“I’d give Lotus Expeditions top marks in all categories.  You were incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, responsive and easy to work with.  You quickly figured out what type of trip we were after (even though I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted) and put together an itinerary that was spot-on.  You were also very aware of and sensitive to what was and wasn’t reasonable for the time and money we had to spend as well as my and my kids capabilities.

I’ve not traveled as much as you but I have seen a fair amount of the world and this trip was the most interesting I’ve ever taken.  Thanks for making that possible.”

-Larry Santoro, New Jersey

Budget, Standard or Deluxe Services

All Lotus Expeditions open-enrollment trips listed on our 2008 Expedition Schedule may be run with either Deluxe or Budget services.  Each trip page lists exactly what is included with the level you choose.

Custom or private journeys can be designed with Budget, Standard, or Deluxe services.  For Custom or Private adventures your quote will include What Is and What Is Not Included in your trip price.  Services may be added or subtracted to meet your needs.

Budget:

Travelers on a budget will appreciate this "backpacker" style of travel. You may travel using local, public transportation or private transport. Accommodations may include camping, lodges, hostels, teahouses or inexpensive hotels. Porters and local guides may be hired at an additional expense or included depending on the destination.

Standard:

Our standard level of service includes private transport, two-and three-star hotels, guesthouses, or bed and breakfasts, and may include some camping. A local guide and porters or pack animals are included where applicable.

Deluxe:

Deluxe service is the most luxurious mode of travel in our destination countries. That being said, luxury in a developing nation may not equal the standard of a developed, western country. Nonetheless, our goal is to ensure you have the highest quality experience. Services may include:

• All ground transportation
• Local sightseeing
• Domestic flights where noted in Trip Details
• Accommodation in three-, and four-star lodges, bed and breakfasts, and hotels where available.
• Luxury camping where applicable:
  • Private tents and sleeping pads
  • Dining tents and cook tents
  • Toilet tents
  • Tables and chairs
• Experienced cooks prepare delicious and hygienic meals
• Professional, English-speaking local guide
• International trip leader unless noted differently in Trip Details
• Porters and pack animals where applicable