Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 17,980 ratings
Read 17,980 verified reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim. You can also read reviews about kimkim on 3rd party sites including Google, TrustPilot and Yelp.

The overall process was really smooth. Prisci...
Indonesia | Oct 1 - Oct 8, 2025

Tyler
Tyler F.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Oct 15, 2025
The overall process was really smooth. Priscilla was great to work with and helped us plan a great trip. Budi was an amazing guide with a great sense of humor. He provided a ton of knowledge and insight about Balinese culture/history. Purwa was an awesome driver and was very pleasant to be around. Read more

The overall process was really smooth. Priscilla was great to work with and helped us plan a great trip. Budi was an amazing guide with a great sense of humor. He provided a ton of knowledge and insight about Balinese culture/history. Purwa was an awesome driver and was very pleasant to be around.

Hotel Reviews
The Raja Lima Nusa Penida

Beautiful view and cozy bungalow. The restaurant had a very limited menu.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kubu Cemcem Mesari Private Villas

The villa was beautiful and the staff was extremely friendly and welcoming

Authenticity & Character
Location
Away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud center
Staff
Very friendly and accommodating
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Birthday Dinner
Birthday Dinner
Indonesia

Beautiful view but limited menu options

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bathe the Elephants
Bathe the Elephants
Ubud, Bali
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit The Elephant Sanctuary
Visit The Elephant Sanctuary
Indonesia

The staff were very knowledgeable and treat the elephants with kindness and respect.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Romantic Dinner
Romantic Dinner
Ubud, Bali

Beautiful French restaurant with exquisite 6 course meal

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Spa
Spa
Indonesia

Relaxing and calm setting. Really nice facility

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit Tegallalang Rice Terrace
Visit Tegallalang Rice Terrace
Indonesia

Was nice to see how the farmers pride themselves in their work and the scenery was very pretty.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Budi provided lots of insight on how the rice farming process works.
Transport
Clean vehicle with good air conditioning. Purwa was a great driver
Local specialist: Priscilla Puteri

Beautiful Peru
Peru | Oct 3 - Oct 11, 2025

hassan
hassan f.
Farragut, TN | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
We had a wonderful Peruvian adventure. We loved the specialty meals and the traditional Incan meditation/ educational experience. Our guides were exceptional with Diego being one of our favorites! The hotels in Lima, Sacred Valley and Cusco were great and the train ride to Machupicchu was truly amazing! We would highly recommend to our friends and family! Read more

We had a wonderful Peruvian adventure. We loved the specialty meals and the traditional Incan meditation/ educational experience. Our guides were exceptional with Diego being one of our favorites! The hotels in Lima, Sacred Valley and Cusco were great and the train ride to Machupicchu was truly amazing! We would highly recommend to our friends and family!

Hotel Reviews
Palacio del Inka Cusco
Cusco
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa del Sol
Machu Picchu
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tambo del Inka Luxury Collection Resort & Spa
Urubamba
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pullman Lima Miraflores
Miraflores, Lima
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Cooking and  Bar Master Class in Machu Picchu town
Cooking and Bar Master Class in Machu Picchu town
Aguas Calientes/ Machu Picchu
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Must sees in Lima
Must sees in Lima
Peru
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour
Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain Tour
Cusco
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Guided
Sacsayhuaman & Cusco Guided
Cusco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Second visit to Machu Picchu and Hike to its viewpoints
Second visit to Machu Picchu and Hike to its viewpoints
Aguas Calientes/ Machu Picchu
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon Exploration of Machu Picchu
Afternoon Exploration of Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes/ Machu Picchu
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Moray Terraces
Moray Terraces
Peru
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Maras Salt Ponds
Maras Salt Ponds
Peru
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
 Pachamanca: Traditional Andean Underground Cooking
Pachamanca: Traditional Andean Underground Cooking
Peru

Fabulous

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Visit to Ollantaytambo
Morning Visit to Ollantaytambo
Peru
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gourmet Picnic at the Sacred Valley
Gourmet Picnic at the Sacred Valley
Sacred Valley

wow fun delicious meal

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Stop over visits at Sonidos del Andes  with Vicente Rayo & Pisac Village
Stop over visits at Sonidos del Andes with Vicente Rayo & Pisac Village
Sacred Valley

Exceptional

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Anne Godoy

Fantastic specialist, and amazing trip!
Norway | Sep 2 - Sep 12, 2025

Sybil
Sybil H.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 15, 2025
I had not heard of kimkim before starting to plan for our trip to Norway, so I was a little apprehensive. My experience could not have been better and it exceeded my expectations by far. I found the website online and after reading some of the good reviews (and endorsements by familiar companies), I typed in general thoughts about what kind of travel we enjoy, and some of the things we wanted to do. Anna, our specialist, sent back an itinerary that was a great first start, and within a... Read more

I had not heard of kimkim before starting to plan for our trip to Norway, so I was a little apprehensive. My experience could not have been better and it exceeded my expectations by far. I found the website online and after reading some of the good reviews (and endorsements by familiar companies), I typed in general thoughts about what kind of travel we enjoy, and some of the things we wanted to do. Anna, our specialist, sent back an itinerary that was a great first start, and within a week or so, we had it almost finalized. I was able to talk with her a couple of times to go through the plan carefully, and she tweaked some things based on feedback. I never felt like I was being forced to pick the most expensive choices, rather Anna was able to point out value where appropriate. She also responded to concerns and adjusted our plans accordingly (where I felt we might benefit from a car service, rather than public transportation, as an example).

Our trip had a few twists and turns, and was not straightforward (one person had to leave early), and we added one person after the trip had been planned, and Anna handled it with grace and a bit of humor. She went above and beyond to help me make it work within my budget, and we wound up with a spectacular experience all around.

The price of our trip did adjust upwards a couple of times, and while it was likely due to adding some things, I would make sure to make sure I know the final cost (and what is included) before I finalize a trip in the future. I will definitely plan on using kim kim in the future, though!

Hotel Reviews
Thon Hotel Oslo Airport
Gardermoen

Typical airport hotel. It was a bit worn, and could use a bit of a fresh coat of paint and carpet repair.

Authenticity & Character
It's a hotel airport
Location
Staff
Nothing lacking, but nothing beyond basic service.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were comfortable, and room was clean.
Svinøya Rorbuer
Svolvær

Very spacious, comfortable, beautiful views, great location.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful cabin in traditional style.
Location
Just a few minutes walk to town. Great location on the water.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Manshausen
Leinesfjord

Simply amazing! Breathtaking views and totally worth taking a detour to stay there. Everyone was very accommodating and because our unit wasn't rented, they were happy to let us have a late check out, so that we could explore the island until time for our ferry ride.

Authenticity & Character
Unique and wonderful.
Location
Breathtaking.
Staff
Very accommodating.
Cleanliness & Comfort
lovely all around.
Hotel Norge by Scandic
Bergen

Loved the upbeat atmosphere, and the rooms were very comfortable and relatively spacious. The breakfast was amazing - it would be impossible to try everything!

Authenticity & Character
Nice vibe - dj in the lobby was fun.
Location
Great location in the middle of everything.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
very clean and comfortable
Highland Lodge
Geilo

Very comfortable and clean. Small rooms, but nice to have common area, and the bakery was great!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Nice lake and hiking in the area.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Continental
Oslo

5 star hotel with all of the expected amenities. Beds and rooms were very comfortable (but small). Breakfast was a highlight!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
One of them took the time to walk us to the train station so we wouldn't miss it.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Lofoten Sightseeing Trip
Private Lofoten Sightseeing Trip
Svolvær

Andrea was a highlight of our trip. We spent a full day touring with him, and we could have spent another day with him! He went out of his way to show us things. It was clear he loves the islands, and sharing his love of the area with others.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Andrea had a delightful personality, and clearly loves the out of doors and the environment.
Transport
Comfortable car.
Explore Bergen with a Local
Explore Bergen with a Local
Bergen

John was a great guide. He was very knowledgeable about Bergen, and took the time to explain the history and to make sure we got a chance to see things that were of interest to us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Not applicable - we walked, but it was a good pace.
Explore Oslo's Hidden Gems with a Local Expert
Explore Oslo's Hidden Gems with a Local Expert
Oslo

Loved Stig - very knowledgeable, and we really enjoyed our time with him.

Quality of Experience
Very knowledgeable, and he was very engaging and cared about our time in Oslo.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Not applicable - we walked, but it was a fun walk.
Local specialist: Anna Grindevoll Strønstad

Absolutely seamless experience! We had a gre...
Croatia | Oct 2 - Oct 8, 2025

John
John L.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Absolutely seamless experience! We had a great time Read more

Absolutely seamless experience! We had a great time

Hotel Reviews
Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
Zagreb
Authenticity & Character
Location
I
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
16 Lakes Hotel
Rakovica
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Monte Mulini
Rovinj
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Antonia Šutić Ljuština

Morocco in 9 days
Morocco | Oct 3 - Oct 12, 2025

Jane
Jane K.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
We had a great trip to Morocco which would not be possible without Ali, who carefully planned our itinerary and activities; Said, who was always reachable and responsive to issues we had during the trip; and Farid, who was not only driving us for 9 days, but also answering our numerous questions about Moroccans and their culture and customs, teaching us useful Arabic and Berber words and phrases, making sure we always had water and who was always kind, flexible, patient and attentive to our... Read more

We had a great trip to Morocco which would not be possible without Ali, who carefully planned our itinerary and activities; Said, who was always reachable and responsive to issues we had during the trip; and Farid, who was not only driving us for 9 days, but also answering our numerous questions about Moroccans and their culture and customs, teaching us useful Arabic and Berber words and phrases, making sure we always had water and who was always kind, flexible, patient and attentive to our needs. Morocco is a beautiful country with changing and impressive landscapes, towns full of history and friendly people. One of our best experiences was the stay in the Sahara desert. The staff of this operation who handled the camel ride, the stay in the desert camp, the dinner, the evening entertainment and the ATV ride in the dunes was very personable and professional. Tour guides in the cities were knowledgeable and spoke good English. We especially liked our guide in Fes, Moustafa. Hotels and riads were comfortable, cozy, and conveniently located. The problem we encountered in some accommodation was plumbing in showers. Other than that, staying in riads was very interesting and special.
We are very thankful to the Original Travels team for making our trip enjoyable and memorable!

Local specialist: Ali Moujane

Our Moroccan Adventure
Morocco | Sep 28 - Oct 10, 2025

Cynthia
Cynthia J.
Bainbridge Island, WA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Our trip to Morocco was very memorable. My husband (78), and me (73) plus our friend (68) had a great time seeing the colorful country of Morocco. Everywhere we traveled, we had excellent accommodations and pretty good food in most locations. Our driver, Soufien, was very accommodating, very kind, funny, and an excellent driver - always on time and with a fresh cold bottle of water for each of us!
A few highlights (and lowlights):
1. Chefchaouen was a very interesting and beautiful...
Read more

Our trip to Morocco was very memorable. My husband (78), and me (73) plus our friend (68) had a great time seeing the colorful country of Morocco. Everywhere we traveled, we had excellent accommodations and pretty good food in most locations. Our driver, Soufien, was very accommodating, very kind, funny, and an excellent driver - always on time and with a fresh cold bottle of water for each of us!
A few highlights (and lowlights):
1. Chefchaouen was a very interesting and beautiful smaller city - Our terrific local guide Ali took us on a hike to the Bridge of God, which was great but the extended trip to the small waterfall (no water in the large waterfall) ended up being a little too strenuous and steep for us, in the heat of the day. But we made it!
2. Our guide in Fes, Moustaffa, was the very best of the whole trip. Informative and funny - a good story teller. A highlight was the visit to the mosaics/pottery - amazing!
3. Camel ride on the Saharan Dunes at the sunset. Epic! great guide and a great nighttime experience at the Desert Camp with very nice staff, food and evening entertainment. Recommend this is a one night experience only, though we stayed for 2 nights. Uninteresting day-time guide and not much to see/do (and no English).
4. One overnight stop at a beautiful resort on the way to Marrakesh. (could have stayed here 2 nights)
5. Balloon ride over Marrakesh for our friend Rosa - Another Epic experience!
6. Interesting walk through the city with our guide, Mohammed. He was well versed in his history and walked quite fast for my short legs (although I wasn't feeling too great this day). 2 of us opted out of the food tour because we were not well, leaving one who didn't eat meat. In general, Food tour - Not a good choice for the end of the trip (and same guide).
In summary, We had a fine trip, overall and covered a lot of territory (4 long car travel days)!

Local specialist: Ali Moujane
Ali
Ali Moujane
Local specialist in Atlas Mountains | Replied on Oct 14, 2025

Hi Cynthia,

Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re glad to hear that your trip to Morocco was such a memorable experience. It’s wonderful to know you enjoyed the accommodations, food, and especially the service provided by Soufien. He truly takes great pride in making every journey comfortable and enjoyable.

We’re grateful you chose to travel with us and hope to welcome you again one day for another unforgettable Moroccan adventure!

Warm regards,
Ali

Excellent experience with Pamela of kimkim
Chile | Oct 2 - Oct 11, 2025

C
Chandru K.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
90% of our interactions were with Pamela, not Francisco - so this review is more based on those interactions. Pam was great - very responsive, flexible, always polite and very honest. Highly recommend working with her. We are used to dealing with much more expensive trips like Backroads and Jacada, which are a bit smoother, but are nearly 50-60% more expensive - which makes kimkim a very good value. The guides, tours and drivers they selected were very good - Angel in Santiago and... Read more

90% of our interactions were with Pamela, not Francisco - so this review is more based on those interactions. Pam was great - very responsive, flexible, always polite and very honest. Highly recommend working with her. We are used to dealing with much more expensive trips like Backroads and Jacada, which are a bit smoother, but are nearly 50-60% more expensive - which makes kimkim a very good value. The guides, tours and drivers they selected were very good - Angel in Santiago and Valparaiso in particular, as well as Eduardo the driver, were excellent.

Hotel Reviews
ICON Hotel
Santiago
Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Cabaña Del Lago Puerto Varas
Puerto Varas
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lodge Terrantai
San Pedro de Atacama
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Goncalo was fantastic as was the hotel manager
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Wine Tasting, Valparaiso and Viña del Mar- Private Tour
Wine Tasting, Valparaiso and Viña del Mar- Private Tour
Santiago
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit the Saltos del Petrohue, Todos Los Santos Lake and Osorno Volcano
Visit the Saltos del Petrohue, Todos Los Santos Lake and Osorno Volcano
Chile
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
 Vegetarian Chilean Food Tour & Picnic with a View of Santiago
Vegetarian Chilean Food Tour & Picnic with a View of Santiago
Santiago
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Trip- Red Rocks, Lagunas Altiplánicas & Atacama Salt Flats
Full Day Trip- Red Rocks, Lagunas Altiplánicas & Atacama Salt Flats
San Pedro de Atacama
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Francisco Torres

Unforgettable Mother–Son Trip Across Morocco
Morocco | Sep 26 - Oct 7, 2025

Bruke
Bruke M.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
My mother and I recently returned from an unforgettable 12-day trip through Morocco with Morocco Immersion, and we can’t recommend this experience highly enough. From start to finish, everything was seamless, meaningful, and beautifully organized.
Our driver and tour manager Ali was truly exceptional, a wonderful guide and even better person. His kindness, enthusiasm, and deep love for Morocco made every moment special. He ensured everything ran smoothly, filled each day with laughter, and...
Read more

My mother and I recently returned from an unforgettable 12-day trip through Morocco with Morocco Immersion, and we can’t recommend this experience highly enough. From start to finish, everything was seamless, meaningful, and beautifully organized.
Our driver and tour manager Ali was truly exceptional, a wonderful guide and even better person. His kindness, enthusiasm, and deep love for Morocco made every moment special. He ensured everything ran smoothly, filled each day with laughter, and introduced us to the country through his own genuine passion for its culture, people, and landscapes. By the end of the trip, it felt like traveling with a friend.
We were also fortunate to explore Fes with our local guide Rashid, who brought the city’s winding alleys, lively markets, and ancient monuments to life with fascinating stories. In Marrakesh, our guide Ali (different from our driver!) led us through the vibrant Medina, sharing layers of history as we walked, it truly felt like stepping back in time.
One of our most cherished memories was our sunset camel ride into the Sahara Desert, followed by a magical night at our desert camp, a once-in-a-lifetime experience we’ll never forget. Another highlight was visiting Boumalne Dades, where we learned to make traditional couscous and shared a meal with Ali’s family. Their warmth and hospitality were deeply touching and gave us a glimpse into the heart of Moroccan life.
Throughout the trip, we were continually amazed by the beauty and comfort of our accommodations, from riads filled with light and intricate details to stunning kasbahs surrounded by nature. A special mention goes to Kasbah Tiziri in Boumalne Dades, with its beautifully renovated interiors and incredibly kind owners and staff, and to Riad Chems Bleu in Essaouira, a true hidden gem with sun-filled rooms, a serene courtyard, and breathtaking views from the rooftop.
Every part of this journey reflected the care and authenticity that Morocco Immersion puts into their trips. It was an experience that combined culture, adventure, and heartfelt human connection. The kind of trip that stays with you long after you return home.

Hotel Reviews
Riad Farouzi Fes
Fes

We had a wonderful stay at Riad Farouzi Fes, a quiet and tucked-away spot in the heart of the old medina. The staff were incredibly kind and attentive, ensuring we were well taken care of throughout our visit. Our room was comfortable, clean, and had everything we needed. The main seating area was stunning, showcasing beautiful tile work and traditional Moroccan details. Breakfast was delicious, with a generous assortment of options served each morning. The location was ideal, right in the midst of the medina, making it easy to step out and explore the surrounding streets and nearby sites. All in all, a truly great stay!

Authenticity & Character
The main seating area was stunning, showcasing beautiful tile work and traditional Moroccan details.
Location
The location was ideal, right in the midst of the medina, making it easy to step out and explore the surrounding streets and nearby sites
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were comfortable.
Riad Hicham
Chefchaouen

We had a wonderful stay at Riad Hicham, the perfect start to our trip in Chefchaouen. The staff were incredibly kind and attentive, making sure we were well taken care of throughout our visit. Our room was comfortable, spotless, and had everything we needed. Breakfast was delicious, with plenty of options to choose from. The rooftop terrace offered a beautiful view over the town square, a perfect spot to relax and people-watch. Overall, a lovely stay in an ideal location for exploring Chefchaouen on foot.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Nihad Hammi

Exceptional trip to Portugal
Portugal | Sep 29 - Oct 10, 2025

Krystal
Krystal P.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Exceptional Trip to Portugal! Our trip to Portugal, planned by Pedro, was absolutely wonderful from start to finish. His attention to detail was outstanding — every hotel, driver, and activity was perfectly arranged. The accommodations were excellent, comfortable, and in ideal locations. The drivers were punctual, professional, and friendly, making every transfer smooth and enjoyable. What truly made the trip unforgettable were our amazing tour guides, each knowledgeable and... Read more

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Exceptional Trip to Portugal!

Our trip to Portugal, planned by Pedro, was absolutely wonderful from start to finish. His attention to detail was outstanding — every hotel, driver, and activity was perfectly arranged. The accommodations were excellent, comfortable, and in ideal locations. The drivers were punctual, professional, and friendly, making every transfer smooth and enjoyable.

What truly made the trip unforgettable were our amazing tour guides, each knowledgeable and engaging — especially João, who brought the history and culture of Portugal to life with such warmth and enthusiasm.

We couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Thank you, Pedro, for creating such a beautifully organized and memorable journey

Hotel Reviews
Grande Real Villa Italia
Cascais
Authenticity & Character
Location
OP
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
NH Collection Porto Batalha
Porto
Authenticity & Character
Location
O
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cascade Wellness Resort
Lagos
Authenticity & Character
Location
O
Staff
Pop
Cleanliness & Comfort
Heritage Avenida Liberdade
Lisboa
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service
Unveil the Fairytale Villa of Sintra with a Private Driver Service
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Indulge in Elegance on a Guided Winery Tour Infused with Tastings and a Delicious Lunch
Indulge in Elegance on a Guided Winery Tour Infused with Tastings and a Delicious Lunch
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Douro River Escape: 1-Hour Exclusive Cruise
Private Douro River Escape: 1-Hour Exclusive Cruise
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Pop
Transport
Seamless Discovery - The Ultimate Douro Valley Experience with Private Driver Service
Seamless Discovery - The Ultimate Douro Valley Experience with Private Driver Service
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Flavors of Port Wine - Sip & Discover
The Flavors of Port Wine - Sip & Discover
Porto
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Porto's Historic Odyssey on a Private Walking Tour
Porto's Historic Odyssey on a Private Walking Tour
Porto
Quality of Experience
M
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Authentic Portuguese Cooking Class – 3-Hour Small Group Experience in Lisbon
Authentic Portuguese Cooking Class – 3-Hour Small Group Experience in Lisbon
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
4-Hour Private Driver and Guide Tour of Belém with Jerónimos Monastery Visit
4-Hour Private Driver and Guide Tour of Belém with Jerónimos Monastery Visit
Lisbon

Joao was the absolute best

Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Quality of Experience
P
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transport
Transport
Transport
Transport
Transport
Transport
Transport
Transport
Transport
Transport
Immerse Yourself in the Portuguese Culture by Experiencing a Fado Dinner
Immerse Yourself in the Portuguese Culture by Experiencing a Fado Dinner
Portugal
Quality of Experience
Hi
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Transfer from your hotel to a unique Fado Experience
Private Transfer from your hotel to a unique Fado Experience
Portugal
Quality of Experience
O
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lisbon's Historic Odyssey on a Private Walking Tour & Tastings
Lisbon's Historic Odyssey on a Private Walking Tour & Tastings
Lisbon
Quality of Experience
Jo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
To Eat Suggestion: Pinóquio
To Eat Suggestion: Pinóquio
Lisbon

One of the best meals we ate in Portugal .

Quality of Experience
No
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Pedro Luis

Ben did an amazing job.
Japan | Oct 4 - Oct 11, 2025

J
Janice D.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Ben was always quick to respond to our questions. He worked with us initially to design the perfect trip in Japan. Many thanks for all of your hard work. Read more

Ben was always quick to respond to our questions. He worked with us initially to design the perfect trip in Japan. Many thanks for all of your hard work.

Hotel Reviews
Sotetsu Fresa inn Yodoyabashi
Osaka

Close to restaurants and shopping in Osaka.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Metro station in basement of hotel; very convenient.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Royal Park Hotel Hiroshima Riverside

Close to train station, which was very convenient

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to river and train station.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Kiyomizu Gojo
kyoto
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
THE KANZASHI TOKYO ASAKUSA

Great location; close to the metro stop, shopping and restaurants. Excellent breakfast choices for an American traveling in Japan.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to metro, shopping, restaurants.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Ben Tanaka
Ben
Ben Tanaka
Local specialist in Japan, China | Replied on Oct 15, 2025

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a kind review—it means the world to us! We’re absolutely thrilled to hear quick responses and the initial trip design for Japan met your expectations. Knowing you had a great experience makes all our hard work worthwhile. If you ever plan future travels or have friends looking for trip recommendations, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you lots of happy memories from your Japan journey!

Othman did a great job planning our 9 day trip to Iceland
Iceland | Sep 4 - Sep 12, 2025

J
Jane V.
Sapulpa, OK | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Othman did a great job planning our 9 day trip to Iceland. Everything went smoothly and we were happy with all our accommodations and excursions. Highly recommend! Read more

Othman did a great job planning our 9 day trip to Iceland. Everything went smoothly and we were happy with all our accommodations and excursions. Highly recommend!

Hotel Reviews
CenterHotel Plaza
Reykjavík

Great location to walk around Reykjavik. Rooms were clean and staff helpful

Authenticity & Character
Location
great for walking around and close to restaurants and main attractions
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Karolina
Stykkisholmur

Absolutely loved this hotel. It was cozy and inviting. The staff was amazing. Breakfast was outstanding with personal service. Our favorite place we stayed during a 9 day trip.

Authenticity & Character
loved the decor. Attention to every detail made it special.
Location
Great for walking around the town and easy access to restaurants
Staff
Staff was incredibly helpful and accommodating
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean
Bella apartments
Selfoss

Good location. We did have a bit of a fiasco with the key code to the building and room. Which resulted in us being locked out every time we left. Fortunately they did answer the phone and were able to reissue the codes. However, it was every single time we had to get back in. Breakfast was good and the rooms were clean.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hali Country Hotel
Hali

Quaint hotel in the country side. Very clean. We ate both dinner and breakfast there and it was good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
easy drive to Diamond Beach
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Kría
Vík

Great hotel. Fabulous breakfast. The front desk staff, a young man, was extremely friendly and helpful. Rooms were nice. Absolutely would come back. Great location for Vik.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The young man at the front desk was friendly and helpful. We enjoyed talking with him
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Othman A

Phenomenal Trip!
Colombia | Oct 2 - Oct 13, 2025

S
Shauna R.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Our entire trip was absolutely amazing and so much more than we expected. Michael and his team were with us every step of the way from start to finish, and provided a diverse itinerary that somehow met the needs of our entire family including 2 young children. We were very impressed at their communication throughout the trip as well as the experiences they provided. All of the hotels were perfect too. We were so grateful our trip included guides and drivers because we learned so much more... Read more

Our entire trip was absolutely amazing and so much more than we expected. Michael and his team were with us every step of the way from start to finish, and provided a diverse itinerary that somehow met the needs of our entire family including 2 young children. We were very impressed at their communication throughout the trip as well as the experiences they provided. All of the hotels were perfect too.

We were so grateful our trip included guides and drivers because we learned so much more about the country and its people because of them and never needed to worry about getting a cab anywhere. They made the trip so much easier and more fun than it would have been if we did it all ourselves. A few highlights were playing Tejo with Mari Luz in Bogota, drinking coffee with Carlos in Salento, our coffee farm tour, walking the streets of cartegena and drumming at sunset with Roberto.

Too many amazing experiences to name. We hope to come back to Colombia again and will definitely use KimKim to provide our next trip.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Muisca
Bogotá

Great hotel in a quiet area. Perfect for walking down to the Candeleria neighborhoods. The chefs were amazing and the front desk staff were always very helpful and patient. You’ll definitely want to bring ear plugs because the walls are thin, but we’re always prepared for that so it wasn’t a problem.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ecohotel Piedemonte

Very peaceful and relaxing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Juliana was very helpful and went above and beyond to get our laundry service done earlier in the morning so we could have them for our 8:30am excursion. The chefs also cook to order.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Finca Hotel del Cafe
Santa Rosa de Cabal

Very nice hotel off the beaten path. It was a nice place to rest between cities with great views from the restaurant area.

Authenticity & Character
The hotel part was fantastic, but the American music from the 80’s in the restaurant view area made it feel a little corporate. Luckily the restaurant area is a 5 minute walk up the hill from the hotel.
Location
Staff
They were very helpful and set up the jacuzzi so we could use it one evening.
Cleanliness & Comfort
GHL Hotel Armería Real
Cartagena

The location was perfect because it was walking distance to everything we needed for food and shopping. The rooftop pool and restaurant worker perfect for our family. The staff was very kind, helpful, and service was great. We want to come back.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Sunset Drum & Dance Safari at the Beach of La Boquilla
Sunset Drum & Dance Safari at the Beach of La Boquilla
Colombia

It was an amazing experience.

Quality of Experience
Realizing that this was a music school and watching the sun set during a song. It was all very interactive and engaging.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boquilla Mangrove Tour
Boquilla Mangrove Tour
Cartagena
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rosario Island Beach Day (Coralina Island)
Rosario Island Beach Day (Coralina Island)
Colombia

Very relaxing.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walking Tour & Street Food
Walking Tour & Street Food
Cartagena

Absolutely amazing behind the scenes tour of Cartegena with Roberto.

Quality of Experience
Our guide Roberto.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Santa Rosa Hot Springs
Santa Rosa Hot Springs
Colombia

Beautiful location.

Quality of Experience
Nothing. It was just really crowded because the local families were on vacation.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We learned so much in our drive from Salento to the hot springs. The guide was great. It was also really nice to have someone to watch our stuff.
Transport
Cocora Valley & Salento
Cocora Valley & Salento
Colombia

Absolutely beautiful place. It was more than we were expecting.

Quality of Experience
Our guide was so passionate and went above learned a lot.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Willy Jeep was fun.
Coffee Farm Tour in Finca Buenos Aires
Coffee Farm Tour in Finca Buenos Aires
Salento

We loved seeing the process from start to finish.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tour to Nemocón's Salt Mine
Tour to Nemocón's Salt Mine
Bogotá
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tejo Game in Bogotá
Tejo Game in Bogotá
Bogotá

Very fun. Family favorite.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bogotá Museums Tour
Bogotá Museums Tour
Bogotá
Colombian History with Street Art
Colombian History with Street Art
Bogotá
Fruits of Colombia at a Local Market
Fruits of Colombia at a Local Market
Bogotá

It was perfect and we learned so much. Only tip would be to provide a handout with the fruit on it because we couldn’t remember any of the names.

Quality of Experience
Leaning how to cut and eat the fruit and learning about the impact of fruit in Colombia were the highlights.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Michael Gold
Michael
Michael Gold
Local specialist in San Agustín, Huila, Colombia | Replied on Oct 14, 2025
Dear Shauna,
Wow – what an absolutely wonderful review! 🌟
I’m truly delighted to read that you and your family had such an unforgettable trip through Colombia, and that the itinerary worked so well for everyone — including the two young travelers. It means a lot to me to know that you enjoyed the diversity of experiences.
Thank you as well for your kind words about our guides, drivers, and local partners – they put so much heart into what they do, and we’ll be sure to share your feedback with...
Read more

Dear Shauna,
Wow – what an absolutely wonderful review! 🌟
I’m truly delighted to read that you and your family had such an unforgettable trip through Colombia, and that the itinerary worked so well for everyone — including the two young travelers. It means a lot to me to know that you enjoyed the diversity of experiences.
Thank you as well for your kind words about our guides, drivers, and local partners – they put so much heart into what they do, and we’ll be sure to share your feedback with them.
I also really appreciate your thoughtful feedback on the hotels and activities. Insights like yours help us continue improving and tailoring each trip to our travelers’ needs.
It makes me so happy to know that Colombia has found a special place in your hearts. There’s still so much more to explore, and we’d love to welcome you back one day for another adventure.
Warm regards from San Agustín,
Michael & the Chaska Tours Team

OMG… you guys are terrific! Everything was pl...
Greece | Oct 5 - Oct 13, 2025

Tom
Tom W.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
OMG… you guys are terrific! Everything was planned out and all planned activities came off flawlessly. We had many times where pickups and drop offs occurred and everyone met us on time. Loved how Kimkim set up our tours that were all private. Maria in Athens was amazing. Very friendly and knowledgeable. Alexander showed us Mykonos in the four wheel jeep. Great guy! So friendly and showed us beautiful places that tourists don’t usually go. Then on Naxos, we helped prepare the Greek luncheon... Read more

OMG… you guys are terrific! Everything was planned out and all planned activities came off flawlessly. We had many times where pickups and drop offs occurred and everyone met us on time. Loved how Kimkim set up our tours that were all private. Maria in Athens was amazing. Very friendly and knowledgeable. Alexander showed us Mykonos in the four wheel jeep. Great guy! So friendly and showed us beautiful places that tourists don’t usually go. Then on Naxos, we helped prepare the Greek luncheon with Nikos and Constantina. We loved being with them and we found it so hard to leave! Then on to Santorini. Simply spectacular. The sunset cruise was truly a great way to end our trip. Also, a special thanks to the Kimkim team for surprising my wife with flowers and champagne on the boat for our 35th wedding anniversary. You had her crying for joy!
All of your accommodations were first class and located in the perfect locations. Loved how you planned the itinerary….Great job Kimkim . (We are also looking to book our 3rd Kimkim vacation to Morocco…. Hopefully sometime in 2026)

Regards,

Tom and Georgette Walsh

Hotel Reviews
Andronis Luxury Suites
Santorini

Simply amazing. The views will take your breath away,

Authenticity & Character
Staff goes out of their way to accommodate all of your needs. Their restaurant is spectacular with incredible sunset views.
Location
Perfectly located right on the cliff. Steps away from all the local shops,
Staff
Michelle went out of her way to insure we were totally comfortable.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Spotless room…. Hot tub overlooking the Agean Sea was incredible!
18 Grapes Hotel Naxos
Naxos

Great location!

Authenticity & Character
Loved the rooftop restaurant with a magnificent view of the sunset over the mountains
Location
Comfortable short walk through a quaint town to get to the beach,
Staff
So Friendly and accommodating
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beautiful clean room with great views… loved our private hot tub,
Asty Hotel & Spa Mykonos
Mykonos

Located just above the main town.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Steps away from walking to the main town
Staff
All staff members were extremely helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Loved the bed…. Super comfortable
xenodocheio Milos
Athens

Centrally located…. Very comfortable and clean

Authenticity & Character
Location
Centrally located
Staff
So very friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wonderful restaurant on the first floor.
Activity Reviews
Private Naxian Family Farm Experience & Wood-Fire Cooking Lesson
Private Naxian Family Farm Experience & Wood-Fire Cooking Lesson
Naxos

Constantina started off by giving us a complete tour of the farm and what they grow. The view from the farm was amazing. We helped prepare a luncheon with all fresh food right from the farm. While waiting for the food to cook in an open oven, Constantine and Nikkos entertained us with the history of Naxos. It was a great way to hear about Greek cuisine while drinking home made Rose wine.

Quality of Experience
Knowledgeable and friendly people.
4WD Jeep Island Adventure
4WD Jeep Island Adventure
Mykonos

We had Alexander take us all over Mykonos island. He took us to areas of the island far away from where tourists usually go. Fantastic photo opportunities.

Quality of Experience
Jeep was very clean and the driver provided water for us
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Alexander was very friendly and knew a lot of history about Mykanos
Transport
Private Acropolis & Highlights Walk with Food Tastings
Private Acropolis & Highlights Walk with Food Tastings
Athens

Maria was our guide for six hours. Very friendly and knowledgeable about the history of Athens.

Quality of Experience
Personal guide
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very knowledgeable
Local specialist: Siena Mueller

Santorini hotel was a dump. BEWARE: Somewhere We Know charges hidden extra fees
Greece | Aug 6 - Aug 14, 2025

A
Amy A.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Our hotel in Santorini ended up being a dump. This impacted our entire trip, both our first time in Greece and our first time even in Europe. Our travel Agent at 'Somewhere We Know' refused to believe our complaints until we put together a detailed 3-page review with pictures and a list of the lies on the resort website (for example, they claimed to have a poolside bar with service, which did not exist; rooms were supposed to come with robes and slippers, also not true... the list is long,... Read more

Our hotel in Santorini ended up being a dump. This impacted our entire trip, both our first time in Greece and our first time even in Europe. Our travel Agent at 'Somewhere We Know' refused to believe our complaints until we put together a detailed 3-page review with pictures and a list of the lies on the resort website (for example, they claimed to have a poolside bar with service, which did not exist; rooms were supposed to come with robes and slippers, also not true... the list is long, in addition to the complete run down, broke-down aspects of the facility itself). After we made it very clear that the resort website was a complete misrepresentation and false advertising, they did offer a refund on our stay, but acted like this was a huge favor. We paid top dollar to have local, expert recommendations as we planned our trip. This resort should have never even been an option and, like, I said, this impacted our entire stay and was valued at much more then just the cost of the room at the resort.

Further, in the middle of our stay we were informed by Somewhere We Know that, due to high winds, our ferry to Naxos would likely be cancelled. This would leave us stranded in a foreign country with no where to stay, and no tickets to leave the island once it was safe to do so. As a result, the recommended we book a villa and ferry tickets for the following days. The good news is that the ferry did run as originally planned so we were able to continue our trip in Naxos. The bad news is that we were charged for the villa and additional ferry tickets. While we did authorize this booking, we were shocked that Somewhere We Know also charged us an additional 226 Euros to aid us in that situation. FYI: The travel agent contacted us to let us know of this potential delay and encouraged the bookings, which felt like a money grab and a fear tactic at its worst; just poor advice at its best.

Somewhere We Know touts itself as a travel agency that will "personally take care of every single detail of your trip and are available to assist you anytime 24/7." We paid $12,000+ dollars for our trip originally (EXCLUDING AIRFARE from US to Athens), expecting this level of service. We PAID good money for a service that we did not get on the Santorini leg of our trip, and then we paid even more when our trip was possibly delayed and we had to utilize the service they originally charged us for. These fees were taken out of what they refunded, which left us with very minimal compensation.

While there were some wonderful things about our trip and some good suggestions from #SomewhereWeKnow, these two issues were major, communication following the trip was disappointing and the resolution would have been unsatisfactory to anyone in our situation.

Hotel Review
Above Blue Suites
Santorini

This hotel is a DUMP. Do not be fooled by the website. It may have been nice serval years ago, but it is not only completely broken-down, but many of the items touted on their website are lies: 1. Their description said “Bathrooms… come equipped with bathrobes and slippers.” This is not true. No bathrobes or slippers are provided. In fact, we were only allowed one towel every two days, and only one pool towel for our entire stay. 2. Their description said, “an indulgent Champagne breakfast is included”. This is not true. Champaign was not provided, and the selection was very basic, including options like a 1-egg “omelet” with nothing in it or corn flakes with milk. 3. The website shows breakfast being served on outdoor tables with cushioned chairs and white tablecloths. Instead, the tables were rickety and badly peeling, and the chairs were both broken and without cushions. 4. Their website states that is “a pool bar that serves drinks throughout the day.” This is also not true. No bar. No drinks. No service. 5. The website advertises the Moonlit Suite as having an “outdoor private HOT tub”. While there is an outdoor “tub”, the water was ice cold, it was dirty and the jets did not work. 6. The website says there is a Porter. This is also not true. 7. The room material noted that we should not drink the water but stated that two bottles of water would be delivered daily. That was not true. When we asked about water, we were told we could buy some at a store across the street. 8. The room material noted that each room has a mini bar. Again, this is a lie. 9. The website shows a small but clean luxury resort. Instead, we arrived to find loose wiring, broken tables and chairs, missing or stained and torn cushions, haphazard painting, rusted fixtures, mostly dead plants, an abundance of BLACK MOLD in the bathrooms and overall lack of maintenance. 10. The pool was full of algae. I could go on and on but you get the idea. DON'T STAY HERE and SHAME ON THEM!!!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Naxos Old Town food tour
Naxos Old Town food tour
Naxos

This was a ton of fun and a great way to explore the streets of "Old Town". The description made it sound like a few small snacks and drinks but it was actually a lot of food that culminated in a full sit-down dinner with our small tour group (maybe 12 people).

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cooking class experience
Cooking class experience
Santorini

My husband didn't want to do this and we almost skipped it. Would have been a shame. Ended up being the highlight of our trip. The location was charming. The owners were welcoming and engaging. The class itself was relaxed and fun. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Eirini Tzoka

Family trip to Italy
Italy | Sep 27 - Oct 5, 2025

kathy
kathy s.
Kamas, UT | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Chris was very responsive and great to work with. Our family vacation went smoothly from start to finish. Read more

Chris was very responsive and great to work with. Our family vacation went smoothly from start to finish.

Hotel Reviews
Grand Hotel Parker’s Naples
Naples
Hotel Conca Park 4* Sorrento
Sorrento

Large hotel filled with large tour groups. Must be something more quaint in Sorrento. Did have a good location.

San Montano Resort & SPA Ischia
Lacco Ameno

This place was fabulous. We were upgraded to a room with a pool that was just great.

Staff
Activity Review
Afternoon Neapolitan Cooking Class With Dinner
Afternoon Neapolitan Cooking Class With Dinner
Naples
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Chris Gravas

Outstanding Planning and Management
Costa Rica | Oct 3 - Oct 13, 2025

Frances
Frances C.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025

Every aspect of the trip from planning before we left to all of the details during the trip were extremely well managed.

Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Oct 14, 2025

Hola Frances!

Thank you so much for your kind words.

It was truly a pleasure to support you throughout the journey. I’m glad to hear that both the planning process and the on-trip details met your expectations, that means a lot!

Pura Vida☀️
Bryan | Serendipity Adventures

The trip was very well planned and executed. ...
Japan | Sep 20 - Oct 10, 2025

Arnon
Arnon V.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025

The trip was very well planned and executed. We will recommend Kimkim for others for sure. All the guides were great and clearly vetted by many others. You really listened to what we wanted - cities with off-the-beaten-path destinations and cultural experiences. We were really impressed with the support before and during the trip. We're so happy. Thank you for everything.

Local specialist: Sandy Ren

Kristy was extremely helpful in a number of w...
Peru | Aug 23 - Aug 29, 2025

C
chris r.
Madison, WI | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025

Kristy was extremely helpful in a number of ways. She did a great job setting up the trip and was kind enough to help one of our travelers that had issues with departing flight. She also helped to retrieve something we left in a hotel room. Excellent job!

Local specialist: Kristy Tizon

We love KimKim!
Greece | Sep 18 - Oct 3, 2025

Donna
Donna S.
San Luis Obispo, CA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Our trip was on my bucket list for 30 years. The team at KimKim made it all come true. We started planning our trip with Eleni in 2023, and decided the timing wasn’t right. Two years later we contacted KimKim and they still had our 2023 itinerary in their system so we weren’t starting from scratch. All KimKim arrangements were great, transportation at every travel point was on time, pre-printed tickets for high speed ferries and local flights were in our packet, as well as the sailing... Read more

Our trip was on my bucket list for 30 years. The team at KimKim made it all come true. We started planning our trip with Eleni in 2023, and decided the timing wasn’t right. Two years later we contacted KimKim and they still had our 2023 itinerary in their system so we weren’t starting from scratch. All KimKim arrangements were great, transportation at every travel point was on time, pre-printed tickets for high speed ferries and local flights were in our packet, as well as the sailing and other excursions were all planned out. All the hotels and accommodations were exactly what we asked for. KimKim was available to us al during the trip answering our questions in a timely manner, they made our vacation a very relaxed and enjoyable experience. We will use KimKim again.

Local specialist: Eleni Koropouli

Our trip to Crete, Athens & Rethymno.
Greece | Sep 18 - Oct 2, 2025

Stanley
Stanley C.
Amesbury, MA | Reviewed on Oct 14, 2025
Other guides were Dimitris and Klio
This is our third KimKim adventure. It was the first time we rented a car to possibly have more flexibility. Everything was smooth when we landed in Athens and hopped to Crete. We were met but Kosta from Kosmos car rental and got a new car (but the windshield washer did not work). Off to Rethymno and we realized how Greeks drive. The double yellow lines in the center of the road is merely a suggestion. After a while driving went from unnerving to...
Read more

Other guides were Dimitris and Klio
This is our third KimKim adventure. It was the first time we rented a car to possibly have more flexibility. Everything was smooth when we landed in Athens and hopped to Crete. We were met but Kosta from Kosmos car rental and got a new car (but the windshield washer did not work). Off to Rethymno and we realized how Greeks drive. The double yellow lines in the center of the road is merely a suggestion. After a while driving went from unnerving to terrifying. Our hotel in old town Rethymno was lovely and so were the people there. We know you recommended staying in Chania and Heraklion and we elected to stay in Rethymno. We wish that you had persuaded us and said something about Greek drivers. As it was, we eliminated trips to Elafonisi beach and other places. We went to a beautiful beach Skinaria, the drive through the gorge was beautiful. The last leg of the drive to the beach was again terrifying. It really put a damper on our beach trips. We take some responsibility as you did warn us that it was 2.5 hours to Elafonisi. The tour of the Palace of Knossos was fabulous and Viv is a great tour guide. The museum was amazing. The hotel was nice and the people very friendly and helpful. The room was OK but we read that room 106 has a balcony and that would have been nicer.
Our tour of Chania with Petros was very good too. Parking was very challenging but manageable.
Athens was great. The Elysium was a beautiful venue for dinner with a perfect view of the Parthenon. The hotel was delightful. The car pick up was perfectly convenient and getting out of Athens was surprisingly easy. Hearing about the marathon scheduled for that day made us apprehensive but not a problem. Also it was nice to have a hotel with an elevator.
Nafplio; the drive was straightforward but after our experiences in Crete we were nervous and omitted some of the planned drives. The Athena hotel in Nafplio is beautiful with a nice room at the top floor. Of course, 70 stairs from the lobby to our room carrying heavy bags was not top of my list of exercises. I am 71 years old. I suppose I should have checked into that.
On our last KimKim adventure (Portugal) we thought about renting a car but then changed our minds. I wish we had done it differently on the trip.

Hotel Reviews
Athena Hotel Nafplion
Nafplio

If you are healthy enough to take a lot of stairs (70) then try for the rooftop room. Amazing views to the castle, the city and the harbor. If you are not in the best of shape, the stairs can be a lot. There is no elevator. Also, we could have used a better description of the location as we drove right past it using GPS. There is no parking at the hotel but you can briefly park 10 meters away. Parking is touch and go. There are parking lots and if you are lucky you can get a place not too far from the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
A very nice venue with the best shower of the 3 hotels. The room had a good amount of space.
Location
In the heart of the old city. Easy to get anywhere.
Staff
The only complaint was that there was nobody who could carry our bags up the 70 stairs
Cleanliness & Comfort
Noma Hotel Athens
Athens

Old but updated with a nice elevator, large bed, nice bathroom and shower and a balcony! Its location is close to the destinations we wanted to see and lots of nice areas to explore nearby.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to the Plaka and not far from Syntagnia sq. Close to the Elysium rooftop and Ergon House.
Staff
Friendly and willing to help.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Veneto Boutique Hotel
Rethymno, Crete

Room 107 has small floor-level windows. The restaurant is great, and the breakfast offerings are delicious and with a lot of options. Beds are comfortable, the shower is nice and the AC works well. Get room 106 as it has the only balcony. The staff are delightful and very helpful.

Authenticity & Character
The hotel is a 600 year old monastery that is beautiful and well kept.
Location
Please note: you cannot drive to the hotel, even to drop off your luggage.
Staff
Very helpful when we needed to change plans or get restaurant recommendations.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The beds are very comfortable and the rooms and dining area are kept very clean
Activity Reviews
Acropolis of Mycenae Guided Tour 
Acropolis of Mycenae Guided Tour 
Greece

We were surprised that this area was not as developed/restored as Knossos. It was however very interesting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Again as with all guide, certified, knowledgeable and very personable.
Transport
George was a very good guide.
Local transfer in Nafplio
Nafplio

This was OK since it was major highway. The car was OK except when the check engine light came on causing a lot of distress and anxiety as we were on a 2 lane road with no area to pull off.

Quality of Experience
I could have elected to get a transfer.
Sea Kayak above sunken Epidaurus
Sea Kayak above sunken Epidaurus
Nafplio

The weather report was for cold and wet so we did not go.

Car Rental Drop-off
Greece

Easy, drive up, park, toss the keys through the hole. Done

Private Knossos & Museum Tour
Private Knossos & Museum Tour
Greece

The Palace is much larger than we expected and it is very well presented with excavations and restorations.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Viv is a wonderful and knowledgeable guide! We loved her discussion of the palace and her insight.
Transport
We rented a car.
Private Old Town of Chania guided walk
Private Old Town of Chania guided walk
Chania

Petros was very accommodating as we got there a bit late due to traffic and could not find parking close to the meeting spot. He is very knowledgeable about the area and its history. He recommended a great place for lunch that was not overwhelmed by tourists. Chania is a delightful place with a lot of history to explore.

Quality of Experience
Coastal Greece has a lot of history from the ancient times, Venetian then Ottoman occupation. All have left their imprint on the island.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Petros was terrific. Very good guide!
Transport
We rented a car and as we said before, driving is not the best part of the experience.
Car Rental Pick-up
Greece

Kostas met us at the baggage claim and brought ut to the car. Very convenient.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Although the car was new, the windshield washer did not work so I needed to carry a bottle of water to wash the window manually.
Local specialist: Irene Lappa

Why travelers love kimkim

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Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.