Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 18,685 ratings
Read 18,685 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.

Fantastic Trip
India | Nov 28 - Dec 8, 2025

BopGem
BopGem F.
Germany | Reviewed on Dec 16, 2025
It was truly an amazing trip. Ravi and his team ensured we didn’t have to worry about a thing — everything was taken care of from start to finish. From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in rich culture, vibrant colours, and incredible history. Each city offered something unique, from stunning palaces and impressive forts to bustling markets and beautifully detailed architecture. Read more

It was truly an amazing trip. Ravi and his team ensured we didn’t have to worry about a thing — everything was taken care of from start to finish. From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in rich culture, vibrant colours, and incredible history. Each city offered something unique, from stunning palaces and impressive forts to bustling markets and beautifully detailed architecture.

Activity Review
Jaipur Sightseeing  Tour
Jaipur Sightseeing Tour
Jaipur
Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo

This was the trip of a lifetime.
Kenya | Dec 2 - Dec 13, 2025

Gabrielle
Gabrielle A.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Dec 16, 2025
This was the trip of a lifetime. I would recommend anyone to book using Nariku Travel Experiences and Joseph could not have been more accommodating or helpful. He put thoughtful intention into every detail and made every request of ours come true, making our ability to be present each moment of our trip. We stayed in some incredible places - I couldn't recommend them enough. Attentive staff, lovely accommodations, wonderful food, and thrilling sights. I especially enjoyed Naivasha Sopa Resort... Read more

This was the trip of a lifetime. I would recommend anyone to book using Nariku Travel Experiences and Joseph could not have been more accommodating or helpful. He put thoughtful intention into every detail and made every request of ours come true, making our ability to be present each moment of our trip. We stayed in some incredible places - I couldn't recommend them enough. Attentive staff, lovely accommodations, wonderful food, and thrilling sights. I especially enjoyed Naivasha Sopa Resort where zebras and giraffes were right outside my door. The Neptune Palm Beach Boutique Resort & Spa was another favorite of mine in Diani, and then the cultural enrichment of spending time in Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp was one of the most special experiences. Joseph found another winner in Maasai Mara at the Mara Kimana Luxury Camp. There is not anything we could change except go back and do it all over again. Thank you to Joseph and team for a most incredible and unforgettable time in Kenya.

Hotel Reviews
Diani Sea Resort

I loved staying here. First of all - the staff were so kind, friendly, and made me feel like I was at home/with family. The pools were immaculate, the beaches were a little cluttered with seaweed when I was there but still beautiful sand and shore area. I loved the option for all the restaurants on the property plus the coffee station areas. They did an amazing job with this place and I cannot wait to go back.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Turtle Bay Beach Club
Mombasa

This had beautiful beach access and a great area for swimming and reclining around the pools. The meals were large buffet style and staff was incredibly supportive.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Naivasha Sopa Lodge
Nairobi

An absolute favorite based solely on all the animals walking around the property. Their restaurant is also beautiful and they have the most fun rabbit habitat in the middle of the reception/restaurant area. Staff was also very friendly and helpful!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lake Nakuru Lodge
Nakuru

This felt like a bit of an older property - while it may not be true, the rooms felt further from the restaurant and main area, everything was spread out a bit more and unfortunately, the wifi did not reach the rooms. Additionally, it was a struggle to get wifi even in the main area. They said the monkeys had chewed up their cable cords to maybe that's just a short term issue.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mara Kimana Camp

We enjoyed the beautiful location, the style of the rooms, the friendliness and warmth of the staff, and the layout of the property.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp
Maji Moto

The cultural enrichment of spending time in Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp was one of the most special experiences. We enjoyed the activities of visiting the village, watching the sunset from the hill, having meals outdoors, sitting around the fire that we helped start (way harder than it looks!), warrior training, and building memories that will last a lifetime.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Dec 16, 2025
Hi Gabi, Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and thoughtful words. It truly means a lot to the entire Nariku Travel Experiences team. We’re delighted to know that your journey through Kenya was everything you hoped for and more. It was an absolute pleasure creating this experience for you, and we’re so glad you enjoyed each of the special places, from Naivasha and Diani to the Mara and the meaningful time at Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp. Knowing that the details allowed you to... Read more

Hi Gabi,

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind and thoughtful words. It truly means a lot to the entire Nariku Travel Experiences team. We’re delighted to know that your journey through Kenya was everything you hoped for and more.

It was an absolute pleasure creating this experience for you, and we’re so glad you enjoyed each of the special places, from Naivasha and Diani to the Mara and the meaningful time at Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp. Knowing that the details allowed you to fully relax and be present makes our work deeply rewarding.

Thank you for trusting us with such an important trip and for your generous recommendation. We would be honored to welcome you back anytime to relive it all or to create your next adventure in Africa.

Warmest regards,
Joseph & the Nariku Travel Experiences Team

Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queen...
New Zealand | Dec 7 - Dec 13, 2025

Lorin
Lorin W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queenstown Trip We had an unforgettable trip from start to finish - we kicked things off in Picton, where we did a combo tour of the Marlborough wine region and seafood cruise in the Marlborough Sounds. Both expereinces saw a great balance of stunning views, calm waters (on the cruise), and nonstop photo opportunities. Christchurch surprised us with its charm, walkability, and mix of historic and modern vibes. We did a self-guided walk of the... Read more

Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queenstown Trip

We had an unforgettable trip from start to finish - we kicked things off in Picton, where we did a combo tour of the Marlborough wine region and seafood cruise in the Marlborough Sounds. Both expereinces saw a great balance of stunning views, calm waters (on the cruise), and nonstop photo opportunities.

Christchurch surprised us with its charm, walkability, and mix of historic and modern vibes. We did a self-guided walk of the town, including a stop at The Church Pub for food and drinks.. It made a great transition point before driving deeper into the South Islands natural beauty.

Lake Tekapo featured unreal turquoise water, open skies, and peaceful atmosphere. It may have been one of the most photogeneic places we visited on this leg of the trip.

Wanaka was a wonderful lake town, where it featured one of the most photographed trees in the world. I wish we could have spent another day here to experience the town more.

we wrapped up our trip in Queenstown, where you could easily spend a week there and not do everything. While there though we did get a chance to do a number of excursions, including a plane ride, horse-back ride, jet-boat ride, and river funyak excurions, where we were able to see the snow-capped mountain ranges known famously in many Hollywood blockbusters, including Lord of the Rings, Narnia, and Misson Impossible!

Between the scenery, activities, and unforgettable moments captured, our NZ trip exceeded expectations, it is purely a magical country, and the itinerary provided by KimKim was the perfect way to experience it.

Hotel Reviews
Browns Boutique Hotel
Queenstown
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Edgewater Wanaka
Lake Wānaka
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The Mayfair
Christchurch
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Escape to Picton
Picton
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Dec 16, 2025

Hi Lorin
How wonderful to hear your feedback! Thanks so much for taking the time and I am so glad you loved New Zealand!
Ruth

A Trip To Remember
India | Nov 27 - Dec 4, 2025

D
donna h.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
India is a fascinating country and we will never forget our experiences there. Many of the guides that were provided to us were outstanding. These included Shafali in Agra, Mr. Singh and Sanjay in Jaipur. Our driver Sachin was also excellent. Not only was he a fabulous driver, but he acted as a tour guide during our trips between cities. He was very accommodating and took us to all of the places we requested. The most thrilling parts of our trip were our safari in Ranthambore, where... Read more

India is a fascinating country and we will never forget our experiences there. Many of the guides that were provided to us were outstanding. These included Shafali in Agra, Mr. Singh and Sanjay in Jaipur. Our driver Sachin was also excellent. Not only was he a fabulous driver, but he acted as a tour guide during our trips between cities. He was very accommodating and took us to all of the places we requested. The most thrilling parts of our trip were our safari in Ranthambore, where we were fortunate enough to see a tiger, and our visit to the Taj Mahal. We also enjoyed the markets and shopping everywhere we went. India is truly a country of contrasts, some amazing and some disturbing, but all are worth seeing. The local people we met were delightful and were truly a highlight of our trip.

Hotel Reviews
ITC Rajputana
Jaipur

A lovely hotel . Well appointed, great staff and a very good location. Our room was extremely comfortable with a lovely view of the pools and flowers.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Tigress

A charming hotel with excellent food.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Reasonably close to Ranthambore.
Staff
Very attentive and friendly staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
ITC Mughal
Agra

Although this was a lovely hotel there were NO guest elevators. The only elevators that existed in this hotel were 2 small service elevators for luggage only. The number of steps we had to climb definitely affected my rating of this hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Imperial New Delhi
Delhi

This was a wonderful hotel and absolutely gorgeous. Unfortunately we were given a room adjacent to the parking lot and our view was of busses and cars. I was also somewhat noisy at times. Although I would recommend the hotel, I would specify the rooms that were acceptable. The food in this hotel was also excellent, as was the service.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on Dec 16, 2025
Dear Donna,
Thank you very much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review of your recent trip. We are delighted to hear that your journey through India was such a memorable and enriching experience.
It is wonderful to know that the services provided by our guides, particularly Shafali in Agra, Mr. Singh and Sanjay in Jaipur, as well as your driver, Sachin, contributed positively to your travels. We are especially pleased that highlights such as the Taj Mahal visit and the... Read more

Dear Donna,
Thank you very much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review of your recent trip. We are delighted to hear that your journey through India was such a memorable and enriching experience.

It is wonderful to know that the services provided by our guides, particularly Shafali in Agra, Mr. Singh and Sanjay in Jaipur, as well as your driver, Sachin, contributed positively to your travels. We are especially pleased that highlights such as the Taj Mahal visit and the Ranthambore safari, including the tiger sighting, exceeded your expectations.

We also sincerely appreciate your constructive feedback regarding certain hotel aspects, such as room location and accessibility. Please be assured that this feedback has been noted and will be taken into consideration as we continue to refine our planning and recommendations for future guests.

Thank you once again for choosing to travel with us and for sharing your experience. We truly value your feedback and hope to have the opportunity to assist you again on a future journey to India.

Warm regards,
Ravi

Thailand Adventure
Thailand | Nov 30 - Dec 14, 2025

D
David K.
Salt Lake City, UT | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025

Our trip was amazing, kimKim planned everything down to our Airport shuttles. Tour guides were great and knowledgeable.

Local specialist: Kien Nguyen

Would do it again ( 100 X’s!!)
Philippines | Nov 30 - Dec 14, 2025

Marie
Marie B.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Dec 14, 2025
Choosing Kimkim (and ultimately Leo of Uncharted Philippines) was an absolute heaven sent for planning my families two week adventure in the Philippines. I am a biracial Filipina American who for several reasons has never been able to visit the “motherland”. There were several places that I wanted to visit and Leo created THE perfect itinerary for me, my husband and adult son. The Uncharted took all of the “work” from our vacation to Manila, Palawan (Puerto Princesa and El Nido) and... Read more

Choosing Kimkim (and ultimately Leo of Uncharted Philippines) was an absolute heaven sent for planning my families two week adventure in the Philippines. I am a biracial Filipina American who for several reasons has never been able to visit the “motherland”.

There were several places that I wanted to visit and Leo created THE perfect itinerary for me, my husband and adult son. The Uncharted took all of the “work” from our vacation to Manila, Palawan (Puerto Princesa and El Nido) and Boracay . Ana was our contact on the ground and helped to facilitate communication with our activities/tours, guides and accommodations. We had a couple small bumps in the road that quickly remedied and every single guide was so knowledgeable attentive, flexible and gracious. Especially Zeon and Jhon in Manilla and Rich on Palawan . Our accommodations were top notch and in beautiful and active locations yet were not pretentious and felt rooted in local culture and community. We visited the most beautiful beaches, historical sites ,natural landscapes , and cultural hubs. Our tripped was packed with activities yet we didn’t feel rushed or stressed at all.

Uncharted/Kimkim made everything run so seamlessly and easily that It will be difficult for me to travel any other way. I am definitely planing to use them again in 2026 to visit other islands that I couldn’t fit in my itinerary.

In summary, this was hands down the best trip I’ve ever had and as a mom who has historically been in charge of all planning , coordination and organizing … the least stressful!

An 11 out of 10 !!

Local specialist: Leo Cuesta
Leo
Leo Cuesta
Local specialist in USA | Replied on Dec 15, 2025

Hi Marie,

Thank you for your wonderful review and I'm thrilled that you had an amazing time visiting the motherland! It was a pleasure for everyone on my team to work with you and we look forward to taking your family on another great adventure soon!

-Leo

Spain Delightful, Planning a Bit Rocky
Spain | Nov 28 - Dec 8, 2025

Thea
Thea H.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
So, Adam was great. He was knowledgeable and helpful with a lot of trip experience, and willing to work with us generously on glitches. Alejandra not so much. She made a lot of mistakes, some were corrected prior to the trip, some had to be dealt with during the trip, like two duplicate hotel reservations, which we had to address when we checked in. Also, one transfer was incorrect and we didn't catch it until the day before despite multiple reviews. All in all, the trip was great, the hotels... Read more

So, Adam was great. He was knowledgeable and helpful with a lot of trip experience, and willing to work with us generously on glitches. Alejandra not so much. She made a lot of mistakes, some were corrected prior to the trip, some had to be dealt with during the trip, like two duplicate hotel reservations, which we had to address when we checked in. Also, one transfer was incorrect and we didn't catch it until the day before despite multiple reviews. All in all, the trip was great, the hotels were perfect, the train rides wonderful, the tours were lovely, including the private tour of the Prado with an art history scholar for the guide. They always fixed the issues reasonably promptly, I just found that in terms of attention to detail and seamless organization, it was not anywhere close to the tour they put together for the Greece trip.

Local specialist: Adam Gomez

The entire team was really wonderful! I spen...
Chile | Dec 2 - Dec 8, 2025

Marcia
Marcia R.
Lawrence, KS | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
The entire team was really wonderful! I spent so much time communicating with Riwal before the trip. He was so accommodating and was great about adding Justin at the last minute and working out his details. I couldn’t ask for a better organizer.
While in Patagonia, Jose was our go to man. I appreciate his willingness to help when we had a cancellation of the Magdalena Island penguin tour. We loved the afternoon tour and the 8 pm bus ride to Puerto Natales worked perfectly.
Our guide,...
Read more

The entire team was really wonderful! I spent so much time communicating with Riwal before the trip. He was so accommodating and was great about adding Justin at the last minute and working out his details. I couldn’t ask for a better organizer.
While in Patagonia, Jose was our go to man. I appreciate his willingness to help when we had a cancellation of the Magdalena Island penguin tour. We loved the afternoon tour and the 8 pm bus ride to Puerto Natales worked perfectly.
Our guide, Nacho, was the perfect match. He was flexible with our itinerary and was so helpful with any issue we had. He was the best!

Activity Reviews
Blue Lagoon / Laguna Azul Hike to Laguna Cebolla
Blue Lagoon / Laguna Azul Hike to Laguna Cebolla
Chile
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Magdalena Island - Penguin Encounter Half Day Tour
Magdalena Island - Penguin Encounter Half Day Tour
Chile
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Torres del Paine National Park - Private Panoramic Tour
Torres del Paine National Park - Private Panoramic Tour
Chile
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Tierra del Fuego - King Penguin
Full Day Tierra del Fuego - King Penguin
Punta Arenas
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Riwal Le Derff
Riwal
Riwal Le Derff
Local specialist in Santiago & Quito | Replied on Dec 15, 2025

Hi Marcia,
Thank you so much for your beautiful review.
It was so great to follow you in this adventure :) :) :)
I'm so happy you enjoyed it to the maximum.
Thank you very much from all my team!

Kind regards,
Riwal

Great trip to Morocco
Morocco | Dec 1 - Dec 10, 2025

Shelley
Shelley H.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Dec 14, 2025
We had a truly wonderful trip to Morocco, even though our very first day was disrupted by a canceled flight. From the start, Yassine and Younes went out of their way to adjust our schedule, making sure we were still able to see and experience as much as possible despite the unexpected change. That flexibility and care set the tone for the rest of the journey. Younes—officially our driver, but quickly our friend for life—picked us up at the airport, and we knew immediately that he was going... Read more

We had a truly wonderful trip to Morocco, even though our very first day was disrupted by a canceled flight. From the start, Yassine and Younes went out of their way to adjust our schedule, making sure we were still able to see and experience as much as possible despite the unexpected change. That flexibility and care set the tone for the rest of the journey.

Younes—officially our driver, but quickly our friend for life—picked us up at the airport, and we knew immediately that he was going to make this trip something special. His kindness, calm presence, and genuine love for his country made every day better. He took us to the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and drove us around his home city, sharing stories and explaining what we were seeing. That same thoughtful commentary continued everywhere we went, turning long drives into meaningful lessons about Morocco’s culture, history, and daily life.

Our journey took us from Casablanca to Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Ouarzazate, and finally Marrakesh—each place offering its own beauty, rhythm, and unforgettable moments.

All of our local guides were excellent. Zahra in Fes was an absolute delight. She guided us through the medina with warmth and enthusiasm, introduced us to incredible sites and local crafts, and made sure we tasted a wide variety of delicious foods along the way. In Marrakesh, Mohammad was wonderful as well, leading both our evening food tour and our medina tour the next day with knowledge and energy.

While every guide added something special, we relied heavily on Younes’ recommendations and guidance throughout the trip. His insights, patience, and genuine care made us feel safe, welcome, and deeply connected to the places we visited. We feel incredibly fortunate to have had him not just as our driver, but as a true friend who helped make this journey unforgettable.

Hotel Reviews
Riad Twilight
Marrakesh

Although Riad Twilight was a bit confusing to find at first it proved to be a wonderful and very conveniently located place to stay. The staff was truly wonderful. Every time they saw us, they made sure we were taken care of with mint tea, coffee and some kind of treat. Our room was clean, comfortable, and a great place to relax after busy days in the medina. And the shower—without question—was the best of the entire trip. After long days of walking and sightseeing, it was a luxury we appreciated more than we can say.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Caravane
Ouarzazate

We arrived at Riad Caravane in the evening after a long day of travel and were immediately welcomed by the most wonderful gentleman. Unfortunately, we can’t remember his name, but his friendliness left a lasting impression. He told us that he lived at the riad, and it truly showed in the way he cared for us—making sure we felt comfortable, relaxed, and at home from the moment we arrived. That evening, we enjoyed an absolutely wonderful dinner paired with fantastic Moroccan wine, a perfect way to unwind and settle into the riad. Our room was very nice, clean, and comfortable. Breakfast the next morning was delicious. And a completely unexpected gesture, one of the staff members guided us to the nearby UNESCO site.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Luxury Camp Chebbi
Merzouga

After the most wonderful sunset camel ride through the dunes, we arrived at Luxury Camp Chebbi to discover that we were the only two guests staying there that night. What could have felt quiet instead became something truly magical—we were treated like absolute royalty. Despite it being just the two of us, the staff still played music and danced for us in the evening, creating an atmosphere that felt deeply personal, joyful, and unforgettable. It was one of those rare travel moments that feels completely genuine and generous. The camp itself was incredibly nice—beautifully set in the dunes, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed so that you could fully enjoy the desert without sacrificing comfort. Sitting under the stars, surrounded by silence and sand, was an experience we will never forget. There is truly nothing negative we could say about this stay. The experience, the setting, and especially the people were absolutely fantastic. Luxury Camp Chebbi was not just a place to stay—it was a once-in-a-lifetime memory and one of the highlights of our entire trip to Morocco.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Barceló Fès Medina
Fes

Barceló Fès Medina was a very nice and welcome stop during our time in Fes. After the energy of the medina, it was refreshing to return to a hotel that felt modern, comfortable, and calm. We especially enjoyed relaxing at the bar in the evening—it was a pleasant way to unwind, reflect on the day, and recharge before the next adventure. The breakfast buffet was another highlight: fresh, plentiful, and delicious, offering a great start to the morning.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Meziana
Chefchaouene

Although Dar Meziana was a bit of a walk, that seems to be true of most dars or riads in Chefchaouen, and it was well worth it. The dar itself was quite lovely, with a peaceful atmosphere that made it a comfortable place to return to after exploring the city. The people were genuinely pleasant, and the breakfast was fantastic—fresh, generous, and a wonderful way to start the day. The only challenge we encountered was with the heat, which took us a while to figure out. It was a very cold evening, and we were a bit chilly at first, but once we understood how it worked, we were comfortable for the rest of the night. In the end, it was a small hiccup in an otherwise enjoyable and memorable stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Hammam Visit: Traditional Body Scrub
Hammam Visit: Traditional Body Scrub
Morocco

After having experienced a Turkish hammam in the past, this hammam was a bit underwhelming for us. We were expecting a more vigorous scrub, but the exfoliation was very light and much shorter than anticipated. We also thought the experience would last closer to an hour, but it felt like we were finished in about 30 minutes. There was also some confusion at the end regarding payment. We were asked to pay again for the service, even though it had already been paid for through KimKim. Thankfully, our driver Younes stepped in and helped explain the situation, and everything was eventually sorted out. While the hammam itself didn’t quite meet our expectations, we recognize that experiences can vary, and we were grateful for the support and assistance that helped resolve the misunderstanding.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Younes was always amazing. He drove us there and walked us to the door
Transport
Exploring the Medina and Historical Sites Of Marrakesh
Exploring the Medina and Historical Sites Of Marrakesh
Marrakesh

We were fortunate to have Mohammed again for our Marrakesh medina tour, following the wonderful food tour he led for us the previous evening. Having the same guide gave the experience a sense of continuity and comfort. Mohammed took us to Bahia Palace, where we learned about its history, architecture, and significance, and then guided us through many of the busy souks of the medina. Navigating those lively, maze-like streets with him made the experience enjoyable rather than overwhelming, and he was always happy to answer questions along the way. We also visited the stunning Madrasa Ben Youssef,. As an added bonus, we were able to try mechoui—lamb cooked in the ground—which we had missed on the food tour the day before. That unexpected opportunity made the day even more special. Mohammed was consistently knowledgeable, professional, and engaging, and he helped us gain a deeper understanding of Marrakesh’s history, culture, and daily life.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Evening Food Tour in Marrakesh
Evening Food Tour in Marrakesh
Marrakesh

Mohammad was our young guide on the Marrakesh food tour, and he did a fantastic job introducing us to the city’s incredible food scene. Over the course of the tour, we sampled an impressive variety of foods, including pastries, harira (Moroccan soup), sheep’s head, snails, prickly pear, fried sardines, olives, fresh pomegranate juice, and beef tangia. Each stop offered something new, and Mohammad took the time to explain what we were eating and why each dish mattered in local culture.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Overnight in the Sahara Desert with Sunset Camel Ride
Overnight in the Sahara Desert with Sunset Camel Ride
Morocco

The sunset camel ride was absolutely amazing and one of those experiences that stays with you long after the trip is over. I wasn’t quite sure how long we would be on the camels, but it ended up being close to an hour—just the right amount of time to truly soak in the beauty of the desert. Our guide led us gently across the dunes to a perfectly chosen spot to watch the sun set. The colors over the sand were breathtaking, and the quiet of the desert made the moment feel especially peaceful. He was incredibly gracious, taking his time to help us get photos so we could fully remember the experience. I only wish I could remember the guide’s name—and even the camels’ Berber names. Somewhere along the way, I started calling the camels John and Anthony, which added a bit of humor and made the ride even more memorable. This camel ride wasn’t just an activity; it was a moment of calm, beauty, and connection with the desert. It was truly unforgettable and one of the highlights of our time in Morocco.

Quality of Experience
Food
The dinner and breakfast at the camp were fantastic
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The staff at the camp were absolutely amazing to us..
Transport
Once again, Younes got us to the location of the camels without any issues
Exploring the Imperial City and Medieval Medina of Fez + Food Tour
Exploring the Imperial City and Medieval Medina of Fez + Food Tour
Fes

Zahra was incredibly knowledgeable about every aspect of the Fes medina—its history, its craftsmanship, and especially its food. She guided us through the maze-like, confusing streets with complete ease. She took us to some truly amazing local food spots, introducing us to flavors we never would have found on our own, while also making sure we learned about the incredible craftsmanship that defines Fes. From traditional artisans to hidden corners of the medina, Zahra brought everything to life with warmth, enthusiasm, and local insight. Zahra was an absolute treasure, and spending the day with her was one of the highlights of our time in Morocco. We genuinely hope to stay in touch with her and would recommend her without hesitation to anyone wanting an authentic, enriching experience in the Fes medina

Quality of Experience
Food
Everything from the pastries, steamed chicken, avocado juice and kefta
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Zahra and Younes were a great team
Transport
Younes was amazing the entire trip as well as his vehicle
Local specialist: Yassine Echcherki
Yassine
Yassine Echcherki
Local specialist in Morocco, New York, Spain | Replied on Dec 15, 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a beautiful and detailed reflection on your journey through Morocco. We’re truly grateful for your kind words and are so happy to hear that, despite the initial flight disruption, your experience turned into such a meaningful and memorable trip. Travel doesn’t always go exactly as planned, but we’re glad we were able to adjust the itinerary and ensure you still experienced the richness and diversity of Morocco. Your flexibility and positive... Read more

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a beautiful and detailed reflection on your journey through Morocco. We’re truly grateful for your kind words and are so happy to hear that, despite the initial flight disruption, your experience turned into such a meaningful and memorable trip.

Travel doesn’t always go exactly as planned, but we’re glad we were able to adjust the itinerary and ensure you still experienced the richness and diversity of Morocco. Your flexibility and positive spirit made all the difference.

It means a great deal to us to hear how much Younes impacted your journey. He truly embodies the heart of what we hope every traveler feels in Morocco, welcomed, safe, and deeply connected to the country and its culture. We’ll be sure to share your words with him, as well as with Zahra and Mohammad, who will be thrilled to know how much their guiding added to your experience.

Thank you again for trusting us with your travels and for allowing us to be part of such a special adventure. You will always have friends in Morocco, and we hope to welcome you back again one day.

Great time in New Zealand!
New Zealand | Nov 12 - Nov 25, 2025

Shannon
Shannon R.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 14, 2025
Overall, we had a great experience with the outings planned by our kimkim travel agent, Michelle. She gave some good insights that we would not have known about (like a marathon in Queenstown the original date we wanted to go). The accommodations were nice in Auckland and in Queenstown the views were amazing. We appreciate the help with planning out our trip. Read more

Overall, we had a great experience with the outings planned by our kimkim travel agent, Michelle. She gave some good insights that we would not have known about (like a marathon in Queenstown the original date we wanted to go). The accommodations were nice in Auckland and in Queenstown the views were amazing. We appreciate the help with planning out our trip.

Hotel Reviews
M Social
Auckland

Loved our view and the vibe in general here. Location was perfect!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
QT Auckland
Auckland

We had a great, quick stay here and would definitely consider staying here again!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Not a view like other places near the waterfront.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Michelle Srzich
Michelle
Michelle Srzich
Local specialist in Auckland, New Zealand | Replied on Dec 15, 2025

Thanks for the great review Shannon , it was a pleasure working with you on this trip and putting together time in New Zealand to fit around your other plans in Australia. The hotel with the great views in Queenstown was the Heritage in case anyone reading this was curious.
All the best!

Iceland winter adventure
Iceland | Dec 7 - Dec 13, 2025

Mel
Mel D.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Dec 14, 2025
Trip exceeded expectations ! Hard to do justice to how great an experience we had in a short review! Pre-trip communications were exceptional : informative, timely responses, detail-oriented Trip plan was fantastic..locations chosen were spectacular and captured the essence and beauty of Iceland, with the appropriate amount of time allocated for each location. Gummi our guide was amazing ! A really nice and down to earth guy and a great conversationalist. Having a knowledgeable... Read more

Trip exceeded expectations ! Hard to do justice to how great an experience we had in a short review!

Pre-trip communications were exceptional : informative, timely responses, detail-oriented

Trip plan was fantastic..locations chosen were spectacular and captured the essence and beauty of Iceland, with the appropriate amount of time allocated for each location.

Gummi our guide was amazing ! A really nice and down to earth guy and a great conversationalist. Having a knowledgeable local guide providing minute by minute accounts and anecdotes about the history of Iceland and at the same time describing in real time the day to life of Icelanders, was invaluable. From the moment we met him we clicked and by the end of the week we had established a real personal connection….which really enhanced the experience.

We loved what we saw of Iceland and genuinely hope to return to experience the rest of the country.

My wife (and I) will never forget her ‘big birthday’ trip.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Berg
Keflavík
Authenticity & Character
Tiny room, limited restaurant menu (though food was good)
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Black Beach Suites
Vik I Myrdal
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Grímsborgir by Keahotels
Ásborgir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Búðir
Búðir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Alda Hotel Reykjavík
Reykjavík
Authenticity & Character
Room was small
Location
Close to center of city; short walk
Staff
Surly receptionist
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
Guðmundur Óli
Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
Local specialist in Iceland | Replied on Dec 14, 2025

Thank you for the great review Mel!
I had such a great time with you and Jackie! I honestly feel it was the start of a lasting friendship and I can't wait to meet Jason, I'm sure he'll come over eventually!
I hope you have a safe and pleasant journey back.
Take care my friends and stay in touch!
Gummi

From November 27-December 13th my wife and I ...
Thailand | Nov 28 - Dec 13, 2025

Milton
Milton L.
Richardson, TX | Reviewed on Dec 14, 2025
From November 27-December 13th my wife and I had an amazing experience touring Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi and many of the islands. I would have to say to have such a well planned trip, it first goes in the preparation. Tina was incredible, from helping us plan our trip, making sure our transportation was secure, setting us up with a very knowledgeable tour guide while we were in Bangkok, that taught us about the history and culture, and took pictures and videos of our trip as well. Tine gave us ... Read more

From November 27-December 13th my wife and I had an amazing experience touring Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi and many of the islands. I would have to say to have such a well planned trip, it first goes in the preparation. Tina was incredible, from helping us plan our trip, making sure our transportation was secure, setting us up with a very knowledgeable tour guide while we were in Bangkok, that taught us about the history and culture, and took pictures and videos of our trip as well. Tine gave us suggestions for different activities outside our excursions, and most importantly, being available during our stay. Anytime we had a question, she made time for us as if we were her only customers. If you are planning a trip, definitely reach out to Tina.

Local specialist: Tina Oo
Tina
Tina Oo
Local specialist in Thailand | Replied on Dec 15, 2025

Hi Milton,
Thank you so much for your warm and kind feedback. I’m truly happy to hear that you had a wonderful time in Thailand. Your review means a lot to me — thank you for taking the time to share it.
Best regards,
Tina

Magnifique trip to Paris!
France | Nov 22 - Nov 28, 2025

Jennifer
Jennifer J.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2025
I wanted to specifically mention our transport drivers to and from the airport. On the ride to our hotel, our driver took the time to give us helpful hints for the week, later he messaged us links to places we might want to see and when we arrived at the hotel, he did not leave us until he knew we were safely inside the building. Our driver to the airport was also very helpful and concerned in making sure we knew exactly where to go. I thought they went above and beyond. Our tour guides... Read more

I wanted to specifically mention our transport drivers to and from the airport. On the ride to our hotel, our driver took the time to give us helpful hints for the week, later he messaged us links to places we might want to see and when we arrived at the hotel, he did not leave us until he knew we were safely inside the building. Our driver to the airport was also very helpful and concerned in making sure we knew exactly where to go. I thought they went above and beyond. Our tour guides were all very professional and extremely knowledgeable. Kimkim was wonderful by communicating with us regularly before and during the trip, especially since we had a few hiccups with our arrivals to Paris and one hiccup at the Eiffel Tower looking for the tour guide. We really enjoyed our time in the city of lights. The pastry making and perfume making was such a unique experience! Loved that and loved the river cruise!

Hotel Review
Aparthotel Quartier Libre Saint Georges
Paris

Very clean and comfy. Terrific shower. Great location!! Only complaint was that there usually wasn’t anyone in the lobby working. Had to call a number if needed assistance.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Having someone working onsite during stated hours
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Louvre Museum Visit
Private Louvre Museum Visit
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Seine River Cruise
Private Seine River Cruise
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Unlock the Secrets of Perfume-Making!
Unlock the Secrets of Perfume-Making!
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private French Pastry Class
Private French Pastry Class
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Dec 15, 2025
Jennifer-
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that our transport drivers made such a positive impression by going the extra mile to ensure your comfort and safety. It’s great to know their helpful tips and thoughtful follow-up added value to your trip.
We’re equally thrilled that our tour guides’ professionalism and knowledge enhanced your experience, and that Kimkim’s communication helped smooth out the little hiccups along the way. It sounds... Read more

Jennifer-
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that our transport drivers made such a positive impression by going the extra mile to ensure your comfort and safety. It’s great to know their helpful tips and thoughtful follow-up added value to your trip.

We’re equally thrilled that our tour guides’ professionalism and knowledge enhanced your experience, and that Kimkim’s communication helped smooth out the little hiccups along the way. It sounds like you truly embraced the spirit of Paris—from the pastry and perfume workshops to the river cruise—and we’re so glad these unique experiences became highlights of your journey.

We are glad we could accommodate the changes due to the girls' schedule adjustments. Your kind words mean a lot to our team, and we’ll be sure to share them with everyone involved. We look forward to welcoming you back for more memorable adventures!

Thank you, we look forward to the next kimkim adventure we can help you with.
Happy Holidays
Liz, Dili, Kate, and the rest of the France Kimkim team.

Perfect Thailand trip
Thailand | Nov 17 - Nov 27, 2025

Michelle
Michelle N.
Tallahassee, FL | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2025

I have never used an agency like this to plan a vacation before and I was a little skeptical. I take it all back now. Minah helped me plan the perfect 11 day trip across Thailand doing all of the things that were important to us. She handled domestic flights, hotels, transportation, and all of the excursions I dreamed of seeing. We didn’t have to worry about a thing! It was perfect!

Local specialist: Minah Trinh

One star is too much
Galapagos Islands | Dec 1 - Dec 8, 2025

B
Becky J.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2025
The only "custom" things we asked for - diving and a pick up - that we were told were possible once we were on the island we were informed we not. So that went any see service/benefit. For the boat review:
Legend Feedback
Day 1- Guide kept talking into the wind instead of to the group. No one knew what he was saying, even after informing him they could not hear. Guide miscounted people. Day 2- Lack of towels in the swimming area, expected to return after snorkeling wet. Again, no... Read more

The only "custom" things we asked for - diving and a pick up - that we were told were possible once we were on the island we were informed we not. So that went any see service/benefit.

For the boat review:
Legend Feedback

Day 1- Guide kept talking into the wind instead of to the group. No one knew what he was saying, even after informing him they could not hear. Guide miscounted people.

Day 2- Lack of towels in the swimming area, expected to return after snorkeling wet. Again, no towel provided. Guide still had not informed guests of the safest way to get on and off the Pangas- this is standard on other boats. Was told on day 2 not to drink the tap water in the room , luckily we knew that from previous boats. A little late for some.

Day 3- waiter still can’t remember food allergies. Again, standard on day 1 to go over guest allergies and confirm. None of this happened, I have to at each meal.

Day 4- partner developed a food borne travelers stomach. Atleast the doctor had meds, even if she kept trying to prescribe advil.

Day 5- clearly can’t manage time. Guide was 20 mins late for morning excursion. Afternoon they scheduled 1 hr - which ended up being much less due to island closure time - for a beach walk and snorkel. Most guests couldn’t complete the beach walk in that time. Multiple guest commented with the boat at half capacity they can’t imagine anything happening at full capacity. Crew forgot gas in the dingy, had to refill in the open water. Crew wasn’t ready to help off board, had to wait and call them. Guide again miscounted guests and almost left someone at the turtle ranch. On the beach a new guest thought I was crew because I was the only one stopping to help her. This happened a few times when I notice wildlife our guide wasn’t pointing out to the other people in our group.

Day 6 - guide miscounted again leaving the boat and left passengers because they claimed the notification was clear. We agree it’s been inconsistent the “get ready”, “and “up next” ad “leaving”. Sometimes they’ll say “up next” and never the other ones. Multiple people have missed their disembarkments.

Day 7 - people in our group requested to change guides and were approved to do so. People cleaning the room continue to not empty full garbage. after a week waiter remembered our drink order of water, guide still doesn't know the 8 people in his group.

Day 8 - hot tub temperature control breaks. Again I stopped to assist a guest struggling on the walk. No guide or crew stayed - they just left.

Overall. The boat was out dated, and the rooms couldn’t regulate temperate. There are ant traps in the room you have to avoid. They couldn’t go 1 hour without trying to sell something, to the point I got tired of being asked and started staying in my room. The wet room for snorkeling needs a fan like any other sane boat to try equipment if it's below deck. A small port window is not "airflow" - everything was musty and we took our stuff to the front to lay it out. No one on the boat had a tour so no one knew there was a front deck to sit on.

My “non luxury” Galapagos cruises had refreshments, and either warm towels after water or cold towels to clean your hands after an excursion, in addition to a substantial snack. They all also included at some level juice, wine and beer. This one had a single flavored water station and a small bite that was usually not there only on returning to the boat. It was pathetic- you had to wait in line for a single grape and glass of water freezing after snorkeling, and hope there was some left. The food was okay, if there was any left.

In general the communication leading up to the trip was lacking, and confusing. We were told one thing and then another thing on the boat.

I would never pay or recommend this boat ever again. I’m glad it was the itinerary I wanted.

Hotel Review
Boutique Expedition Legend

Legend Feedback Day 1- Guide kept talking into the wind instead of to the group. No one knew what he was saying, even after informing him they could not hear. Guide miscounted people. Day 2- Lack of towels in the swimming area, expected to return after snorkeling wet. Again, no towel provided. Guide still had not informed guests of the safest way to get on and off the Pangas- this is standard on other boats. Was told on day 2 not to drink the tap water in the room , luckily we knew that from previous boats. A little late for some. Day 3- waiter still can’t remember food allergies. Again, standard on day 1 to go over guest allergies and confirm. None of this happened, I have to at each meal. Day 4- partner developed a food borne travelers stomach. Atleast the doctor had meds, even if she kept trying to prescribe advil. Day 5- clearly can’t manage time. Guide was 20 mins late for morning excursion. Afternoon they scheduled 1 hr - which ended up being much less due to island closure time - for a beach walk and snorkel. Most guests couldn’t complete the beach walk in that time. Multiple guest commented with the boat at half capacity they can’t imagine anything happening at full capacity. Crew forgot gas in the dingy, had to refill in the open water. Crew wasn’t ready to help off board, had to wait and call them. Guide again miscounted guests and almost left someone at the turtle ranch. On the beach a new guest thought I was crew because I was the only one stopping to help her. This happened a few times when I notice wildlife our guide wasn’t pointing out to the other people in our group. Day 6 - guide miscounted again leaving the boat and left passengers because they claimed the notification was clear. We agree it’s been inconsistent the “get ready”, “and “up next” ad “leaving”. Sometimes they’ll say “up next” and never the other ones. Multiple people have missed their disembarkments. Day 7 - people in our group requested to change guides and were approved to do so. People cleaning the room continue to not empty full garbage. after a week waiter remembered our drink order of water, guide still doesn't know the 8 people in his group. Day 8 - hot tub temperature control breaks. Again I stopped to assist a guest struggling on the walk. No guide or crew stayed - they just left. Overall. The boat was out dated, and the rooms couldn’t regulate temperate. There are ant traps in the room you have to avoid. They couldn’t go 1 hour without trying to sell something, to the point I got tired of being asked and started staying in my room. The wet room for snorkeling needs a fan like any other sane boat to try equipment if it's below deck. A small port window is not "airflow" - everything was musty and we took our stuff to the front to lay it out. No one on the boat had a tour so no one knew there was a front deck to sit on. My “non luxury” Galapagos cruises had refreshments, and either warm towels after water or cold towels to clean your hands after an excursion, in addition to a substantial snack. They all also included at some level juice, wine and beer. This one had a single flavored water station and a small bite that was usually not there only on returning to the boat. It was pathetic- you had to wait in line for a single grape and glass of water freezing after snorkeling, and hope there was some left. The food was okay, if there was any left. In general the communication leading up to the trip was lacking, and confusing. We were told one thing and then another thing on the boat. I would never pay or recommend this boat ever again. I’m glad it was the itinerary I wanted.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Boat, guides, service
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Anthony Zambrano
Anthony
Anthony Zambrano
Local specialist in Ecuador Quito | Replied on Dec 15, 2025
Hi Becky and Evan, Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. I’m truly sorry that your trip did not meet your expectations and that your overall experience was disappointing. I regret that this journey was not what you had hoped for. That said, I genuinely appreciate your detailed comments, as they help us improve and carefully evaluate the partners we work with. I would like to gently clarify two points mentioned in your review. As reflected in our message exchange prior to... Read more

Hi Becky and Evan,

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. I’m truly sorry that your trip did not meet your expectations and that your overall experience was disappointing. I regret that this journey was not what you had hoped for.

That said, I genuinely appreciate your detailed comments, as they help us improve and carefully evaluate the partners we work with.

I would like to gently clarify two points mentioned in your review. As reflected in our message exchange prior to the trip, neither the private transfer nor advanced diving was included in the services booked with us. As discussed, we coordinated the starting point of the cruise we arranged for you at the airport following your first liveaboard, which was booked independently.

In the days leading up to the trip, I was in regular contact and sent several messages to keep you informed that, due to permit regulations, the cruise was not authorized to pick you up at an alternative location. This request was related to allowing time for laundry between cruises. Unfortunately, I did not receive a response at the time, which I assumed was because you were fully enjoying your liveaboard activities. I also shared that laundry services would be available onboard the Galapagos Legend Cruise as an alternative. I wanted to clarify this simply to note that these logistics and options were communicated in advance.

Regarding the diving options requested only one week prior to the cruise, I did explore and propose alternatives such as diving at Mosquera and Daphne. Unfortunately, these options did not align with what you were looking for, and more advanced diving was not possible to arrange due to the very short notice and the lack of prior confirmation required to secure permits and availability. I sincerely apologize if there was any misunderstanding regarding these limitations.

Your detailed feedback regarding the onboard experience has been shared in full with the cruise operator so they can review and address the concerns internally. I want to be transparent in noting that this feedback came as a surprise to our team, as we have recommended this vessel many times in the past without receiving similar concerns. Nonetheless, we truly value your comments, as they allow us to address these matters directly with our partners and ensure standards are upheld.

Once again, I’m very sorry that this trip did not turn out to be the experience you were expecting, and I sincerely appreciate your honest and thoughtful feedback.

Warm regards,
Anthony

Very well coordinated and orchestrated by Kim...
Chile | Nov 24 - Dec 2, 2025

Randi
Randi M.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2025
Very well coordinated and orchestrated by KimKim and our local specialist. Tours and guides, including Angel, were knowledgeable and otherwise ideal. Just a few things that did not meet expectations: (1) getting an accurate final itinerary (but we were keeping our own version concurrently), (2) waiting time at the airport once we arrived was rather long (particularly challenging after 24 hours in transit) and the KimKim greeter and then the driver, ultimately, spoke no English, which made... Read more

Very well coordinated and orchestrated by KimKim and our local specialist. Tours and guides, including Angel, were knowledgeable and otherwise ideal. Just a few things that did not meet expectations: (1) getting an accurate final itinerary (but we were keeping our own version concurrently), (2) waiting time at the airport once we arrived was rather long (particularly challenging after 24 hours in transit) and the KimKim greeter and then the driver, ultimately, spoke no English, which made communications challenging, and (3) the hotel in Santiago did not measure up in any way to its billing.

Hotel Review
Hotel Vendaval
Puerto Natales

Small and just passable rooms (even the superior one we booked) and the hotel sought to charge us for using the coffee K-cups that were sitting on top of the mini bar with the coffee maker notwithstanding that the coffee was not included on a price list associated with the mini bar and is commonly perceived as available for use unless otherwise specified.

Authenticity & Character
Room sizes and condition of rooms
Location
Centrally located within walking distance of many sights and activities
Staff
While nice overall, having to argue at check-out about payment for the few K-cups we used and prove to them that they were not on the mini bar price list left a very poor impression overall
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Angel Gutierrez
Angel
Angel Gutierrez
Local specialist in Santiago | Replied on Dec 15, 2025

Dear Randi,
Thank you very much for your comments. It was very nice to meet you in Santiago, we had a great day!
I am glad to know you are happy with the tours and guides, and I am taking note regarding the hotel and transfer in Santiago. I hope you will come back soon to South America :)
Best Wishes,
Angel.

Never again. Underwhelmed and feeling ripped off
Scotland | Sep 11 - Sep 18, 2025

Denise
Denise G.
Manhattan, NY | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2025
I have been a huge cheerleader for KimKim, having taken a trip to Slovenia which was stellar in every way. So I did not hesitate to come back to KimKim again for a special birthday week in Scotland. Unfortunately, it was a trip that I could have planned on my own fairly easily for far less cost. I am at a loss to understand the value of KimKim for this trip. All in all, it was an uninspired, off-the-shelf undertaking with our specialist Stephen who I wasn’t convinced knew the area well when... Read more

I have been a huge cheerleader for KimKim, having taken a trip to Slovenia which was stellar in every way. So I did not hesitate to come back to KimKim again for a special birthday week in Scotland. Unfortunately, it was a trip that I could have planned on my own fairly easily for far less cost. I am at a loss to understand the value of KimKim for this trip. All in all, it was an uninspired, off-the-shelf undertaking with our specialist Stephen who I wasn’t convinced knew the area well when all was said and done. Never felt the enthusiasm I had in the past, but more of a bit of phoning it in and taking dictation. And through the process I did some push back (should have done more) but it never seemed to result in upping his game.

What I had loved about my past experience with KimKim was the surprise and delight of things to do or see that I would not have found or thought of myself. None of that was the case on this trip.

The itinerary for Glasgow turned out to be ho-hum at best. Lots of go to museum self-guided recos. The private walking tour that was booked was quite lovely and we thoroughly enjoyed it. BUT this came as a result of MY request for it, not the specialist’s recommendation (and a supplemental charge was added to do so). Ultimately, we were looking for some inspiration on things to do in Glasgow besides wandering around museums. I had requested a private Whiskey tasting several times which he said he was working on but never got back to me. Not one suggestion for something inspired.

Unlike our Slovenia trip, transfers to the stations, hotels etc. beyond airport drop off and pick up were not included and left to us to navigate via Uber and local taxis which were not included in the price.

Oban and the Highlands: I requested a castle and got a long in the tooth Isle of Eriska manor house that needs a whole lot of upgrades. And not being familiar with the logistics, it was a 38 pound taxi ride of at least a half hour to get into the town. And Oban area was the only recommendation that was offered. The 3 Isle tour day was fine. But again, I could have booked this on my own directly. It was full of tour groups on a crowded boat and on a coach. The islands, however, were lovely and once on them it was very nice. Our last day was the best day. Our private guide Campbell Cameron was sensational and the highlight of our trip. Kudos to Tartan Tours. THIS was the kind of experience I was hoping for the entire trip.

And the insult to injury is that when I voiced my complaint to KimKim requesting multiple times why this trip that cost me $11K actually would have cost approximately $6700 if I planned it myself, they never had an answer (and because it was so off the shelf it was easy to break out the costs). That is one big mark up for service. Other than just making reservations for things that I could have easily found myself, the value of KimKim for this trip is still a mystery to me. And to add insult to injury their recompense was to refund me a mere $500! Insulting at best to a good customer who has recommended KimKim multiple times to many others. Not only will I never use KimKim again, I will be sure to let all my travel friends know not to use them again and advise others to look elsewhere for a bespoke trip.

Activity Reviews
Full day in Glencoe and the Trossachs
Full day in Glencoe and the Trossachs
Scotland

Saved our trip on our last day in the Highlands. Our guide Campbell Cameron was sensational and the highlight of our trip. Kudos to Tartan Tours. THIS was the kind of experience I was hoping for the entire trip. The scenery was breathtaking and his intimate knowledge of the place as in his bones. The loch ride was lovely and he drove us through all the nooks and crannies of Glencoe.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Walking Tour of Glasgow
Private Walking Tour of Glasgow
Glasgow

Lovely guide who was very knowledgable and lovely. I had to request this be added to the itinerary as our "specialist" never offered anything of the kind. Oh yeah, and of course this was supplemental. While on the walking tour our guide took us by the council building where she told us there are tours of the interior, but only on weekdays. Our tour being on Saturday, we could not do it. This is something we would never have known about independently and could perhaps have been something for our specialist Stephen to suggest for our Friday itinerary.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Three Isles Tour – Mull, Iona & Staffa
Three Isles Tour – Mull, Iona & Staffa
Oban

Once at the islands it was great. But a crowded boat and coach trip. Could have booked this myself.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private transfer in town
Private transfer in town
Scotland

If we actually had any I would be happy to review them. But other than one trip from the train to our hotel when we arrived, we were on our own

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
University of Glasgow Tour
University of Glasgow Tour
Glasgow

Don't bother. Given by an undwhelming student who could care less. We left early

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Stephen Molloy

Thailand Experience
Thailand | Nov 26 - Dec 5, 2025

Isaiah
Isaiah C.
Phoenix, AZ | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2025
This Thailand trip was truly an excellent experience. Everything from the culture to the food was amazing. Our first tour guide Betty did a great job showing us the Mosque and China Town. We enjoyed him so much and he was very informative. I liked how well Kim Kim put the trip together also. We always felt like VIPs because of the private guides and shuttles, even the signage at the airport upon arrival was nice. We made a stop by Perfect Tailor and I would like to personally thank SK for... Read more

This Thailand trip was truly an excellent experience. Everything from the culture to the food was amazing. Our first tour guide Betty did a great job showing us the Mosque and China Town. We enjoyed him so much and he was very informative. I liked how well Kim Kim put the trip together also. We always felt like VIPs because of the private guides and shuttles, even the signage at the airport upon arrival was nice. We made a stop by Perfect Tailor and I would like to personally thank SK for the experience. Everything was perfect and I’m so happy we booked with Kim Kim! I will definitely book another international trip with Kim Kim after this.

Hotel Reviews
Panwaburi Beach Front Resort
Phuket

This hotel is Instagram perfect! We booked this hotel based on social media reviews and photos. It was truly worth it!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Shan Villas Sukhumvit
Bangkok

The customer service was amazing. Everyone was so friendly. The spot was very relaxing and clean. The only thing was that the roof top dining area was closed for renovations, but they made up for it was a great breakfast and lunch provided. We booked massages as well, and I would highly recommend booking one.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Quite private area but still walking distance to food and stores
Staff
All staff were friendly and very helpful. I felt like I had a personal concierge!
Cleanliness & Comfort
The rooms were clean and comfortable
Local specialist: Tina Oo
Tina
Tina Oo
Local specialist in Thailand | Replied on Dec 15, 2025

Hi Isaiah,
Thank you so much for the review!
This is good to hear you had a good time during the trip.
It was our pleasure to assist you.
Best,
Tina

Go to Japan with Angel!: Part 2
Japan | Nov 10 - Dec 2, 2025

Emily
Emily G.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
Part 2 from Emily G: A few highlights and recommendations from this trip: Hakone - spend at least two nights and days in Hakone - hot springs area. A great place to wind down at the end of the trip. Lovely. Go to the Open Air Museum! Leisurely enjoy the baths. Ride the gondola (ropeway) and take walks. Loved MIyajima Island (after a sobering and important day in Hiroshima). Had only one night and wished we had 2. Much to explore and at a slower pace. Loved Takayama - much more than Kanazawa.... Read more

Part 2 from Emily G: A few highlights and recommendations from this trip: Hakone - spend at least two nights and days in Hakone - hot springs area. A great place to wind down at the end of the trip. Lovely. Go to the Open Air Museum! Leisurely enjoy the baths. Ride the gondola (ropeway) and take walks. Loved MIyajima Island (after a sobering and important day in Hiroshima). Had only one night and wished we had 2. Much to explore and at a slower pace. Loved Takayama - much more than Kanazawa. 3 nights there is good. Bike ride outside of town with Tomo! Dinner at Alba! (tiny place, make a rez, tell Juske you learned about it from the women from San Francisco, etc). Two days walking on the Nakasendo Trail. So beautiful to be out walking in nature most of the day and not too hard at all - but i would add a 3rd day if you have time. All of our hotels were comfortable EXCEPT don't stay at ACAI in Kyoto. Too "hip", tiny rooms, you can do better. Of course you will visit the many shrines, temples and castles and I enjoyed them much more than I expected - and you will go to Tokyo (explore the neighborhoods), Osaka, Kyoto (go to the Philosophers Walk) if this is your first visit; and we heard of SO many other places to explore. One more thing - among the many benefits of working with KimKim are the many guided excursions and day trips/city tours that they plan. Every guide was Excellent! and went above and beyond in many ways, Ask for Yumi in Tokyo; Sumi in Kyoto; Fumi in Kanazawa. Ernesto in Nara; Mayumi in Nara and Hiroshima. Arigato! BTW, this trip went so well that we are already planning a second KimKim trip in February in New Zealand and impressed with the help of our specialist, Michelle!

Local specialist: Angel Tang

This was an amazing trip especially for only ...
Thailand | Nov 30 - Dec 7, 2025

Matthew
Matthew P.
Phoenix, AZ | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
This was an amazing trip especially for only being there one week. All of the guides were great! Wish I had more time. Read more

This was an amazing trip especially for only being there one week. All of the guides were great! Wish I had more time.

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Local specialist: Jeab Kwanchanok
Jeab
Jeab Kwanchanok
Local specialist in Thailand | Replied on Dec 12, 2025

Thank you so much for your review, Matthew! I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed your short break with us. We hope to welcome you back to Thailand again soon - there are still so many beautiful places waiting for you to explore!

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