Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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The sand dunes and rock formations of the Atacama Desert

Chile Highlights: Patagonia, Santiago & Atacama - 10 Days

This diverse 10-day itinerary takes you on a journey from south to north as you visit three of Chile's most iconic regions. Start in remote Patagonia, where you'll explore the granite peaks, azure lakes, and rushing waterfalls of the famed Torres del Paine National Park. Sample the culture and cuisine of the capital in Santiago, then end your adventure in the far north—stargazing under desert skies and discovering the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama.

Peru's Coast & Andes Highlights: Lima, Paracas, Cusco, Machu Pacchu - 11 Days

See the best of Peru's coast and the Andes on this eleven-day exploration. Start in the north to see the museum of Lima and the coast, where you'll check out the Nazca Lines and see the Ballestas Islands. From here, catch a flight to Cusco where you'll hike on the Inca Trail, see Machu Picchu, and explore Rainbow Mountain.

Best of Peru's Culture: Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Titicaca Lake - 11 Days

See the best of Peru's culture on this 11-day itinerary, from the Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley to a family stay on Lake Titicaca. Start your exploration in Lima for bustling markets and museums, then continue to Cusco to see Machu Picchu. End the trip with a visit to Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.

Discover the Highlights & Culture of Peru - 15 days

Experience the beautiful landscapes, culture, and history of Peru during this 15-day journey. Explore Lima, Peru's largest city, and explore its historical center that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Sacred Valley via quad and hiking, and visit the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu. Take the time to walk the city of Cisco at your leisure, and sample all the local Peruvian flavors along the way. You'll also get to hike through the Andean landscape, accompanied by llamas, to the blue lagoon of Uyumayo.

Sail the Raja Ampat Archipelago - 10 Days

Escape to paradise on this 10-day sailing trip through Indonesia's Raja Ampat Archipelago. Cruise through the pristine seas of West Papua on a traditional wooden sailboat, anchoring each night at undiscovered islands and secret coves. Climb lush island peaks, relax on white-sand beaches, and snorkel through crystal clear waters as you discover some of the most diverse marine life on earth.

Highlights of Cairo, Alexandria, and Hurghada - 6 Days

During this 6-day trip, you'll learn about the ancient history of Cairo and Alexandria as well as visit the old beach town of Hurghada, located on the coast of the Red Sea. Get to know Cairo's old streets with historic churches and the Khan El Khalili old market, and spend a day seeing the Egyptian Museum and Pyramids of Giza. Wander through Alexandria to see ancient artifacts and the Roman Amphitheater, and transfer to Hurghada for diving, a desert safari, and relaxation.

Explore the Treasures of Egypt and Jordan - 10 Days

Witness the ancient wonders of Egypt and Jordan during this 10-day adventure. After arriving in Cairo, you'll get to see pharaohs' treasures at the Egyptian Museum and explore the Pyramids of Giza, including the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Cruise the Nile River to see the temples at Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Luxor. Transfer to Jordan, where you'll visit the Roman Theater and Citadel in Amman, and get a full-day tour of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Finally, dip your toes in the lowest point of the Earth: the Dead Sea.

Discover Sulawesi: Tana Toraja, Togian Islands & Manado - 14 Days

Enjoy a perfect mix of culture, nature, and relaxation on this two-week tour of the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. Start among the rice fields and bamboo forests of Tana Toraja, where you'll discover ancient village traditions and hike through lush countryside. Head to the island's central coast to spend two nights in the tropical paradise of the Togian Islands, then fly to the far northeast to snorkel in the underwater wonderland of Bunaken Maritime Park.

Hike to the mountains and lakes of Los Glaciares National Park

Extreme Patagonia: Glaciers, Mountains & Fjords - 16 Days

If you love adventure, nature, and active excursions, this 16-day itinerary is one for the bucket list. Journey to Argentina’s spectacular far south, where the remote destinations and gorgeous landscapes of Patagonia are waiting to be discovered. Trek the Perito Moreno Glacier, hike to azure lakes and rugged peaks in El Chaltén, and bike through winding river valleys. From Ushuaia, you’ll sail the Beagle Channel, canoe through the sub-antarctic forests of Tierra del Fuego, and hop over to Chile for a breathtaking cruise through icy fjords.

Swim and play with your kids on the beautiful beaches of Indonesia

Family Trip to Indonesia: Culture, History & Beaches - 14 Days

Adventurous excursions meet history, culture, and of course, beach time on this 14-day Indonesian family vacation. Begin in Tanah Lot, where you'll see its ancient sea temple, then it's off to Munduk for canoeing on Lake Beratan and a trek to Bali's highest waterfall. Visit terraced rice fields and go whitewater rafting in Ubud, then boat over to the island of Gili Air to swim, snorkel, and play on white-sand beaches. End in Sanur with the bats of Goa Lawah and a traditional kecak fire dance.

Essential Perú Adventure: Lima, Colca Canyon, Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain - 11 Days

Explore the best of Peru on this eleven-day adventure, covering everything from the metropolitan city of Lima to the ancient ruins of the Sacred Valley. You'll explore the depths of Colca Canyon, hike on Rainbow Mountain, and see Macchu Picchu — all while staying in comfortable accommodations in some of the wildest areas of Peru's landscapes.

Join an unforgettable ice trek across the Perito Moreno Glacier

Argentina Adventure: Buenos Aires & Patagonia - 16 Days

Trek, kayak, and canoe your way through Patagonia's most spectacular scenery on this active 16-day adventure. Starting in Buenos Aires, you'll explore the capital by bike before heading south to the breathtaking Alpine landscapes of the Lakes District. Hop over to El Calafate to trek across ice fields and glaciers, then continue to the hiker's paradise of El Chaltén to discover a land of rugged peaks and pristine mountain lakes. After finding the "end of the world" on Tierra del Fuego's southern coast, return to Buenos Aires for a farewell evening of tango and local cuisine.

Perú & Bolivia Highlights: Machu Picchu, Titicaca Lake & Uyuni Salt Flats - 10 Days

Explore the best of Peru and Bolivia on this ten-day trip. You'll start in Peru with visit to Lima and the Sacred Valley of the Incas to see Machu Picchu and other Inca citadels. Continue to La Paz, where you'll take a side trip to the spectacular Uyuni Salt Flats. End on Lake Titicaca to see even more Inca history and culture.

Honeymoon Adventure to Peru: Lima, Ica, Cusco, & Machu Picchu - 10 Days

Enjoy the highlights of Peru on this ten-day honeymoon getaway. You'll start in Lima with a culinary tour of some of the city's best restaurants, then continue to the coast for luxury desert camping and dune surfing. Transfer to the Sacred Valley for lunch in a suspended glass sphere and a visit to Machu Picchu.

Cycle your way across the Dalmatian Coast

Cycle Southern Croatia: Dalmatian Coast & Islands - 9 Days

Discover the highlights and hidden gems of Croatia's Dalmatian Coast on this 9-day cycling adventure. Starting in the ancient Adriatic port of Split, you'll explore the islands of Korčula, Brač, Mljet and Hvar by bike—pedaling past a backdrop of scenic coastlines, lush vineyards, and hidden beaches. Hop over to the Pelješac Penisula to cycle around its rugged wine country and Mljet Island peaceful lakes, then head south down the coast to end your journey at the majestic city walls of Dubrovnik.

A secluded beach in Corcovado National Park

Costa Rica's Natural Wonders: Tortuguero, Los Quetzales, Corcovado & Manuel Antonio - 11 Days

This 11-day itinerary celebrates Costa Rica’s remarkable biodiversity and highlights four of the country’s magnificent national parks. Traverse the coastal Caribbean waterways of Tortuguero, see the mythical quetzal bird in the cloud forests of Los Quetzales, and search for jaguars and tapirs in the remote habitats of Corcovado. After a day of snorkeling with colorful sea life at Caño Island, travel up the Pacific coast to the white sand beaches and lush jungles of Manuel Antonio.

Cartagena, queen of Colombia's Caribbean coast

Colombia Adventure: Medellín, Bogotá, Cartagena & Caribbean Islands - 9 Days

This nine-day adventure blends culture and cuisine with a dash of Caribbean beach holiday. Starting in the reborn metropolis of Medellín, you'll tour a local coffee farm, discover the vibrant neighborhood of Comuna 13, and walk the candy-colored streets of Guatapé. Next, it's on to engaging Bogotá to explore the city by bike. Head to the Caribbean coast to learn about authentic cooking and discover Cartagena's characterful Old Town, then set sail to the Isle of Múcura for swimming and snorkeling in an island paradise.

Unique Costa Rica: Honeymoon Memories in Paradise - 9 Days

Spend an unforgettable honeymoon in Costa Rica on this nine-day trip that mixes adrenaline-rushing adventure with plenty of beach relaxation. You'll explore the jungle, go rafting and horseback riding, go snorkeling on the coast, and more on this whirlwind getaway.

Relaxed Puglia Coast & Gargano Road Trip: Bari, Trani, Vieste - 8 Days

Spend a relaxing 8-day road trip enjoying nature in Puglia and exploring wonderful must-see sites. Start your trip in Trani, a wonderful seaside city, almost a "stone's throw" from Bisceglie. This is also the perfect starting point to explore the surroundings, such as the marvelous Castel del Monte, archeological sites like Canne, or the ancient Dolmens and Menhir. Your stay in the Gargano promontory will make your trip, between wild lush forested areas and peaceful fine beaches.

Mountains of Peru: Colca Canyon, Machu Picchu & Rainbow Mountains - 10 Days

Explore the best of the Peruvian countryside on this ten-day adventure trip. Start in the capital city of Lima, then catch a domestic flight to Arequipa — the base for all adventures in Colca Canyon. You'll spend a few days exploring the condor's home, then transfer to Machu Picchu for the Sacred Valley highlights and a hike up the colorful Rainbow Mountain.

Discover the wild coastline of the Otago Peninsula on this 21-day road trip

New Zealand: Ultimate South Island Self-Drive - 21 Days

This 21-day road trip carves a figure-eight through New Zealand's South Island. From Christchurch, travel through the Mackenzie Country to Aoraki / Mount Cook, then on to Otago and Dunedin. Explore remote Doubtful Sound before heading north to Queenstown and the West Coast Glaciers, then cross the Southern Alps to enjoy a night in Arthur's Pass National Park. After exploring the Marlborough wine region and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park, end your trip with a scenic train journey back to Christchurch.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris & Burgundy - 5 Days

This short five-day trip is the perfect way to see highlights of Paris and the nearby countryside on a road trip tour. Start in Paris to see the Eiffel Tower, then head south to Dijon to see resplendent countryside chateaus and a medieval monastery.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, & Annecy - 6 Days

Big city lights, resplendent chateaus, and medieval monasteries await you on this short but packed six-day road trip through eastern France. Start in Paris, then head south to Dijon — home of the famed mustard. Continue to Annecy for some time by the lake and a glimpse of snow-capped mountains.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Annecy, & Lyon - 7 Days

Spend an adventurous week driving through eastern France, starting in the city of lights. You'll see the Eiffel Tower and other Parisian highlights, then head to Dijon, stopping along the way to see several resplendent countryside chateaus. Continue to Annecy to spend some time by the lake, then end in medieval Lyon, where history and wine tasting await.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Annecy, & Lyon - 8 Days

From the big city lights of Paris to peaceful countryside chateaux, this eight-day road trip itinerary through Eastern France has it all. Start in the capital city, then make your way to Dijon for art, culture, and history. Continue to Annecy for some time on the lake, then end in historic Lyon for time in the medieval city center.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy & Lyon - 9 Days

Spend nine adventurous days driving through eastern France on this road trip itinerary. Start in Paris to see the main highlights, then head to Dijon and Beaune to learn about art, culture, and history. Continue to Annecy for some time by the lake, then end in Lyon, where the city's medieval streets and Beaujolais wine region await.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy & Lyon - 10 Days

Take 10 days to drive from Paris to Lyon on this adventurous road trip itinerary. Start in the City of Light, then make your way to the countryside for art, history, and resplendent châteaux. Stop in Annecy to spend time on the lake and go hiking, then end in Lyon to explore the city's medieval streets and historic architecture.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy Lyon - 11 Days

Start this 11-day road trip in Paris to see the Eiffel Tower and big city lights, then hit the road for mustard and art in Dijon. You'll see a 12th-century monastery and taste traditional wine, enjoy a hot-air balloon ride over Meursault, discover the medieval streets of Lyon, and more on this adventurous itinerary.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy & More - 12 Days

Take twelve days to explore the eastern side of France on this comprehensive road trip itinerary. You'll start in Paris to see the Louvre, then continue to Dijon for history and the best mustard in the world. Head to Annecy for a sunset sail with wine, then end your trip in the French Riviera for seaside relaxation.

Discover New Zealand's diverse flora and fauna on this road trip

New Zealand's South Island: Luxury Self-Drive Tour - 15 Days

Experience the wilderness and wildlife of New Zealand's South Island on this 15-day self-drive itinerary. By day, you'll drive through breathtaking landscapes and embark on outdoor adventures, while nights are spent in a series of secluded luxury lodges. Setting off from Christchurch, enjoy alpine walks in Mount Cook National Park, discover rich marine life on the Otago Peninsula, and cruise through the remote Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park. After adrenaline sports in Queenstown and a memorable trek across the Franz Josef Glacier, the scenic TranzAlpine train whisks you back to Christchurch.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy & More - 13 Days

Spend thirteen adventurous days on the road on this Eastern France road trip. Start the journey in Paris, where you'll hit the highlights and take a day trip to Champagne. Continue to Dijon to see Lison Springs and explore art, then head to Annecy for a hot-air balloon trip and relaxation by the lake. End the trip in the French Riviera for sun, wine, and sailing.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy & More - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring the best of the French countryside on this road trip itinerary. Start in Paris for excursions to the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, then head to Reims to go wine tasting in Champagne. Continue to Dijon for history and art, then make your way to the coast for some of the best that the French Riviera has to offer: wine, sunset views, and seaside relaxation.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy & More - 15 Days

From the big city lights of Paris to the quiet seaside of the French Riviera, this 15-day road trip itinerary hits all the highlights while still leaving time for small adventures off-the-beaten-path. You'll explore highlights of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, learn to cook a traditional French meal, visit countryside châteaux, and more.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Nice & More - 16 Days

Sixteen days is enough time to explore the best of Eastern France on this comprehensive road trip—including the highlights of Paris, Beaune, Cannes, and more. Learn to cook a traditional French meal, explore countryside châteaux, see the home of Louis Pasteur, go wine tasting in the Beaujolais Region, and more.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Nice & More - 17 Days

Take 17 days to drive through Eastern France on this packed road trip itinerary. You'll see the big city lights in Paris, tour 12th-century monasteries, go wine tasting in Burgundy, and more as you wind your way through the countryside. Other highlights include a private tour of Monaco, a sunset sail on Lake Annecy, and a historic tour of Lyon.

Driving towards Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak

New Zealand: Ultimate South Island Road Trip - 12 Days

Explore New Zealand's South Island in style on this unforgettable 12-day road trip. Starting and finishing in the alpine adventure capital of Queenstown, this route circumnavigates the Southern Alps as you drive through a land of dramatic peaks, ancient glaciers, and pristine lakes. By day you'll embark on adventurous excursions and discover spectacular scenery, while nights are spent relaxing in a series of luxurious boutique hotels and lodges.

Eastern France Roadtrip: Paris, Dijon, Beaune, Annecy, Nice & More - 18 Days

Enjoy a new excursion every day of this 18-day Eastern France road trip itinerary: stroll through the cobblestoned streets of the City of Light, explore the beautiful art of Dijon, savor the local gastronomy at Annecy & discover the glamorous French Riviera. You'll drive through the French Countryside, taking your time as you explore all this and more.

Top Cultural Experiences in France

Many travelers choose France specifically for its unique and diverse culture. Explore Paris for its food, literature, and cabaret, visit Normandy for its art (including Claude Monet's gardens), and escape to the Loire Valley for chateaus, palaces, castles, and more. When ready, head to the south and peruse the unique cuisine and culture of the French Riviera and Provence, plus romantic hilltop villages and medieval riverside hamlets.

Top Active Experiences in France

France is an active traveler's dream, with sandy beaches in the north, the towering Alps in the southeast, several river valleys across its heartland, and a rocky southern coastline dotted with inlets, caves, and coves. You can easily spend your time cycling through vineyards and from one chateau to another, riding horses in the surf, kayaking the famous Calanques, and hiking in the mountains. Or, if you're more of a city person, add a bike tour or vineyard stroll to your exploration of hubs like Paris.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Ercilla de Bilbao

The 11 Best Hotels in Bilbao

Bilbao's hotel scene matches the city's reputation, blending history with eclectic modernity. The best hotels in Bilbao reflect this combination with historic buildings, chic interiors, unique art, authentic decor, and the most sought-after amenity: a view of the impressive Guggenheim Museum. After visiting numerous hotels in Bilbao, kimkim put together this list of the best of the best, from surprisingly stylish budget options to elegant luxury picks.

Best Boutique Hotels in Mallorca

On a shorter visit to the Balearic island of Mallorca, basing yourself in the main city of Palma puts you in the center of the action, while travelers with a few more days to spend may want to head out to a countryside retreat to get away from it all. No matter what lodging you choose, all of these hotels have a story to share.

New Zealand South Island Road Trip: Lakes, Mountains & Glaciers - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary takes you on a scenic road trip through the South Island's most spectacular landscapes. Starting in Christchurch, set off across the Canterbury Plains to skirt the turquoise lakes of Tekapo and Pukaki and reach the towering Mount Cook. After two nights exploring the adventure capital of Queenstown, head north along the rugged West Coast to Franz Joseph Glacier. Take a break from driving for the final leg of your journey and return to Christchurch via a breathtaking train journey.

Best Family Experiences in France

Because France is so large and diverse, it's an ideal location for a family trip. From art-centric and foodie cities like Paris to outdoor playgrounds like the French Riviera and the beaches of northern France, there's always something to do with activities appealing to various ages and interests. Along the way, make unique family memories you can only create in France, such as riding horses through the surf at Mont-Saint-Michel, learning to bake macrons, or enjoying a treasure hunt at the Louvre.

2 Weeks in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Consider yourself lucky if you have two weeks to spend in the Galápagos Islands. Spend all 14 days in the archipelago, island-hopping around the region to see giant tortoises in the wild, snorkeling with sea lions, and hiking to volcanic craters. Or incorporate a week in the Galápagos into a more wide-ranging trip around Ecuador that includes time in Quito and Cotopaxi National Park. If you're feeling especially ambitious, consider combining a trip to the Galápagos with an adventure to Machu Picchu in Peru.

A beach on Bartolomé Island in the Galapagos

Ecuadorian Highlands & Galapagos Islands Adventure - 14 Days

This sweeping two-week adventure showcases the diversity of Ecuador. From busy marketplaces in the city to thermal baths in the highlands, from peaceful bays in the Galapagos to the lush landscapes of the cloud forest, this itinerary has something for everyone. Highlights include hiking in Cotopaxi National Park, shopping in Otavalo Market, sightseeing in the bustling city of Quito, and snorkeling and swimming around the gorgeous islands of the Galapagos archipelago.

Observe bright macaws in Tambopata National Reserve, the biggest macaw clay lick in the world

Galapagos Islands, Machu Picchu & the Amazon - 14 Days

Revel in outdoor adventures and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife viewing on this epic two-week journey around Peru and Ecuador. You'll start with a few days of boating and bird-watching in the Amazon rainforest, then move on to Cusco and the famous "lost city of the Incas," Machu Picchu. Then cross the border to Ecuador and spend the rest of the trip exploring the incredible Galápagos Islands. Snorkel with penguins, hike around the natural habitats of giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies, and relax on pristine beaches — this colorful itinerary has it all!

Top Historical Experiences in France

France is a historical goldmine, from ancient, medieval, and early modern experiences to the events of the 19th and 20th centuries. Spend your time learning about the occupied and liberated Paris of WWII, exploring ancient castles and villages, and diving into what it was like to live in France during the Middle Ages. In every corner of the country, you'll find significant history that shaped France, Europe, and the world.

Top Culinary Experiences in France

France has always been the center of culinary envy, known worldwide for its signature cuisine consisting of traditional techniques, ancestral secrets, and home-cooked comfort dictated by high-quality standards. From morning pastries to afternoon macrons, farm-fresh cheeses to wine, cider, and olive oil, and fresh food markets offering the freshest produce to unique dishes like snails and frog legs, you can truly enjoy it all in France.

Best Things to Do in Avignon

The historic town of Avignon sits on the left bank of the famous Rhône River, its claim to fame being the incredible Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace ever built. Explore the city by walking or cycling among grand 14th-century monuments while surrounded by unique history. Then take advantage of Avignon's surrounding countryside and discover the heart of Provence, from lavender fields and vineyards to the region's signature cuisine.

Best Things to Do in Aix-en-Provence

Known as "mini Paris," Aix-en-Provence sits in the heart of the Provence region, known for its charm, lavender, wine, and unique signature cuisine. Spend time exploring these claims to fame with cooking classes, wine tastings, drives through lavender fields, and walking tours. Then head out into the countryside and discover more Provençal charm, such as in the city of Avignon, the scenic hilltop villages of Luberon, or the impressive Verdon Canyon.

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