Archived Testimonials: Reviews of Longwood Holidays by past customers

Home
Testimonials
Archived Testimonials

Below is a selection of our past testimonials - see our testimonials page for more recent comments.

"A truly inspiring holiday that we shall treasure for life"

15 November 2011 - Mrs Park, Mrs Wright & Mr Wright

Dear Longwood Holidays,

My mother, brother and I have recently returned from a 6 day tour of Israel and the Holy Land. Our tour guide and driver for the whole trip was Aryeh Zarzer and my family would like to express our gratitude for him making our trip the most inspiring, exciting, informative and memorable holiday we have experienced. He never lacked enthusiasm and his knowledge was impressive.

Thank you again for organising a truly inspiring holiday that we shall treasure for life.

"The Egyptologists was fantastic"

5th November 2011 - Mr & Mrs Twyman

My wife and I decided on a holiday to Egypt to celebrate our 45th wedding anniversary, on our holiday we decided to spend a brief period in Cairo in order to visit the Pyramids followed by a Nile cruise and a short relaxing stay in the Red Sea resort of El Gouna. The representatives were extremely helpful upon our arrival at Cairo airport.

The cruise itself proved everything we had hoped for, the boat was very comfortable and we were very well looked after.

The trips to various temples and sights were well organised and there was enough free time to make your own discoveries.

El Gouna was our relaxing phase and we really enjoyed our spacious accommodation at the Three Corners Ocean View Hotel. We strongly recommend this resort and hotel, it is very relaxing and there is plenty to see around the marina and lagoons.

The Longwood rep who took us back to Hurghada Airport was extremely helpful in getting us to the right desk for our return flight etc.

In all we had a fabulous holiday, we are certainly recommending Longwood to our friends. And just wanted to say how helpful the staff were and the treatment we received was second to none. Your choice of Nile Cruise boats and hotels to chose from is excellent.

"we didn't want our holiday to end"

27th October 2011 - Mr & Mrs Lane

We would like to express our upmost gratitude to your reps and members of the team in Egypt.
Ahmed the rep who met us in Cairo set very high standards and professionalism and the Egyptologist was very informative. The Egyptologist onboard the RA11 was extremely enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The RA11 cruise was excellent, the service and organisation on board was perfect. Our memories of our holidays will be with us always, we didn’t want our holiday to end. The Reps who took us to El Gouna were very helpful and informative and made us very welcome.

Thank you, we would certainly travel with Longwood in the future.

"Extremely helpful Rep"

22 September 2011 – Ms Wilson

I wish to acknowledge the kindness and helpfulness of a Longwood Representative. My partner and I have recently been to Taba, Egypt. On the way to Taba Airport, my partner realised he had misplaced his passport, and therefore our coach could not get through the passport checkpoint.

We were extremely fortunate to be approached by a Longwood holidays rep, He sat with us and explained what we needed to do if we could not locate the passport. Thankfully, the passport was picked up by a friend already at the airport.

I would definitely consider and recommend using Longwood when travelling to Egypt.

"A very knowledgable Egyptologist"

7th August 2011 – Mr Howard Martin

I have recently returned from a Nile cruise holiday with my wife and son, booked through Longwood Holidays. We went on a Nile cruise which was fantastic, thank you so much. Everything was perfect. The cruise liner was more than we were expecting, the restaurant staff made us feel very special, serving us excellent cuisine in a professional but friendly manner. Our cabin was larger than expected and kept in a pristine condition daily staff, the other staff throughout the boat made us feel so relaxed, it seemed nothing was ever to much trouble for them.

I can honestly say our Egyptologist made our holiday complete. His knowledge of the history of Egypt and especially hieroglyphs was very impressive and the three of us went home with a basic understanding of hieroglyphs and the desire to learn more, quite amazing. His personal but professional manner made the tours to the tombs and temples very exiting.

We do appreciate that to make a holiday as perfect as the one my family and I have just experienced it takes a lot of people in a lot of places doing their jobs professionally so thank you to all at Longwood here and abroad.

"Nothing but praise"

19 May 2009- Mrs Hendry

I just want to take a few minutes to compliment your representatives on our recent trip to Taba (19th-26th May)

- Our booking was made with e-shores - Nadine Brown - brilliant - one of the most professional, helpful travel agents I have come across

- First impressions are so important and after a long day to be met by your rep Mina at the Taba Airport was a breath of fresh air - He was efficient, polite and knowledgeable. At any time one time we knew what was happening, why we couldn't leave the airport etc

- There was just my husband and I for the mini bus journey to Taba Hilton, so we felt very special and Mina ensured we were comfortable, adjusting the air-conditioning in the mini bus whilst waiting for the convoy to leave the airport.

- On arrival at the hotel - the check in was efficient, friendly and without a hitch - we were offered an upgrade to Nelson Village which we took. Mina even walked with us to show us the room

- We really loved the room and told Mina we would take it - but then we had such a laugh with a couple (who instantly became our holiday friends) who arrived outside our room with a key! Mina who had stayed with us immediately contacted reception and some time later escorted us to another room - he then left. But then Amir from Reception who had booked us in came and was so apologetic about the mess up and insisted we had the upgrade free.

- We attended the welcome meeting with your rep who again was most knowledgeable, not pushy just friendly and polite. - On leaving the hotel we were allowed to keep our room until 6pm - a really lovely touch

- The rep met us in good time - I can't remember his name but he was superb - again he explained in clear detail what would happen en route to the airport. The day before departure husband had developed a very swollen and excruciatingly painful foot - we didn't make anything of it to the rep but on arrival at the airport which was heaving with departing passengers who had formed a snaking queue even outside the terminal. The rep told us to stay in the vehicle - minutes later he returned and he walked us straight to the checking in desk - the relief on my husbands face knowing he wasn't going to have to stand for all that time.

- The rep explained about the airport layout and its amenities - he then left.

The week at the Taba Hilton gave us exactly what we wanted, total rest and relaxation - we met some lovely people and have nothing but praise for the English Manager at the Taba Hilton. What a personable guy - always affording his guests time to listen and operate an open door policy. He is working tirelessly to bring this hotel up to the standard of other Hilton Hotels - but Rome was not built in a day as they say.

If there is any way you can pass our thanks and appreciation to your reps in Taba we would be so grateful - all 3 of the reps we had any dealings with did your company credit.

"High degree of professionalism"

18 January 2009 - Mr & Mrs Goddard

My husband and I have recently returned from a Nile Presidential Cruise followed by three nights in Cairo. We had a fantastic holiday and were very impressed with all of the organisation that was part of the Longwood Experience.

We were met and fast tracked through Cairo for our connection to Luxor and representatives were courteous, punctual and informative at all stages of the holiday. the accompanying Egyptologist on the Cruise, Hossam was knowledgeable and very thorough - his input was a major benefit to the holiday experience. Our additional trips in Cairo, the hot air balloon ride and the trip to Abu Simbel were of the same high standard.

We would just like to acknowledge the fact that Longwood's high degree of professionalism made our holiday, since returning we have told everyone of Longwood and how good we considered their service.

Thank you again for such a good holiday experience.

"Very knowledgeable reps"

20 September 2008 - Miss C Bull & Mr S Turrell

Dear Longwood Holidays,

My boyfriend & I have recently returned from a wonderful holiday to Egypt. We had a bespoke itinerary and visited Cairo, Aswan and Hurghada (via Luxor).

We would like to inform you that your reps based in Egypt are extremely good. We would like to give a special mention to Hussein who took us to the Pyramids (on 14th Aug) and Sherif (on 17th Aug) who escorted us on our journey from Luxor to Hurghada by road convoy.

Both of these reps were extremely nice, very knowledgeable and very good company. However, all of the reps we met were good. We would love to visit Egypt again in the future and will consider using Longwood Holidays again.

Many thanks

"Thank you for your prompt action"

19 September 2008 - Mr D Roberts

I hope that whoever receives this email will ensure that it is read by the appropriate people.

I suspect that, as a result of the XL collapse, you have received a fair amount of flack from those whose holidays have been cut short. While my wife and I were not overjoyed that we had to come home earlier than anticipated, I am writing to thank you for the prompt action you took, first to make arrangements for us to come home and, secondly, to refund the payment for the second week of our holiday.

The return from Ovda Airport was far superior to a previous return from Taba - both in terms of the airport and the aeroplane - despite the enhanced security checks. I would have no concerns if, in the future, we had to return by this route.

Thank you.

"A big thank you"

17 September 2008 - J, A & V Stevenson, Manchester

We have just returned from Taba - Three Corners El Wekala, and would just like to say a big thank you!

We really enjoyed it, and want to say a special thanks to George, Peter and Simon, your reps in helping our stay be a good one.

Also, thanks for sorting out our flight home, even though we had to leave from Israel. The flight was great, the flight crew were really friendly and hospitable and your staff made it an easy (all though different) experience!

Please pass on our thanks to the Israel Airline if possible!

Thanks again.

"Thank you for your promptness"

17 September 2008 - Mrs M Sutton

We were due to travel to Hurghada this Friday 19th September via XL, unfortunately you could not offer us an alternative, so we accepted the offer of a refund.

This was in our bank today, I just wish to say thank you for the prompt way this was dealt with. The liquidation of XL must be a nightmare for you to deal with.

We hope to travel with you again.

Many thanks

"Commend the efforts of Longwood"

17 September 2008 - Mr M I Jones

We have returned from our two week break in Taba at the Hyatt Regency on the 15th Sep 08. This is our second time travelling with Longwood and staying at the Hyatt.

We heard the distressing news regarding XL Airlines a few days before departure and I am sure you will understand we were all very concerned. Your staff at the Hotel were very much in the dark regarding details but very reassuring.

We were informed of the alternative travel arrangements on the evening of our departure and we can only commend the efforts of Longwood in general and in particular the efforts of your staff at the resort. I appreciate that a lot of people were involved in this operation but we must mention Simon. His knowledge and professionalism was exceptional and we are sure he is a credit to your organisation. If at all possible please pass our comments and thanks to the team at Taba Heights.

Thank You

"No hesitation recommending you to others"

16 September 2008 - M & C Charlton

Dear Longwood

We returned yesterday from a great holiday at Taba Heights in Egypt and I wanted to thank you for the way your Company dealt with the XL collapse. We were kept informed by the local reps, and the final flight home was exceptionally well organised and given the circumstances was completely pain free.

It was only when we got home and saw the television news that we realised other tour companies were simply leaving their customers to fend for themselves; consequently we wanted to extend sincere thanks to Longwood.

It is easy for any Company to do well (or at least appear to do) when there are no problems and quite another to perform when there is, in this instance, a major problem. We would have absolutely no hesitation about using your Company again and no hesitation about recommending you to others.

Thanks again and best regards

"Professionalism beyond reproach"

16 September 2008 - Mr B Starkey

I would like to congratulate your Company and especially the reps who were involved in repatriating our group from the Movenpick hotel in El Quseir back to the UK over this past weekend. The journey may have included 3 more hotels, two other resorts, numerous coach trips, a ferry journey, very long days and a flight to Manchester instead of Gatwick but the professionalism afforded to us was beyond reproach.

I realise that some of the decisions which were made seemed a little strange and sometimes contradictory as the story unfolded but I believe they acted with integrity on the information available to them at that particular time. They certainly showed Longwood Holidays to be a good company that I will most certainly do business with again and have no qualms about recommending to others.

Regards

"A trip we'll always remember"

28 April 2008 - Mrs J Yates, Surrey

My husband and I have recently returned from a tailor-made Longwood Holiday - Friday, April 11 from Heathrow to Nile Hilton, Cairo, onto the Sonesta St George Hotel in Luxor, boarding the Sonesta St George Ship for four nights on Monday, April 14.

Can I thank Longwood Holidays and all your staff for the most professional, hassle-free holiday my husband and I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing.

Our trip involved a number of airport visits, but a member of Longwood Holidays met us every step of the way, completing travel processes at each juncture.

We felt extremely well looked after, with all representatives demonstrating a wonderful balance of professionalism and friendliness.

The hotels and ship were first-class. The trips superbly executed and pitched perfectly – and excellent value-for-money.

We are already looking at booking Israel for 2009 and have highly recommended Longwood to everyone we know.

Thank you for making our Egypt trip one we’ll always remember.

Regards

"Everything went like clockwork"

25 February 2008 - Mr David Hillman

To the staff of Longwood Holidays,

We have recently returned from a seven day Nile cruise and three day stay in Cairo, which we booked through your company. Everything went like clockwork and it resulted in us having one of the best holidays we have ever had.

The seats on the Egypt Air aircraft were comfortable and we had plenty of legroom, so the flight was something to be enjoyed rather than endured. Your Egyptian couriers were always courteous, helpful and on time and our tour guild Karema was extremely knowledgeable. Her explanations in near faultless English really brought the temples and tombs to life for us. As to our accommodation, we couldn’t fault the service or the wide range of food on board the M/S Odyssey and the Nile Hilton in Cairo lived up to its reputation for excellence.

We have already recommended your company to friends and will happily do so again. We are now saving hard to go back and see all the things that we didn’t have time to cover on this trip and it goes without saying that your company will be our first choice when we do.

Thank for a brilliant holiday.

Yours faithfully

"I love everything about Taba Heights"

17 February 2008 - Mrs Mavis Crawford

I would like to let you know that my sister and I are arriving at your Hyatt Regency Hotel on 31 March 2008. This will be my 3rd/4th time to this resort, but it is my sisters first visit. I love everything about this place and have done many trips with Charlie arranging everyone, he is a lovely man, very obliging.....

I have visited Petra, Israel, Jordan, Cairo, St Catherine's Monastery, Abel Simbel and I am returning to go to Jerusalem this time. I shall be celebrating my 70 birthday on the day I fly back on 14 April, but this is really my birthday treat from my family. I can't wait to arrive, I do hope our accommodation will be as good as all the others have been. I am always going on about this place and I thought that now the golf course is finished that we would not be able to get a booking there as I know when it gets around about the course, all the golfers will be swarming there, as it looked rather wonderful when I first saw it being started.

I look forward to seeing Charlie and a few others that I cannot remember their names, but when I see them I shall know, I doubt very much that they will remember me. I have met some smashing people on my other visits and still keep in touch with a few of them via e-mail. Sorry I have gone on a bit, but I'm full of it. I was reading other peoples comments and thought I would like my thoughts of your establishment put on your comments page...

"The best rep we have met"

March 2007 - M & D Perrin, Surrey

Charlie, our representative, was superb. Our travel agent had forgotten to confirm with the hotel we were on our honeymoon, Charlie immediately rang the hotel in advance & sorted it out.

His depth & breadth of knowledge of the area & that of the trips was outstanding.

He really helped to make this an incredibly memorable holiday for us.

We cannot thank him enough. In many years of travelling he is the best rep we have met.

"The holiday industry's best kept secret"

February 2007 - J. Mackenzie, South Wales

Everything about this holiday was 5 star. I felt looked after from day one. The organisation was superb, friendly professional & efficient service from both Longwood staff and the hotel team.

I had a wonderful holiday and believe this is the holiday industry‘s best kept secret – and long may it stay that way! We don’t want too many people here do we! I am fairly well travelled but this is truly the nicest holiday I’ve had as a winter break. I will, most definitely be back! Thank you all.

"Definitely be using you again"

February 2007 - C Evans, London

Our rep Russell was very helpful and well informed. Questions answered quickly & efficiently.
One of the best holiday companies we’ve travelled with. We’ll definitely be using you again.

Thank you.

"Excellent value for money"

January 2007 - Mr R Linthwaite, Sussex

An outstanding holiday and excellent value for money. From start to finish the Longwood staff were very efficient. We were very impressed with the Hyatt Regency – the staff were so helpful and friendly. The hotel and resort were highly recommended by friends and the holiday far exceeded our expectations.

We cannot wait to return in January 2008 – with Longwood Holidays, of course!

"So friendly and available"

January 2007 - A & P Monaghan, Co Dublin

Buichas le Dia! (Thanks be to God)

Longwood especially was so friendly & available, gave great information and advice. Sarah Jane, you helped make this the best visit to Eilat for us! Thanks for answering even the silly questions! Hope to meet again.

"Unforgettable trip"

August 2006 - M & A Jones

We would like to express our deepest thanks for your organisation of our recent 3 centre holiday. We stayed at the Four Seasons First Residence in Cairo which was magnificent, then onto the RA2 for a 7 night cruise and finally to the Oberoi in Hurghada.

Your reps were always there to meet us and when we had a flight delay in Hurghada you rep in Cairo managed to get us on our flight back to Heathrow.

This was our first time in Egypt ... I would not only recommend Egypt to our friends, but certainly your company as well. Our trip was unforgettable and we look forward to returning soon.

"We look forward to another Longwood holiday"

May 2006 - B. & N. G - Wirral

Just writing to say we have just returned from a holiday at the Hilton Plaza, Hurghada booked through you via our local travel agent, Global Travel.

We have been to Egypt before (Cairo, Alexandria, Sharm and Nile cruise) but wanted a week in the sun doing nothing and that is exactly what we got. The hotel was as you would expect from Hilton in the Middle East with high standards of service and cleanliness in a picturesque location.

We wanted to contact you to say what an extremely high standard of service we received from Longwood ground staff in the resort. From the moment we arrived in the terminal building a Longwood member of staff was on hand taking us through visa procedures, customs and then directing us to our transport.

From choice we didn’t see our Rep until the day before departure to sort out transfer to the airport. We told the Rep we would make our own way to the airport as we wanted to book extra leg-room seats (we had paid for these on the way out at Manchester and were told we could do the same at Hurghada), but your Rep still came by the hotel to let us know of a 2 hour delay by Excel. When we got to the airport staff were again on hand and ushered us through the airport security and at check in assisted us in acquiring the extra leg-room seats we wanted, even though these could not be purchased.

All in all an excellent service. We will certainly look to going on another Longwood holiday.

"We will definitely be returning"

April 2006 - Mr & Mrs P. W.

My family and I have just returned back from Hurghada and we wanted to let you know what a fantastic holiday we had.

We stayed at the Intercontinental. The hotel was super and the staff very friendly and helpful.

The Longwood staff were great, especially Tarek and Mohammed, the best I have encountered in a long time, nothing was too much, this is very rare, they are a credit to Longwood, if all your staff and service is like this we will definitely be returning to Egypt this year.

Thanks again.

"Marvellous holiday"

April 2006 - W. & D. F

Hello

We have just returned from our holiday in Luxor staying at the Sofitel Karnak Hotel. We had a marvellous holiday and enjoyed every second. We went on 3 organised trips, to The Valley of the Kings and The Valley of the Queens, to Aswan and to the Luxor and Karnak temples. On each trip the guides were excellent, especially Azza whose explanations were so clear. Our trip to Aswan was amazing and Thomas was a perfect guide.

The hotel was very good!! The food was lovely and we had no problems in any way. The staff were so helpful and friendly, nothing was too much trouble.

All the information supplied by you was spot on and the reps were excellent. Superb.

Roll on next holiday!

"Cannot thank you enough"

March 2006 - T & M Rackley

My wife had always wanted to go to Egypt since she was a little girl who studied Egyptology at school.

I wanted to make a big surprise for her. As 2006 was her 50th birthday and our 30th wedding anniversary, I wanted to make her dream come true.

Through the Travelcare travel agents in Church Langley, Harlow, I booked a 2 week holiday. The first week was a Nile Cruise on board the RA1 and the second week ashore the Sonesta St George Hotel.

The cruise was absolutely grand, we were spoilt for food, accommodation and felt special. We also had a cake made for us and was presented with all the catering staff around the table and singing an Egyptian Happy Birthday/Anniversary song.

The inclusive excursions were very good and informative. The guide (Mohammed) was excellent. So much so, we embarked on further trips to Abu Simbel and of course the hot air balloon. I could not fault the cruise and I again thank you.

The second week we all said our goodbyes to our new friends and Mary and I took the short trip to the Sonesta St George. We were shown our rooms and Mary actually cried when we were upgraded to a Junior Suite with side Nile view. This was because of our celebrations and recognition for Mary's courage to commit herself to a new career at her young age. It was palatial for someone like us.

The hotel was first class, the people were kind and very attentive. I also enjoyed the sense of humour of the Egyptians, albeit the one liners need fine tuning by a cockney expert like me.

We decided to go to the Pyramids, we were collected, taken to the airport, booked in and escorted to the plane, by your rep Tamer. We were collected by a driver and another Longwood rep (Emad). Taken to our Hotel Le Meridien Pyramids, and again had a view overlooking the Pyramids. We had the services of a one to one rep and driver for the two days we were there. The food was inclusive and yet again, we had to do nothing but enjoy ourselves.

The Pyramids were great. Mary had fulfilled her dreams and apart from a small physical altercation with a hassler. We had a great time.

Can I say, a big thank you again for the special treatment that we had received. I have to admit that Egyptology and looking at temples and statues etc is not my ideal holiday, but I have to admit, my first experience has converted me.

We had a great time and cannot thank you enough. Please accept my gratitude and may I ask that you pass my thanks on to the Longwood reps in Luxor, particularly Tamer.

My best wishes

"Everything was first class"

March 2006 - C. & M. G

Hi there

My husband and I have just returned from a week in The El Wekala Resort Hotel in Taba and what a wonderful time we had. We have never travelled with Longwood before but everything was first class.

We had a lovely large room and cleanliness and hygiene was first class. The staff at the hotel were very friendly and helpful and nothing was too much trouble for them. All in all we feel the holiday was very good value for money, we were all inclusive and for once it was all inclusive.

Thank you Longwood, we will definitely travel with you again in the future.

"Fabulous holiday"

February 2006 - J & N

Hi

Just writing to say what a fabulous holiday my husband and I had in Taba thanks to Longwood and the El Wekala hotel. All the staff were so professional and smiling, nothing was too much trouble for them. Great spacious room and so clean. Pleasant dining room with a great variety of meals well serve and presented.

Will be back in September.

"Longwood staff very thoughtful"

January 2006 - Mr & Mrs C J Lay, Cornwall

Good value package, which I would recommend to others, and go again. Longwood staff very thoughtful & only too pleased to go out of their way to assist no matter what the problem.

"Thank you for a lovely holiday"

January 2006 - A.M

Dear Longwood Staff, just returned from a fabulous week at the Hyatt Regency. The only thing missing from the resort was a beauty parlour, several people asked me where I had my hair done, I always go prepared with heated rollers etc, they assumed I had visited a salon. It might be worth mentioning tha in your ads so that people can go prepared.

Other than that my husband and I had a really great rest. The staff were so lovely, nothing was to much trouble. It was my husband's birthday whilst we were away, you can imagine our delight when we returned to our room after dinner on the day to find a beautiful birthday cake laid out for him on the table. He thought I had arranged it for him as a surprise, it turned out that on arrival when we handed our passports in, the reception staff had seen his date of birth, hence the cake. It was wonderful. Thank you all for a lovely holiday.

Once again thank you.

"A truly memorable holiday"

November 2005 - S, J, J& J. M - Guernsey

We've just returned from a half term break in the Movenpick Hotel in El Gouna and I feel compelled to write in praise of our holiday experience. Our outward journey was notable for a queue-less check-in, quite the most comfortable charter flight that we've ever been on and a rapid and efficient hotel transfer (same on the way back). The quality of the hotel, the resort itself and our choice of excursions made for a truly memorable holiday, all of which was made even better by friendly and helpful Longwood representatives (Ahmed and Tariq). My only criticism is that a week wasn't long enough! To borrow a phrase from a certain actor-turned-politician, "We'll be back".

"The best guide ever"

October 2005 - S.P and J.B

Dear Longwood Holidays,

My Mum and I have just returned from a week at the Hyatt Regency in Taba Heights.

We enjoyed it so much that we felt compelled to write to you, which is something we've never done after previous holidays.

The hotel was so beautiful and we honestly could not think of anything that could be improved. The staff were so polite and attentive, the pools were fantastic and the food was amazing and needless to say we've put on a few pounds. It was so lovely to spend the day in peace and quiet around the pools. What really touched us was the send off we had by the staff when we left to go to the airport. I'm very much a traveller and love exploring the world, never going back to the same place. I'm also not one for large hotels, preferring the backpacker style residence but I have absolutely no hesitation in saying that I will definitely be back at the Hyatt next year.

We went on a day trip to Petra which was amazing and to see the barren beauty of Jordan was breathtaking. Our guide, Walleed, was quite the best guide I think we've ever had on a tour.

I went diving a few times and would be so grateful if you could pass on my thanks to Waterworld. The were so professional and Andre was a very calm and patient guide on my first dive.

I have already passed your details onto friends who were thinking of going to Egypt next year and I cannot think of a better place for them to stay.

Thank you so much for a lovely holiday. My only regret was that we weren't there long enough.

"Honest and accurate brochure"

September 2005 - J, & G. C

Just a little note to say a huge thank you we have just returned from a Nile cruise which was the first time we had been to Egypt and with many thanks to the Longwood staff. It was a fantastic experience. Our tour guide was Walid, his knowledge was amazing. Everything on the boat RA 2 was perfect, the excursions were everything they said they would be and more, so thank you for an honest and accurate brochure.

"Friendly and professional rep"

August 2005 - RD

Myself, sister and our daughters in their 20’s have just returned from Hilton Long Beach and would just like to say we had a brilliant holiday. We went for a relaxing week and that is exactly what we got. The hotel was excellent, spotlessly clean, good food and fabulous staff. Our representative Ahmed was very friendly and professional.

As we had all been to Egypt before we did not go on any trips as we just wanted a relaxing week but other guests said the trips were very good value. Ahmed had left his mobile number in case we needed him outside his visiting hours. Whilst at the Hilton we did not need him but after he had dropped us off at the airport for our flight home, we experienced problems as the Excel Airways flight was delayed and no one was able to give us any info. I rang Ahmed to see if he knew what was going on and he immediately rang me back to advise he had contacted their office and a colleague was on his way back to the airport to assist.

Mokhtar then arrived and I cannot tell you how grateful we were to see him. He took control of what could have so easily turned into a riot as other holiday makers were losing tempers etc as they could not contact their travel companies and airport staff were not able to give any info and no one from Excel was available. Longwood were the only company to put in an appearance. Mokhtar advised that Excel would arrange and fund accommodation overnight but he assured us he would stay with the Longwood guests to ensure we had a good hotel /transfers etc. I must say we felt he went out of his way to assist both on the Friday and Saturday and Sunday morning till we eventually went home. The Longwood guests all stayed at the Intercontinental and due to Mokhtar's intervention we were well looked after, he even accompanied me to the bank to explain to cashier our situation as I did not have my passport for ID (this had to be left at Airport). and another guest said he had accompanied her to the Pharmacy as she needed prescription drugs.

When we eventually got back to the airport, Ahmed was there and had taken control over the passports being returned, with the help of my sister everyone got their passports back quickly . Other delayed holiday makers had not been so lucky and were all complaining about their hotels and lack of information etc and how they would never travel with there again, to a man everyone with Longwood all said we would most definitely travel with Longwood again. In fact we would have been happy to stay a few more days at the Intercontinental!

Can I ask you to pass our thanks onto Ahmed and Mokhtar and we look forward to visiting Egypt again next year with Longwood.

"Best holiday ever"

August 2005 - K. and N. R

We have just returned from the best holiday ever and want to thank all at Longwood for providing us with such a wonderful holiday. We stayed for two weeks from 8/7/05 and only wish it could have been a longer holiday. The tours where wonderful and your reps outstanding, especially Achmed Hani who was so helpful and kind it was a pleasure to meet him, he is a real asset to Longwood, going far beyond the call of duty.

We hope to return to Egypt in January and look forward to meeting up with our new friends.

Thank you.

"Friendly, helpful and professional"

August 2005 S. & H. W

This is the first time I have felt compelled to write to a travel company to thank you for such an excellent holiday. There was not one thing that Longwood Holidays ("Charlie" and Amr, in particular) or the staff at the Hyatt Regency could have done to improve our stay. My daughter and I went on the Cairo trip and tried snorkelling and scuba diving for the first time.

Both excursions were well organised and thoroughly enjoyable. Everyone we came in contact with was friendly, helpful and professional. The resort facilities, accommodation and food were ideal. What more can I say except that I hope to return one day and would have no hesitation in recommending both companies to my friends and family.

"Everything was perfect"

September 2005 - Mr & Mrs N - Ireland

Dear Longwood,

We are writing to sincerely thank you and praise you for the excellent holiday you provided us with. Everything was exactly as you had told us, and better and the service we received, as Longwood clients, was next to none.

We travelled to Egypt on 29th August 2005 to take a cruise on a RA II for a week and take in the history of Egypt along the way. On arrival at Gatwick we found our check in and we were just about to ask if we were in the correct place when a super Longwood representative appeared and showed us our name on his list. He checked us in and even told us the name of the rep who would meet us at the other end. Gatwick is always daunting and this service was great as it made us relax about being in the right place. On arrival in Luxor we were met by our Longwood representative who met us just inside the building and helped us through passport control and immigration. Wonderful. We were taken on a very nice coach to our ship and he chatted to us all the way. He checked us in to the ship and offered his services if we need anything from him during our stay.

The ship was wonderful. The staff was amazing, happy dedicated people who made our cruise pure luxury. The food on board was fabulous and varied.

Our guide, Hosain, was a mine of information and was so enthusiastic and interesting we were all hooked on Egyptology and us all learned vast amounts. He showed and explained things to us in a way which was easy to understand and take in. He was a truly amazing character and chatted and talked to us even when we not on tour. The ship staff looked after us in a way I cannot explain. They made sure that we were safe and cared for even when we were not onboard. If we went out on our own they arranged a taxi to drop us and pick us up and got anxious if we were late. I imagine they would come looking for us if we got lost. In the restaurant they celebrated client's birthdays by singing, music and cakes. This made very special indeed as a lot of people were there for a special occasion.

In short, all went according to plan, everything was perfect, we were made to feel special and we had a ball. There was nothing I could possibly complain about, in fact, everything was absolutely amazing. I would recommend Longwood, and the RA II to anyone else happily and we will booking through your company again next year and for future years.

Sincere thanks and kind regards.

"Complete satisfaction"

August 2005 - Mr P.H - Surrey

Dear Sirs

We returned from our holiday in Jordan a few weeks ago. This is a rather belated letter to express our complete satisfaction with every aspect of our trip. In particular , the service provided by Jordan Circle Tours was exceptional: we would like to congratulate all the personnel we encountered for their efficiency and courtesy from the moment we were met on arrival until we were on our way home. Their efforts ensured we enjoyed a wonderful holiday without having to worry about anything!

We are busy recommending a trip to Jordan with your company to our relatives and friends.

"Can't wait to return"

July 2005 - P & L Oliver

Myself and my wife would like to thank you for what can only be described as an incredible tailor made holiday to Egypt. This was our first visit and were somewhat reserved as to what we might expect. I can only say that it was 5 star luxury all the way from Movenpicks hotel in Cairo, flying down to Aswan and boarding your first class boat for a magical trip up the Nile to Luxor, visiting Temples on route, and onto the Red sea resort of El Gouna and the Movenpicks resort for a relaxing 3 days.

I must comment on the excellent service by your representatives who were more than willing to enlighten us as to Egyptian customs. I must make one more reference to the Egyptologist who looked after us in Cairo and whose name meant well son and was asked to be called Wilson. For anyone reading this testimonial I would strongly recommend that if you want to try and see the different cultures and lifestyles of ancient and modern Egypt, then this tailor made holiday is a must do.

NB: Can't wait to return.

"Memorable honeymoon"

June 2005 - K.T, Kent

I recently went on my Honeymoon to Sharm el sheikh and stayed in the Ritz-Carlton. Longwood staff where at the airport to meet and greet all there guests and ensured that we got to arrived at our destination as soon as possible. Upon the arrival at the hotel it was just such a site, the hotel was magnificent. The staff at the hotel are extremely professional and courteous and were at hand to answer any concerns, not that we had any. The rooms were very spacious and as it was our honeymoon we up graded for a little extra to the club suite rooms which were amazing.

Throughout Longwood's staff (Hannah) our tour rep was at hand to offer any advice about travel arrangements for excursions. We went on a Bedouin dinner which involved a 40 minute camel ride through the desert and then an evening with the Bedouins which was great.

All in all a fantastic holiday and I will be recommending Longwood to friends and families. I always said I would never visit anywhere twice but this holiday has changed my mind. I will be booking another holiday for next year through Longwood to the same resort. The only concern that I have is the photos in your brochure do not do the resort justice. Well done to all your staff in making this a memorable holiday.

"Punctual, polite and professional"

May 2005 - D.O'C

My wife and I have just returned from a 3 week honeymoon to Egypt starting with a 7 day cruise on the Nile (RA II), 9 nights in Sharm el Sheikh, followed by 3 nights in Cairo.

I would like to extend my thanks to Longwood as a Travel Company and to all the Reps and guides who may our stay very memorable. We had about 6 or 7 transfers and all the reps were extremely punctual, polite and professional. We took advantage of many extra trips etc and thoroughly enjoyed each and every one. I will certainly be considering using Longwood again, and will be recommending them to all and sundry at every opportunity.

Many many thanks again.

"Many, many thanks"

June 2005 – V.D Hampshire

I am writing to say how much I enjoyed my holiday, it was my tenth visit to Egypt and unfortunately my husband was unable to accompany me. My room was excellent as was the food. I was a bit uneasy about have a holiday on my own but your staff treated me with the utmost respect and made my stay really enjoyable.

I am looking forward to returning with my husband as soon as he can travel. We discovered Egypt 10 years ago and love it so much, we keep returning. Once again many many thanks

"Reps a credit to your company"

June 2005 – R.P, Leeds

On May 16 2005 my husband and myself went on holiday to Luxor and stayed on the RA ll. Never having travelled with your company before or even knowing anything about you, I feel I had to write and tell you how much we enjoyed our holiday. Your reps in Luxor took care of all our needs (myself being disabled) they are a credit to your company and we shall be recommending your company to anyone going to Egypt.

"Excellent staff"

May 2005 - K, M, F, B AND K. G

I would like to congratulate your excellent team at Longwood. In both July 2003 and July 2004, my husband, myself and our 3 children aged 17, 14 and 9 stayed at the Coral Hilton Nuweiba. The excellent staff, facilities and friendliness were so impressive that we went to the same hotel last year. Charlie the rep was funny, informative and a credit to the Longwood Team.

Having exhausted all the trips we could (Jerusalem; Massada; Saint Katherine's Monastery; Climb to Mount Sinai; Bedouin Camel Trip; 2 days in Cairo and an exhausting trek around Petra), we have now booked to go in July 2005 to the Hilton Long Beach in Hurghada.

Our friends will be going to stay at the Hilton Nuweiba next week on my recommendation! I hope our stay at Hurghada is as enjoyable as Nuweiba. This year I will have been to Egypt 5 times and 3 times will have been with your company. I cannot wait until July! Well done to you all.

Many Thanks

"Well organised"

April 2005 - O.N - Burton on Trent

Just wanted to pass on a few comments after returning from Seastar Hotel, Taba. My Husband and I took our Parents for a week. We have visited Egypt before, Hurghada. Never been with Longwood Holidays and we just wanted to say how well organised, helpful, friendly reps you have. It makes a change. Sam and Ahmed were the two we dealt with at the Seastar. They were always on hand to give advice. The Seastar Hotel was very clean and the Staff there were very friendly. Would recommend Longwood and hopefully will return to the Seastar.

Thanks again

"Great holiday"

April 6 2005 - P. & K. T - Gravesend

Many thanks for a great holiday in Egypt. From the moment we landed and were warmly greeted by your rep Martin or 'Charlie' we felt welcome in Sinai. The transfer bus was cool and comfortable and the drink was welcome.

40 minutes later the hotel staff were extremely welcoming again with refreshing drinks. They ensured that during our stay everything we wanted was just so. Our room was kept spotless and tidy by any standards. The food was excellent and bountiful.

The hotel and grounds were very pleasant and very well groomed and maintained. The choice of swimming pools, lagoon or sea swimming kept us busy all week. The facilities in the hotel were just what we wanted. I would recommend this hotel and location to all those who want a stress free, relaxing beach or pool holiday in warm friendly surroundings, with attentive staff and good food.

The added bonus was the sea life. Snorkelling in the sea just off the beach was excellent. The fish and other marine life kept me and my family amused for hours every day. It was a wrench to have to leave after only 7 days.

"Wonderful Egyptologist"

March 2005 - S S, Cumbria

Just to say thank you for a great holiday, one week on a Nile cruise starting 28/02/05. We had a wonderful Egyptologist/tour operator, Madhat, nothing was too much trouble for him and he made it all so interesting and enhanced the week so much.

This was followed by 3 days in Luxor and 4 days in Sharm el Sheikh. Special thanks to your reps there. I stupidly left my jacket in the Meridian hotel in Luxor, it had on it a valuable brooch that had been my mother's, with the help of Ahmed in Luxor, Ramy in Sheik and Mohammed in Cairo (a well travelled jacket!!) was successfully returned to me in the hotel at Sharm. They were all great and did everything they could for me. (especially Ramy).

We will certainly book a Longwood holiday again.

"Arrangements went so smoothly"

March 2005 - J M, Southgate

Just a brief note to say how much we enjoyed our recent holiday – Highlights of Egypt. All the arrangements went so smoothly – we were really well looked after by everybody at every stage of the trip. The PNC Nile Odyssey was great – lovely food and charming staff. Our guide (Mohammed Sammi) was brilliant – pitched everything just right. Cairo was great too – amazing to pull back the curtains in the morning (we arrived at night) and be facing the Pyramids!!

We took our two younger children with us (both teenagers and critical of most things) who declared it the best holidays ever! Thank you so much.

"Honeymoon to remember"

March 2005 - A F, New Wanstead

Just a note to let you know that we had a fantastic holiday arranged by you (Laraine) and your company and thought that the representatives you had in Egypt were absolutely brilliant. With their kind and helpful manners and punctuality, they made everything run so smoothly in Cairo and in Sharm el Sheikh.

Also the Hyatt Regency hotel in Sharm el Sheikh gave us a superb service and helped make our honeymoon a very special occasion to remember. Thank you once again.

"Well organised and efficient"

March 2005 - MS, Cambridge

Just to say how much we enjoyed our holiday at the Radisson SAS Taba with you last week.

The resort was an excellent choice with first class service and food. Your staff were extremely good and very helpful in arranging our stay there. The Jerusalem trip that we went on was so well coordinated it made the day something very special.

Congratulations on a well organized and efficient company.

We will certainly return.