Biotrek Adventure Travels

Reviews 4

SU

Susan Moriconi

Part 4 of 5 But the true uselessness of Sunny Reynolds and Biotrek Adventure Travels truly manifested itself once we were aboard the Nemo II catamaran in Baltra (Galápagos Islands) . I had paid $5500 per person for our 2 shared cabins aboard this rustic ship (in addition to these costs, it was expected for each traveler to tip the 6 crew members and naturalist guide a minimum of $54 per day). It was clear that no one else had paid anywhere near this amount, and that we had financed in whole or in part Sunnys trip, as well as a solo traveler who stated she had paid $6000 to have the entire (tiny) cabin to herself. But that was just the beginning. Toting around a very expensive camera and an even more expensive telephoto lens, we were excited to think that Sunny would be taking awesome pictures of the wildlife we would be viewing, sharing them at the end of the trip ( I was told by the friend who had taken the same trip with Sunny 2 years ago that Sunny prepared a book for each traveler with photos from the trip), and giving my 3 children who are actively studying photography tips and suggestions. When I asked about the book of photographs, Sunny replied "I dont do that anymore." I expressed surprise and disappointment, stating that it had been my expectation and reminding her that I had made references to the book, as well as my childrens interest in learning about photography from her during our trip planning conversation. I asked if she would share her photos since there would be no book, to which she replied "I would never just give away my photos." I then asked whether we could pay her to do a book, to which she replied "It isnt the money, it is too time consuming." I then asked whether she would share her photos once she had edited them on a disc or drive that we would share, as that would involve no time or effort, reminding her that my family and I accounted for half of her "group", to which she replied "Dont be rude." (EXTREMELY UNPROFESSIONAL and EXTREMELY POOR business judgment to speak to a client who had just spent $40,000 with your company, to say the least!!!). Strangely enough, on the final morning of our trip I asked whether she had decided to make a book the book after all, since we had noticed her taking pictures of the group, including pictures of my children. Very indignantly, she replied "I already told you NO! But I will send you any of those pictures if you would like." ( Go figure...). So, the question remains impossible to answer- "What does Sunny Reynolds add to a trip?"

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FL

Flynn Nash

India was a destination I had long dreamed of visiting, and going was a dream come true. Earlier this year I traveled with Sunny to India, visiting Delhi (old and new), Jaipur, Agra, and Rajasthan. Her warm personal connections with her local tour guides allowed us access to many unique destinations (and experiences!), which would not have occurred on a typical ‘tour’, or even travelling on your own. Sunny is not only a great cultural guide, photographic guide and general organizer, but she ensured our comfort and safety throughout the trip. Each guide assisting Sunny was an expert on the long and complex political and religious history of India, and passionately shared this with us on our journey. We did a jeep safari in Rathambore, where we saw Bengal tigers (two mind you, close enough to photograph with our cell phones!), visited Chand Baori, one of largest step wells in the world (featured in National Geographic), of course the Taj Mahal, and rode elephants to the magnificent Amber Fort. Sunny was always available, and willing to take special requests (like a quick return visit to a marble merchant for one client to make a special purchase), or resting by the pool for an afternoon if you needed a respite from the heat. The opportunity to do your own thing was possible with the extended stays and free time in each location. My mom and I saw ancient palaces, the temples and mosques of other faiths, learned to bargain for fine silks and exotic spices, and were exposed to the art and music of this fascinating culture. We were encouraged to take photos everywhere we went, even if it took extra time or required a stop somewhere for a special angle shot. (Doing this was both a thrill and a privilege, as we didn’t want to offend or intrude on our subjects.) The food was plentiful and delicious (at a variety of local eateries and fine restaurants), our driver was spectacular, and the hospitality and enthusiasm of the local people greatly enhanced the trip. While there were inherent challenges, as there are in ALL international travel, it was a stellar experience. BioTrek Adventure was a high standard of tour, meant for those with adventurous spirits. This tour is not for those who prefer to be doted upon or simply want the standard “sightseeing” agenda. A trek with Sunny takes the hard work out of it, while still showing you the heart of the country!

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JO

Jodi Nash

Back in the spring of 2012, when my daughter was just shy of her 16th birthday, I shared her with Sunny.  I executed a medical power of attorney and a temporary guardianship agreement, and Lark embarked on the adventure of a lifetime:  she went to the Galapagos islands with Biotrek Adventure Travels. She snorkeled, and swam with sea creatures, hiked across black lava beaches, and saw the iconic giant tortoises, blue footed boobies, and marine iguanas.  She slept on a catamaran for multiple nights, and interacted with travelers from faraway places, who spoke a different language.  She got cold some nights, and unholy hot on others.  She broke her sunglasses, and couldnt zip to the store for new ones.  She parted from her beloved laptop, and had to forego 7-11 snacks in favor of fragrantly spiced exotic new foods.  In short, she adapted to the travel experience, acquired coping skills, and enlarged her world....I am so grateful I had someone I could trust to introduce her to a different way to live.    Though I couldnt go with Lark back then, Ive made up for it since, with Sunny Reynolds to Guatemala in 2014, and to India this year with my older daughter, Flynn.  Both trips were fascinating---exceptional not because the weather was perfect or the trip was without challenge, but because Sunny exposed me intimately to the indigenous people, their culture, art, music, religion, architecture and tradition. She embedded me in each place while ensuring I was comfortable and safe.  She accommodated special needs when it was important to.  She took the work out of traveling, through the outstanding relationships she has cultivated in country with her ground operators, and because of this had access to places and experiences not on the typical tourist agenda.  I dont know what others expect from a travel company named "Biotrek", but 4 towels a day while on a catamaran is not at the top of MY list.  Erupting volcanoes and a tigress dragging her kill 25 ft. from my jeep...well now, thats the stuff of legends.   If you want the American experience abroad, get on a bus with your name tag around your neck, and stay at Holiday Inns or Hiltons. Theres nothing wrong with that---its a personal preference.  But if you want the real thing, can be a little flexible and set aside western expectations, book with Sunny Reynolds.  Shes the ticket!

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GE

George Guarino

We just returned from the Galapagos Is with Sunny Reynolds - what a fantastic experience. Sailed on the Nemo II, a sailing catamaran carrying 14 passengers. The small number of passengers allowed us the opportunity to get to know each other easily. The nature walks and snorkeling provided all with mutual experiences. As sailors, we appreciated the comfort and amenities on the boat. The Capt and Crew were excellent and always there to provide a helping hand. Our Chef provided an incredible variety of tasty food. Peter, our naturalist guide, was a wealth of information about the Galapagos Is, the animals, birds and sea life that call this place home. To swim with the Sea Lions, Tortoises and other sea life was an experience we will remember forever. We want to thank Sunny for her preplanning and organizing a crew that helped us experience the true Galapagos Is. There are not many places we would consider visiting twice, but the Galapagos with Sunny - we would do again in a heartbeat. George & Barb

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