population of 350,000 and an altitude of 3400metres!!!
2007

Our trip to the jungle to Manu Wildlife Centre in the Manu National Park was wonderful - the park is a world biosphere for the diversity of its wildlife species ensuring its protection.
Our time in Peru is almost at an end - it has been amazing - the life, the colour, the Inca influence overlaid with Spanish colonial architecture is fascinating. Machu Picchu was indescribable and we had to pinch ourselves to believe we were really there - we did the short version of the Inca trail - just one day and that was difficult enough with the altitude but very rewarding and MP itself is mystical and spiritual tucked away high in the clouds - a testament to the Incas who were certainly experts in architecture.
We go next into Bolivia and Lake Tititaca, the highest navigable lake in the world at 3800m and on the places we will be staying requires us to climb 200 steps which we'll be doing extremely slowly!!"
Val and Mike, October 2007

"Just a short note to let you know that we had a great time in both the West Indies and Cuba. While the West Indies part was superb, for me Cuba was really fascinating. As you specifically mentioned the lobster dinner in Trinidad (Cuba) at Vivian's was sensational!In fact we had 5 lobster meals in Cuba in the 6 days we were there! Thanks again for organizing everything so well."
Derek, May 2007

We travelled South America in 2007.
With blisters on blisters and altitiude sickness we hiked snow capped mountains.
We drove the lonely highways of the Atacama desert.
We caught piranha and swam in the waters of the steaming Amazon jungle.
And worked out with muscle bound freaks in the rusty gyms of Copacabana.
We rode a red rickshaw to the Bolivian frontier, watched an active volcanoe fill the skies in Ecuador, bought lingerie and religious statues in the same store and ate pizza topped with cherries.
We risked our lives to lay on a perfect hidden beach in Brasil.
We got caught up in parties, parades and protests...
And we photographed the whole lot...
2007

Thank you very much for your advice and assistance during the planning of our awesome holiday."
Gemma M, February 2007

"I just wanted to say thanks so very, very much for all of your efforts in putting our holiday together. We had the most amazing time in the Caribbean. Our hotel in Grenada was awesome. The hotel in Barbados was great also, not quite as flash as Grenada though. We loved Grenada the best of our destinations. Barbados is very touristy, and Andrew and I like to see how the locals live, not so much the tourists. We had no problems with any of our flights, transfers, and accommodation whatsoever. I thought I'd let you know that, as I'm sure you're always hearing about the bad things, rarely the good. All round, it was the most perfect holiday.
Again, Andrew and I really want to pass on our thanks and congratulations for the organisation of a holiday that we feel was simply the best."
Andrew and Nerissa C, May 2007

"We had a great trip. What a great country. From Playa del Carmen to Mexico City went pretty well. Had some adventures in Chichen Itza, Palenque and San Christobal; going to see the butterflies was fantastic, the Copper Canyon was amazing and the whale watching was a real highlight. Lots of things in between too - more ruins, amazing cultures, shopping, eating, drinking, chilling out, hanging out. It was really great.
We want to go back! Next time I think i'll just go to Bahia or the Yucatan or hang out in the centre instead of trying to do it all, but it was great to be able to see as much as we did. Thanks for all your help getting things organised."
Vanessa, February 2007

"We had a great holiday and everything went according to plan. Our accommodation right throughout the tour was excellent, especially Machu Picchu and Iguazu Falls. We had a nice Christmas at Cape Horn and it was nice and calm. New Years Eve at the Tango Show was also very nice and we enjoyed our three days in Buenos Aires. It was also nice to unwind in Iguazu Falls and we had a great time there.
Thank you Jaqueline for your efforts in organizing our tour we appreciate it very much."
Charles and Jenny, January 2007

We travelled South America in 2007. With blisters on blisters and altitiude sickness we hiked snow capped mountains. We drove the lonely highways of the . We caught piranha and swam in the waters of the steaming Amazon jungle. And worked out with muscle bound freaks in the rusty gyms of Copacabana. We rode a red rickshaw to the Bolivian frontier, watched an active volcanoe fill the skies in Ecuador, bought lingerie and religious statues in the same store and ate pizza topped with cherries. We risked our lives to lay on a perfect hidden beach in Brasil. We got caught up in parties, parades and protests... And we photographed the whole lot... 2007

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Independent Itineraries 2006 

"It was an excellent well planned trip. The hotels were good – the one in Quito not quite up to standard of others, the stairs were difficult with cases. Machu Picchu Pueblo was wonderful.
Local guides – I was impressed by their knowledge, enthusiasm, warmth and willingness to please us at all times. All were native Indian except Erich in Bolivia – he had everything but the warmth probably due to his Austrian background, but he was terrific otherwise. Lucy in Ecuador was lovely but the best was Willy in Peru. All bus drivers were good.
Time in the Amazon Valley was most interesting – the time in the bird hide to view the macaws was amazing. The long boat ride from Puerto Maldonado and back again a bit uncomfortable but bearable. I will not forget the sound of the howler monkeys!
The days in Peru with Willy were the best for me. The Inca history is concentrated over 500 years but so varied – his descriptions were excellent. Mach Picchu was probably the highlight as that is what I went for. The salt pools and concentric terraces in the Sacred Valley were amazing.
I admit I was furious at missing the plane at Lima – one always takes note of the time on the ticket! However it all worked out in the end and apart from back-tracking a couple of times we did not miss out – thanks to Lyn on behalf of us. There were other times when things did not go according to plan but one must expect that in the type of countries we were in and one has to be patient. I thought the occasional outburst from some people was unwarranted.
The INKA EXPRESS bus from Cuzco to Puno was an excellent alternative to the Andean Explorer. The driver and the host Manuel got us through the very sticky situations – something to talk about over dinner parties!
Lake Titicaca was an eye opener with its size, Uros Island, Taquile Island and then Sun and Moon Island on the Bolivian side.
Spectacular views of the Andes from the plane as we flew will not be forgotten, but the plane trip from La Paz to Arica en route to Santiago was very scary. Also the economy seating in domestic flights in South America is VERY cramped.
I was impressed with the attention given by you and the local companies to my friends G. and V. Obviously they were so disappointed but we all came home together which was good.
Thanks again and I have already given your name to people who have not yet been to South America."
P Powell, July 2006

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Independent Itineraries 2005 

"Thankyou Contours for an excellent job of putting together a wonderful 5-week holiday for us commencing in far southern Patagonia and proceeding generally northward in the spectacular Andean mountain and lake country of Argentina and Chile and up to the Atacama desert in far northern Chile. A few days on Easter Island on our way home to Australia completed a most enjoyable trip during which all arrangements for plane, boat and bus travel and for accommodation, transfers, tours and local guides could not have worked out more smoothly. We were extremely impressed by the competence, friendliness and helpfulness of all who made our experiences so memorable."
J and T Parsons, April 2005

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Independent Itineraries 2004 

"Just a quick message to say thank you to Contours - Tiffany in particular, for the wonderful itineraries you produced for our people who extended for pre/post touring in conjunction with our recent cruise tour to South America. ...Tiffany managed to come up with something, which satisfied everyone. Without exception, people have been very complimentary about the places they visited, and the infrastructure. They have also been really complimentary about the various ground operators, who in several cases, were called on to provide services "above and beyond", especially in Quito, from where our clients had to fly home because of illness. Thank you once again for such expert advice, and great service."
A Rogers, Wings Away Travel, Mar 2004

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Independent Itineraries 2003 

"Congratulations to Ted and Nancy. This trip has gone like clockwork. Easter Island lived up to expectations and more. The Copper Canyon - splendid in all its grandeur. Mexico City - vibrant and fun. The rest of the trip has been fun and exciting. Hotels have been good and most well located."
J & R Brickwell, March 2003

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Independent Itineraries 2002 

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Independent Itineraries 2001 

"Again this time...As was the case in 1992, no matter what time we arrived on a flight there was always somebody to meet us, as planned. Such reliability is to be commended and made a huge difference to our enjoyment of our holiday. Your recommendation of hotels in all places was excellent. All were centrally located, clean and comfortable. Your professionalism and high-quality service will make it easy for me to recommend you to anybody I come across who is planning a trip to South America."
D. Augee, June 2001

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Independent Itineraries 2000 

"...For a step back in to Spanish Colonial times a must to see is Hacienda Pinsaqui (Ecuador). A night's stay here with good food, and the entertainment provided ... is really worthwhile. You are treated as VIP's as people like Simon Bolivar was who slept here at this hacienda a century ago...Machu Picchu... could almost be called 'the eighth wonder' of the world and is a photographer's dream."
B. Rennison, September 2000

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Independent Itineraries 1999 

"I have just gone though the final documentation for my clients ... for their trip to South America and only one word comes to mind -CONGRATULATIONS! I have been a retail travel consultant for 12 years now and I can honestly say that your documentation far out weighs any that I have seen from other wholesalers, South America or otherwise."
S. Harrison, November 1999

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Independent Itineraries 1995 

"My husband and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate your firm on the wonderful Mundo Maya tour that you have made through Mexico, Guatemala and Belize...We have just come back from 31 days of fascinating pleasure. You have done an excellent job of blending together the ruins, city and water excursions...The hotels and tour representatives were of a very high standard and we thank you for the obvious care and though that have gone into planning such a trip."
J & L Sellers, January 1995

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Independent Itineraries 1993 

"Thanks for arranging our wonderful South American tour - we had a marvellous time, and can only look forward to the next time we may be lucky enough to visit the continent again...I should say that every transfer, no matter how early or late, was carried out on time, by friendly, competent guides. Our forward flights were always confirmed and in most cases the guide would check in our luggage and attend to seat allocations, and payment of departure tax on our behalf - we were quite spoiled in that regard!... it was good to see that Rio streets are not quite as dangerous as they were. Although (our guide) advised us not to wear any jewellery and to be aware of pick-pockets, we found we could walk quite safely along Copacabana Beach esplanade any time from 6 in the morning to 11 at night, along with many thousands of others - locals and tourists; we didn't feel the least bit threatened."
D. Toomey, October 1993

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Independent Itineraries 1990 

"Machu Picchu - this was indeed the number one highlight of the tour. The best thing you did for us was to arrange that we stay overnight. People who took a day trip were generally disappointed as they got three hours at the most to see the ruins."
B. Case, 1990

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Independent Itineraries 1986 

"The Cusco 10 day trip was magnificent and so much better than any other tour company offered. Overnight at Machu Picchu and Urubamba are definite musts! ... Ted, Bariloche was the best piece of advice you could have given me. The hotel is perfect and the scenery stunning. A great way to end a first class trip."
Jill, June 1986

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Independent Itineraries 1975 

"Ted, great overland trip! Your bus broke down in the most interesting places"
R. Lumsden, July 1975

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