Full-Day Rhodes Island and Local Culture Shore Excursion

Rhodes tour problems

The tour we recently took in Rhodes, Greece as the experience fell significantly short of what was advertised and what we reasonably expected. One of the primary reasons we booked this tour was to learn about the history and significance of the Acropolis of Lindos. Unfortunately, upon exiting the bus, our guide, I believe her name is Stephanie, or Stephie), did not take a head count or determine who intended to particpate in the walk to the Acropolis. My family, (husband, sister, and cousin) were standing near the back of the bus and after speaking briefly, we discovered that the guide had already left and was walking well ahead of the group. Because she made no effort to ensure everyone was together, we were unable to catch up and lost sight of her in the crowded area. As a result, we missed the entire narrative and historical explanation of this important site, which was one of the main reasons we chose this excursion. We were extremely disappointed to lose the educational portion of the tour. Several other aspects of the tour were unsatisfactory: -The wine, honey, and olive oil tasting stop was poorly organized. There were only a small number of wine bottles available, and no explanation was provided regarding the wines or their characteristics. Because our group was near the end of the line, most popular one of the selections had already run out by the time we reach the tasting area, and we had little opportunity to participate. -The greek pottery portion of the stop consisted merely of being directed into a retail shop. No information or educational presentation about Greek pottery was provided. and the guide did not accompany the group inside or explain what we were viewing. It felt more like a shopping stop than a cultural experience. -The restroom facilities were unacceptable. There were only two restrooms serving a large number of people (there were two large bus loads of tourists). The facilities were filthy, lacked toilet paper and soap and wastewater overflowed outside the building, creating unsanitary conditions where guests were standing in line. The walking portion through Rhodes Old Town felt rushed, and once again the guide made little effort to keep the group together or ensure all participants could follow comfortably. -Although headsets were provided, it was often difficult to hear the guide because she did not consistently speak directly into the microphone. -Given the hot weather conditions, there was no opportunity to obtain water during portions of the tour, nor was water available on the bus. Adequate hydration is important, particularly for older travelers and during extended walking tours in high temperatures. Overall the tour did not provide the historical, educational, and organized experience that was advertised. Missing the Acropolis narrative alone substantially reduced the value of the excursion, and the additional issues described contributed to our dissatisfaction.

Response from the operator: We regret to hear that the tour did not meet your expectations. Please allow us to address the concerns raised: 1. The Acropolis was never included as part of the tour. It is clearly listed among the tour exclusions. Guests are welcome to explore it optionally during their free time in Lindos. Please note that access involves approximately 300 steps, and no elevator is available. 2. All scheduled stops, including the pottery workshop and Rhodes Old Town, were provided in full accordance with the advertised itinerary. A complimentary tasting may be offered at the pottery workshop; however, we cannot accept responsibility for services or facilities provided by third parties, including restrooms and water supplies. 3. The full tour duration was delivered as advertised.Headsets were provided and were fully operational throughout the tour. Had you informed your guide of any issue, an additional headset could have been provided, as we always carry spares just in case 4. Your refund request is the only one received among the 132 cruise passengers served in Rhodes on May 19, including the other members of your group. 5. Based on the above facts, all of which can be verified, your refund request has been carefully reviewed and respectfully declined by Viator. For future bookings, we strongly recommend basing your expectations on the advertised itinerary, inclusions, and exclusions rather than on assumptions about what may be included in the activity. Safe travels.

via Viator

Very good tour. Our guide...

Very good tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable and engaging, and our driver was accommodating to those with physical limitations. Offered an informative trip to Lindos with a stop at a pottery workshop, and then a walk through the Medieval city. It was very easy to find the tour guide once we left the cruise ship and she made sure we returned on time.

via Viator

Never felt rushed!

It was a proper day, pick up in the morning, back in the evening, you're definitely getting your money's worth time wise. Our guide explained all the stuff but in a way that wasn't boring at all, more like telling a story.

via Tripadvisor

Lovely day.

Our guide didn't show us the must sees like Lindos, Acropolis but took us deeper into the island's soul. We wandered through lesser known villages where locals greeted us with Yasou and offered tiny cups of Strong Greek coffee.

via Tripadvisor

Life in Rhodes.

This region has something different from other places. I love it, special thanks to miss Laura and our driver max they both give us there best and I'll definitely recommend it.

via Tripadvisor