GREETINGS FROM BARILOCHE
Hi Ronni,
Arrived here this afternoon. This a magnificent spot and Hotel Cascada is
beautiful. I have a room that overlooks the lake and the snowcapped
mountains. I also enjoyed Mendoza very much/ Had wonderful dinner there
especially at the hotel and 1894 restaurant. My check there including wine,
a cordial, appetizer, entree and dessert came to about 100 pesos or $33. Did
you know that I was having an interpreter for the tours in Mendoza. Lots to
tell you about. Marita is very helpful.
Herb
North Carolina
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TRIP TO LIMA-CUZCO-MACHU PICCHU-LAKE TITICACA
Hi Daniel:
I am sending this thank you note late because I had got sick after the trip
from Peru.
Overall, the trip was very nice, most of the people in the group had a good
time, although it was a tour full of adventures and adjustments. The service
of Peruvian Odyssey was very good. Fernando, the tour guide in Cuzco and
Machu Picchu had provided an excellent service during t he four days for the
group. Julio from Lima was very informative and on time for all events too.
Thanks again for all of your hard work, and on behalf of the group, please
accept our gratitude and looking forward for the next tour / group.
Regards
Mey
New Jersey
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TRIP TO: Buenos Aires...
Buenos Aires was all I expected it to be and more. There is a
vibrant cultural life in addition to the incredible barbecue, the
sophisticated tango venues, and some of the best restaurants in the
hemisphere.
Tara Tours arranged for two studios for my friend Jane and me in a wonderful
boutique apartment/hotel in the Recoleta section next to the famous cemetery
and within walking distance of some of the best restaurants in the city and
a short cab fare to the others. The agency sent a car/driver/guide for a
city tour, arranged a 50% discount at the best tango show in the VIP section
with unlimited champagne and wine, and also for the trip to the Estancia
(ranch) for a folkloric show, horsemanship display, and enormous barbecue.
The Opera of the Pampas was a combination Buffalo Bill wild west show and
operetta on the history of Argentina followed by another enormous parillada,
again in the reserved VIP section with far too much wine flowing.
We did the trip to Tigre on the Rio de la Plata delta by train and boat our
own... We did the boat ride throught the delta rivers and a stop for lunch
at the reputed best restaurant there, not up to the city's fabulous choices.
With the peso at three to the dollar, prices are like the 1970s in the US.
The tasting menu at Le Borgogne in the Alvear Palace,
reputedly the best hotel in the southern hemisphere, was really decadent and
the only outrageous splurge of the trip, still considerably less than my NY
favorite Le Cirque.
I cannot adjust to eating at 10-11 pm and bars not starting til 1 am so Jane
and I followed a more normal schedule with dining around 9. After a huge ojo
de bife to die for and a bottle of incredible Malbec wine, I had no need to
go out to bars later. The confidentials column in El Clarin is the place to
find consolation for lonely singles but I only investigated a few ads for
sociological purposes.
The big problem for tourists is how little there is to do in the morning
since the night-owls don't want to start early. The Fine Arts museum
(wonderful collection of French impressionists as well as modern Argentine
artists) doesn't open til 12:30 and the Museums of Latin American Art and
Decorative Arts do not open until 2 pm. We did lots of walking through the
delightful neighborhoods including the relatively new Puerto Madero where
incredible shops and restaurants face the old harbor. .......
JIM
Brockport N.Y
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TRIP TO: Guatemala – by Jene’e Bearden (Travel Agent)
Recently, I had the privilege of traveling to one of
the most beautiful countries I have ever been to.
Guatemala. Most people conjure up images of “guerillas”, “civil war” and a
country in turmoil. But it was just the opposite. Guatemala’s civil war
ended about ten years ago and they have been rebuilding its image and
infrastructure since. New highways and roads are under construction, and
fortunately or unfortunately depending on your own point of view, you can
find McDonalds and Burger King, as well as Chilis in most major cities.
On our first full day, we had a 3:45am wake-up call so we could catch an
early 35 minute flight to Flores, capital of the Peten territory. From there
we boarded our small deluxe motor coach and traveled to Tikal National Park,
home of the largest and most monumental city of the Maya culture. It is
advised to wear good walking shoes and bring your rain gear. We lucked out
and experienced wonderful weather while we were there. We mapped
out what we wanted to see in the time frame we allotted for, which was about
5 hours. However, it is recommended that you start early as the afternoon
heat and rain could dampen your experience. Of the towers and temples we
saw, most of us were able to climb two of them. The original stone steps are
blocked off from climbing. Primitive, but adequate, sturdy wooden steps have
been built on the side of the temples to climb to the top. It was well worth
the climb on tower number 4, which was the tallest of all that have been
excavated. The view was spectacular; it literally took my breath away,
especially after 160 steps. Climbing the towers is not for the faint of
heart. Along the jungle trails we saw howler monkeys, spider monkeys, a
toucan, and several other smaller creatures, such as the leaf cutter ants,
spotted by a trail of leaves crossing our path. The visit to Tikal was one
of the major highlights of my trip and I wouldn’t have missed it for
anything. After a late lunch on Lake Peten, we flew back to Guatemala City
for the night.
The next day we headed for Chichicastenango, which is a small
town lying in the mountains located about 2-3 hours drive from Guatemala
City. It is home to the most colorful native market in the Americas. The
market days are Sundays and Thursdays throughout the year. Bartering is
customary and there are bargains galore. It was recommended by our guide to
hire one of the local boys, which are now certified and identified by their
name badge and bright orange vest, to be your shopping guide. The boys will
carry your bags and guide you through the maze of stalls and market stands.
If there is something special you’re looking for they will take you to the
best spot for that. They will watch your back as well as your bags, well
worth the customary $5 tip.
Lake Atitlan was our next stop. The lake with its natural blue waters was
set against a backdrop of three 10,000-foot volcanoes. The lake is 26 km
long and 18 km wide, occupying an extinguished crater. Lining the shores,
you will find a dozen picturesque Indian villages where life and customs
have changed little over the centuries. One of the highlights was a half
hour boat ride to the village of Santiago Atitlan, one of the twelve
villages located around the lake. Shopping, dining, kayaking and bird
watching are just a few of the activities members of our group took in.
Next stop was Antigua, one of the world’s best conserved colonial cities. It
is a magical and captivating small town that makes you feel time might have
stopped some 300 years ago. With cobblestone streets and colonial
architecture and its beautiful surroundings, it is truly a special place to
visit. We visited the Jade factory, Santo Domingo Church and Monastery, as
well as take in some free time for shopping and dining.
Our trip winded down with a couple more nights in Guatemala City. Before
leaving, we took in a ½ day city tour with visits to the National Palace,
Textile Museum, and modern downtown Guatemala City. I look forward to making
a return trip to this beautiful country.
Jene
Durney Travel & Cruise //
Aberdeen
, WA
(all pictures by Jene -Nov.2006)
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TRIP TO: EASTER ISLAND, MACHU-PICCHU & LAKE TITICACA
Dear Victor,
Your company did deserve all the good comments and I hope you
remember all the others for other people. Will think of you if we go south
of the border again and will be happy to recommend your company to anyone if
you would like me too. Again thank you for the direction and the help to put
the trip together.
Gloria T.
New York
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TRIP TO: BRAZIL-ARGENTINA-CHILE
Dear Daniel and Chey,
I just wanted to thank you for helping to make the trip to
South America for Mr. and Mrs. Karr and Mr. and Mrs. Gords -they had a very
lovely experience. They were pleased with all of the guides and all of their
transfers occurred in a timely manner.
I look forward to working with you again in the future.
Best regards,
Alice
Travel Agent
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TRIP TO: GUATEMALA
Good morning,
What a Fantastic trip!!! We were amazed with the amount of traveling we were
able to do in the short time we were in Guatemala. All of the arrangements
with Clark Tours were very well planned with no hitches...the flights, the
hotel accommodations, the meals and wonderful tours.
Again we thank you and Tara Tours for introducing Guatemala to us on this
very special tour.
Best regards,
Wayne and Sharon
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TRIP TO: PERU
Dear Tara,
I went to Peru with you and I can truly say that it was one of the best
trips my husband and I have ever done--I am very impressed with the
companies that you use in South/Central America-nothing but rave reviews
every time!
Thanks again!
Christine
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TRIP TO: GALAPAGOS-ECUADOR
Daniel-
I wanted to let you know that the Wilsons just got back from Galapagos and
they absolutely had the most fabulous trip!
They travel all over the world and he is a doctor at Mayo Clinic and was a
referral from some other clients that I booked through Tara Tours last year!
Thanks,
Travel Agent,
Wisconsin
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TRIP TO: PANAMA
Dear Victor,
I wanted to thank you for arranging a wonderful trip for us. My husband
remarked that it was the first international trip we've been on where
everything went smoothly and as arranged. We had a wonderful time and will
recommend you and the trip to our friends.
Sincerely,
Louise & Tom
New Jersey,
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TRIP TO: Ecuador & Galapagos
Hi Chris (travel agent)
What a wonderful trip!!! It was one of the most memorable experiences of our
life. We will never forget our time there. The animals and natural beauty
was extraordinary. The ship was fantastic, the crew so extremely polite, the
guides wonderful, food terrific, weather wonderful. What more can we say.
We sincerely thank you for making all these arrangements for us.
Walter, M.D.
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TRIP TO: BRAZIL -AMAZON
Danny … all of the arrangements that you made for us worked out great … just
as expected.
We had the meeting at the airport in Rio, and the guide was outstanding.
Also, everything worked out at Ariau … . The food quality and quantity was
adequate, and the guides all seemed to do a good job. Things are starting to
look a little ‘tired,.’ but I guess that goes along with the jungle. This
seemed to be a good time to visit, as the boats were able to get into all
areas, and there was still some dry land.
Thanks again,
Best regards,
Jack
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
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TRIP TO: GUATEMALA
Dear Mr. Daniel Taramona,
I recently went on a trip to Guatemala arranged by booking
agent Jeff and wanted to advise you, it was a wonderful experience. Although
there was not a lot of advanced booking
time, he did his utmost to help make the arrangements. Clark Tours was
greatly organized and the trip went without a hitch.
I certainly will be comfortable in seeking your service in the future.
Thank you
Alba
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TRIP TO: PANAMA -ROYAL DECAMERON
Dear Daniel,
My husband and I wanted to thank you for your help in planning and booking
our recent trip to Panama. It was a wonderful time with few glitches. The
Royal decameron was wonderful and we were glad we took some of the reviews
lightly. We had a room facing the pools and ocean. The food was good and we
rarely had to climb the "dreaded" hill. There is, of course, vehicles that
go around and will give anyone a ride who needs it. Our one complaint was
the availability of tours on a regular basis. The Gamboa Rainforest Resort
was beautiful and from there we took numerous trips from the resort as well
as on our own to save a large expense.
Cordially,
Robin and Peter
New York
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TRIP TO: PERU
Good Afternoon—
You have put together trips for me to Peru twice within the last four years,
and have done a splendid job. There were both well organized. I was very
pleased with the accommodations. And, your staff in Peru was very
accommodating, friendly, and helpful at all times.
I am now considering a trip to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I have never been
there before. It would be a week’s duration,I look forward to hearing from
you, as I plan my trip.
Thanks for your time and assistance.
Fred
ARKANSAS
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TRIP TO: PANAMA
Hi, Victor, Finally have had a minute to write to you and thank you for the
wonderful trip we had to Panama.
The De Cameron was great! Good lodgings, good food, wonderful people. Their
system is so efficient for such a large operation.
The Panama Canal was awesome and something we always wanted to see.
The Crowne Plaza was excellent.
Thank you so much for being so patient with me regarding the details of the
trip.
Am sure we will be in contact regarding a trip to Belize. Thanks again,
Darlene
Wisconsin
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TRIP TO: BOLIVIA
To Whom it May Concern,
Our group, from the Travel Club, would like to let you know what a marvelous
tour guide we had for our trip to Bolivia from 01 Sept through 05 Sept.
Our guide, Fernando , was very knowledgeable, interesting, full of
enthusiasm and energy, and was a great factor in making the trip a success
for all of us. It was apparent that he loves his job and he was a walking
encyclopedia of information. As a group, we were all very impressed with him
and we wish him every success in the future.
The tour itself was great and we enjoyed every minute of it. We especially
enjoyed Lake Titicaca and it's rich history.
Thank you,
Tere & Jim
Texas
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TRIP TO: ARGENTINA, PERU, BOLIVIA, BRAZIL, PARAGUAY
Hi Daniel, just got back from my trip ( just! the BA flight was so busy! I
think I got the last seat on the airplane! ) once again I had a great time ;
I so love South America and this year I particularly loved Bolivia: so I
wanted to thank you for your great organization and your attention to
details: I am already thinking of next January !! what do you think of
Columbia...., anyway many thanks to you and Jose for putting this trip
together and I can' t wait until the next one!
Kind Regards.
Christine
FRANCE
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TRIP TO EL SALVADOR
Daniel -- I was just looking at your website
and found a section called "Passenger's Reports". It was very nice and I
simply wanted to put a note in there regarding our group's most recent
trip - in February, 2007 - to El Salvador. It was the best trip yet! We
have booked three trips with you (through our travel agent and friend at
Barclay Travel in Madison) and they all have been very enjoyable. I also
wanted everyone else to know what a fine job you and your company do to be
sure everything comes out satisfactorily. We are looking forward to
another destination next year!
Thank you again.
Kathy G. R.
Middleton, WI
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TRIP TO CHILE & ARGENTINA
March 08, 2007
Subject: Wonderful Trip
Dear Victor,
As I told you on the phone the sights, drivers and guides you chose for us
were wonderful. It made such a difference in Jim's comfort level being able
to go our own way at our own speed. All of the guides were considerate of
Jim but as I told you Carlos of
Martin Travel in Iguazu Falls went above and beyond. He thought Jim would be
better able to see the Falls from the Brazil side because there is an
elevator there beside the falls and he could get a wheelchair for Jim to go
out on the catwalk in front of the falls.
Another wonderful guide was the woman we had at Puerto Madryn. Sorry I
couldn't find her name. There were no wheelchairs available at the Punta
Tombo Rookery and it was a long walk down to the penguins so she asked the
ranger to take Jim down to an area where he could sit among the penguins
while we walked further. The ranger also came
back when we finished our walk and drove Jim to the entrance.
Terry in Santiago and Trinidad in Buenos Aires were excellent. I would
certainly recommend the Opera Pampas. It was outstanding. One improvement
would be to get the English Explanation to those attending before they go.
You were wonderful to work with and I will certainly recommend you to
anyone going to South America.
Sincerely,
Mr & Mrs. Willis
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