David has been an Anglophile from afar for many years–he loves the rock and roll, has been fascinated by the history, from the medieval castles to the spectacle at Buckingham, and curious about fish and chips, among other things British! He has wanted to visit there for many years. He learned to love travel on the family road trips our parents would take us on when we were kids, but independent travel is not an option for him, so we’ve been satisfying his wanderlust and celebrating the degree of independence he’s achieved with various group outings tailored to adults with developmental disabilities–mostly vacations to Disney and similar attractions with various organizations. These have been wonderful, but a far cry from the kind of custom adventure he was able to have once I’d found Exceptional Vacations! They were absolutely fantastic from the start. I’m especially grateful to Rebecca H, his trip planner, and to Cliff F, his guide/chaperone. Rebecca’s planning skills were incredible–any V.I.P. would be privileged to have the concierge level of expertise and attention she gave to my brother’s itinerary! His wish list was ambitious; after a conference call in which she listened so caringly to David describe his desired destinations, she was able to craft an experience that included pretty much everything he wanted to do while still being sensitive to his needs. His chaperone, Cliff, was likewise expert. His care and commitment gave me complete confidence that David was safe and free to enjoy himself, and his sensitivity to who David is and what he needed socially made David feel like he was a regular guy on the road with a buddy. This part was tremendously important for David. What this organization has provided has great meaning–more than just the fun of travel, the great memories of a trip expertly planned and perfectly executed, and the adventure of a lifetime, though there’s all that! To say I’m grateful to this wonderful organization is an understatement. They did something for David that is truly exceptional! I’ve been encouraging all the families I know who have someone who could benefit to get in touch. I give them my highest recommendation.

Bruce has been wanting to visit The Vatican for many years and I finally said to myself “there’s got to be a way”. I contacted various organizations which specialized in travel for people with special needs and found it to be a very frustrating endeavor. Most would only operate with a group, and/or deal with people who are substantially younger than Bruce. And then I found Exceptional Vacations. I must say from the very beginning you, and your group, have been fabulous to deal with. You have been reassuring, highly competent and extremely friendly and patient through every step of the way.. From day one I, as well as my cousins Laurie Zimmerman and Bruce, felt comfortable recognizing that your organization would take Bruce on a safe, well-organized and memorable trip. Not only did he get to visit The Vatican but he and his sponsor, Cliff Freiwald, were able to experience the salient areas and points of the Imperial City. The highlight of the vacation was when they were able to visit with The Pope, something that everyone at my end thought would be impossible.

Laurie, Bruce and I were first introduced to Cliff on a zoom call which you organized and which was extremely encouraging. And the real test is in Bruce’s commentary upon return: He told me repeatedly that Cliff could not have been a better partner. In addition, while they were away Cliff made a point to be in touch with Laurie and me, keeping us posted of their itinerary, as well as sending photos and highlights.

I, as well as Laurie and Bruce, are very grateful that you, Cliff and Exceptional Vacations handled everything so competently and would be extremely happy to book a trip with you again. Thank you.

I love it it’s a fun group I do highly recommend it.