Experiencing the Great Wall itself was by far the pinnacle. The terra-cotta warriors in Xi'an were a close second.
The logistics were all taken care of in advance. Not much to worry about but the race itself.
I went to Athens and I really liked seeing all of the history in the city and also the marathon was a fantastic experience.
Organization of Marathon Tours. I didn't have to worry about transportation for tours. And finding the best places to visit.
The day trip to Delphi was my absolute favorite and the highlight of my Greece trip.
1. The destination. 2. Running on two continents. 3. Running past ancient ruins.
Besides just finishing the race (!), the location of the hotel was really really perfect (although see the next item). Thank you for having an "Asian" opportunity with weather that wasn't too hot. It was a great day to run.
A memorable chance to experience two continents and two cultures in one place.
It was exotic, historical and educational with a group of wonderful people.
The amazing history and cultural difference of Istanbul.
The local tour guides were excellent. I was surprised how much I learned about Turkish and Ottoman history and culture.
Istanbul sight seeing, food, night life. Excellent guides. Perfectly organized trip.
Interacting with the group and exchanging stories etc. The Meet and Greet reception is a great idea to meet everyone. Maybe could have everyone introduce themselves and say where they were from
Really pleasantly surprised with unexpected lecture on Cuban-American relations - very helpful to hear the Cuban perspective. Cigar factory was fun, Ernest's house was great.
The people - including Karen - were fantastic. We had a diversity of experiences and a great run. The organization, support, setting of expectations, was simply perfect. It was an interesting time to go to Cuba
Beauty of the country and it's people. Breakwater Lodge is an incredible experience with it's history and the proud & proficient staff. Aquila Safari is a great bargain of a day-safari with 2-hour transportation, sparkling wine, breakfast, lunch and knowledgeable guides of the reserve and it's animal residents. Table Mountain cable car experience is breathtaking! The beauty of the 56K course is a reason to return. Friendships made with other marathoners, other visitors to Cape Town & locals is the best of being a marathoning traveler.
For me, one of the most important things when traveling with a company to a foreign country is the transportation. It is very important that someone be at the airport to greet you and get you to/from the airport to the hotel and other places.
A great adventure to a complex, remote part of the world with an extremely challenging race thrown in.
Run was awesome!
Scenic, well run ultra marathon. Tours trips and scenery.