As I've already mentioned, there are 13 of us in the group from all parts of the country and they are a great bunch. Having done a few tours like this one, I have to say we "gelled" very quickly, probably by the second day.
And then of course there is Alex, our fantastic guide. He's only 33 and very knowledgeable as you would expect, but what sets him apart from all other guides we're ever had is his use of English - it is outstanding. It is an absolute delight just listening to him talk on any subject as his choice of phrasing and his ability to use just the right descriptive word is exquisite. Most "foreign" guides have an annoying stock phrase they roll out when they're frequently struggling to find the correct word, but with Alex there was nothing like that. On the rare occasion he couldn't find the word he wanted, he would simple ask us.
Oh, and as I think I mentioned in an earlier blog, he's also very easy on the eye.
In fact all in all, I would like to adopt him - trouble is so would several of the other ladies on the tour.
And now we come to our driver Alberto - another great guy. The drivers are usually very helpful and pleasant in a quiet, unobtrusive way, but rarely do they engage with the group as Alberto has. We think perhaps because I speak a little Spanish and being sat behind him on the coach am able to converse, but he joins us in the evenings and whilst we are visiting various sites and is a great laugh. On many occasions he'll sidle up to me and ask how to say something in English.
The "Evil Little Man" to quote Alex (I've deliberately not mentioned why!)