Switzerland

Guide Guy-Robert May was absolutely excellent in the strict sense of being a mountain guide. He demonstrated outstanding knowledge of the route, safety procedures and technical aspects of the climb. However, I noted that Guy-Robert and the other local guides working with clients during my ascent seemed singularly interested in getting their work-day done quickly. I came to understand a few aspects behind their motivation. Firstly, I noted the guides don\'t want un-guided climbing groups to follow their route. Secondly, I learned that many of the guides have back to back bookings and need to return to the Hörnli Hut or Zermatt to meet their next clients at a certain time. Given that this is their profession, I understand the guides\' desire to move things along quickly. Unfortunately rather than being forthcoming, the guides attempted to justify their reasons for such speed solely under the pretense of safety. After 30 years of mountaineering throughout the world, I am keenly aware that speed equals safety in the mountains. However for many including myself, the joy of climbing includes more than just the physical challenge. Taking moments to enjoy being in the mountains can be just as important as reaching the summit. Simply pushing a client to move as fast as possible leaves little room for that enjoyment. On the Matterhorn like any climb there are positions of relative safety. The summit and Solvay Refuge specifically come to mind. I would have liked to see my guide provide for a more leisurely stop in these areas to afford me time to enjoy my surroundings. I would highly recommend Guide Guy-Robert May to anyone solely intent on conquering their intended Swiss summit. However, for those looking to enjoy their climbs, immerse themselves in their surroundings and indulge in the technical skills being used this type of booking may not be for you. I regret not having a critical conversation with my guide about his climbing strategy prior to finalizing my booking. I am very happy to have made the summit and give all of the credit to my guide. Be that as it may, I would not book another climb with him or Explore-Share without specific assurances regarding the intended climbing philosophy.

Here is the summary of my experience with Explore-share and Enrico: Explore-share was one of several companies I considered before my trip to the Alps. I was very happy with my choice from the moment I sent my first email. The staff members responded promptly and answered all of my questions very clearly and kindly. I was blown away with the professionalism they have demonstrated. Two days after sending my first email I was in contact with my guide, Enrico. With Enrico we climbed different routes in the area of Mt. Blanc and practiced different techniques for about ten days. Enrico was an excellent guide. He was patient, thoughtful, and improved my skills tremendously. He was very thorough and safety conscious. After ten days of climbing I felt a lot of trust between the two of us, which I believe makes us a good team for future climbing adventures. I would highly recommend Explore-share and Enrico to anyone who is planning to explore the beauty of the Alps and take the challenge of climbing these magnificent mountains. During my trip I met Italian, French, Swiss and German guides. All of them were extremely enthusiastic and nice. Going to Europe for climbing? Choose European professionals. You will not be disappointed.