Travel Insights

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

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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 ten days to drive from Paris to Lyon on this adventurous road trip itinerary. Start in the city of lights, then make your way to the countryside for art, history, and resplendent chateaux. 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 eleven-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 hit 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. Star 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 fifteen-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 Eiffel Tower & Louvre, learn to cook a traditional French meal, visit countryside Chateaux, 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 Chateaux, 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 seventeen 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 lights, 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.

The 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.

Best Things to Do in Normandy

Set in northern France along the coast of the English Channel, Normandy is known for its chalky-white cliffs and beaches, the famous Mont-Saint-Michel island, the WWII D-Day landings, and picturesque half-timbered houses surrounded by dairy farms. History is the region's highlight, but you'll also find treasured towns like Honfleur and the Pays d'Auge, gourmet cheese, cider farms, and many sites of famous Impressionist works of art, plus the home and gardens of Claude Monet.

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Scotland

Conjuring up romance effortlessly and with subtlety, Scotland is a stunning destination in which to celebrate your love for each other. For the backdrop to your honeymoon here, expect dazzling skylines of moody mountaintops, emerald-green glens, myriad remote, sand-rimmed islands ideal for escaping or eloping, and a mysterious fortress or three for every horizon. But for vacationing newlyweds, what truly makes this land so romantic are the stories that lace each place you pass through: legacies of great romantic writers like Sir Walter Scott, tales of trysts involving the likes of Mary, Queen of Scots and more. Here are the most romantic destinations in Scotland for honeymooners, with suggestions of what to do in each.

Highlights of Peru's Coast & Andes: History, Nature & Landscapes - 10 days

On this 10-day itinerary, get a taste of Peru's metropolitan capital Lima, then head south to to Nazca for an aerial view of the world-famous geoglyphs, and to Paracas for a marine wildlife tour. Afterwards, travel to Cusco, ancient center of the Inca Empire, and explore the beautiful surroundings of the Andes in the Sacred Valley, visiting pretty, historic towns like Ollantaytambo and tackling the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. End your trip by visiting one of Peru's geological wonders, Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.

Best Things to Do in Marseille

Marseille unites two very different worlds: the vibrant coastal French Riviera and the charming rolling hills of Provence. In addition, it's France's oldest city, founded by the Greeks in 600 BCE. So in just Marseille alone, you can enjoy a diverse trip strolling through the historic districts while nibbling on traditional food, discovering the renowned world of Marseille soap, sipping rosé among the lavender fields, and cruising or kayaking along the famed Calanques inlets.

The 7 Best Boutique Hotels in Córdoba

Despite being a small city, Córdoba's Old Town has four UNESCO World Heritage Sites—one being the historic core itself. You'll find some of the best boutique hotels in Córdoba right next to (or within) these monuments, including the Mezquita-Catedral and its surroundings.

1 Week in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have a week to spend in the Galápagos, choose between a cruise and a land-based tour. Sail around the archipelago on a yacht, stopping at various islands to hike and view wildlife, or base yourself on one or more of the islands, going on daily excursions to snorkel with penguins, kayak in the sea and look for blue-footed boobies. Alternatively, get an overview of Ecuador's top highlights by combining a few days in the Galápagos with a trip to Quito and Cotopaxi National Park.

Galapagos Nature Cruise - 5 Days

Get off the beaten path on this 5-day cruise around the Galapagos archipelago. This short but fascinating journey offers world-class wildlife viewing at lesser-known points of interest throughout the islands. You'll sail from one rocky beach to another, disembarking for short guided hikes to see blue-footed boobies, cormorants, penguins, and flamingoes in their natural habitats. In the evenings, relax on the boat with a cold drink as the sun goes down.

Highlights of Southern Peru & the Andes & Short Inca Trail - 11 days

You will begin this 11-day adventure in Lima, before flying to southern colonial city Arequipa and exploring nearby Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons. You next continue to Puno on Lake Titicaca, Peru's most dramatic lake, and get to visit the lake's iconic islands, including the Uros Islands and Taquile Island. Afterwards, you travel overland on the scenic 'Route of the Sun' to ancient Inca capital Cusco. Your trip finishes with adventures in the beautiful terrain surrounding Cusco, including trekking the Short Inca Trail to the magical Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Highlights of Southern Peru & the Andes - 10 days

Beginning your 10-day adventure in Lima, you then fly to the southern colonial city of Arequipa and explore nearby Colca Canyon, one of the world's deepest canyons, before continuing to Puno on Lake Titicaca, Peru's most dramatic lake. You will next get to visit the lake's iconic islands, including the Uros Islands and Taquile Island. You then travel overland on the scenic 'Route of the Sun' to ancient Inca capital Cusco. Your trip finishes with some adventures in the beautiful terrain surrounding Cusco, including the Sacred Valley, world-famous Inca citadel Machu Picchu and the geological wonder of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.

Explore Egypt: Cairo, Aswan, Luxor & Hurghada - 10 Days

Discover Egypt's many faces on this diverse 10-day itinerary. Combining iconic cultural sights with scenic river cruising and a beach getaway, you'll check off all the highlights without sacrificing relaxing downtime. Tour the pyramids and wander the colorful Khan el Khalili bazaar in Cairo, cruise up the Nile from Aswan to Luxor, and end your stay in Hurghada on the beaches of the Red Sea.

Dog sled through Arctic forests in Lapland

Magical Lapland: Santa's Village, Dogsledding & the Northern Lights - 5 Days

Cross the Arctic Circle into Finland's far north on this unforgettable five-day winter adventure. Explore the Lapland town of Rovaniemi, where you can dog sled through snowy forests and meet Santa's reindeer. When the skies darken, you'll set out in search of the spectacular northern lights, spending one special night in a heated glass igloo under the stars.

Active Andes: Cusco & Sacred Valley, Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca & More - 11 days

Experience the best of the Andes on this 11-day trip. From Lima, this adventure whisks you up into the mountains to Cusco before spending several days in the Sacred Valley seeing archaeological marvels like Ollantaytambo. You'll trek on the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, hike to the geological wonder of Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, and kayak on Lake Titicaca.

Cusco, Sacred Valley, Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu & Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain - 10 days

On this classic 10-day adventure, spend time in Peru's cosmopolitan capital Lima, in the ancient center of the Inca Empire, Cusco, and the pretty Sacred Valley surrounding it. Then, the main part of this trip is the four days of adventure on the Classic Inca Trail: the world-famous trek to the magnificent Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. Your itinerary finally finishes in eclectic style with a hike up the rarely-visited Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.

Kimkim Staff Trip Report: Yenyi's Family Trip to Greece

Wondering what it's like to travel to Greece as a family during the pandemic? Our Head of Product visited Greece with her family in August 2021. While it does require extra planning, getting in and out of the country is easy. At-home test kits are a convenient way to test the whole family and have your results on hand quickly. Alfresco dining during the summer months is a safe way to enjoy Greek food and culture. Pick up more tips from Yenyi in the trip report below.

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