Travel Insights

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

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Bolivia in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The rainfall slackens off slightly in February compared to the last couple of months, but this remains a decidedly drippy time of year in the majority of the country. Temperatures are almost at their annual peaks in the rainforest and much of the savanna, while the Andes are decidedly chilly. However, one big party this month brightens things up, and that's Carnival. There are some genuinely spectacular celebrations across Bolivia for this at the end of the month.

Bolivia in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The rain comes down heavily in January across most of Bolivia, despite temperatures in some regions such as the rainforest being at their annual high. Yet, this is a great time to explore Bolivia's big cities like La Paz, Sucre, and Santa Cruz, including a host of cultural attractions that visitors in better weather pass over. The southeastern savanna is the most agreeable region now. Though parts of the Andes and rainforest are inaccessible due to rain, swelling water levels make for excellent white water rafting.

Brandywine Falls Provincial Park en route to Whistler

Sea-to-Sky Highway: Vancouver to Whistler - 5 Days

This packed five-day itinerary is perfect for travelers with a thirst for adventure who are on a time crunch. Beginning and ending in dynamic Vancouver, discover British Columbia's rugged beauty beyond the city as you follow the spectacular Sea-to-Sky Highway to the year-round outdoor destination of Whistler. Explore the village, see the colorfully graffitied boxcars of historic Train Wreck, and hike the Garibaldi Lake Trail for some of the province's most rewarding views.

Hike to picturesque Garibaldi Lake near Whistler

Sea-to-Sky Highway: Vancouver to Whistler - 3 Days

Follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway on this quick road trip between Vancouver and Whistler. Enjoy the urban pleasures of the city before getting a taste of the mountains in the upscale, chalet-style village of Whistler. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there are a number of opportunities: half-day hikes to alpine lakes, panoramic road-side vistas, luxury spas, and gondola rides to mountain peaks.

North of Whistler, Joffre Lakes Trail leads to 3 brilliant blue lakes

Sea-to-Sky Highway: Vancouver to Whistler - 7 Days

With seven days, you'll have plenty of time to explore Vancouver and the Coast Mountains around Whistler. This trip is best suited for those looking to spend most of their time outdoors—there are countless day hikes, alpine lakes, and scenic vantage points to check out. In between adventures, you'll also get a taste of some of the best restaurants in Canada and have time to explore the downtown and cultural highlights of the city.

Best Time of Year to Visit Santorini

Santorini is always a good idea, whether you're visiting in the fall or during the summer. The spring is perfect for enjoying warm weather, hiking, and exploring the island in a more intimate atmosphere. During the summer, you'll enjoy swimming in the sea, several cultural events, and a lively scene. Fall is all about art and history, while winter makes for the perfect romantic getaway.

Discover Mykonos' Agia Kyriaki Church at any time of year

Best Time of Year to Visit Mykonos

With Mykonos being a year-round destination, you'll easily find something to do in every season. Watch beautiful colors take over the island in spring, and visit spots like Delos Island for sightseeing. In summer, you'll find an abundance of watersports, parties, and great adventures. Enjoy the warm weather in the fall and explore the museums, talk with locals, and go kayaking along the coastline. Winter offers a quiet getaway, complete with solitude, charm, and excellent shopping opportunities.

Best Time of Year to Visit Naxos

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, with some of the best beaches and most beautiful scenery. Nature sets the island apart from the others because of the green landscapes and hills, blending with the ocean colors. From spring to fall, there are a lot of activities taking place, and you can enjoy culture, watersports, festivals, and fantastic food. Every season has its charm, and the summers are highly popular among tourists, while winters are romantic and quiet.

Elephant sightings in Masai Mara National Park

1 Week in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Kenya is an excellent place to holiday in Africa, especially for safari-goers. With an entire week, you'll experience the country's healthy national park and conservancy presence with loads of wildlife, mixed with possible cultural experiences, beach relaxation, and active excursions, including a multi-day trek. Below, are several expertly crafted itineraries packed with iconic Kenyan adventures (and even one with neighboring Tanzania)—all with cool overnight options in eco-lodges and safari camps.

A giraffe at sunset in the Masai Mara National Park

5 Days in Kenya - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With less than a week in Kenya, you can make the most of your time by visiting the vast landscapes within a three-hour radius of Nairobi. While it may be tempting to cover more ground, sticking to this geographical area gets you out of the car frequently for many activities and wildlife. Below are several expertly crafted itineraries loaded with iconic Kenyan experiences.

Sunset at the Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland

10 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Ireland is enough to get to know a particular region, like the Dingle Peninsula or to travel more widely and see the country's highlights. Opt for a road trip around Northern Ireland, go on a western cycling tour of medieval castles and whiskey distilleries, hike the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands on an outdoorsy adventure, or drive yourself around to the country's top attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry.

1 Week in China - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With strategic planning you can cover China´s highlights, like Beijing, Xi´an, and Shanghai, in a week. In those three cities alone you´ll find the Great Wall, Terracotta Army, and Yu Garden, a centuries-old green space. Or, if you´re thristing for an off-the-beaten path adventure, consider a sampan ride down the Li River or head to Yunnan, near Tibet, for nature excursions to mystical mountain peaks. Consult the itineraries below to find out which journey is right for you.

Sail amid the karst landscape of Ha Long Bay in a traditional junk boat, Vietnam

10 Days in Vietnam - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Vietnam, you can embark on a highlights tour featuring the energetic cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and spend a night onboard a cruise in Ha Long Bay. Or, for a more off-the-beaten-path tour, focus on northern Vietnam and hike through lush rice-terraced valleys. Vietnam is also the perfect place for foodies to hop between lively markets, while those seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation can focus on southern Vietnam's villages and the beach-studded island of Phu Quoc.

Cai Rang floating market on the Can Tho River

5 Days in Vietnam - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Turn a brief five-day vacation to northern Vietnam into an unforgettable discovery of Hanoi's secret gems and a visit to the beautiful river lands of Ninh Bình Province. You could also see the central coast and the ancient citadel of Hue or travel farther south beyond the bright lights of Ho Chi Minh City, where an exciting excursion to the Mekong Delta awaits. And if you're eager for a hike amid the rice terraces and humble villages of rural Vietnam, consider five days to discover the Pu Luong Nature Reserve.

Head to Medan on Sumatra in September for cultural exploration and visit the Masjid Raya Al-Mashun mosque

Indonesia in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September is by far one of the best times of the year to visit Indonesia. The weather is warm and beautiful with sunny skies and an almost complete lack of rain anywhere; yet the crowds thin out as kids go back to school (read: there are fewer travelers than in July and August). The result is an idyllic destination with beautiful beaches, impressive volcanoes, and reasonable crowd sizes.

This traditional Balinese offering is known as a "canang sari," created daily by Balinese Hindu women as a form of gratitude to the gods

Indonesia in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August marks the middle of the high season in Indonesia when the weather is hot and sunny; the skies are blue; and the popular attractions are bustling with people. It's one of the best months of the year to plan a vacation, whether you plan to head to the white sand beaches of Bali or the volcanic peaks of Java. The only downside is that it can be crowded, so plan accordingly.

Wander the impressive temple complex of Candi Prambanan, Java in July

Indonesia in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is a month when Indonesia is at its absolute best. The weather is dry, the ocean is warm, and the beaches are full of people surfing, snorkeling, and playing in the sun. It's the perfect time to hike one of the volcanoes, explore the many temples, and wander through the bustling street markets. It's high season, and hence more crowded and expensive. Still, if you're seeking a vacation with great weather and plenty of activities, it won't disappoint.

A Balinese woman performing in traditional garb

Indonesia in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is one of the best months of the year to visit Indonesia. It's hot, sunny, and dry with blue skies overhead and idyllic conditions for activities like beach-going, volcano hiking, and exploring the many cultural sites that the region has to offer. Tourist numbers are higher this time of year, but not as crowded as later in the summer, providing a great blend of good conditions and space to move around.

When the sun appears, head to the white sands of Lombok's Kuta beach in May

Indonesia in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the beginning of the dry season when Indonesia transitions from a long, wet winter into summer. The weather is sunny and beautiful—with occasional scattered showers—and visitors begin arriving again. The white sand beaches along Bali's southern coast are idyllic and still fairly uncrowded, and the volcanoes on Java, Lombok, and other islands are finally in the perfect condition for climbing.

Sunrise and mist at Batur volcano, Kintamani, Bali, Indonesia

Indonesia in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is a shoulder season in Indonesia when the country shifts from its wet, rainy low season into a more pleasant dry season that's sunny and full of visitors. It still gets a fair amount of rain—in fact, some consider April to be the wet season still. However, you'll find far more dry days than earlier in the year, and there are hardly any travelers, which makes it a great "best of both worlds" destination.

Traditional fishing boats at Sanur beach, Bali, Indonesia

Indonesia in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is a rainy month in Indonesia, and large swathes of the country get pummeled with tropical storms. Although Bali remains less affected, many of the other islands are susceptible to flooding and washed-out roads. That said, the rain usually comes in short, intense bursts followed by sunshine and blue skies. Plus, the crowd sizes are small so if you don't mind a little bit of rain, it can actually be a great time of year for a visit.

In between the rains, head to the Taman Sari Water Castle in Yogyakarta, Java in February

Indonesia in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

During February, rain falls on many of Indonesia's islands as tropical monsoons roll across the sea. It's considered low season—tourists aren't out in heavy numbers, making it a great time to come to escape the crowds. The storms typically don't last more than a few hours, and the rest of the time it's full of lush, green jungles and sunny beaches with blue shorelines.

Beautiful landmark Pura Ulun Danu Bratan temple in Bali

Indonesia in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January is the wet season in Indonesia, and many of the islands get hit with rain, making it a less-than-ideal time if you're seeking sunshine and beach-going activities. That said, it usually only rains for a small portion of the day, and there are plenty of locations where the precipitation is lighter. Best of all, there are hardly any people around, so you won't have to contend with the crowds that swarm beach resorts during other times of the year.

Focus your holiday on Bali and enjoy the intense greenery of the Tegalalang Rice Terrace

Indonesia in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The rainy season is in full effect in Indonesia in December. The monsoons sweep across the ocean and bring rain to the majority of the islands, making it a less-than-ideal time weather-wise. That said, there are hardly any crowds during this month (with the exception of the Christmas holiday), and prices are often cheaper. For those reasons, some tourists find December the perfect time to plan a vacation.

Visiting Bali and checking out its temples is your best bet if visitng Indonesia in November

Indonesia in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Indonesia is wet and rainy in November, although that doesn't necessarily mean it's not a good time for a vacation. It rains to some degree on most days; however, the storms don't usually last for more than a few hours, and the rest of the time it's sunny and beautiful. Plus, prices are lower and crowd sizes are smaller.

Explore Bali's Uluwatu coastline in October, a region on the southwestern tip of the Bukit Peninsula—known for its dramatic clifftop views and white-sand beaches

Indonesia in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October marks the beginning of the rainy season in Indonesia, and although there are still plenty of things to do that don't involve beaches and sunshine, it's not the most ideal time for a vacation if weather is a big factor for you. That said, it's a great time to go with fewer crowds, and the prices are much cheaper. Plus, temperatures stay warm and the rain showers typically only last a few hours, so some travelers find it worth the other perks.

Guide to British Columbia's Regions

British Colombia has the perfect trip for everyone, any time of year. From cosmopolitan Vancouver to the vast tracks of wilderness in the north, from wine tasting in the rolling hills of the Okanagan to salmon-fishing in wild waters of Haida Gwaii, there really is something for everyone. To help you figure out your perfect trip, we've broken down the main regions for you to consider.

The high-altitude town of Manali in northern India

10 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in India is enough to go beyond the highlights of one region, enjoying off-the-beaten-path sites or remote locales that wouldn't be possible with a shorter trip. Pair a classic Golden Triangle Tour—including a sunrise Taj Mahal visit—with two days in Ranthambore National Park, a protected tiger sanctuary. Or, experience the best of Rajasthan, from the Golden City of Jaisalmer to the blue houses of Jodhpur. Other options include a guided hiking trip in Kerala, and a multi-country tour that crosses the Himalaya into Nepal.

2 Weeks in India - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to explore India, you can take your time and get to know more about the country. Visit the Golden Triangle and relax on Kerala's beaches, or opt for a cultural itinerary that includes some of India's most intricately-carved temples. For a more active vacation, spend two weeks cycling through Karnataka and Kerala, or combine your trip to India with a visit to Nepal to see temples, palaces, and views of the Himalaya.

Row of ocean fishing boats in the canals of the Kerala backwaters

1 Week in India - 5 Regional Itinerary Ideas

With only a week to visit India, maximize your time by sticking to a single region. Opt for a tour of the popular Golden Triangle—New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—or take in the highlights of Rajasthan. If you're looking to relax, head to the beachs of Kerala. Active travelers will love a bike tour through Karnataka, with stops at hills stations and national parks. And if you're looking for a cultural experience, head into the Himalayas to see monasteries and temples in Ladakh.

5 Days in India - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days is a quick trip to India, but you'll still have time to explore important sites, stroll through markets, and discover a slice of this fascinating country. Try a Golden Triangle tour to see Delhi, the Taj Mahal, and Jaipur, or pair Maharashtra wine tasting with Mumbai. Other options include tiger-spotting in Ranthambore National Park, visiting Buddhist temples in the Himalayas, or relaxing on the beaches of Goa. Find out more with these five unique itinerary ideas.

5 Days in Ecuador - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you've only got five days in Ecuador, pick from one of the country's three main ecological zones to maximize your time. Base yourself in Quito and explore the surrounding region, or head directly to Yasuni National Park for four days of wildlife viewing and rainforest adventures. If you prefer remote wilderness, bypass the city and fly directly to the Galapagos to see giant tortoises, snorkel, and visit an uninhabited island.

Fes & Chefchaouen: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers who want to visit Fes and Chefchaouen typically plan a trip for 7 to 8 days that also includes Marrakech, Merzouga, and Ouarzazate. If you're only headed to Fes and Chefchaouen, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in about 4 days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as 3 days. Read on for the best itineraries including Fes and Chefchaouen and beyond.

Athens, Naxos, Santorini, & Mykonos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 9 to 12 days is perfect for a well-paced Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Mykonos. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in 7 or 8 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop, or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Chania, Ios, or Nafpaktos. Get inspired with our Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Mykonos trip ideas below.

Athens & Santorini: Best Itinerary Ideas

Seven to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Greece travelers interested in visiting both Athens and Santorini, especially when also including Mykonos. If you're only headed to Athens and Santorini, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 5 to 7 days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as 4 days. For the best itineraries including Athens and Santorini, keep reading below.

A view of the White Tower in Thessaloniki

Athens & Thessaloniki: Best Itinerary Ideas

Seven to 11 days is a great length for a Greece trip with stops in Athens and Thessaloniki. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as 3 days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Crete. See more ideas for Athens and Thessaloniki itineraries below.

Athens, Naxos, & Mykonos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Nine to 12 days is the most popular trip length for travelers interested in visiting Athens, Naxos, and Mykonos, especially when also including Santorini. For travelers wanting to visit Athens, Naxos, and Mykonos exclusively, plan 7 to 8 days for a well-paced trip. For the best itineraries including Athens, Naxos, and Mykonos, keep reading below.

Athens & Naxos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Greece typically plan a trip for 9 to 12 days when combining both Athens and Naxos with Santorini and Mykonos. For travelers wanting to visit Athens and Naxos exclusively, plan 5 to 8 days for a well-paced trip. Check out our favorite Athens and Naxos trips below.

Athens, Naxos, & Ios: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 14 days is the most popular trip length for travelers interested in visiting Athens, Naxos, and Ios, especially when also including Tinos and Syros in the itinerary. If you're only headed to Athens, Naxos, and Ios, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 7 to 8 days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as 5 or 6 days. Check out our favorite Athens, Naxos, and Ios trips below.

Santorini: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Greece typically plan a trip for 7 to 10 days when combining Santorini with Athens and Mykonos. If you're not interested in Athens and Mykonos, 3 to 4 days is enough for your Santorini trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as 2 days. Check out our favorite Santorini trips below.

Athens, Naxos, & Tinos: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 7 to 8 days is the perfect amount of time for a Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, and Tinos. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as 6 days. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Mykonos, Ios, or Chania. Keep reading for more inspiring Athens, Naxos, and Tinos itineraries.

Arenal, one of Costa Rica's most majestic landmarks, towers over the countryside

Arenal & La Fortuna: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Arenal spend about 8 to 10 days in Costa Rica, which usually includes some time in Manuel Antonio and Monteverde as well. If you're not interested in Manuel Antonio and Monteverde, 4 to 5 days is enough for your Arenal trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as 3 days. Read on for the best itineraries including Arenal, La Fortuna and beyond.

A view over the beaches at Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Manuel Antonio spend about 8 to 10 days in Costa Rica, which usually includes some time in Arenal/La Fortuna and Monteverde as well. For travelers wanting to visit Manuel Antonio exclusively, plan about 5 days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in 3 or 4 days for travelers with limited time. Check out our favorite Manuel Antonio trips below.

Gulf of Papagayo: Best Itinerary Ideas

Eight to 10 days is the most popular trip length for Costa Rica travelers interested in visiting the Gulf of Papagayo, especially when also including Arenal/La Fortuna and Monteverde. For travelers wanting to visit the Gulf of Papagayo exclusively, plan about 5 days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in 3 or 4 days for travelers with limited time. Check out our favorite Gulf of Papagayo trips below.

Dubrovnik: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Dubrovnik spend about 7 to 8 days in Croatia, which usually includes some time in Split, Hvar, and Korčula as well. If you're only headed to Dubrovnik, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in about 5 days. Travelers with limited time can see the highlights of the city in as few as 2 days. Read on for the best itineraries including Dubrovnik and beyond.

Petra: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Jordan typically plan a trip for five to six days when combining Petra with Amman, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea. If you're not interested in those extensions, two to three days are enough for your Petra trip. Read on for the best itineraries, including Petra and beyond.

Two Maasai giraffe, male and female, next to an acacia tree in the Masai Mara, Kenya.

Kenya in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

December is a wonderful time to visit Kenya—the weather is warm and reasonably dry yet the crowd sizes are still manageable, particularly at the beginning of the month. You'll get some rain but it's not constant, offering plenty of days to take a wildlife safari or stroll through the markets of Nairobi. Another great thing about this shoulder season is that prices are lower so you can find plenty of deals on hotels and airfare.

Beautiful lion in the tall grass of the Masai Mara in Kenya.

Kenya in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November can be a fantastic time for a Kenya vacation—the weather is warm, the tourist numbers are moderate, and the Mombasa Carnival gets underway on the coast. That said, you'll need to prepare for some rain. It's a shoulder season which means you get a little bit of everything: some days are sunny while others get pummeled with rain showers. They don't typically last long, however, so as long as you bring a good rain jacket you're still bound to enjoy yourself.

Safari cars in Tsavo East National Park, Kenya

Kenya in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is a fantastic time to visit Kenya, although you'll want to come earlier in the month for the best tourist conditions. The first couple of weeks are dry with warm, pleasant temperatures. Herds of wildebeests migrate across the Mara River, along with giraffes, zebras, and other savannah creatures. By the end of the month, however, the rains begin and wildlife becomes harder to spot.

Zebra mingle with thousands of wildebeest on the banks of the Mara River during the great migration. In the Masai Mara, Kenya. Every year 1.5 million wildebeest make the trek from Tanzania to Kenya

Kenya in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September is one of the best times of the year to visit Kenya. It's still hot and sunny but the crowds have tapered off ever-so-slightly. The last of the wildebeests are wandering through Maasai Mara so you can still catch their migration, and the rains of October haven't yet arrived. Prices remain high, as it's officially considered peak season; however, you won't contend with the huge masses of mid-summer.

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