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Hi Veronica,

My mom and I had such an amazing time on the Fragata Yacht! We both loved getting to see the Galapagos Islands and the itinerary was great! Thank you so much for all of your help in organizing a great trip. We are both hoping to come back some time soon and that you will be available to help us then with another great trip.

Thank you again,

Rachel Welt & Virginia Raymond
USA, August 2010
Traveled on the FRAGATA

Paola

Julie and I just wanted to say THANKS and that we had a great time on the Sagitta in August.  Pepe the captain and Alejandro (Alex) the guide were fantastic and the whole experience was very special - thanks for your help getting these plans in order for us!

Let us know if you need a picture or two!!

Mark and Julie
UK/USA, August 2010
Traveled on the SAGITTA

Hi Lilian

Just a quick note to say we had a fantastic time on our trip…the boat was excellent (good food and crew) and everything worked out well…thanks also for trying to help us reorganize things when I got hurt in Quito…it turned out OK and we didn’t have to miss anything on the trip (though no snorkeling for me).

Thank you for all your help in organizing everything. I will be recommending you to anyone going to the Galapagos in the future as you were very helpful and incredibly prompt in your responses to all my inquiries.

Melanie Johnson
Canada, August 2010
Traveled on the MONSERRAT

Thanks Veronica

The cruise was wonderful. I had a really great experience on the Golondrina. The crew, food and everything was really good. I had a fantastically sweet guide and overall really enjoyed it. Unfortunately, it's very very easy to get sea sick but I suppose when you are in rough seas that's possible anywhere. If you have clients that get motion sickness easily, they should definitely choose a larger boat! Aside from that, I was very happy with my choice. Thank you!

Thanks

Charina Cruz
Canada, August 2010
Traveled on the GOLONDRINA

Dear Veronica,

Our family had a great time on the Odyssey. Our guide (Tatiana) and crew were very professional and knowledgeable, and even adapted quickly when our flight to the islands was delayed by several hours. Everything went smoothly and our days on the boat were the highlight of our visit to Ecuador.

Thanks again for all your help organizing the trip.

Best regards,

Mather´s Family

U.S.A., July- August 2010
Traveled on the ODYSSEY

Hi Paola

Thank you so much for helping Kieran and I arrange a wonderful 5 day trip to Galapagos on Anahi.  On day 1, we were already wondering why we didn't book an 8 day trip.  It was truly amazing.

The purpose of my email is to ask if it's any possibility that you may have the email address of our guide, Roberto on Anahi?  He was a fantastic, fantastic guide, and he took a few pictures of Kieran and I that I'd really like to see if he would mind sending us.

Let me know if you can help!

Thanks so much,

Lesley Boze
U.S.A, Jun, 2010
Traveled on the Anahi

Hello Paola,

I wanted to send you a quick note to thank you so much for your assistance with our trip. We were so pleased with everything! Our accommodations were superb. The food was fabulous. The staff at the hotels, restaurants, and cruise ship were top notch. This trip was very special, as it was our honeymoon. We just couldn't be more happy with our experience. We were especially pleased to see our kind driver waiting for our arrival at the airport in Quito at 3:30am! We were so late we weren't sure if he'd be there, but he was.

Thank you so much for making the planning process so easy. I will highly recommend your service to anyone that asks about traveling to the Galapagos.

All the best to you.

Amanda & Douglas Galuszka

U.S.A., July 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

Hello Lilian,

We would like to thank and congratulate your service and cruise! Everything was very good! We are very happy! And, of course, will post here in Brazil! The tours, staff, accommodation, food, everything was great!

Thank you for everything!

Best regards,

Mariane Rodrigues & Luiz Falcone

Brazil, July 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

Hello again Olga,

I would like to thank you very much and let you know that we had a fabulous time in the Galapagos.

The Archipel was a fantastic catamaran and the crew were fabulous.The Galapagos islands are a true paradise, thank you again,

kind regards

Sandra Neimanis

Hi Maria Elena,

Everything you organized in Ecuador and Peru worked out great!

We had a very nice and enthusiastic tour of Guayaquil and terrific service on the Coral II.  There were only 8 passengers, including us, all of whom got along very well together and our naturalist was both knowledgeable and took his job very seriously.   The captain and crew were also excellent. And all of this was combined with gentle seas and remarkable weather – it rained gently only as we returned to the airport to fly back to Guayaquil.  Perhaps the Galapagos Islands were shedding tears for our departure?  We will certainly recommend you to our friends whenever we have a chance.

Saludos Cordiales,

Neville Connell

U.S.A., Jun 2010
Traveled on the CORAL II

Hi Olga,

We have been back home for several weeks now and I just wanted to let you know how wonderful our trip to Ecuador was. The time we spent in the Galapagos Islands could not have been better! The hostel Mainao was was absolutely charming, we loved it, and the people at Scuba Iguana were so nice and helpful. The boat for our Galapagos cruise, the Beluga was perfect! I would highly recommend it to anyone. Our guide on the boat, named Darwin, was very knowledgable about the islands, the marine life and the wildlife. He really made the trip fun. The time we spent in the cloud forest was also a lot of fun.

Thank you for all your help in making arrangements and for your good suggestions. We all agreed it was the best family vacation we have ever taken!

Best regards,

Mary Kellogg

U.S.A., May 2010
Traveled on the BELUGA and stayed at DANN CARLTON in Quito, MAINAO HOTEL in Galapagos  and BELLAVISTA in Mindo.

Lorena:

We want to thank you for the perfect arrangements and our Excellent trip. All activities related to the Galapagos and La Pinta were perfect. The boat, the crew, the naturalists, the accommodations and food and especially all of the daily activities were great. We thoroughly enjoyed everything.

In Quito, Ivan was excellent. He was especially resourceful on the day that the access to Otavalo was blocked. We enjoyed the morning market and our trip to Cotapaxi, which also was difficult to access. A high point was our good fortune to see condors flying in the parkland.

Thanks for everything.

Richard Sobel and Leticia Mendoza-Sobel

U.S.A., May 2010
Traveled on the LA PINTA

Good morning.

This was a fantastic trip. Both Peru and Galapagos were better than we anticipated.

We were greeted at each place by very accommodating people. In Peru: The hotel was a five star hotel in the middle of the city, close to all attractions, we did 3 days of visits, very good.

Galapagos: Also fantastic, great boat, just the right size, very kind and qualified tour guide. We visited 1 island per day and it was great. Plenty of snorkeling with fish, see lions, pinguins… Food was delicious. The crew was very discreet yet very courteous. We have great pictures, but I need to cleanup a few. I always take a lot.

Thank you very much for the help with the passports, it was a close call and it all worked out. We really appreciate your service and if you could recommend other destinations we would certainly consider doing business with you.

Thank you very much for all the organization, coordination and help.

Cindy Walsh & Claude Vigeant

Canada, May 2010
Traveled on the ODYSSEY and PERU

Hi Paola,

We are back in Italy after our trip in Ecuador and Galapagos.

Everything was perfect and we enjoyed very much during our cruise on Seaman. This catamaran was really a good suggestion from your side , we thank you very much for all and we hope to hear you again in the future.

Many regards,

Ciao,

Mario

Italy, May 2010
Traveled on the SEAMAN ii

Dear Maria Elena,

Once again we want to thank you for your perfect organisation of our Galapagos trip. We enjoyed every minute, everything (transfer, accomodation, cruise) was perfect. We never expected to have such a wonderful time!

For sure we will recommend you to everyone we know who wants to go to Galapagos / Ecuador.

Kind regards

Doris + Gunter

Austria, April 2010
Traveled on the SEAMAn ii

Olga

I just thought I'd thank you for your help in booking our Galapagos trip.

We had a wonderful time and everything went very smoothly. We had a great time, and the boat and guide were very good.

We couldn't have done it without your help, so thanks again.

Kind regards

Anton Trixl

New Zeland, April/May 2010
Traveled on the EDEN

Salo,

We had a great time. everything went off without a hitch!! it is not often you can write a letter that has NO items that can be improved!! thanks for all your help!

Harold and Vivian Hyman

U.S.A., April 2010
Traveled on the GALAPAGOS LEGEND

Hi Mr. Haugan,

We met briefly on board Athala last week. We enjoyed our trip immensely and wrote a highly favorable review for Tripadvisor.

Everyone on the boat were fantastic. Harry was the ultimate naturalist and guide. Great food, family atmosphere, etc.

What I didn't mention is how great your "on land" staff are. Lorena Alulema made our trip appear effortless on our part. She is a loyal employee and one you should be proud of. All questions were answered promptly and accurately. She is a fine representative for your services.

Richard, our driver, was a fine guide and an ambassador for Quito. We liked him very much.

You have a great company and we will recommend you to others unequivocally.

Best regards,

Jeff Carey

U.S.A., April 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

Dear Lore,

I just wanted to thank you for all your help in planning our vacation to Quito & the Galapagos. All the arrangements were perfect. The Relicario del Carmen was an ideal place for us to stay. Pamela, our guide, was fantastic. I would highly recommend her services. When we return ( I hope next year) we will ask for her again. The Archipel II was everything we hoped for on our Galapagos portion of the trip. The room was comfortable, the food good & the crew very friendly. We only wish that we had taken the 8 day trip rather than the five day. You planned a PERFECT trip.

Lynn & Terry LaRue
U.S.A., April 2010
Traveled on the Archipel II

Hi Lilian

Been meaning to write - we had the most fantastic time in Ecuador! What a lovely country it is!

All your arrangements worked out beautifully. The guides (Jorge on Athala 2, Hairo at the Tapir Lodge and Evan on the drive to Cuenca) were absolutely excellent- extremely professional and very easy to get along with. Please pass our compliments on to those you know.

Athala 2 was fantastic - the food the cabins the crew (and of course the weather and the wildlife!)

Thank you so much for all your help arranging our holiday of a lifetime.

Heather McNamee

Australia, March 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

Hi Olga,

Our trip went very, very well. All the travel arrangements went smoothly and no connections were missed. The boat and the crew were exceptional, and the islands themselves were beyond words. Hopefully we can come back sometime. Thanks for your help with all the details. Do you also offer trips to the jungle or the mountains in Ecuador?

Thanks,

James Ebaugh
USA, March 2010
Traveled on the Archipel I

Cristina,

My husband and I each thoroughly enjoyed our vacation in Ecuador (Mar 25 - Mar 31). The accommodations in Quito, at the Galapagos Safari Camp, and aboard the Athala were all excellent. The transfers and guides throughout our travels made everything work out perfectly.

Prior to our travel, we were very excited for our trip to the Galapagos Islands. But, the trip surpassed our expectations. We were continually impressed with the fine customer service, the attention to details, and everything else.

I would personally like to thank you for your assistance with the arrangements. I would highly recommend this trip and your assistance in arranging to others.

Thanks so much!

Sincerely,

Linda Burchell

U.S.A., March 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

Muy buenos dias Olga,

I have arrived back home, and I just wanted you to know, how much I enjoyed this (very short) trip.

I had a little scare when the Miami-Quito flight had to divert to GYE because of rain/winds at Quito, but after 2 hours in GYE, we left again for Quito and landed safely.

The hotel was fine, and the Odyssey was a lovely ship with a good crew and excellent guide!

My only regret is that I took 4d/3n everybody else on the ship was on the 8d/7n tour, and consequently I missed out on seeing the huge land-turtles so maybe I have to come back another time.

I am also writing a full report to CAAQuebec who are planning a big group for 2011, and will also make for them a CD with all my pictures.

Thanks again for all your help and for making a dream come true !

Saludos muy cordiales desde Montreal

Wim Bless
Canada April 2009
Traveled on the Odyssey

Dear Salo,

We just got back from Peru yesterday and I have to say the highlight of our trip was Galapagos. Everything was perfect. Our guide Janet was excellent. The boat and staff were wonderful. The food was great. We were well taken care of. I wouldn't change a thing. My girls loved it and so did my mother. She felt like she was well taken care of and she was.

Thanks you so much for all the work you did. It was a fabulous trip. I would highly recommend the Gallaxy boat and staff to anyone.

I would also recommend you as you were great getting back to me with all my questions.

Thanks so much.

Hey Maria,

Our Trip was absolutely wonderful and our guide Harry was absolutely amazing!!! I would recommend the trip and Harry to all our friends.

Cheers,

Rosa

Gracias

U.S.A., March 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA

Hi Maria,

Stacey and I are back in the States and already missing the Galapagos.

We just wanted to send you a note saying "muchas gracias" for all your help in making our honeymoon special! We both feel like it was picture-perfect, and we will have memories for a life time. Thank you for going above and beyond by checking in with us to make sure everything was OK during the trip. Also, thank you to you and your team for retrieving our lost bag before we could really miss it!

I am glad we arranged our honeymoon with you and we will not hesitate to recommend your company to everyone who will listen!

Muchas gracias!

Dear Maria Elena,

We couldn't have been more pleased with our Galapagos experience. From the moment we landed in Quito to our departure eight days later, everything was first rate. We appreciated the transfers from and to the airport. Our accommodations in the Swisshotel were lovely and the service was outstanding.

There aren't enough superlative in the English language to describe our Galapagos experience. Our naturalist guide, Juan Carlos was extremely well informed, very sociable, and a pleasure to be around. He has a detailed knowledge of the flora and fauna of the islands and enjoys sharing it. The entire crew on the Nina were accommodating, polite, efficient and worked hard to make out trip enjoyable. The food was superb and the staterooms were roomy and comfortable Of course, it goes without saying that the friendliness of the animals, birds, and fish helped to make our trip very special.

We appreciated the crew's attention to safety - we always had a panga nearby when we snorkeled, we always had our lifevests on when in the panga, helping hands assisted us when getting on and off the panga. Also, the captain purposely sailed earlier in the evening after hearing that many of us had trouble sleeping when the boat sailed through rougher seas at night.

Thank you, Maria Elena for setting everything up for us so beautifully.

Carolyn and Ben had a lovely stateroom with a king sized double bed for which they were most grateful. I apologize for the mix up about their room on April 4th. After you called I was not able to reach them, and they went ahead and made plans to stay at the Radisson.

We will recommend you to our friends and thank you again for a most memorable and enjoyable trip.

Lorena:

I just wanted to thank you for all your hard work in making our trip to the Galapagos so great. To arrive in Quito to see our names being held up was a great comfort.and everything from then on went so well. Our Guide the first day was really great, she did a really good job of introducing us the islands and giving us a great deal of information to think about.

The Safari camp was a real suprise. The owners were so congenial When they said "Let's go to your tent" I thought to myself "I'm sleeping in a tent". But what a tent. It was lovely and what a different experience! The chef there is really superb and the meals were all first class. My grandson could not stop hugging me as we went from there to daily snorkeling and explorations. He and I both had the vacation of a lifetime. The Athala 11 was just marvelous, the crew the food and the guide all made it the best ever.

If I am ever coming to your area again, I will definitely call you to book it for me.

A grateful and exhilarated customer.

Sheila and Luke

U.S.A., March 2010
Traveled on the ATHALA + SAFARI CAMP

Hello Cristina,

We are back from our trip and it was awesome!

Thank you for all of your help – you did a wonderful job!!! No dramas, everything went very smooth. I appreciate all the time and effort you took to get us the trip of a lifetime

Yours truly,

Joan Letendre
Canada March 2010
Traveled on ANGELITO plus hotels MAINAO y OPUNTIA plus plane flight

Dear Lorena,

We had a great time at your country. The cruise was full of activities and enjoyed very much. It's a wonderful to be there with animals and birds and I am admiring how Ecuadorian try to keep them as natural as they are and it works very well.

Kapawi is also a great experience in nature. When we were there there were only 4 Guests (included us), so everything seemed private (trecking, birdwaching,conoeing and meals, excellent ). We could feel we were in Amazon( Rio Pastaza) this time( comparing Manaus ;Jungle Lodge and Liberoster last year)

The third trip to Cuenca we were lucky to have nice clear days, mauntains are so beautiful and we could have some walkings at high attitude. Each places are impressine for me.

I am talking to my friends to visit Ecuador ! I would love to visit again if possible.

Thank you very much for your work.

Sincerely

Hiroko Terai
Japan January 2010
Traveled on GALAPAGOS EXPLORER plus KAPAWI

Hi Paola,

I just wanted to say Thank you so much for all of your help with planning our Galapagos vacation! What a great, amazing time we had, and we got engaged!!! I am so happy, I was so impressed with the service that was provided to us. Can not thank you enough!!!

Thanks again we will be sure to recommend you to all of our friends.

Wishing you all the best!

Kind regards,

Wendy
U.S.A. March 2009
Traveled on CORAL I

Hi Veronica

The trip was wonderful. The eden yacht was very comfortable, the crew very friendly and courteous, the guide very knowledgable.

It was a wonderful vacation!

thanks !

Vera
U.S.A. March 2009
Traveled on EDEN

Dear Maria Antonieta,

We would like to thank you for all your help and the great time that we had during our time in Ecuador. Especially the well organised cruise and Harry the guide was a real treat! We would also like to point out that the service at Santa Fé suites was outstanding!!

Otto unfortunately had an ear infection and Marie the owner of the Santa Fe Suites in Puerto Ayora was so kind to take as to the doctor and stay with us to help with translation. Excellent!

Kind regards,

Maribelle

Netherlands, March 2010
1 diving day
Traveled on the ATHALA

Hola e Yudo Bem!!

Olga, your services where EXCELLENT !!!  I am already think of a Jungle / Mountain tour in Ecuador and maybe a few days diving the Galapagoes !!!

Additionally I have been telling my friends about you and your services for a "worry free" Galapagoes tour !!!

I will always highly recommend you !!
Thcasu,

Steve

Andrea

Thank you, for all of your help in arranging my tour of the Galapagos Islands! I had great time. The people of the Tip Top Company were great.

I found myself visiting Ecuador on business. With just a few weeks of lead time I contacted the team at www.galapagosislands.com to make reservations. They came back with alternative cruises on ships that still had room. I selected the Tip Top II.  The team at www.galapagosislands.com delivered all of the information I needed to my hotel in Quito in a helpful package.  There was a contact person at the airport should someone have questions or need assistance. I did not. The English speaking tour guide was waiting at the airport in Baltra. Within a few minutes after landing at the airport I was aboard the Tip Top II and was given my cabin assignment.  The rest of the trip was touring the islands and snorkeling with all manor sea life. The Galapagos Islands are a magical place and the people of the Tip Top Company take you there in a most professional manor. It was the trip of a life time.

Again, thanks!

Stan
U.S.A., February 2010
Traveled on the Tip Top II

Dear Salo,

Since Wednesday we are back home and are still dreaming about our trip to the Galàpagos. Thank you for all what you did for us. Everything was well arranged and we loved it very much.

Best regards.

Dear Lilian,

Hola! Como estas?

I want to thank you for your help in organizing my trip to the Galapagos Islands.

Also the accommodations you arranged for me at the Swissotel, pick up service at the airport were great!!

Thank you again for all the help and hope all is well in Quito!!!

Mucho gracias!

Sincerely,

Hola Veronica,

Los buceos en Galapagos han estado muy bien, y la gente del club nos parecio estupenda. Lastima que la visibilidad en algunos sitios no fuese mejor. Se nos quedo un poco corto.

Respecto a la Peregrina, reune todo lo necesario y nos encontramos bien.

Y en relacion al crucero en el Rumba por las islas, fue bastante bueno. hubo un cambio de Rabida y Puerto Eggas por Isabela que acogimos de muy buen grado. El barco en general, perfecto si bien algun camarote muy estrecho y las duchas no iban, pero esto no fue mortal. La tripulacion muy maja y la comida bastante aceptable. Para mi gusto alguna excursion se hace excesivamente temprano, lo que limitaba la luz de cara a hacer buenas fotos asi lo hice saber en el cuestionario que pasaron al final. En resumen, creo que las islas y sus animales, son increiblemente preciosos y que lo pasamos bastante bien. Quien sabe, talvez para reperir en un futuro.

Gracias por todo

Jose Seiquer
Spain, February 2010
Traveled on the Rumba

Dear Lilian,

Only to inform you, that I am now back in Denmark. I want to thank you for the arrangements, which have been perfect in all respects.

I want to express, that both the guides at the Andes tours - Ivan and Alfredo - were very professional and gave a very good and friendly service.

Please give my best regards to both.

best regards

Kaj Aarup
Denmark, January 2010
Traveled on the Archipel II

Hi Salome

Just wanted to thank you very much for all your tour arrangements for us. We had a wonderful time. The Galapagos cruise was amazing. Our Naturalist Guide on the Athala was Javier Cando & he was certainly a wonderful source of information.

In our group of 16 people, there was one couple slightly older than us & 3 other couples traveling together (early to mid 40s) from California, one couple from Florida,  two couples who stayed only 4 days each and of course, Matt & Shiv Wolton (the newly-wed couple on their honeymoon from England). All in all, it was an extremely compatible group, who were game for anything.

The Sacha Lodge trip was also very good, with an excellent Naturalist as well as a Native guide. We were in a group of 5 - the other 3 people being slightly younger than us & all from England.

The accommodations @ the Swissotel, on the Athala & @ Sacha Lodge were all more than we expected.

If we find anyone interested in traveling to the Galapagos, we will be sure to give them your e-mail address.

Thanks again

Maria Elena,

Te mando unas fotos de la familia y te deseo todo lo mejor para el ano 2010.
Tambien queria agradecerte para la organizacion del viaje en las Galapagos, fue todo perfecto !

Aseguramente te mandare unos amigos en el futuro que van a querer hacer el mismo.

Un abrazo,

Alexis
France, December 2009
Traveled on the Seaman II

Hi Veronica

I arrived back today and have completed the form for you. Thank you once again for all of your help and support. We really appreciate it and will definitely recommend you to our friends that would like to visit Galapagos.

Thanks

Matt Callaghan
Australia+England Januray 10th-14th
Traveled on EDEN

Dear Lilian,

I wish you a very HAPPY NEW YEAR ! !

Thank you for your help in organizing my trip to Galapagos Islands. I enjoyed my trip very much. The catamaran NINA was excellent choice. The captain and the crew was very friendly and helpful to me and other guest.

Gabriela Salgado did excellent job organizing social happenings. She is very nice person, and very professional and able at her job. I think she is an asset to your company.

Estaban Chavez (Naturalist Guide) did very good job in explaining all about the nature on the Islands. Specially on the subject of the Darwin finches that is of great interest to me.

Please give my regards to them and all the crew.

Sincerely

Antonio Bucci
USA, November 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Maria Antonieta:

Thank you for all your support of the Diver/Wentz party who traveled on the Beagle from January 5th to January 12th and then had hotel stays in the Galapagos and Quito. They had an absolutely wonderful time. I really appreciate all your efforts on behalf of these clients. I hope I will have an opportunity to work with you again in the future.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Again, many thanks.

Debbie Chapman
Uniglobe Travel Partners LLC-January 5th to January 12th
Traveled on the beagle

Hi Salo,

I think it's me who should be thanking you.  If not for you I may have not been able to go to the Galapagos at all.

The trip turned out to be fantastic and my favorite part of Equador..  The amount of things I got to see and experience in 5 days was amazing.  Thanks again for all your help and I will be sure to recommen Galapagosislands.com to my friends and other travelers.

Best,

Stan Rodos
Canada, January 2010
Multisports adventure tour

Maria,

Check in was fast and we are now waiting for the plane to arrive from Madrid. Thank you again for your generous hospitality today and also for your impeccable organisation of our visit to Ecuador.

Best wishes

Roger Wingate
U.K. December/January 2010
Traveled on the Evolution

Maria Elena

Happy New Year!  Thanks for a wonderful trip.  Everything that you planned was perfectly scheduled and timed like clock-work.  Every single driver, tour guide, etc... was great and on time.  The cruise was terrific, the food great, the size of the boat was just right.  The sights were obviously spectacular- but I can't give you credit for that!  If you want any very specific feedback on any aspect of the trip please let me know.

I will be sure to give your info to anyone interested in a trip to the Galapagos, Ecuador or South America.

Best regards, Rob
U.S.A. December 2009
Traveled on the Evolution

Dear Juan

We got back safely on Sunday: 20 hours from door to door.  You made our experience in Ecuador an extremely enjoyable one and we have 1000s of vivid memories that will live with us forever. We had and have a wonderful impression of your country which you are largely responsible for. We learned a great deal from you and feel we did a lot without being overwhelmed by too much: just right.

So - thanks again and have a wonderful year 2010!

With all best wishes

Jennifer and Roger
United Kingdom, December 2009
Traveled on the Evolution

Hi Olga,

We hope you had a good Christmas with your family and are looking forward to the New Year.

The trip was great and went without a hitch, thank you. The Nina was lovely, just the right mix of relaxation and activity, good food and company. We especially liked the snorkeling.

We would recommend Ivan to anybody, he is reliable, friendly and very knowledgeable, we were sorry to be leaving him at the end of the trip.

Thanks for all your help in organising it all, we will recommend you to anyone we know planning a trip to Ecuador

Best Regards,

Hi Cristina,

We are back home and I wanted to write and thank you for arranging our wonderful trip.  All of the connections went smoothly and the service could not have been better.  The cruise was fantastic and I will recommend this trip to everyone.  Juan conducted our city tour of Quito and he was excellent.  Thanks again and I hope to work with you in the future.

Ken
U.S.A., December 2009
Traveled on the NINA

Dear Lilian

I am writing to say how much I enjoyed the the Galapagos cruise I booked
through your company. It was exactly as described, well actually more was
included than expected! All arrangement went smoothly, staff were extemely
professional and friendly, and the ship, Anahi, was better than described.

The Galapagos Islands really dont need comment, they speak for themselves!

I would also like to thank you personally. I know I changed my plans a
number of times but you were more than happy to accomodate each change,
and answer my many questions promptly (even from the airport on the
morning of the cruise!)

Anyway, you were a great help to make my trip extremely pleasant and
memorable. You, your company and the cruise will be highly recommended.

Many thanks again

Best regards

James Prideaux
United Kingdom, December, 2009
Traveled on the Anahi

Hi Veronica,

I have just got back to Australia after my wanderings.

The Galapagos trip was fantastic and the Galaxy yacht and crew wonderful. I loved every minute of the trip and had to be prised off at the end of my 8 days! I recommend the trip and the yacht thoroughly. I learnt a lot about the flora and fauna of the islands and about the formation of the islands, sea currents etc. The guides were knowledgable, fluent in English and fun. A great trip and your services also were excellent through the booking process and the information provided. Thank you!

Anne Jeffery
New Zeland, October 2009
Traveled on the GALAXY

Hi Veronica,

Just wanted to thank you so much for a fantastic trip. Our time on Galapagos was incredible. Thank you so much for your amazing service. I would highly recommend the Galaxy Yacht to anyone. The crew and boat were definitely first class. Our flight to Lima was on tme and it was our first time flying LAN and we were very impressed.

Thanks again for making all our bookings. I will be highly recommending you to anyone I know interested in Galapagos.

Natalie
Australia, December 2009
Traveled on the GALAXY

Hey Veronica.

The trip to Galapagos was very exciting and a memory for life.  Everything worked more then 100%, services, in both Guayaquil and Quito. We are specially fond of Archipell II and her staff and guide. We are very pleased with your work and help and we will glady recommend you to other swedish traveller.

Thank you fore everything

Hi Paola!

Robyn and I are finally back from our month long stay in South America, and just wanted to let you know that we had an AMAZING time in the Galapagos Islands!!! Thank you so much for helping us organize our cruise! We thoroughly enjoyed exploring all the islands and seeing all the unique animal species in their respective environments!!! Not to mention, the crew and staff on the boat were very friendly and made us feel quite at home! And the food was splendid as well!!! I will definitely send you a couple of photos of us once I get them organized!!! Thanks again for all of your help and hope all is well in Quito!!!

Best Regards,

~Nicole
U.S.A. October 2009
Traveled on the RUMBA

Maria Elena,

Many thanks for the effort that you put into our Quito-Galapagos trip.  It was superb in every aspect.  The first two full days in Quito, one spent with really excellent and charming driver-guide Fausto, couldn’t have been better, and the post-Galapagos Saturday night and full Sunday before the post-midnight Delta return flight, spent shopping, seeing churches and the stratospheric top of Telefonico, proved gratifying.  Explorer II with its very good accommodations, food, and absolutely superb and appropriately friendly guides made the island visits memorable.

The Hotel Patio Andaluz was perfectly located, beautiful, historically colorful, and with fine and extremely friendly and efficient service.

Dr. Burton L. Karson, Ms. Kay Poggi
U.S.A., November 2009
Traveled on the Explorer II

Veronica,

Thank you,
Constance Massey
U.S.A., November 2009
Traveled on the Santa Cruz

Hello Veronica,

The boat tour on the Galaxy was very good indeed!! All the crew was very nice and attentive, specially our guide Roberto.

We thank you very much for all and who knows someday we may visit Ecuador again!!

Best regards,

Paola

First of all I would like to say thank you for all your efforts in making
our Galapago's trip so successful. Our guide Walter was fantastic, the
Odyssey boat was beautiful and the crew of that boat was so incredibly nice
to all of us. On behalf of myself, Linda, Michelle, and Natalie - we thank
everyone involved. It was one of the highlights of our trip to Ecuador!

Take care
Dawn Baker
U.S. October 2009
Traveled on the Odyssey

Cristina,

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!!!

We had a wonderful trip!!! From the minute we walked into The Plaza Grande to the time we left we had an amazing time.

The Plaza Grande was a wonderful hotel and the staff was very friendly and Helpful.  The Nina was fantastic! The crew was great and our naturalist, Javier was the best. We saw and did so much! We really hated to see it end.

Our special dinner was a great way to end our vacation.

Michelle and I appreciate all you did for us. Everything was well planned and organized. We had a vacation we will never forget!

Veronica,

My trip was perfect!!!  I enjoyed the Nina and the crew sooooo much!  I would highly recommend this trip to anyone.  Quito was fine and the driver was particularily helpful and informative.

Thanks again for all the last minute help!!!

Cheers,

Christie
U.S. August 2009
Traveled on the NINA

Veronica,

The islands were great, certainly a once in a lifetime experience. I 
have taken many photos and saw sone amazing things. The boat Amigo was 
also a very nice experience with a very professional and friendly 
guide and crew.

Thanks again for your help.

Thanks again, and I would certainly recommend Columbus Travel to anyone interested in a journey south of the border.

Sincerely,

Mr. Freddy Nasevilla gave us a great tour for the remainder of the trip.  We appreciated his knowledge on so many topics, which helped us to learn so much more about the country.  The haciendas where we stayed were beautiful and really added to our overall experience.

Please pass along our thanks to both the Archipell owners and Freddy, and finally thanks to you for your overall organization and coordination of this successful family vacation.

Sincerely,
The Rossall Family
Canada, August 2009
Traveled on the Archipiel II

Dear Belen,

I wanted to thank you on behalf of my girlfriend and myself for the beautiful cruise we had on board of the yacht Eden a two weeks ago.

We expected a lot from this trip to the Galapagos Islands, and our expectations were exceeded! The crew was very very nice, and the service was great. The nature guide Morris was very knowledgeable!

Thanks to the flight changes we were able to fly to Guayaquil as we wanted, and thanks to your service, we got picked up again by a representative from your company. Thanks for that!

We will certainly recommend the "Eden" and your travel agency to friends and colleagues who want to travel to Ecuador.

Have a nice weekend and best regards,

Niels Batke & Kerstin Wieser
Germany, August 2009
Traveled on the Eden Yacht

Ivonne: We returned earlier this week from Galapagos, and I wanted to thank you for making all the arrangements. More importantly your kind courtesy in taking my phone call that night and arranging to send your man the next day to help us quickly take the Galapagos flight was very much appreciated. My entire family had a very good time. I have already sung your praises to many friends and family members. Hopefully you’ll hear from them shortly.

Best wishes

Regards,

Vijay Rangan

Dear Maria Elena,

HELLO! We all had a fabulous time, thanks to a perfectly planned , well thought out itinerary. i just wanted to thank you for all your help and endless emails! We appreciate it very much and will keep you in mind for friends who may be interested in traveling there in the future!

Gratefully,

Karen
USA, August 2009
Traveled on the ATHALA

Dear Maria Antonieta,

Just another word of thanks for arranging our wonderful trip to Ecuador. You understood just what I wanted in a trip and made perfect arrangements. I thought you might enjoy a few photos of our trip (the ones I just sent Juan).

With deep appreciation,

Hi Christian,

Thank you for your follow up email.

We too are sorry we didn't get to see you after our cruise. And like you, we were both ill with a cold on our return from the cruise. It didn't stop us from visiting any of the islands and seeing the wildlife, but it did stop us from snorkling a few times.

We had a great time with Santiago during the tour to Otavalo and the Quito cultural center tour.

Please keep Melanie's and my email to contact us if you are visiting the US. Melanie was serious about you visiting her in Palm Springs during the Grand Champions tennis tournament. You and your wife would have a wonderful visit with her.

Thank you again my friend for all you did for us to make our visit to Ecuador and the Galapagos so memorable. We all had a wonderful time.

Our best,

Bill, Melanie, John and Mary
USA, June/July 2009
Traveled on the NINA

Hi Christian

your service was PERFECT! Colombus travel, very good

Thanks Christian

Kristine
Norway, June 2009
Traveled on the Angelito

Dear Belen and Marie Antoinetta

Our family had an incredible time in the Galapagos, thoroughly enjoying our week on the Samba. The crew was friendly, the guide was very knowledgeable, the food was great, but the star of the show is truly the islands and the wildlife.

I would also like to thank you once again for all your efforts on our behalf regarding the last minute changes we had to make to our trip. I was a little hesitant booking with a non-North American travel company, but after our recent experience I would recommend Columbus Travel without hesitation to anyone planning a trip to Ecuador, Peru or the Galapagos.

Nori Frape
Canada, June 2009
Samba + Mindo

Olga

We're back from the Galapagos - it is magnificent! Everything was great, the boat, crew and guide, the islands are spectacular.

We had dinner at the Theatre restaurant, it was marvellous, unexpected and delicious!

We're now going to the jungle with high expectations.

Thank you very much

Ash & Gill
UK, June/July 2009
Traveled on the Eden Yacht

Sr. Washington del Pino

Con un fuerte abrazo y agradecimiento a todo el personal que han hecho posible mi viaje a Galápagos en compañía de mi padre así haciendo su sueño realidad.

Le comento que ya lo hicimos en la fecha del 19 al 26 de Mayo en el yate “catamarán” NINA.

Lo pasamos de maravilla, todo el personal era muy amable, la atención personalizada. Mi padre se sintió mimado en todo el grupo, les felicito de manera personal

Con el barco ni que decir estábamos tan cómodos, felices y defino en esta palabra que ese viaje fue ¡inolvidable!

Mil gracias, y estaremos en contacto.

Magaly Moscoso
Ecuador, Mayo 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Hello Ivonne,

First of all, I want to tell you what a fabulous trip we had to Ecuador.  Your country and people are wonderful and Pat and I enjoyed ourselves greatly.

Evan's guiding was also great.  He really helped us to understand the country and culture and was a great help.

Thank you again for all your help!

laura
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Hi Fernanda,

I am considering a volunteer excursion next spring in the Ecuadorian Amazon. If I end up being able to go, I will likely be in touch with Columbus Travel for a Machu Picchu extension. Hopefully I will be able to work it out next year; I would love to return to Ecuador.

Warmest regards,

Jenn Stone
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the Seaman

Veronica,

The trip was incredible. Everything from the boat to the cook to the guide was great. Thank you so much for a terrific experience.

Much thanks,

Ben
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the Golondrina

Hello Ivonne,

It seems like so long ago that we were in your beautiful country and the Galápagos, but it has only been about a month. How time flies!

This note is long overdue. For that, I truly apologize. Lynn and I want to extend out most sincere gratitude for creating what was a spectacular trip to Quito and the Galápagos Islands. From start to finish, we all had an absolutely terrific experience! Juan in Quito and Enrique in the Galápagos were superb guides.

The Hotel Dann Carlton was exceptional; thank you so much for suggesting we stay there. Everyone loved it. We were also very pleased with the boat. The crew on the Princess of the Galápagos was wonderful, as was the food they served—every meal and snack was delicious.

In short, there really aren’t enough superlatives we can use to describe how wonderful everything was. In fact, it was such an overwhelmingly positive experience, that we hope to offer the trip again. That being the case, we will definitely call upon you again to work with us. We have nothing but praise for you and Columbus Travel.

Best regards,

Anne L. Bizub & Lynn Gillie
USA, May 2009
Traveled on the Princess of Galapagos

Dear Elena,

It was nice to meet you in Quito. We are now back in Norway after a wonderful trip to Ecuador. The highlight was of course Galapagos. The boat, the crew, the guide, the food, everything was great. Thank you very much for all the help.

Best regards,

Geir
Norway, June 2009
Traveled on the Sagitta

Paola,

I just want to thank you for the excellent job you did in booking my trip on the Galapagos Odyssey - June 13 through June 22. All the arrangements went perfectly, with someone to meet me at every stop and no trouble with tickets or hotel rooms. The ship was outstanding.

I have recommended Columbus Travel to everyone on our cruise. Again thank you for arranging such a wonderful trip for me.

Renata Perlove
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the Odyssey

Hi Cristina,

About the nina:

It was a great ship. Nice staff. Large clean cabins. Good beds We had a knowlegdable guide and every day we went hiking or snorkling. So well arranged. For dinner we had soup, maincourse in buffet and dessert. So we got big!

We enjoyed every minute on the island ...in paradise.

Warm greetings

Henk and Claudia
Netherlands, June 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Hi Fernanda,

Thank you very much for all your help in planning our honeymoon - and also thanks for handling our change of plans so quickly. I'm feeling much better and we had a spectacular time in the galapagos!

All the best to you,

Marina
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the Eclipse

Olga;

My trip to Ecuador was fantastic and I really enjoyed all of the adventure. It was planned very well and I want to thank you for all your hard work and help to make this trip so wonderful for me. I hope to someday return to Ecuador to see more of the country and experience some more of this very beautiful and diverse country.

Thanks again for all your assisstance in planning and making this trip a reality.

Best regards

Robby
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the Archipel

Ivonne,

We had a wonderful time. Everyone was friendly. Food and Boat were great. Islands beautiful.

Scott White
USA, June 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Ivonne,

I've returned to Reno and dug through the paperwork that had accumulated. I wanted to take this opportunity to make a few comments.

First, you and Columbus travel did a great job. Thank you.

The Coral 1 also did a good job. I would be happy to recommend it to others considering a trip to the islands. We were also fortunate to have been assigned some really great guides. I came to understand the Park Service itself assigns the guides. We were lucky to have gotten a couple of their more senior people both of whom were assigned at the last minute - Victor Hugo and Jonathan Aguas S.

Thanks again.

Jerry
USA, May 2009
Traveled on the Coral

Hi Elena!

Thanks so much for organizing a great trip for my friends and I - we had a wonderful time and were very pleased with our experience on the Millenium!

Thanks!

Evelyne
USA, May 2009
Traveled on the Millenium

I am home safe and sound and I wanted to thank you for your help in planning our trip. It was absolutely incredible and everything went without any problems.

Thanks again.

Christine Thompson
USA, May 2009
Traveled on the Alta

Dear Olga,

I want to thank you for the most wonderful week - as the fabulous Guide Harry would say - "You are in Paradise---- The Galapagos Islands." The "Nina" was a beautiful boat, the crew were delightful pleasant and efficient. I might just have to steal your chef from you - the food was delicious fresh and far too tempting.

I had read a lot about the Islands but I was amazed delighted and surprised by the diversity, and also the difference from Island to Island. Harry was so knowledgeable about the marine and land animals, the birds and the volcanoes we were very lucky to have him. My son had the best time also and thank you for giving him five young girls to entertain!!! It was a very happy week and the rest of the passengers delightful I had a great time.

The hotel in Quito was delightful and tres chic, and the wonderful meal at Theatrum was an unexpected surprise Thank you for everything I will tell everybody

With kind regards

Susie and Dan Toomey
Australia, May 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Moi, moi!

Finally back home, but not for very long...since I'll be heading for Greece in a few days time. In between I've been working quite a lot, so I haven't got time to thank you and your collegues for your help and guidance on my trip to Galapagos.- It was truly amazing experience, thank you for making it true.

The ship/vessel Encantada was also a great choose, I really enjoyed my time there. Special thanks to crew and guide Juan, who took with a good humour care of our trip...it was a real blast. As my whole trip to south-America was very good experience, I've given your e-mail address to my collegues, should they be interested to come over. Summer has finally came over here, it's nice and warm, for few days atleast.

All my best to you and take care, yours Arwi.

Ari Rankinen
Finland, May 2009
Traveled on the Encantada

Hola Antonieta,

I wanted to send you a note earlier, but hustle and bustle of travelling and getting back into work was taking the time. I do apologise for that.

Main thing is we had a wonderful time going round Quito and of cause Galapagos. We want to turn round and go back. The boat 'Nina' was vary comfortable and all crew and guide were excellent. Also the group of travellers was nice and friendly and that made for good time. We were taken around some beautiful place with magic scenery and loveable animals. There were four snorkelling sessions, which gave us chance to admire underwater life - full of colourful fish, playful sea lions, even sharks and feeding iguanas. All will be lasting memory.

I want to thank you very much for arranging it for us, having patience with payments and all the questioning from me. You made it very friendly and comfortable for us. It also made us to yearn to return to Ecuador and explore more of its countryside.

Look after yourself and many regards.

Jaro and Majka Kolarik
UK, May 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Hello,

This letter is in response to the trip scheduled with your company on April 19, 2009. Please accept my sincere thanks for making the trip all that I expected and more! Our trip started with our departing flight being canceled which threw the whole schedule off immediately. Your company took charge of the situation and even though we arrived 12 hours later, we didn't miss a thing. You scheduled our tour of Quito at a convenient time regardless of our late arrival, we enjoyed a lovely late lunch and a wonderful dinner when we returned to Quito.

Your group made sure that we got what we paid for. The tour guide in Quito was excellent and tried very hard to get all the sightseeing in even though we got a late start. The person meeting us at the airport was punctual and efficient, and the Nina and all her staff were top of the line. Please pass this email along to everyone involved with my heartfelt thanks for making this such a wonderful trip.

Regards,

Susan Fox
USA, April 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Hi Christian,

The trip was great, the Swiss Hotel was super and the boat was good. The food was only fair on the boat, but the guide was excellent and a fun group of younger people. The transfer driver was great as well.

Thanks for your help, it went well!!

Nanci and Larry Steiner
USA, April 2009
Traveled on the Anahi

Elena:

Don't know if Helen was in touch with you, but I wanted you to know that we all loved out trip to Galapagos. Everything was great. The Nina and its crew, the guide and the food was superb. (I've tried cooking Ecudorian food since returning home, but not having much success.)

Also, I wanted you to know that we we were very happy with the service that your agency gave us. The arrangements you made for us at the the Finch Bay hotel, transport from the Nina and then later to the plane, were excellent. We wouldn't have changed anything. Also, of course, thanks for all the prompt communication prior to our trip and also when I was alone in Quito, during Helen's hectic time in Houston.

Elizabeth Phillips
USA, April 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Elena,

Just a short note to thank you very, very much for one of the most wonderful experiences. Everything was just perfect, professional and totally satisfying.

Three days, was just to short. What with swimming with dolphins, sealions and sharks and rays and massive schools of sardines and seeing the iguanas, finches, tortoises, seabirds and the very unique vegetation, it couldn't have been better. The crew and guides were great and the people on our cruise were a great mix.

Again, muchisimo gracias por un viaje extraordinario!!

Randy
USA, May 2009
Traveled on the Coral

Fernanda,

“The boat tour itself was excellent. The Nina is an excellent ship and the accommodations were fully satisfactory. The naturalist Javier was excellent for the group we had--a rather active group. So we had a lovely 7 days on the boat.”

Seymour Spilerman
USA, May 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Fernanda,

This is a long overdue note!

I wanted to let you know that we had a fantastic trip and that I was very impressed with how smoothly all the details worked out. You had everyone organized very well and there was always someone to meet us and take care of the details for us.

The hotels were great and the Coral II excellent as well. I particularly wanted to single out the lead naturalist on board, Lobo, who was just amazing. His knowledge and passion for sharing his knowledge was truly remarkable. We met some others later on the trip who had followed the same itinerary in a different boat, and in comparing notes, found that our experience was a superior one entirely due to the efforts of Lobo.

Also, I have to say that the Royal Palm hotel was just amazing and comparable to hotels costing much much more. Truly great value as well as an outstanding facility.

Thank you again and my aplolgies for waiting so long to send this.

Best regards,

Peter
Canada, April 2009
Traveled on the Coral II

Dear Maria,

I just got back to London yesterday. It was the most memorable experience in my life during the cruise on Nina. Everything was superb!! Also it was lovely to see you at your office the other day.

Just wanted to thank you again to arrange my fantastic time in Ecuador. Probably I should start thinking about next holiday to Amazon forest next then!

Hope you are well,

Regards,

Masashi
Japan, May 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Ivonne,

“Excellent service, we were very impressed with everybody, punctuality and attention to detail. We had more time to visit the other villages and cities in the excursion”

Dina & Patrick
Sweden, May 2009

Olga,

The trip was great. The lodging was everything we expected, the food was better than we expected, and the guides were outstanding. The guide (Edwin) accompanied us to Coca, and when it appeared that our flight might be canceled, he arranged (bribed?) seats for us on a charter flight for oil company employees (we were the only non-oil company employees on the flight). Clearly this was more than expected and certainly appreciated!

Thanks for all of your help.

Paul Toom
USA, April 2009

Dear Christian,

We would like to say a big Thank you for a superbly organized trip to the Gallapagos. From the moment that we touched down in Quito until the end of our Galapagos trip, everything was excellent, The hotels were extremely comfortable and the guides excellent.

We would like to make a special commendation to the Athala which we found wonderful. Nothing was too much trouble for the crew and our guide (Yvonne) was fantastic with a wide knowledge of the islands and an amazing enthusiasm for the environment there. We cannot recommend Athala enough and feel we were extremely fortunate to have experienced a week on such a beautiful boat. We would be very happy to be a reference for any future holiday makers and thank you again for your excellent professional organization.

Anthony & Lorna Hamilton
UK, April 2009
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Elena,

We have just returned to Hong Kong after the most amazing trip to South America. The Galapagos in particular was most memorable. Many thanks for all the arrangements you made on our behalf. We shall recommend you to all our friends. All the best to you and your colleagues.

Warm regards,

James and Heather
British, April 2009
Traveled on the Samba

Hi Ivonne,

I just wanted to write to thank you for everything you did for us. We had a wonderful time on our vacation and everything went very smoothly. Jorge, our guide in Quito was very good as well. We will definitely recommend you and Columbus travel to our friends.

Thanks again,

Lori
USA, April 2009
Traveled on the Nemo

Dear Christian,

Thank you for your email.

We had a wonderful time in the Galapagos. The boat was very pleasant and the crew very friendly and professional. We really enjoy every minute and our guide, Jose Luis, was excellent.

Thank you very much for your services and help and for the delicious dinner in Quito.

Warm regards,

Esmeralda de Belgique
Belgium, April 2009
Traveled on the Legend

Hi, Maria Elena.

I´m sorry we never got a chance to meet. I just wanted to say thank you for an absolutely wonderful trip! The Nina was amazing and the crew absolutely superb. And thank you so much for arranging the trip to the museum yesterday. That was wonderful too. The kids had a great time and it was really very interesting!

Kind regards,

Joey
USA, April 2009
Traveled on the Nina

Hi,

I'm back from my trip to the Galapagos and we both had a GREAT time. All went really well, the boat was nice, the people even nicer. We had a great time and all was arranged perfectly. So thanks for all your work and help. I'm already thinking of taking the rest of the family :-).

Thanks and bye,

Guy
Israel, April 2009
Traveled on the Sulidae

Maria,

We are back in Israel now and I just wanted to thank you once again for being very responsive and helpful throughout the entire process, in addition to being so professional.

We enjoyed the Galapagos cruise very much and all the pickup arrangements were very accurate !

Thanks

Giora Bitan
Israel, April 2009
Traveled on the Galapagos Explorer II

Hello Olga

We are both doing great. The Galapagos trip was absolutely fantastic. I dont think my words could do it justice. It surpassed all expectations. The Galaxy staff were excellent, we enjoyed delicious food and great service. Roberto our guide was excellent very knowledgable and good company. We met lots of other great people on board which added to the excellent time.

The snorkeling and wildlife was out of this world, I truly felt like I was in paradise. Thank you for your great service and quick responces when we were making the booking. I will be recommending Columbus to others.

Thank you so much, we enjoyed one of the best weeks of our lives there.

Kind Regards

Neil and Shona Ferguson
British, April 2009
Traveled on the Galaxy

Good morning Elena, buenos dias,

Peter and I want to tell you how very, very much we appreciate everything you did to give us this wonderful vacation. It was better than our greatest hopes !!!!

Everything went perfectly, all the tour guides and people from Travel Group Peru were very good, and even the extra night in Cuzco was a bonus as we got to see more of that historic city.

We think you must be the best travel agent in Ecuador !! And what a joy the Galapagos was. The Galaxy is a beautiful yacht so don't hesitate to recommend it to other people.

Again, many, many thanks,

Fondly,

Glenna
Canada, March 2009
Traveled on the Galaxy

Hi Elena,

I just wanted to thank you for all your help organizing the Galapagos trip. We had a fantastic time on the Galaxy -- and the trip exceeded my expectations. The boat was great, the food was outstanding, and the crew terrific. We had a great guide, saw a lot, learned a lot, snorkeled, hiked, and enjoyed everything.

Two thumbs up, and I would highly recommend this experience.

Cheers,

Luella
Canada, March 2009
Traveled on the Galaxy

Elena,

I wanted to thank you for the arrangements that you made for me and to let you know how everything went. The Swissotel was just the right place for me because my very limited Spanish, and it had the best breakfasts that I've ever had in my life. Everyone at the hotel was very nice.

My trip to Mindo was wonderful and it was thanks to Alfredo. He was so knowledgeable about the history but particularly about the cloud forest birds, plants and animals. I also appreciated how nice and low-key he was especially when I needed to take breaks on my hike. This was a beautiful area but without a guide like Alfredo, I would not have enjoyed it so much.

My son did pick me up at the airport and I am VERY glad because I had no idea there would be so many people waiting to meet other passengers. I will keep your email contact in case another trip comes up in the future.

Sincerely,

Lenelle Morse
USA, March 2009

Hi Olga,

Thank you for the follow-up email. The trip to the Galapagos was amazing. You did an excellent job organizing the transfers, the boat, and the hotel after the boat trip. David and I appreciated all of your work and were very impressed with the service.

I will definitely recommend you to my family and friends. You did a great job!

Thanks again,

Christi
USA, March 2009
Traveled on the Galaxy

Cristina:

A short note to "Thank you" very much for planning and executing our trip,on such short notice.

Michael and I had a wonderful adventurous time. Enjoyed every minute of it, along with feeling safe, which is a high priority when travelling with a "special grandson"...

The La Pinta was a great way to travel, the Captain, Crew and Naturalists were excellent hosts. Always looking out for everyone and making sure our needs were met at all times...

Needless to say we will be recommending you to our friends who want to travel to the Ecuador and the Galapagos.

Sincere regards,

Illa Maher
Canada, March 2009
Traveled on the La Pinta

Dear Maria Elena,

We just got back from our trip to the Galapagos. It was fantastic, a trip to remember. Everything went very smoothly and there was no problems. Thank you very much for organizing and arranging the trip. I appreciate all the work you did to make our trip a pleasurable one.

Again thank you,

Wayne Jarvis
USA, March 2009
Traveled on the Golondrina

Hi Urs,

We had an AMAAAAZING trip!!! Thank you so much for all of your help; everything went smoothly and was really well organized! We loved the Galaxy; the boat itself was in wonderful condition and really luxurious than we expected! In terms of the boat, the cabins were nicer and more spacious than that on a Royal Carribbean luxury cruise...

Thanks again! We will definitely be recommending you and Columbus Travels to friends travelling to Ecuador/The Galapagos!

Upasana Krishnadev
Canada, March 2009
Traveled on the Galaxy

Dear Fernanda,

I want to thank you for arranging our trip on the Galaxy. It was a wonderful boat and guide and crew. Also, after talking with others on the boat, I discovered that we had gotten a very good price.

I appreciate your help and will gladly recommend you to my friends.

Marsha
USA, March 2009
Traveled on the Galaxy

Hi Washington,

We loved the cruise. Angelito was great. More than expected.

Thank you,

Rich Macy
USA, March 2009
Traveled on the Angelito

Dear Elena,

We have been back at home for two weeks now, and very pleased with our trip to South America. From the time of our first arrival in Quito, we were so happy that all the arrangements went smoothly. Our trip to the Galapagos was outstanding: I highly recommend the boat and the guides we had there, making our stay in the Islands very memorable.

Our visit to Peru went very well too. The tours were well organized, and the guides were very knowledgeable and helpful. Everything went exactly as planned, and we only had one day of rain (pretty good for the rainy season!). Many thank to Columbus Travel, and especially to you for the careful attention to detail and the outstanding arrangements that made our first trip to this area so full of memories. We are happy to recommend this experience to our friends.

Thanks again and all the best in the future,

John & Anne Leech
Canada, February 2009
Traveled on the Eric, Letty & Flamingo

Hi Diego,

We just returned from our vacation and we had a wonderful time. Your country is beautiful. Thank you for arranging everything and making everything happen so smoothly. We will definitely recommend you and your agency to any of our family and friends who would like the information.

Diane
USA, February 2009
Traveled on the Eric, Letty & Flamingo

Diego!

I just want to take a moment to thank you for arranging the most amazing trip for my mother!! She had a fantastic time and will always treasure the memories of this experience. She took so many pictures of the islands and I can't even describe the incredible beauty we saw. She said the yacht was immaculate and the crew was pleasant and helpful. The food!!! She said she ate so much shrimp that she started to feel like she was turning into one.

She said the guide was very protective of her and would not let her out of his sight. She really appreciated that since there was a lot of rugged terrain to cover.

She said she met some wonderful people that soon became good friends and have invited her back to Quito to stay with them for a vacation. Maybe next time, I will be able to join her.

Thank you Diego, together my mother's dream was fulfilled!

Sincerely,

Sandy Mowers
USA, February 2009
Traveled on the Millenium

Dear Ivonne,

Thank you very much for arranging our Ecuadorian trip. We had a wonderful time. Swissotel was good and we adored Patio Andaluz. Everyone at Columbus Travel had been very helpful. Ivan was a great guide and Javier was a solid professional.

Warmest regards,

Henry Chan & Lina Lee
USA, February 2009
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Ivonne,

We have returned home safely after our holiday and I would like to thank you for the arrangements which you put place to ensure such a wonderful experience of Ecuador, including the amazing Galapagos. Everything went like clockwork.

We hope to return to Ecuador in the future and in any event will certainly recommend the services of Columbus Travel to others, as we were originally recommended to you.

Kind regards,

Janet Gaymer
UK, February 2009
Traveled on the Eclipse

Ivonne,

I just wanted to thank you for all the arrangements you made for our recent trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos. Everything went smoothly and we had a fabulous vacation. We enjoyed the Le Parc Hotel in Quito and the city tour with an excellent guide.The ECLIPSE was a wonderful ship and all the staff and crew and naturalists were amazingly good to us – we really enjoyed ourselves. My single cabin was perfect!

Your country is beautiful and we would like to come back sometime and see more!

Thanks,

Virginia
Canada, February 2009
Traveled on the Eclipse

Hi Washington

Just a quick note to say how much we enjoyed the trip. The boat and crew were excellent and can be recomended.

Thanks for your help and all the arrangements were fine.

Best regards

Howard and Maggie
UK, February 2009
Traveled on the Floreana

Hi Elena,

Hope all is well. My wife, Emily and I wanted to share our appreciation and thank you and the team at Columbus Travel. We had such an amazing and unforgettable time. We truly were unexpected at the level of service and value we received.

The Athala II is a wonderful yacht. Clean, spacious and very friendly staff. Not to mention, the food was delicious and plentiful. Our Naturalist, Enrique was fun, energetic and very knowledgable. He was very passionate about his job and the well being of the islands. We saw so many animals and marine life. We will always remember.

Thank you for a wonderful vacation and I will definately recommend Columbus Travel to any of my friends and family. Please share this email with Xavier Proano and the rest of the team that served us.

Sincere Regards,

Greg & Emily Wong
Canada, February 2009
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Elena,

we are already back from our very enjoyable trip to beautiful Ecuador - it was really phantastic!! Thank you again for the great organisation of everything!! We were very happy to swim with sharks, turtles, penguins and other gorgeous animals. The discovery of those islands will always remain in our memory as an outstanding trip!

All the very best from

Claudia Christl
Germany, February 2009
Traveled on the Oddisey

Hi Elena,

I wanted to take a minute to tell you how great a time we had in Ecuador. Your country is beautiful and we enjoyed it very much. Santi was a very good guide and a nice guy. Thank you for helping us plan a very good trip.

Thank you again. Take care,

Sue Mulvihill
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Galapagos Voyager

Elena,

Sorry, for the late message to you. Lise and I wanted to thank you for the wonderful trip. Lise usually sends the e-mails out but she has been very busy and yesterday she left for Qatar to do a presentation to the ministry of collages. The Beluga Boat was fine . I have left several posts on Trip Advisor recommending you and your company.

Thanks again for your effort,

Michael Telson
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Beluga

Hello Diego

Am near the end of my first trip to Ecuador. Thank you for the help in Booking my Galapagos tour on the Galaxy. I would recommend it to anyone. This has been a special month and trip for me I know I will be returning to your wonderful country. The Galapagos was special and I have many pictures to remember it by and share with my family and friends.

Regards

Mark Walz
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Galaxy

Hi Ivonne,

I am back to Porto Alegre, Brazil. This msg is just to say:
1 - the cruise went on nicely. All services were provided well within the expectations.
2 - Galapagos is amazing, incredible, unforgettable. Expectations were high but were superseded. I will return, for sure.
3 - thank you very much for all your help. You will certainly be contacted again in my next trip to Ecuador.

All the best,

Basílio Santiago.
Brazil, January 2009
Traveled on the Princess of Galapagos

Dear Washington,

Greetings from Sweden with cold and grey weather! Thank you for helping me with the last journey. The family was very pleased with the "Eden"-cruise!
Please keep in touch!

Warmest Regards

Josefine Tolunay
Sweden, January 2009
Traveled on the Eden

Daniela and Jessica,

I want to thank you and all those who worked with you to make our trip to Quito and the Galapagos such a complete pleasure. I can think of nothing else you could have done to improve our experience....It was a memorable trip that the grandchildren enjoyed and appreciated as I had hoped they would. And of course, I enjoyed it for myself as well as for them.

I know I need make no critique of the Galapagos Islands; everyone knows how unique that experience is! I do want to tell you that the Explorer II was everything we had hoped for and more...Once again, we found the food to be very good, the staff friendly and helpful. The accommodations were perfect (I couldn't believe the size of the cabins! Actually spacious, more like a hotel room than the average ship cabin).

Obviously, it is the work behind the scenes that make a trip like this one turn out so satisfactorily; I did already know what I wanted, but you knew how to make it happen, and you succeeded wonderfully! It was an unforgettable trip, a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I don't know where my next holiday travel with the four grandchildren will take us (how long will those young men, or the teenage girl, be willing to travel with an 80+ year old grandmother?!) but should we or anyone we know want to travel in your part of the world, you are the experts to turn to, to work that magic again! Thank you for the parts you each played in this success story.

Gratefully,

Evelyn Ward
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Explorer II

Hello Elena,

I have been remiss at connecting with you - I had wanted to thank you SO MUCH for the great job you did at assisting and planning our trip. We had the trip of our lives. We enjoyed ourselves immensely - every part was superb (ok the number of insects in the jungle was a bit hard to take but you had no control over that!).

Some year we would love to come back to Ecuador and tour south of Quito and along the coast and if possible back to the Galapagos. You were right that Tagus Cove was extra specially beautiful.

Ecuadorians are truly wonderful people and we were blessed to be a part of your country in December.

Thanks so much Elena, y Feliz Ano Nuevo!

Joanne Beyers
Canada, December 2008
Traveled on the Eric, Letty and Flamingo

Urs,

Attached is a thank you letter intended as a reference and letter of recommendation for you and your team. The more pictures Becky prints and sends to me here the more I am reminded how much we truly enjoyed the trip.

Becky had always wanted to see the Galapagos Islands and we both enjoyed that part of the Trip but we both agree the trip into the jungle with Neiser as our guide was even much better.

Maybe we were lucky in our timing as we were able to see many of the animals on the Galapagos as they were starting to enter the mating season so we saw them in and out of their mating colors. The conditions in the jungle were great and even the weather was near perfect for us.

Thanks again and please pass along our appreciation to the rest of the team.

Howard Green
USA, December 2008
Traveled on the New Flamingo

Hello Christian,

Thanks again for your wonderful arrangements and guide services. Our entire group had a terrific time. All are still talking about it and wishing we were still in your beautiful country. I will be sure to contact you again when bringing a group to Ecuador.

Russ McClain
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Estrella de Mar

Hi Christian and Fernanda,

The food was very good and we rerally enjoyed the evening. The stay in Quito was very pleasant. Many thanks for all the arrangements you have made. The cruise was also a memorable and fantastic cruise. No doubt Galapagos is one of the best places to visit and hope everything will be preserved for the next generation. It was a truely an inspiring and exciting trip. We hope we will be able to visit there again sometime in the future.

Hope you have a great new year.

Thanks.

Hirofumi
Japan, December 2008
Traveled on the Santa Cruz

Dear Maria Elena,

It is almost one week that we are back in Munich after having travelled in Ecuador since Dec 4th. We had a wonderful and exciting time. The trip to Galapagos and the week on the Alta was one of the highlights; we enjoyed every minute - just as you had promised before.

Finally we loved the boat, the food was excellent (except Nescafe instead of real coffee), the crew was nice and efficient and last not least, our guide was brilliant. We will remember Fabian Bucheli, whose knowledge of nature, animals and evolution seemed amazing to us and who sort of infected us with his passion and his enthusiasm, as the best guide, we had for very long time.

We will not hesitate to recommend him and the trip on the Alta to friends, who might be interested to come to Galapagos next winter.

Kind regards

Almut Amereller
Germany, December 2008
Traveled on the Alta

Dear Kjetil,

I'd like to congratulate you for having such a wonderful staff! I must tell you about the outstanding customer service I received while booking my Galapagos trip with Elena. Although it was a last minute vacation she made it extremely easy to accommodate me and family; including grandparents. I had contacted several other agencies but Elena's attention to detail, quick response and genuine concern for my requests to be met made Columbus Travel unmistakably the right choice.

During the booking process, Elena was very knowledgeable, answering all my questions clearly and quickly. A true pleasure to work with! She is an asset to your organization and should be recognized for her commitment to excellence. I will ensure to recommend her and your services to all my friends and family. Thank you for a wonderful experience from the minute I got in touch with your office!

I wish you and your company much success!!

Johanna Abarca
USA and Ecuador, January 2009
Traveled on the Galapagos Voyager

Fernanda,

The trip was succesfull. All the arrangements functioned well and the crew in the boat ( estrella de mar II ) was extremely friendly and helpful. So, thanks for all that.

Yours

Markku Pispa
Finland, January 2009
Traveled on the Estrella de Mar

Hi Fernanda!

A belated note to say THANK YOU for all of your help in organizing what was a fabulous trip. everyone had a great time, but better than that, everything was so well organized, the assistance we received was superb, it was like nothing we ever planned, and all thanks to you. the accomodations were nearly perfect, the boat was the best, the crew super, our guides outstanding, our day trips excellent, what more to say than thank you thank you. if you need a reference or anything like that, let me know, and again, thank you!

Ted Sears
UK, January 2009
Traveled on the Coral

Elena,

On behalf of the whole group I wanted to thank you and your colleagues for an amazing experience. All your help and organization leading up to the trip was invaluable and we enjoyed it immensely. I hope to have the opportunity to work with you or for my friends to come to Ecuador in the future.

Many thanks,

Kindest regards,

Merilee
UK, January 2009
Traveled on the Angelique

Christian,

The trip was perfect. We loved it beginning to end. Javier was a good and timely pickup...the hotel was nice...the boat was great, the trips interesting, the staff helpful, the food good. Really perfect. Thanks so much for putting it all together for us. We will recommend you and the travel company and the boat to anyone interested in Ecuador.

Cheers,

Jim McGinnis
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Eclipse

Fernanda,

I'm just checking in with you to let you know that we had a very nice time in Ecuador, and to let you know that I would recommend using you, and your agency to my friends. Thank you for making the reservations and for answering my questions about the trip. Everything went very smoothly and we found it easy to travel in your country. If you have any clients that need a recommendation for your agency, you have my permission to have them contact me.

My only advice would be to notify the boat that we were on to serve more Ecuadorian type foods. The western menu that we ate from was not very special for the tourists. I would tell the boat company to have at least one Ecuadorian meal per day, or serve one Ecuadorian side dish per meal.

Otherwise. the trip was Great.

Thank You,

Peter Shapiro
USA, December 2008
Traveled on the Estrella de Mar

Christian,

Happy New Year to you! I have been intending to send you a note, but have been busy at work since returning from the trip. We had a fabulous time-both in the Galapagos and on our tours. The staff and guide (Diego) on the Galaxy were excellent, and Byron was an exceptional guide as well. Elena and I really enjoyed spending time with all of them and were impressed by their extensive knowledge. The Le Parc was a fantastic base, and Luna Runtun in Banos was incredible.

Ecuador is the most beautiful country I have visited, and you and your colleagues really ensured that all of our needs were met during our visit. Christian, you, in particular, made the entire process easy-you had a good sense for the types of tours we would like and made the planning process very easy-thank you.

Christian, thank you again for arranging a fantastic trip-we are still wishing that we were still in Ecuador. I have already recommended you to several people here, and Elena and I want to plan a trip to Peru in the future. We also need to make it back to the rain forest at some point. I hope that 2009 is good to you. Take care.

Regards,

Briley Brisendine
USA, December 2008
Traveled on the Galaxy

Dear Christian,

We just returned from Quito and the Galapagos Islands and had to write to thank you for your excellent services throughout the planning phase of our trip as well as during our adventure.

The Eclipse was the perfect ship for us. Large enough to feel comfortable and to share the company of new friends, and small enough to gain access to some wonderful venues such as the mangroves at Elizabeth Bay. Service and food (always healthy, beautiful and served with an Ecuadorian flare) were excellent and our guides warm, patient, knowledgeable, and flexible.

In Quito, our accommodations at both the Swissotel and the Plaza Grande were excellent. Javier and Hector were always there...on time. Javier's assistance with our Aerogal flights was seamless. Our private guide Jorge was funny, bright and a terrific guide. Thanks to you for coming by to personally check on us, calling to make sure all was well and to see us back to Quito after our voyage. We knew we had a friend in Quito always there to assist.

Our trip was perfect thanks in large part to you, the pristine beauty of the Galapagos Islands and the charm and colorful personalities of the Ecuadorian people.

Thank you for everything you did for us!

Geri and Mark Frazier and family
USA, December 2008
Traveled on the Eclipse

Hi Elena,

We are back in SF 15 hours after we boarded the flight from Quito. It was a memorable experience and your staff is very professional, punctual and cordial. The Legend expedition programs are very well organized and balanced even though we did get tired. But the adrenaline kept us going for 5 days.

Hope to re-connect with you in the future!

Tim and Nancy
Taiwan, December 2008
Traveled on the Legend

We travelled independently so all research was done on the Internet. My husband had specific criteria regarding the type of boat as he now suffers from claustrophobia and therefore a cabin below deck or with just a port hole was out of the question. I found the Athala and what a find! A beautiful catarmaran with only 16 guests.

Capitano and crew were superb in every way, helpful, nothing too much bother, and looked after us impeccably. Food was excellent throughout, chef cooking breakfast every day, always greeted from an excursion with freshly made drinks, often local fruit juice never before heard of, and home baked nibbles and always a choice at dinner. Champagne for crossing the equator on the bridge with the Captain.

We had a lovely cabin, huge bed, private balcony, small but great as you could have the door open all night if you wish and the bathroom was stocked with eco friendly toiletries.

Every day we had 2 excursions ashore, each island offering different wildlife and fauna. The guide was knowledgable and fun too as were the people we shared the boat with. As well as swimming with the sea lions we had them sleeping on the back steps and one night one brave lady sea lion came onto the boat in the middle of the night. Naughty girl but I was able to coax her off the boat before doing too much damage.

I really can't recommend this experience enough, we had a fantastic time but beware you definatly need wetsuits in December! I believe there is now a new sister catarmaran called Nina so perhaps after our lottery win (pending!) we will try her.

England, December 2008
Traveled on the Athala
Comment from Trip Advisor

Hello Elena-

I wanted to thank you for all of your suggestions and for the seamlessness of everyone showing up when they were supposed to show up. I was very impressed.

I think we all liked the Casa Aliso the best - nice rooms, unpretentious and lovely people running the place. Although the Plaza Grande rooms were great it seemed like 3 people would have there hands outstretched for tips between the front door and our room.

It was a good group on the boat. If I had my druthers I would choose the best boat class - but it was still fine and the snorkelling was the best we have ever experienced. My kids have a fair amount of Spanish so I think it reawakened some thoughts of more South American travel and possible work with comapnies operating in North and South America. My son is 25 and was reluctant to come - too much family time and too much nature he had figured. He surprised himself by really enjoying the culture and having a set of good friends that had us all laughing alot.

All in all a memeorable trip. I am starting a travel website - geared towards detailed hiking and biking itineraries in North America and Europe BUT my marketing friend has also suggested blogging. I will certainly mention this trip and you in particualr and once the site is live I will send a link.

Thank you Elena!!

Sincerely,

Leigh McAdam
USA, December 2008
Traveled on the Eric, Letty, Flamingo

Hi Maria Elena,

Thanks so much for following up and arranging such a spectacular trip! We thoroughly enjoyed our cruise and have already started recommending it to friends. The Queen is a wonderful boat and the crew and service were excellent. The hotels in Quito and Guayaquil were also very nice (the club floor at the Hilton Colon was well worth it) and the folks from Columbus Travel who met us at various points were very helpful.

We also enjoyed our day-trip to Otavalo. It was a bit hectic at the end of the Galapagos trip getting to the airport in time for the plane to Ecuador and it turned out that unbeknownst to us our plane had been rescheduled, but this was only a minor hassle. Overall, it was truly a trip to remember!

Thank you again and I hope you had a great New Years as well.

Best Regards,

Michael Gross
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Queen of Galapagos

Ivonne,

Carrie and I want to thank you for organizing the trip for us. We really had a great time. The staffs that met us at the airports and handed us off to the Beluga staff were excellent. The boat and crew worked out great.

Thanks again,

Ron Butler
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Beluga

Hi Ivonne,

Happy New Year! Thank you so much for everything you and your office has done for me and my father. You helped us with creating a wonderful Galapagos Adventure and everything went exactly as you said it would. Thank you so much, and please know that I will always recommend you and your travel agency to others who want to travel to Ecuador and beyond.

Thank you so much for everything!

Windi Bowditch
USA, January 2009
Traveled on the Fragata

Thank you, Ivonne. Happy New Year to you! We had a wonderful trip on the Athala, and a great tour of Quito. Our tour guide in Quito was really great. The Athala was fabulous and everyone was very nice. It was a trip to remember.

Mary Rose
USA, March 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Ivonne,

Although the week in the Galapagos was wonderful, my day in Quito was one of the very best days in my life. It was just so very good - the Gold Museum and the Amazon Equator village were both so exceptional.

I wish you a happy and joyous 2009.

Kindest regards

Kevin Collins
Australia, July 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Sir,

I am writing this letter to say how much an employee with your company, made our trip to Peru and Ecuador an absolute wonderful experience.

I happened to reach Elena Guachamin over the internet. Her immediate response and courteous nature made me feel at ease to the point of booking our land portion of our trip to South America from your offices in Quito.

By the time we landed very early morning into Lima to the time we departed from Guayaguil we were amazed at the attention to detail. People were always very courteous, on time and the class of hotels were beyond our expectations. Our family were very pleased to say the least. On our last night in Guayaguil Elena even took the time to call us in the hotel to check if the trip went well. I was amazed that soemone would make such an effort.

For the air portion of the trip with a travel agent out of Sydney. About three months before we were to depart they went bankrupt. I guess my emails to Elena after this slight hiccup started to sound a little apprehensive. Elena picked up on the tone and was quick to reassure me that all was in order and not to worry about a thing. I was pleasantly surprised when a gentleman by the name of Roberto picked us up in Lima. The rest was history as our trip was fantastic.

Could you please pass on to Elena our gratitude from the Marrsden Family. Her excellent service is an attribute to your company. We will be recommending your services to many friends and colleagues who may desire a pleasant holiday to South America.

Best wishes for the upcoming year!

Kindest regards

Tom Marsden
Australia, November 2008
Traveled on the Anahi

Elena,

I wanted to write to let you know what a fantastic tour my husband, Stefaan, and I had in the Galapagos. We just returned last night to Quito. The crew and guide on the Golondrina took great care of us. The tour covering both the northern and southern islands was perfect.

We appreciate all your assistance in the planning of our tour (making arrangements, answering our many questions, etc).

I will recommend Columbus Travel and the Golondrina in the future.

Best regards,

Tara Middlewood
USA, December 2008
Traveled on the Golondrina

Hi Christian,

Just a quick note to say how much we enjoyed our Galapagos holiday and to thank you for all your assistance to make it all happen. It was an amazing experiience. The boat was great, the guides were great and the experience sublime.

A big thank you as well for the upgrade to the Plaza Grande and the meal at Theatrum restaurant. Both those experiences lifted our stay in Quito up a couple of levels. We hope to return one day and explore more of your country.

Best regards,

David and Rupert
Australia, November 2008
Traveled on the Alta

Elena,

We just returned from our Galapagos trip and wanted to tell you what a wonderful time we had. Everything went so smoothly and we were so happy with Ecoventura and our experience on the 'Eric' ship. Thank you again for all your help and information in making our decision and answering my questions along the way. We look forward to using Columbus Travel in the future!

Sincerely,

Allyson Harting
USA, November 2008
Traveled on the Eric Letty and Flamingo

Dear Ivonne,

Just to let you know we had a great time on The Archipel II visiting the Galapagos Islands. The crew was fantastic, and also our guide Sara. Thanks for arranging everything for us. You did a great job. Our memories and photo's are spectacular. Especially the sea lions ...... it was all AMAZING !!!!

Thanks again for all your time and understanding while trying to arrange this trip.

Warm regards

Debby & Pieter
Netherlands, November 2008
Traveled on the Archipel II

Dear Washington,

Just a few words from Wieben. We are now well home after a wonderfull journey full of experiences in Ecuador. For more than half a year we had planned it, and our connection to Columbus Travel was through the internet, and it was very good with so proffessionel help.

The trip in the Andes starting in Otavalo and ending in Cuenca was wonderfull and with Ivan as a guide and driver, we were in good hands. Ivan is a very knowing young man, and we were lucky to be with him in 10 days. The hotels were fine. Only one little minus was the "Casa de Hacienda". A big place in the middle of nowhere, and we were all alone. A little boaring. Good, that we next day come to Papallacta with spa, food and a happy personel. We had a wonderfull trip.

Oh yes, also the train ride, where Ivan managed that we could be in the front with the drivers, were ecceptionel. Then Galapagos and the ship Fragatta. We had a fine cabin on the upper deck, wonderfull. All the animals, birds and fish together with the landscape was beautiful, and we were together with some very nice people, and the personel were nice and funny.

Then we were in the jungle. A very special experience. We were the only guests on the "Tapir Lounge", but that was o.k. maybe it had been nice with some more people to be with in the evenings. All together a fine trip with a very nice and knowing guide. We were happy that we came in connection with you, Washington. It has been 7 wonderfull weeks in Ecuador. We have had a lot of experiendes, and you have been a great help.

Merry christmas to you and all around you.

Kind Regards

Anni & Henning Wieben
Denmark, October 2008
Traveled on the Fragata

Elena,

I would like to thank you for all your help on booking our trip to Galapagos back in November this trip was fantastic; even know this was my second trip to Galapagos I really enjoyed it.

Thanks again.

Carmita Barnuevo
Canada, November 2008
Traveled on the Fragata

Christian

My wife and I thought you and your firm did a marvelous job. As I indicated on the comment card, we had previously travelled with A&K and thought you did much better. I hope you got the comment card. The driver who took us to the airport Sunday a.m. did not speak much English, but his eyes lit up when I gave it to him.

We were very pleased with all the people you had for transfers and as guides. They each had a wonderful attitude. I do not know how you find and keep such people, but urge you to continue doing what you are doing.

Concerning the transfer, Luisa called us shortly after we returned from dinner. We worked everything out. No problem.

The Eclipse was excellent. It was exactly as you led us to expect. We had a lot of fun. Only disaster was that my daughter succeeded in deleting all the pictures from her memory card on her camera. She was heartbroken, but this morning she was invited to the winter dance at school, so she is happy again! In any event, we still have the pictures from two other cameras.

As for real comments about the Eclipse, I have two. First there was one guide, Javier, who was exceptional. He is from the Galapagos. In talking to him, I understand he has a contract to do a week on the Nina, your new boat, in a few months. You may want to consider trying to keep him. The other guides were good, but he was in a class by himself.

One minor negative on the Eclipse, and the only one, was that somewhere in the past the personnel on the Eclipse must have stored the snorkeling flippers badly. They are in terrible shape and really need to be replaced. I noted that on the comment card on the boat too. We still enjoyed snorkeling. We made all, but one of the snorkeling trips, but I would not be against your passing the comment on to the owners/operators.

Christian, if you, or your company, ever need a reference in the states, please do not hesitate to let us know. We were EXTREMELY pleased with your recommendations and services, and would not hesitate to recommend you.

Thanks again for your great planning and service while on our trip.

Howard Hoffman
USA, November 2008
Traveled on the Eclipse

Hi Christian -

Thank you so much for your note. We had a FABULOUS time! The boat, our naturalist Victor Hugo, and the entire staff were absolutely terrific people, and a joy to travel with. Thanks for putting together such a smooth and easy travel experience for us. We will highly recommend you to all our friends as they plan their Galapagos trips!

Thanks again for your great planning and service while on our trip.

Howard & Nancy Johnson
USA, October 2008
Traveled on the Coral

Hey Yvonne,

Thanks for all you did to arrange our fantastic trip to Peru and Ecuador. It was a trip to remember. The scenery and people were beautiful. All the guides were great: Alex, Mylusca and Ivan. We especially enjoyed the naturalist on the Yate Fragata, Pato. The Galapagos was fantastic. I have already had lots of friends ask about the trip. I gladly recommend you and Columbus travel to them.

Gratefully yours,

Jill Blackwood
USA, October 2008
Traveled on the Fragata

Hi Christian.

We were definitely not disappointed with metropolitan touring and the m/v santa cruz. We were VERY impressed with how they took care of us leaving our hotel, getting to galapagos, and then boarding on to the boat. The M/V santa cruz while on the bigger side for ships, never at all felt impersonal. We loved our guide, the galapagos and everything about the galapagos portion. It was really a well oiled machine (no pun intended).

Much thanks,

Jill
USA, October 2008
Traveled on the Santa Cruz

Hola Washington!

I just wanted you to know that everything really worked out fine and we had a wonderful time on galapagos. thank you very much for your help!

Kind regards,

Kathrin
Germany, October 2008
Traveled on the New Flamingo

Hi Washington,

I had a wonderful and unforgettable trip to the Galapagos on bord of the Sulidae. Thank you a lot for your organisation. Everything was great.

Peter Blaikner
Austria, May 2008
Traveled on the Sulidae

Hola Christian..Qué tal?

Ud debe descansarse tambien; no? No puede trabajar todo el tiempo...... Aqui algunas palabras por nuestro viaje maravilloso:

Hola amigos.. Do you too want to enjoy a fantastic , stress free holiday

in beautiful Ecuador and Peru?. If so, make sure to book with ColumbusTRAVEL; and make your booking with Christian, their friendly, super efficent sales representative who speaks perfect English and; pretty good Spanish too...

My wife Monica and I have just returned from the holiday of a life time in Ecuador and Peru. Thanks to Columbustravel and Christian, we relaxed in first class hotels in Quito and Lima, trekked through the exciting Amazonian jungle , scaled mountain peaks in the Andes, sailed around the exotic Galapagos islands in comfortable cruisers and stared in amazement at unforgettable Inca ruins and treasures in both Ecuador and Peru.. all in just three short weeks.

Every aspect of our trip, from reservation to departure for home went like clockwork. Christian answered all our questions promptly and efficiently and conjured up made to measure packages for us. At all our destinations we were met with comfortable minibuses or luxury cars, our guides were friendly, knowledgeable and discreet..... and nothing was a bother for them.

If you want a taste of South America or a deeper insight into the magnificent culture, scenery, wild life or architecure of this touristic Paradise, take my tip and contact Columbus Travel and Christian.. You won t regret it...

Buen viaje..

Frank Patterson
Belgium, October 2008
Traveled on the Fragata

Washington,

I just wanted to thank you for what was an amazing trip on the Voyager to Galapagos. It was truly the trip of a lifetime.

Thank you for your help.

Mike Rose
USA, October 2008
Traveled on the Galapagos Voyager

Hi Fernanda:

A short e-mail after our return to the Netherlands from Ecuador to thank you for your work regarding the Galapagos cruise. Heine and I really enjoyed it and took lots of pictures of the beautiful islands! The boat was also good and we particularly loved the Ecuadorian food! The arrangement in Guayaquil worked perfectly.

Best regards,

Heine (van Wieren) & Ilaria
Netherlands, October 2008
Traveled on the Angelique

Thanks Elena,

We did get the pick up information from our guide, Ivan. We thought he did an excellent job and that the trip was very definitely valuable.

Thanks again,

George and Susan
USA, October 2008

Dear Christian,

I started this email right after I received your's. I saved the draft and am just now getting back to it. I will send it tonight regandless.

We had a great time. I would recommend the trip we took, and your travel agency, to anyone thinking about going to Ecuador. Nothing went wrong. We did make seven trips between the Swissotel and the airport. The driver took the some route ever single time. It might be nice if the driver took a different route on occasion. It would be nice to see more of Quito.

One night at the Swissotel we were given a suite that was larger than some of the apartments in which I have lived. There were four rooms and two bathrooms. It was much more than needed, but quite nice and fun. It is a beautiful hotel.

We saw the Ecuador president, in person, twice in two weeks (more than I have seen all U.S. presidents, in person, in 55 years). He gave a speech in the plaza in Quito on our first day. He stayed at our hotel on the second night and had dinner at the same time we did. With all of his armed guards surrounding the hotel, we certainly felt safe that night. The guards made sure we knew they were there, but did not harass us in any way. I am not sure that the U.S. secret service, that guards our president, is as accommodating.

I really do not know which of our three excursions I liked the best. Both the Galapagos islands and the rain forest were interesting, but I think I liked the trip to Cuenca the best. Diane preferred the Galapagos.

My sister-in-law (wife's sister) is a travel agent here in the U.S. I told her that if one of her customers was planning a trip to Ecuador to contact you.

Best of luck in your business. It was a real pleasure dealing with you.

My regards,

Bill and Diane.
USA, June 2008
Traveled on the Santa Cruz

Dear Elena,

I just wanted to write and say thank you for all your help in planning our recent cruise! We just got back from our 4day/3night cruise on the Galapagos Voyager from October 4-7 and we had a wonderful time! We were very happy with the boat and all the crew and especially our guide, Williams. They did a fantastic job in keeping us safe, comfortable and well fed as well as sharing their knowledge of the amazing Galapagos Islands.

I would not hesitate to recommend you and your company to anyone wishing to book a cruise to such an exciting place! Thank you again for all your assistance in making this dream come true!

Sincerely,

Paula and Brian Platt
USA, October 2008
Traveled on the Voyager

Estimada Elena

Ahora que hemos regresado a La Paz quería agradecerte todo lo que has hecho para hacer realidad nuestro sueno de visitar las Islas Galápagos. El crucero era fantástico, y recomendaríamos Ecoventura y la "Flamingo" a cualquier otra persona que quisiera hacer ese viaje. Tambien nos ha encantado Quito.

De nuevo, muchas gracias.

Un abrazo

Finona
UK, October 2008
Traveled on the Eric, Letty, Flamingo

Christian,

Sorry for not writting you sooner but the markets are so difficult... Anyway, I clearly owe you a big THANKS and some feedback which I hope will be usefull for you.

Le Parc: Fantastic ! They were at the airport, room was great, spa is top, food is delicious.

Cruise: Great as well. Highly professional, very well organised. Boat was good. itinerary was great, food was ok, staff was very good.

El Patio Andaluz: Quite Nice. Room was fantastic. May be too expensive for for it really is.

Mansion del angel: booked aside but was clearly worth mentionning. Advice it to any couple. We loved it !!!!!

That's it. In a nutshell, we really had a fantastic time in Ecuador. Only the good memories stay and we came back with lots of them !!! Thanks again for everything. Your help, your advices and your kindness have been priceless !

Merci !

Francois
France, September 2008
Traveled on the Coral

Ivonne,

Thank you so much for your arrangements for our wonderful trip to ecuador and the galapagos islands. Everything was sorted out regarding the national park entrance fees. The seaman catamaran was exceptional as were the services provided by the crew and the guide daniel.

Our time on the road in ecuador was amazing juan was a fantastic guide and deserves special thanks and praise. The swissotel was a fantastic base in quito, the staff and services were excellent - many thanks to you and your team for making the alterntive arrangements.

Please also thank javier and hector and everyone else for making this a trip of a lifetime....

Best wishes

Andrea and Betsie
British and South Africa, September 2008
Traveled on the Seaman

Hi Elena,

All worked out very fine.

We had a very good safari - lots of hammerheads, mantas, etc. (no whale shark unfortunatelty). Ttwo hotels you booked for us were also very fine.

Thank you very much and all the best

Katja
Austria, September 2008
Traveled on the Sky Dancer

Fernanda,

Just wanted to let you know that we really enjoyed our trip to Peru/Machu Pichu and Ecuador/Galapagos and appreciate your help in planning and arranging our trip. The hotels you chose for us were terrific especially the Casa Andina in Lima and the Peublo in Agua Calientes.

The Legend cruise ship was wonderful with a great total Galapagos experience. Very comfortable with great food and service. It was very nice to have drivers to tranfer us between airports and hotels. We really enjoyed our guide Natalie who was with us in Cusco and Machu Pichu; she was very well informed and personable.

Thanks again for you help and making our trip such a great experience.

Steve Reibman
USA, September 2008
Traveled on the Legend

Dear Elena:

Thank you so much for doing such a fantastic job in arranging our recent trip to the Galapagos. The pick-up information from your information was waiting for us at the Hampton Inn in Guayaquil. We were picked up at the hotel and transported to the airport for our flight.

The Santa Cruz was a wonderful ship.Our guide, Walter, was amazing; our group was always the last back to the ship because Walter let us spend as much time as possible on the islands. Viewing such a variety of animals was an incredible experience. The people that we met in Guayaquil and in the Galapagos were gracious, charming, and so very helpful. Guayaquil was a nice surprise; we enjoyed our time spent there.

The trip exceeded our expectations in every way. It was our first trip t South America and will definitely not be our last. We will be certain to contact you for assistance with our next trip to South America.

Please accept our appreciation for everything that you did to make our trip such an amazing adventure.

Sherri and Dorothy Newhouse,
USA, September 2008
Traveled on the Santa Cruz

Dear Christian,

We, too, were pleased to meet you. We were very pleased with our trip. The boat and crew were very good and our guide, Ivonne, was wonderful -- knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The only criticisms we have (and these are minor) are that the visit to San Cristobal Island was too long and that instead of visiting Post Office Bay, we would have preferred seeing more natural sights. We would happily recommend Haugan Tours to others.

Sincerely,

Joanne Levine
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Ivonne,

This is a long time later, but we only recently returned and am still catching up. I just wanted to let you know that we were really delighted with the trip on the Angelito. The guide was excellent and the group congenial. It was truly a fantastic experience and we have continued to tell all out friends about it.

Thank you again for all the ehlp and advice you provided.

Best Wishes,

Michael
Australia, July 2008
Traveled on the Angelito

Hi Christian

Thanks for checking in. Everything was great and so easy. Too easy - it was the least amount of thinking I ever had to do on vacation. Thank you so much for helping us arrange the trip. It was really fun.

Candice
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Hey Christian

Back from our trip and it was wonderful. That hotel in Quite--Le Parc was incredible! Wish we had more than a few hours to enjoy! NEXT TIME, we'll stay longer.

The Legend was perfect - though we probably should have upgraded to the Jr. Suite as you advised. Ah well! Great service throughout and worry free. Thanks for all your help, will recommend you to many.

Thanks again.

Gayle
USA, September 2008
Traveled on the Legend

Dear Ivonne,

We would like to thank you for arranging our Galapagos cruise! The trip was amazing, everything was just perfect. Thanks again and take care.

Kind regards,

Susan Overakker and Jop Gerritsen
Netherlands, September 2008
Traveled on the Golondrina

Dear Christian,

We were very very happy with our trip. Everything was fantastic, and we have nothing bad to say at all.

Galapagos was amazing, and the boat and crew were very professional and nice. Napo was out of this world too. The huts were very luxurious and everything was thought of. Not one thing was missing.

Thank you very nuch for everything you have done for us.

Best regards

Ann-Marie and Mikkel
Denmark, July 2008
Traveled on the Nemo II

Buenos días Jorge,

Ya hemos vuelto de Ecuador ( desgraciadamente ) con muy buenos impresiónes y quiero agradecerle de una organización perfecta y de un viaje tan maravilloso que nunca olvidaremos. Ha sido todo perfecto, las haciendas muy lindas , nuestro guia Alfredo muy símpatico y esperto, la Yolita II muy agradable y el viaje a las islas encantadas era algo único y especial, disfrutamos mucho de este viaje que era de verdad muy chevere.

Ecuador es un país tan fantastico y la gente muy amable , estamos muy impresionados!!! Colombustravel está siempre al alcance del cliente y eso es increible.

Muchas gracias por todo y queremos volver de seguro!!!!

Claudia and Bernhard Roither
Germany, September 2008
Traveled on the Yolita II

Elena,

I just wanted to thank you for all your help with setting up our trip to the Galapagos. Andrew and I had an amazing time, and were extremely happy with all the arrangements.

Thank you,

Katherine Beebe
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Seaman

Elena,

We just wanted to let you know that we had a wonderful trip. Thanks again for the assistance at the airport and for sending Gustavo as our guide. We had a great time, and appreciate the great service that your company provided while we visited Ecuador. We are interested in coming back for a visit to the rainforest. Let us know what types of tours you have available.

Thank you,

Robbie Wong
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Eclipse

Diego,

I just wanted to send you a note letting you know that my sister and I had a great time on our Galapagos cruise aboard the Diamante. The staff and especially the guide, Xavier, were EXCELLENT. I appreciate you recommendation on such an exceptional itinerary. It was worth the extra cost!

Thank you for all your help and take care!

Kim Ross
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Diamante

Ma. Belen,

Le cuento que disfrutamos mucho del viaje que coordinamos, fue mucho más de lo que imaginamos. Muchísimas gracias por todos sus esfuerzos! Si quizás habrá otra oportunidad de viajar a Galápagos la molestare de nuevo.

Priscilla Olivo.
USA, August 2008

Hola Ivonne,

We've just got back from our time in the Galapagos, and I just wanted to write to say a big "Thank You" for all your work. It was good to meet you at the hotel and actually put a face to the name (though I must admit I had found your picture on the Columbus Travel website). The "Fragata" was excellent, as were the hotel arranged for the first Sunday in the Galapagos. Overall the trip was spectacular, and the wildlife truly amazing.

Thanks once again

Martin Bone
UK, August 2008
Traveled on the Fragata

Hi Christian

Sorry I didn't get back to you we didn't get home until last week and I have been very busy.I will send you comprehensive feedback as I feel it is important. I would, however, like to thank you personally for organising such a fantastic holiday for us!!! Everything about it went perfectly and the Athala was fantastic!!! The whole organisation, that you implemented, was superb.

Thank you so so much.

As I say I will send you more comprehensive feedback soon, suffice to say we are very happy!!

Best wishes

John Francis
England, July 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Washington,

I would like to thank you for the organization of our trip to Ecuador and Galapagos. Everything went perfectly including the guide we had in Quito. Thank you also for the recommendation to stay at the la Mirage.

Thanks a lot again

Kind Regards

Dr. Madeleine Mumcuoglu
USA, July 2008
Traveled on the Legend

Dear Yvone,

Just a quick note to say thank you for the trip that you organised in Ecuador for us. It was very nice and we enjoyed it a lot.

Best regards,

Matthieu Cussac
France, August 2008
Traveled on the Parranda

Hi Christian,

We are now back home in the U.K. The dogs are very pleased to see us back.

Our holiday exceeded all our expectations! Everything was organised perfect.The hotel was great, the meal you booked for us in Quito was outstanding, the Jungle trip to Napo Lodge was wonderful and the Galapagos cruise on Athala could not be faulted. I have already recommended you and your company to friends.

Thanks very much for all your help.

Best regards

Robert

Robert Reynolds
UK, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Hi Elena,

I just wanted to write and thank you for organising such a fantastic trip for us. We have just arrived home and all agree that it was one of the best holidays that we have had.

The Le Parc Hotel was wonderful, the rooms were fabulous, very modern and very clean. The rooftop bar was lovely with wonderful views over Quito and the meal that we had in the restaurant was the best meal that we had in Ecuador and was of a very high standard. La Selva was a great experience and the guiding was very good. However the highlight of the trip was the Galapagos and our stay on The Eclipse. The boat, the staff and the guides were all wonderful and could not have done more to ensure that we had the holiday of a lifetime.

Thank you so much Elena, for all your help and guidance in booking this holiday we really had a wonderful time.

With kind regards

Shona

Synnott Family
UK, August 2008
Traveled on the Eclipse

Hi Elena,

We had the most fabulous time!! Everything was just great and I am glad that we decided to split the time in Quito between the Parc and the Hotel in the old city, we enjoyed both of them tremendously and they were completely different experiences with distinct cuisine offerings.

The Arasha was perfect as was the entire Athala experience. the only suggestion I might have for guests staying at the Grand hotel in guayquil is that suggestions for alternate restaurants be made as the main dining room has a distinctly moldy odor from the adjacent courtyard swimming pool, but its convenience to the park with the iguanas and the cathedral were great.

When we arrived at the airport in Guayquil,we were met by your agent who had us listed as going to a different hotel with other passengers, however she was able to quickly arrange transportation to our hotel and for transport to the airport later that evening. There was no delay nor inconvenience in anyway. We were all so amazed at how this complicated trip with its many transfers took place without a glitch!! Needless to say we have been recommending you to our friends and plan to take this trip again when our daughter is able to do so!!

Many Thanks!!

Garren Family
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Fernanda,

Thanks a lot it was everything perfect. Aida Maria was a nice boat and the tour was beautiful.

I will come back.

Best regards,

Filippo
Italy, August 2008
Traveled on the Aida Maria

Hello Fernanda,

Thank you for organising the Galapagos Cruise on Archipell II, the flights transfers and accommodation.

Everything went very well and we had a lovely time.

Hope you are well. Best Wishes,

Martin Barrow
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Archipel II

Dear Christian,

Greetings from Paris and I hope you are fine. We had a wonderful time in the Galapagos islands. I was impressed by the beauty of the land. As mentioned to several members during the cruise and your American business partner who came on board on August 8th, I am very thankful for your efficiency from our very first contact, and for having helped us in finding our luggages in Quito.

Kindest regards,

Anthony
France, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Hi again Jessica!

Just wanted to write and say thank you for all your help. the trip went very well, the guide was knowedgeable and spoke well and the crew was great on the boat specially teh skipper carlos!

Thanks again,

Chad Lunow
Australia, August 2008
Traveled on the Aida Maria

Hola, Elena!

I just wanted to drop you a quick note to say many thanks for helping make Our family's trip so much fun. We had a blast!

I just posted our trip report on Tripadvisor.com in the Ecuador forum under the title "Ecuador trip report: Sacha Lodge, Athala, Sheraton Quito", so you can check that out (you both are mentioned prominently).

Hope we can do it again sometime, and stay longer.

Cheers,

Mr. Nash
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Fernanda mil gracias por su lindo correo, realmente mis hijos y yo nos quedamos facinados de haber escogido el Athala para nuestro viaje , el Crew y en especial su Capitan se portaron maravillosamente, estamos muy agradecidos, al punto que mis hijos quieren volver el proximo ano.

Fernanda valga la oportunidad para decirle a usted gracias por todas sus atenciones para con nosotros,y por ayudarnos a escoger el Athala.

Ximena, Daniel y Maria Isabel Linder
Ecuatorianos-Alemanes, Agosto 2008
Viajaron en el Athala

Hi Elena,

We just returned from our trip to the rain forest and the Galapagos and we were both very pleased. We had a fansastic experience and would highly reccommend both of these places to others. You provided excellent customer service to us, being both prompt and comprehensive. We were lucky to catch the flight to the Galapagos but we made it with your help.

Thanks again!

Mark and Ellen Conover
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Elena,

Many thanks for organising this for us. We had a fabulous trip in the Galapagos!

Regards,

Paula
Ireland, August 2008
Traveled on the Parranda

Hi Elena,

We have just finished our Athala trip - it was fantastic. Thank you so much for all your help in making this all possible.

Thanks again.

Eric
USA, August 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Jorge,

We were very pleased with all aspects of our trip.

The cruise was great and we had excellent guides and crewmen who were very attentive and helpful. We also had a great chef would prepared us wonderful food. Our guide was so incredibly helpful and when I had a problem with my passport he went above and beyond to help me out.

You were a very good travel agent and helped us out with booking so much, even when there were problems. Thank you for that.

Overall the trip and booking process went smoothly thanks to our travel agent, guide, and crewmen.

Thanks again for an AMAZING trip,

Lauren Lawson & Justin McDaniel
USA, July 2008
Traveled on the Guantanamera

Jorge,

I had a truly wonderful time overall and would highly recommend the Golodrina and crew to my friends and family. If I return, that is the boat that I would want to be on again (hopefully I can in the future!)

Jorge was excellent. Very informative and seems very trustworthy which is a HUGE plus!! Very available. I think that the trip went really smoothly as did the transactions and transportations in Ecuador- very organized!! THANK YOU!

Elizabeth Newman Southern
USA, July 2008
Traveled on the Golondrina

Hello Christian,

I would first like to thank you for planning such an amazing trip to Galapagos for my daughter Leslie and myself. Truthfully, I can't put into words what an amazing time we had. The extension trip that we took via the Queen of Galapagos was fantastic. I made memories that will never fade in my mind!

Your services were greatly appreciated and I can't say enough about how friendly and accommodating the people were that you hired to take us to our hotel and the airport. The group of Dentists and Dental Students couldn't have asked for better service and truly appreciated ALL of it.

Again, thank you so very much for your excellent service with regards to our trip to Galapagos. If we are ever fortunate enough to return to Ecuador, I hope that we could meet and thank you in person. We will be in touch if we should ever need services to visit any of the surrounding countries.

With my sincerest thanks,

Lisa Butler
USA, June 2008
Traveled on the Queen of Galapagos

Dear Washington,

I just wanted to let know that we really had a wonderful time in the Galapagos. The organisation was perfect and we saw many incredible things! I woul like to thank you for all your help and support!

I hope to hear from you in the future.

Warm regards,

Eva
Netherlands, July 2008
Traveled on the Yolita II

Fernanda,

I just got home from a different trip. The trip to Galapagos was amazing. I would definitely recommend Tip Top II and Hotel Rabida. I was very happy with both.

Thank you for all of your assistance booking the trip. It was a wonderful trip.

Thank you

Kerri
USA, July 2008
Traveled on the Tip Top II

Fernanda y Yoyi,

Ya estamos algunos devuelta, otros en transición y otros en continuación de sus vacaciones. Sin embargo y sé que hablo por todos, debemos decirles que estamos muy contentos y agradecidos de todas sus atenciones en este maravilloso viaje que acabamos de realizar. Tanto la parte de galápagos como (si erika y jose miguel muerdanse las uñas) la parte de machu picchu fueron espectaculares. La verdad que no dudaremos en recomendarlos a quien sea para tratar de emular nuestra experiencia. Sabemos que puede ser trabajoso, pues claro, nos necesitarán a nosotros.

En cuanto a Yoyi, a ti te esperamos en cabarete y por favor, hazle extensivo este email a Ivonne quien por culpa de ella los demás guías parecían muchachitos de cuna (aunque estuvieron bien), así como si en algún momento se interesa en conocer nuestra patria, que será igualmente bienvenida.

Gracias

Leo Matos
República Dominicana, Julio 2008
Viajaron en el Athala

Hi Yoyi,

I just wanted to send a quick E-mail to tell you How much fun we had on the Athala. This was not only because of the fabulous wildlife, but because of all the hard work you and your crew put in. Your talent is amazing! I can barely keep my house hold running well and you keep the Athala running like a well oiled machine. Our trip was flawless and the Meals were amazing. Not a day go's by with out Mike and I saying we wish we were back with Yoyi.

I wanted to thank you also for mailing my post cards. My niece and nephews got them and were thrilled. I was also wondering if I could have your recipe for the tuna spread that you had one day? My husband has been asking for it constantly.

Thanks again Yoyi, you are wonderful

Katherine Wynd and Michael Halsor
USA, July 2008
Traveled on the Athala

Dear Yvonne,

I want to thank you for making the trip to the Galapagos possible for me. It was amazing! I have enjoyd a lot. Now i'm back in Holland, but I am thinking about the tour and everything with happy sentiments. Thank you,

Hanna Hazenberg
Dutch, July 2008
Travelled on Tip Top II

Dear Fernanda,

My son's and my trip to Quito and the Galapagos Islands was fabulous! We had better than expected weather and I cannot sing the praises of our guide, Williams, who was with us on the Vogager.

The ship's accomadations were excellent (actually better than expected) and the meals were excellent and very good variety. Likewise the crew members were friendly and very helpful. Of course it helped that my son speaks Spanish fluently and thus he had a particularly good time interacting with Williams and the crew.

We had no problems with any transfers and personnel from you company were always there on time to meet us.

The Dann Hotel was very nice and I would stay there again. Great selection.

Finally, I am not sure whether this is anything your company can deal with, but I felt bad for those travelers who joined us for only part of the trip. By not doing the 7-day voyage, you miss out out on some key islands and animals (e.g., tortoises) that they expected to see. No one told them this when they booked I gather so I know some people who were only on the boat for a 4 days did not see near what the rest of us did and consequently were disappointed.

A trip of a life time for my son and I and working with you/Columbus Travel was a pleasure.

Kind regards,

Bob Dudley
USA, July 2008
Travelled on board the galapgos Voyager

Hi, just a quick note to say thanks for arranging everything. We had a great time.

Cheers,

Scott
UK, July 2008
Travelled on board Athala

Hi Christian,

I wanted to let you know that we thoroughly enjoyed the cruise. Service had been excellent all along, starting with our e-mails, the airport transfers, and the cruise itself. The only snag was when our left luggage was not at the Swissotel when we checked in, but you were very helpful in resolving that. I must say that you were very prompt in replying to my numerous e-mails, and definitely very helpful. The cruise was very organized, very punctual in all excursions, excellent service, very informative and a lot of fun. I will highly recommend the cruise and your service to others. Thanks for making this cruise a very successful part of our vacation.

Christine, Eric and Jared
USA, July 2008
Travelled on board Explorer

Fernanda,

El viaje excelente, el crucero excelente. Disfrutamos como enanos, como decimos por aqui. Nos encantaron las islas, los animales, y el control exquisito de la naturaleza....Igualmente, como digo, el crucero y su personal excelente. Dele recuerdos a Yoyi y a Kike de parte de "la pareja amorosa" (ellos ya saben....) Asi que repetiremos al menos Ecuador Gracias por todo

Un saludo desde Bruselas

Vicente
España, July 2008
Travelled on board Athala

Dear Elena,

We have returned to Germany last Sunday. It is an urgent wish of mine to thank you for your wonderful support and engagement! You made it possible, that our holiday in Ecuador was a great success. It was amazing for us how you worked in the background to make everything function.

Please show this e-mail to your boss!

All the best to you with many thanks!

Christian Gaedertz
Germany, July 2008
Travelled on board San Jose-Galapagos islands & Kapawi-Amazon rain forest

Hi Christian,

WOW!!!!! WOW, WOW, What a trip!!!!!! Everything you all did was GREAT !!!!!! Delta is a Pain, But once we were in your hands everything went wonderfully!

Yoyi and Kike were Great and the boat past all expectations. The Crew and Captain Pedro were out of this world. We had a great party the last night with everyone. They taught me some new dance moves. The Galapagos were excellent and Kike Really made it special with all his vast knowledge. And Christian I can thank you enough. All your hard work with us was great and the Casa Aliso was a wonderful place to stay. The Service there was impecable.

On the plain back home we were recommending the Athala and soon her sister ship to everyone. I was righting down the web site for people. I told them how great it was working with you.

Thanks again to you and to the whole crew of the Athala! With out you and the wonderful ship this wouldn't have been so perfect.

Width much Love and Gratitude,

Katherine Wynd and Michael Halsor
USA, July 2008
Travelled on board Athala

Diego,

I just want to let you know that the cruise you had arranged for us was wonderful. I also need to thank you for having the trip document delivered to our hotel before the cruise.

I'll definitely recommend my friends to use Columbus Travel for cruises to Galapagos.

Sincerely,

Eriko Mogi
China, July 2008
Travelled on the Santa Cruz

Dear Fernanda,

Everything was perfect; we couldn't have been any happier with the cruise or the hotel in Santa Cruz. This was the best vacation we've ever taken; everything ran so smoothly, and the Galapagos are amazing!

Thank you so much for your help.

Kelly Connelly
USA, July 2008
Travelled on board Aida Maria

Hi Fernanda,

It’s good to hear from you. I’m so sorry we weren’t able to get to meet you when we were in Quito. We found out later that you left a message but we did not get the message until it was too late.

We had a wonderful time on our trip! Everything went very well for us. The Jespersen’s had some problems I know, but as far as our family, it went great. As for the accommodations, they were all really wonderful, all of our transfers were on time and our guides were very knowledgeable and very courteous. Especially Janet (Yanet?) in Cuzco, She was a great guide!

We loved both countries and the two areas were so different that it made a nice and very interesting contrast.

Again, you did a wonderful job planning it for us and I enjoyed working with you. We will definitely recommend your company to our friends.

Sincerely,

Donna, Jack and Meggie Greenbaum
USA, June 2008
Travelled on board Explorer cruise ship Galapagos & Machu Picchu tour

"The bottom line is that they [GalapagosIslands.com] do take care of you- and it can be very nice to know that you have a friend in Quito who will help you out." -Kristian Olvet

"We want to thank you for a fantastic trip to Ecuador. We had a super good time and everything went very well. We loved the jungle and the jungle village resort we stayed at. It was a very good balance of adventure and comfort and we found the people there very friendly and accommodating."- Tom Shemanski

"The week on the Islands (Galapagos) was amazing: each island so different, the lack of fear of humans from various creatures, the range of experiences on the islands, the knowledgeable naturalists. It all added up to a truly memorable week."- Phoebe Kent

"Expect some of the best meals and finest accommodations. The ship (Explorer II) is very well maintained and equipped with all of the necessities. I was given a private tour of the bridge, the equipment, and their functions…I say it looks top of the line."-Thomas Woolsey