Travel Insights

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

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Effortless Italy: Venice, Florence, Rome & Sorrento - 9 Days

Hop between four iconic Italian destinations on this nine-day trip. Whisked between cities by comfortable high-speed trains, you can forget about the logistics and immerse yourself in the experience. Cruise the canals of Venice, marvel at Renaissance art in Florence, discover ancient history and modern culture in Rome, then change gears and end your grand tour soaking up the sun on the Amalfi Coast. With two days in each location, you can get oriented with a guided tour, then spend the next day exploring at your own pace.

The 7 Best Boutique Hotels in Paris

The City of Light is home to almost as many hotels as love stories. The 4th and 6th arrondissements are two of the more enticing spots to stay, but there are plenty of options to ensure you're close to your favorite attraction. Channel the cultural spirit of the city at these art-inspired, high-design hotels.

Photo courtesy of Park Hotel San Jorge & Spa

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in the Costa Brava

Whether planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, the Costa Brava has plenty of charming boutique hotels to suit all budgets and preferences, from luxurious options to mid-range and standard lodgings. Enjoy amenities like outdoor pools, spas, on-site restaurants, and direct beach access, and choose from historical villages like Begur, Palafrugell, and Girona, coastal locations, or countryside retreats.

Best boutique hotels in Málaga (Photo courtesy of Only YOU Hotel Málaga)

The 7 Best Boutique Hotels in Málaga

The best boutique hotels in Málaga offer a more personalized experience while providing convenient, fun, and unique perks. Our picks fit a range of budgets, but all are centrally located, and most have amenities like rooftop terraces, swimming pools, and on-site eateries.

Best Things to Do in Lyon

Lyon often escapes the list of must-sees in France, but the city and its surrounding areas offer a lot to do, see, and experience. Spend your time exploring historic neighborhoods filled with Renaissance-era architecture and hidden courtyards, tasting the internationally recognized Lyonaisse cuisine, savoring historic sites like the Fourviere Basilica, and exploring the traditional world of silk. With more time, take a day trip to the surrounding vineyards or historic cities like Annecy.

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Croatia

With a balmy coastline stretching over 4567 mi (7350 km), 1246 islands (including one of the world's few naturally heart-shaped isles) and an abundance of medieval towns seemingly untouched by time, Croatia turns honeymooners eyes with its tantalising shores, well-preserved history and divine seafood. Here are the best destinations for a honeymoon in Croatia, and the best things to do in each.

Explore Mexico's Chiapas Region: San Cristobal de las Casas, Palenque & Nahá - 8 Days

This eight-day adventure is the perfect blend of history and culture in Mexico's Chiapas region. You'll wander the colorful streets of San Cristobal de las Casas, go swimming in the turquoise waters of Agua Azul, see ancient Mayan ruins, and more.

Explore Mexico's Chiapas Region: San Cristóbal de las Casas, Palenque & Nahá - 9 Days

If you want to explore Mexico's Chiapas region but are short on time, this nine-day trip is a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature. Start with a river ride through Sumidero Canyon, then head to historic San Cristóbal for walking tours and a traditional cooking class. Continue to Maya archeological sites and indigenous cities for cultural exchanges while stopping en route at turquoise waterfalls.

Explore Mexico's Chiapas Region: San Cristobal de las Casas, Palenque & Nahá - 10 Days

Start this ten-day trip to Mexico's Chiapas region by exploring the colorful streets of San Cristobal de las Casas. You'll learn to cook regional fare, then visit a working coffee farm. After, head to Tziscao to cross a lake on a traditional log raft, then end in Palenque & Nahá for ancient Mayan ruins, a bow-making workshop, and more.

Explore Mexico's Chiapas Region: Tziscao, San Cristobal de las Casas, Palenque & Nahá - 11 Days

From the colorful streets of San Cristobal de las Casas to the ancient Mayan ruins of Yaxchilan & Bonampak, this eleven-day exploration of Mexico's Chiapas region is packed full of adventure. You'll learn to make local meals, go swimming in turquoise waters, and learn to make a bow and arrow the old-fashioned way: by hand.

Suspension bridges in the cloud forest canopy

Costa Rica Jungle & Beach: San José, San Ramón, Arenal, Monteverde & Jacó - 11 Days

Discover northern Costa Rica's lush cloud forests and pristine beaches on this active 11-day adventure. After a day spent in the capital of San José, you’ll transfer to San Ramón for two nights at an eco-lodge deep inside a private nature reserve. Visit Arenal to explore the rainforest canopy and hike to the famous volcano, then head to Monteverde to horseback ride through rare cloud forests and tour coffee and chocolate farms. End on the beach in the quiet surf town of Jacó, where you’ll embark on guided hikes to see monkeys and macaws in Manuel Antonio and Carara national parks.

Experience Chiapas' Gastronomy & Nature in Mexico: San Cristobal de las Casas & Tziscao - 5 Days

If you want a getaway to Mexico but are short on time, look no further than this foodie & adventure-packed itinerary. You'll spend the trip based in San Cristobal de las Casas, where you'll explore the towering walls of Sumidero Canyon, learn to cook regional fare and wander the colorful streets. Spice things up with a one-day trip to Tziscao to take a boat trip on a log raft and visit a coffee plantation.

Experience Chiapas' Gastronomy & Nature in Mexico: San Cristobal de las Casas & Tziscao - 6 Days

Explore the best of the Chiapas region of Mexico on this six-day foodie trip. Start in San Cristobal de las Casas for a boat trip through Sumidero Canyon and a cooking class, then head to Tziscao for a visit to a coffee plantation and a trip across a lake on a traditional log raft.

Experience Chiapas' Gastronomy & Nature in Mexico: San Cristobal de las Casas & Tziscao - 7 Days

If a week of immersive cultural, nature, and foodie experiences sound good to you, keep reading. This seven-day trip to the Chiapas region of Mexico is full of adventure: a visit to the stunning Sumidero Canyon, paddling across a lake on a traditional log raft, and more. Top things off with a visit to a coffee plantation and a five-course cooking class.

Immersive Portugal: Porto & the North - 12 Days

Get to the heart of Porto and northern Portugal on this unique 12-day itinerary that combines history, gastronomy, and stunning countryside. Starting with a selection of guided tours and day trips, you'll explore Porto's UNESCO-listed city center, sample the best local cuisine, and cruise the Douro River through spectacular wine country. On day six, you'll shift to a more independent itinerary, self-driving your way south through Coimbra, Nazaré, and Óbidos as you explore the rest of the region's highlights at your own pace.

The entrancing Moorish architecture of Andalusia

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Spain

With one of the longest and most popular coastlines in Europe and a siesta every afternoon, Spain practically insists on its visitors relaxing. Add in one of Europe's most sensual dances, flamenco, an abundance of that ultimate sharing food, tapas and some devastatingly beautiful architecture, gardens and produce-rich countryside, and it becomes clear why this is among Europe's foremost honeymoon destinations, too. Here are the top places to visit on a honeymoon in Spain, and the top things to do in each.

Mexican Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 9 Days

From Mexico's Caribbean coast to the colonial streets of Valladolid, this nine-day trip showcases thousands of years of history and culture while leaving ample time for rest and relaxation. Dive into cenote lagoons, marvel at the great pyramids of Chichen Itza, and relax on the white-sand beaches of Holbox Island. Along the way, take part in cultural exchanges to learn about Indigenous Maya customs as you meet local families and enjoy traditional home-cooked meals.

Mexico's Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 10 Days

Explore ancient Maya ruins, kick back on the beach, and visit the rainforest on this ten-day trip to Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. Start the trip in Tulum for swims in cenotes, then head to Valladolid to see Chichén Itzá and other archaeological sites. End the trip on Holbox Island, a car-free oasis of sprawling beaches and quiet cafés.

View of Arenal Volcano from La Fortuna town.

Costa Rica Adventure: Papagayo, Monteverde & Arenal - 8 Days

Combine adrenaline-pumping adventure with a relaxing beach holiday on this 8-day active tour of northwest Costa Rica. Snorkel and sail in the turquoise Gulf of Papagayo, then transfer to Monteverde for an immersive rainforest experience. After touring a local coffee farm and soaring through the treetops of the country’s most famous cloud forest, you’ll end your trip in the shadow of Arenal Volcano—hiking the lush El Silencio reserve and rafting the rapids of the Rio Balsa.

Coffee & Chocolate: A Taste of Ecuador - 13 Days

This 13-day tour of Ecuador will tap all of your senses, from seeing historical sights to tasting local chocolate and smelling fresh coffee. Start in Quito, the capital of Ecuador, to see the Cathedral and Plaza de San Francisco and participate in a chocolate tour. Outside of the city, learn about the process of how coffee is made at a local farm. Take the Nariz del Diablo (Devil’s Nose) train ride to see the scenic countryside, and stay in the colonial-era city of Cuenca known for its nightlife and dining.

Mexico Culture & Beaches: Tulum, Valladolid, Holbox Island & More - 11 Days

Swim in a hidden jungle cenote, explore the Playa Ruinas near Tulum, and more on this eleven-day exploration of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. You'll go caving underground to see ancient geologic formations, visit the archaeological site of Coba, and end the trip by relaxing on Holbox Island's beautiful sand beaches.

Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 12 Days

From the colonial streets of Valladolid to the peaceful beaches of Holbox Island, this 12-day itinerary delivers plenty of adventure and relaxation in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Tour ancient Maya ruins, go swimming in underground rivers, and enjoy some R&R on the white-sand beaches of Holbox Island. And that's just the start.

A woman walking on Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca

Highlights of Peru & Bolivia - 10 days

This colorful adventure around Bolivia and Peru introduces you to the best of both countries. You'll start in Cusco, touring the high-altitude Inca city and exploring the Sacred Valley before moving on to the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu. Then fly to La Paz to discover Bolivia's most beautiful landscapes, including the Salar de Uyuni salt flats and the floating islands of Lake Titicaca. Accompanied by llamas, you'll hike around a lagoon on the last full day of the trip.

Mexico Rainforest Exploration & Indigenous Culture: Palenque & Nahá - 7 Days

From ancient archaeological sites to relaxing waterfall oases, this weeklong exploration of Central Mexico packs plenty of adventure. You'll explore the ancient Maya cities of Yaxchilan & Bonampak, learn to make a traditional bow & arrow and cool off at the Roberto Barrios waterfalls. To top it off, there's no driving—your personal driver will make sure you get where you're going.

Mexico Rainforest Exploration & Indigenous Culture: Palenque & Nahá - 6 Days

Spend six days visiting ancient Maya archaeological sites, swimming in turquoise waterfalls, and learning about the Indigenous cultures of central Mexico. Throughout it all, your expert driver will accompany you from location to location, ensuring that you're only focused on relaxing and spending time in nature—not navigating the roads.

Mexico Rainforest Exploration & Indigenous Culture: Palenque & Nahá - 5 Days

Explore the best of Central Mexico's Indigenous cultures and rainforests on this whirlwind five-day trip. You'll land in Palenque, then make your way to Villahermosa by way of Naha. Your expert driver will deliver you to all your planned stops: visits to ancient Maya ruins, oasis-like waterfalls, and traditional handicraft lessons.

Hike & Bike Southern Dalmatia: Korčula, Pelješac, Elafiti Islands & Dubrovnik

Experience the natural beauty of Croatia's Dalmatian Coast on this 6-day active itinerary. The island of Korčula is your jumping-off point for just under a week of hiking and biking—plus some downtime to enjoy the region's famed beaches and turquoise waters. Cycle through vineyards and taste the local reds on the rugged Pelješac Peninsula, bike around the lush forests and lakes of Mljet Island's National Park, and hike across the idyllic Elafiti Islands. Your adventure ends overlooking the Adriatic from the magnificent walled city of Dubrovnik.

Mayan Culture & History in Tulum - 7 Days

Get away from the hustle and bustle on this adventurous weeklong trip to Tulum. You'll see the best of the Yucatan Peninsula—including the Tulum archaeological site, the Coba Maya ruins, underground caves, cenotes, and more—without compromising on the relaxation factor.

Mayan Culture & History in Tulum - 5 Days

If you want to get away to Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, but don't want to sacrifice on adventure, this five-day getaway trip is for you. You'll base yourself in Tulum for daily activities: visiting ancient Mayan archeological sites, swimming in cenotes, wildlife viewing, and of course: eating all of Mexico's best food.

Mayan Culture & History in Tulum - 6 Days

Spend six days exploring the best of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula as you base yourself in Tulum. You'll swim in jungle cenotes, head underground to explore caves and relax on beautiful beaches. This laid-back itinerary is perfect for those who want to get away from it all while still leaving room for adventure.

A couple look out at one of the Loire Valley's beautiful chateauxs

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in France

Ask soon-to-be honeymooners around the world to reveal their dream destinations for getting away together, and the chances are many would be in France. The settings for vacationing newlyweds do not get much more iconically romantic than a view of Paris, the 'city of love' from atop the Eiffel Tower, a sip of champagne in the region where the drink is exclusively produced or a stroll through ornamental gardens depicting four different sorts of love in the Loire Valley. From a very long and lovely list, here we select the best destinations in France for a honeymoon and what to do in each.

An ancient stone tower on the Sardinian shore

Explore Sardinia: Santa Teresa, Alghero, Sant'Antioco & Cagliari - 12 Days

Dive deep into the landscape, culture, and history of Sardinia on this 12-day itinerary. Starting in the northeastern coastal town of Santa Teresa Gallura, you'll travel across the island and make your way down the west coast to the bustling capital of Cagliari, taking in an ever-changing landscape of rugged hills, sea cliffs, vast sand dunes, and brilliant turquoise waters. Visit the sea caves of Neptune's Grotto, discover mysterious Neolithic ruins, sample Sardinia's distinct cuisine, and relax on some of Europe's best beaches.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 17 Days

Seventeen days is enough time to see the Yucatan's highlights while leaving enough time for a couple of free days to walk around town and relax on the beach. Go sailing on the Bacalar Lagoon, visit indigenous communities to learn about traditional gum and corn production, and visit the UNESCO-designated Calakmul ruins.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 18 Days

Take eighteen relaxing days to drive through the Yucatan Peninsula as you explore the best that Mexico has to offer: colonial cities, indigenous communities, white-sand beaches, and ancient Mayan ruins. Start the trip in Tulum for a dip into a turquoise cenote, then head to Bacalar for a sail on the lagoon. End in Valladolid and Holbox Island for sunrise at Chichen Itza and a couple days on the beach.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 19 Days

Drive from city to beach on this nineteen-day immersive trip through the Yucatan Peninsula. From the colonial cities of Merida and Valladolid to the ancient Maya ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal, you'll explore the best that the region has to offer. Tour historic sites, sample local fare, relax on beaches, and more as you make your way through the jungles and roads of the area.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 20 Days

Spend twenty days on a road trip through the Yucatan as you explore everything from ancient ruins to colonial cities. Go swimming in turquoise cenotes, head underground to visit Xibalba — the Mayan Underworld, and sail on the Bacalar Lagoon. With top stops including Chichen Itza and some of Mexico's best beaches, there's no shortage of adventure.

Explore the Mayan World: Tulum, Chichen Itza, Valladolid, Holbox Island, & More - 21 Days

Fully immerse yourself into Mexican history and culture on this comprehensive three-week trip. From the colonial cities of Merida and Valladolid to the ancient Mayan ruins of Uxmal and Chichen Itza, this trip covers millennia of history and leaves room for relaxation and food. End the trip on Holbox Island for some of Mexico's loveliest beaches and plenty of sunshine

Best Things to Do in Nice

Nice is brimming with unique cultural aspects, including vibrant markets showing off its signature Niçois cuisine, tiny multi-generational wine regions, a gorgeous coastline dotted with historic villages, and the title of the birthplace of perfume. Explore the city by diving deep into its culture, enjoying those legendary sunsets, and discovering neighboring villages and cities, such as Monaco, Eze, Cannes, and Antibes.

Best Things to Do in Paris

As "The City of Love," Paris is known for its romantic charm, impeccable cuisine, and vibrant history, which is why it's always topping the list of the most popular tourist destinations. You can hop from district to district and experience various scenes, from artsy to bohemian, historic to trendy. Try some of France's acclaimed gastronomy, dig into the city's history, and take in the sweeping views from atop sites like Montmartre or the Arc de Triomphe.

Traditional sailboats on the Nile at Luxor

Cairo & Nile Cruise: Aswan & Luxor - 7 Days

Check off some of Egypt's most iconic sights on this diverse week-long itinerary. Cairo serves as your base for three nights, while you explore the nation's capital, tour the Pyramids of Giza, and discover Alexandria's storied past. After a quick flight to Aswan, it's all aboard for a scenic three-day cruise up the Nile River, disembarking for day trips to the spectacular temples of Kom Ombo, Edfu & Karnak. Your adventure ends in Luxor, where you'll stroll through ancient history in the Valley of the Kings.

Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 13 Days

Spend 13 days enjoying the best of the Yucatán Peninsula on this whirlwind itinerary. Tour the famous ruins at Uxmal, Tulum, and Chichén Itzá, plus visit Spanish-colonial heritage towns like Izamal and Valladolid. Throughout the adventure, you'll also dive into turquoise cenote lagoons, immerse yourself in local Maya culture, and enjoy some "me" time on the white-sand beaches of Puerto Morelos and Holbox Island.

Nature & Mayan Life: Tulum, Bacalar, Merida, Holbox & More - 14 Days

Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to see some of Mexico's best archaeological sites—including Chichén Itzá—while also leaving plenty of time for relaxation. You'll swim in beautiful cenotes, explore the colonial city of Merida, and experience Indigenous culture. End with a couple of days on Holbox Island, where sand, surf, and beautiful sunshine await.

Nature & Maya Culture in the Yucatán - 15 Days

Fifteen days in Mexico's Yucatán region is enough time to visit famous archaeological sites while also enjoying its famous white-sand beaches. Explore the ruins at Chichén Itzá, experience indigenous cultural traditions, and float in the turquoise waters of the Chemuyil cenotes—these are just a few of the highlights. You'll also venture to Holbox Island and enjoy its famous golden sunsets.

Nature & Mayan Life: Tulum, Bacalar, Merida, Holbox, & More - 16 Days

Explore the best of Mexico's offerings on this comprehensive 16-day trip. Swim in crystal clear cenotes and go sailing in the Bacalar Lagoon. Continue to Chunhuhub for a mystical bonfire experience, then spend a few days exploring the historical sites of Merida and Chichen Itza. End the trip on Holbox Island for several days of sun, beach, and surf.

Croatia by Land & Sea: Zagreb to Dubrovnik - 15 Days

Explore Croatia’s natural wonders on this active 15-day multisport adventure. Travel the length of the country from the culture-rich capital of Zagreb to the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik, immersing yourself in the spectacular and diverse landscapes in between. Kayak the Zrmanja River, hike the waterfalls of Krka, cycle the rugged Pelješac Peninsula, and sail between idyllic Adriatic islands—with plenty of time for cultural sights and gastronomic discoveries along the way.

Looking out at a new day dawning in Athens

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Greece

Greece is one of the most irresistible honeymoon getaways on Earth. Relax on Europe's best and most diverse range of beaches on one or more of the nation's 6000-odd islands, with a level of seaside seclusion few other countries can rival. Be transported back in time in towns and cities so full of ancient monuments they seem like open-air museums, and find out about the dramatic stories of Greek gods and goddesses. Or gaze into each other's eyes over a beach-side or clifftop meal championing one of the world's most tantalising cuisines. Here are the best honeymoon destinations in Greece, and the most romantic things to do in each.

Croatia by Land & Sea: Zagreb to Dubrovnik - 14 Days

This two-week multisport itinerary blends the best of Croatia’s major sights with lots of opportunities to hike, bike, kayak, and sail your way through its spectacular landscapes. Get to know the capital of Zagreb, then hit the road to explore historic castles, dramatic waterfalls, and dense forests. After hiking around two pristine national parks, you'll set sail from the ancient port of Split and island-hop around the Adriatic. Back on the mainland, cycle and kayak your way through the unspoiled wine country of the Peljesac Peninsula before finishing up in the magnificent walled city of Dubrovnik.

Top Beach Excursions in Croatia

With a stunning coastline weaving down the Adriatic Sea and more than 1,000 islands, you can bet Croatia is a beach destination. In the north, you'll find stretches of pebbles hugging the Istrian peninsula and the many islands off the coast of Kvarner. In the south, spend your time island hopping (and beach hopping) in Dalmatia, discovering some of Europe's most scenic sandy corners, including the famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) on Brač Island.

Croatia by Land & Sea: Zagreb to Dubrovnik - 13 Days

This 13-day itinerary is perfect for adventure seekers looking to explore Croatia's natural and cultural wonders. Starting in the capital of Zagreb, you'll wind your way south through a land of fairytale castles, dramatic waterfalls, and pristine national parks to reach the captivating Dalmatian Coast. Tour the ancient port city of Split, set sail to the unspoiled islands of Brač, Hvar, and Korcula, and cycle and hike your way through the rugged wine country of the Pelješac Peninsula. Your journey ends in the magnificent walled city of Dubrovnik, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic."

Top Sailing Experiences in Croatia

One of the most popular activities in Croatia is sailing, which should come as no surprise considering the country's long and narrow shape hugs the Adriatic Sea. With over 3,000 miles of coastline and more than 1,000 islands, the country is a prime spot for sailing excursions. So whether you're looking for day trips to the archipelagos or an entire itinerary sailing from spot to spot, you can find it in Croatia. Discover islets, caves, lagoons, and rugged coves all by boat.

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