Travel Insights

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

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The Island of Poros and Peloponnese Mountains

Greek Odyssey: Athens, Saronic Islands, & the Peloponnese - 10 Days

Explore Greece's ancient wonders on this adventurous 10-day tour. Starting in the vibrant capital of Athens, you'll spend a day discovering the mysteries of Delphi before setting sail across the Saronic Gulf, mooring at the spectacular islands of Aegina, Poros, and Moni. Back on land, set off on a self-guided exploration of the Peloponnesian Peninsula, visiting the Bronze Age ruins of Mycenae, the fairytale carved village of Monemvasia, and the Byzantine mountain monasteries of Mystros.

Total Solar Eclipse Tour December 2020: Santiago, Atacama & Pucón - 13 Days

There are few natural events as spectacular or memorable as a full solar eclipse, and on this 13-day tour of Chile in December 2020 you'll watch the amazing event from the clear skies of Pucon. As well as dedicating a full day to watching the eclipse, you'll tour many of Chile's other highlights, including the modern capital Santiago, the historic port city of Valparaíso, the excellent wineries of the valleys, and the unparalleled natural beauty of the Atacama Desert, plus much more. This comprehensive tour fits in a lot of different sights and experiences and is sure to be memorable.

Uganda & Tanzania Safari: Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, Serengeti & Ngorongoro - 15 Days

This journey of a lifetime will take you to some of the most astonishing natural wonders in Uganda and Tanzania. Begin in Uganda, where you'll visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda, known for its wild mountain gorillas, and Queen Elizabeth National Park for a big-game safari. Then, travel to Tanzania and Serengeti National Park, where game drives, wilderness camping, and a hot air balloon safari await. Finish your trip at the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest inactive volcanic caldera in the world.

Highlights of Zambia: Victoria Falls & South Luangwa - 7 Days

In this 7-day tour, you will explore some of Zambia's most astonishing natural gems. You will begin the adventure canoeing and sunset cruising on the Zambezi River—the fourth-longest in the entire African continent! Then, you'll be able to enjoy another fluvial wonder: the breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Finally, you will have three thrilling nights on safari at South Luangwa National Park. Keep your eyes open for zebras, elephants, lions, and more.

Highlights of Wales and Southern England - 18 Days

On this comprehensive 18-day trip you'll experience the best of Wales and Southern England. Visit many delightful little towns, coastal promenades, medieval castles and churches, and many other historic sites that encapsulate many visitors' most romantic ideas of Great Britain. Get active with river-side and coastal walks, and relax in the ancient hot spring baths at Bath. This tour is the ultimate introduction to southern England and Wales, ideal for first-time visitors to the country.

China in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

April is marked by rain showers and cherry blossoms, signaling spring in here. April straddles the tourist shoulder season and peak tourist season, which picks up in May. It’s an ideal time to explore China without the crowds and cold.

Visit China's most north-easterly city, Harbin, for its world-famous ice festival

China in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Once the new year’s celebrations wind down, it is shoulder season in China. Unless you want to partake in the world’s largest migration, it’s best to time your trip before or after Spring Festival, the Chinese New Year, a two-week festival that sometimes occurs in February (timing is based on the lunar calendar). The Chinese New Year starts on February 12 in 2021 and February 1 in 2022. Most businesses close during the holiday as those who can afford it head home for the holidays. Traveling post-holiday can be a bargain. Those brave enough to face the fierce cold that blankets much of China in February are rewarded with a spectacular winter wonderland.

China in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Many parts of China are thawing out from below-freezing temperatures as spring beckons. Shoulder season continues, making this an ideal time to visit China's most sought-after destinations before the high tourist season begins and travel costs go up.

China in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

April showers bring May flowers, making China a kaleidoscope of colors in May. Temperatures and crowds increase, particularly the first week in May, a week-long workers’ holiday. May is a wonderful time to visit virtually every part of the country, from Xinjiang to the Great Wall to Hong Kong before the sweltering summer weather arrives.

Palkhor Monastery and the walled Gyantse town in Tibet

China in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July is hot—literally and figuratively—but its cities come alive with festivals, food, and fun. The extra daylight ensures jam-packed days to explore by land or water. Beat the heat by immersing yourself in Chinese culture, from cooking classes and crafts to folk festivals to nightly variety shows.

June is a great month to see the giant pandas in Chengdu

China in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

June is all about enjoying the great outdoors now that winter has gone and the sticky summer humidity has not quite started. The warmer the weather, the more tourists who arrive in China. There are several festivals in June, including the Dragon Boat Festival, in which revelers take to the water to race in colorful dragon boats, making this an ideal time to experience Chinese culture firsthand.

August is a great time to see the giant pandas in Chengdu

China in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The height of summer can be an exciting time to visit China despite the heat and humidity. Cities are bustling and lively with throngs of travelers and locals soaking up the summer sunshine. Visitors are treated to several folk festivals this month, making it a uniquely special time to visit China.

September is one of the best months to visit China, particularly Beijing

China in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

As it approaches fall, the air is crisp and cool, and China is awash in crimson and gold. September is a splendid time to visit, as fall combines the best of travel: comfortable temperatures, fewer travelers, and more bang for the buck.

Travel to Chongqing and cruise the mighty Yangtze River this month

China in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Simply one of the best times of the year, October checks off all the boxes: wonderful weather, smaller crowds, stunning foliage, and exceptional value. A magical time in China, fall is festive and fun no matter your destination.

Escape the drab weather in the north and visit verdant Yangshuo

China in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November is a time of transition: the hordes of tourists have gone home, the sweltering heat and humidity that blankets much of China during the summer is a mere memory, and fall foliage has disappeared. It’s a golden opportunity to visit China thanks to the lack of crowds, decent weather that fluctuates from fall to winter, and moderate travel costs.

Nanjing Road, Shanghai on a chilly night

China in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

As the calendar year comes to a close, winter begins in China. As temperatures drop, so do the crowds and prices, making this the perfect season to take an extended trip to discover China’s treasures and ring in the western new year with a bang (or gong!).

China in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Timing is everything. Unless you want to partake in the world’s largest migration, it’s best to time your trip before or after Spring Festival, the Chinese New Year, a two-week festival that begins on January 25 in 2020 and February 12 in 2021 and February 1 in 2022 (timing is based on the lunar calendar). Most businesses close during the holiday as those who can afford it head home for the holidays. Traveling post-holiday can be a bargain. Those brave enough to face the fierce cold that blankets much of China in January are rewarded with a spectacular winter wonderland.

Lake Atitlán is surrounded by three volcanoes

Guatemala Honeymoon Adventure - 16 Days

Deemed one of the hidden wonders of the travel world, explore Guatemala on this 16-day adventure through cultural, culinary, and outdoor experiences with your partner. Stroll through the amazingly well-preserved colonial town of Antigua, with its charming cobblestone streets, historic ruins and churches, and bustling market. Climb the active Pacaya Volcano, enjoy lighter outdoor activities like kayaking around Lake Atitlan, and visit the famous Tikal Ruins.

The River Cetina source in the Dalmatian hinterland beyond Split

Explore Southern Dalmatia: From Split to Dubrovnik - 9 Days

A perfect blend of culture and adventure, this route travels across the southern Dalmatian coast from Split to Dubrovnik. Immerse yourself amid ancient Roman walls and palaces in the historic port city of Split before joining an exciting bike tour through the Croatian hinterland and discovering several popular Adriatic islands, including Bisevo, Vis, Hvar, and Korčula. You'll end your stay in Dubrovnik exploring Baroque and Renaissance buildings, fortress walls, and the legendary wines native to the region.

Walk the Ligurian Coast: Portofino, Cinque Terre & Portovenere - 8 Days

Explore the coastal trails of the Ligurian Riviera on foot with this adventurous itinerary. Starting in the seaside village of Camogli, you’ll make your way south, visiting beachside San Fruttuoso and Portofino before hopping a train to the iconic Cinque Terre. These five colorful villages are set like gems along steep sea cliffs, and you’ll walk between them via the region’s famed footpaths. Your final day ends in Portovenere, where you can watch the sunset over the shimmering Bay of Poets.

Best of Croatia: Zagreb to Dubrovnik - 12 Days

In this 12-day itinerary, you'll wind your way from Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, to Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Covering many of the country's best highlights, you'll see notable sights such as Plitvice Lakes National Park and Rector's Palace as well as taste the local cuisine and famous wines. A balance of culture and adventure provides you with an incredible experience from soaring high about the Cetina River Canyon to paddling the incredible blue waves of the Adriatic around Croatian islands. For an in-depth look, view the days detailed below.

Section of the coastal route along the Adriatic Coast

Self-Drive Croatia & Slovenia: Dubrovnik to Zagreb - 16 Days

Explore the magical coast of Croatia and feel the diversity of Slovenia during this 16-day journey. Stretched between two of Europe's biggest treasures - Dubrovnik and Bled, you'll see many of the most beautiful cultural and natural sites. Sandy beaches, hidden coves, crystal clear rivers, lush forests and Alpine peaks await you. For a more detailed description of each day, see the full itinerary below.

Culture, History, and Adventure in Myanmar & Thailand - 14 Days

This remarkable leisure journey will walk you through time, exposing you to history, culture, and heaven on earth beaches. You will visit famous temples and shrines, shop food and souvenirs aboard a boat, and experience one of the world's famous cities—Bangkok. Every day will bring something different, making it the ideal experience for anyone who enjoys variation, tranquility, and exploration.

Highlights of Japan: Cities, Mountains & Temples - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary takes you on a whirlwind tour through Japan's greatest highlights. Walk the streets of hyper-modern Tokyo and Osaka, hike to a sacred Buddhist monastery at Koyasan, soak in hot springs under Mount Fiji, and step back in time in historic Kyoto. From ancient temples to futuristic art shows, vibrant cities to secluded mountaintops, you'll experience a little bit of everything on this adventurous journey.

Beautiful Vis Island, a popular day-trip from the island of Hvar

Explore Dalmatia: Split, Hvar, Korčula, Dubrovnik - 13 Days

Immerse yourself into the coastal culture of the Dalmatian region with this 13-day journey through Croatia. You'll see incredible national parks, sail among beautiful islands, and explore the country's most popular city, Dubrovnik. Thanks to the international flight options to Split and Dubrovnik, it is possible to travel open-jaw too. Learn more with these diverse itineraries, below.

Ireland Self-Driving Tour: Dublin, Killarney & Dingle - 5 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland on this 5-day self-drive adventure. Start with a pint of Guinness in Dublin, dive into the Emerald Isle’s past at the Rock of Cashel, spend two nights in the famous heritage village of Killarney, and journey along the Wild Atlantic Way to tour the Dingle Peninsula.

Hike the Northern Cornish Coast - 6 Days

This six-day adventure follows a spectacular section of England's famed South West Coast Path. Starting in the seaside resort of Bude, you’ll hike south along Cornwall's Atlantic coast. Enjoy rugged clifftops, sandy bays, ancient ruins, and whitewashed fishing villages before ending your journey in the medieval port of Padstow.

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, sits along the Sava river

Capitals of Southeastern Europe: Slovenia to Montenegro - 11 Days

Discover southeastern Europe's capital cities and surrounding landscapes on this 11-day itinerary featuring Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Starting with Ljubljana, you'll dive into each nation's colorful history, sample authentic local cuisine, and admire stunning architecture from every era. You'll also tour castle-laden hills of Croatia's Zagorje region, walk amid pastel-hued Habsburg buildings in Serbia's Novi Sad, and enjoy panoramic views of the Neretva River from Bosnia and Herzegovina's Stari bridge in Mostar.

Walking Tour of Wessex: Salisbury, Stonehenge & Shaftesbury - 8 Days

This self-guided 8-day hiking holiday explores the beautiful countryside of the Wiltshire/Dorset border in southern England. Start your journey in the historic cathedral city of Salisbury, following ancient Wessex paths through the region’s famous chalk hills and valleys. Pass neolithic monuments, idyllic country villages, and grand country houses before ending at the Saxon hill town of Shaftesbury.

Beautiful views across the Jurassic Coast, Dorset.

Walk England's Jurassic Coast - 8 Days

This self-guided 8-day itinerary lets you walk Dorset’s spectacular Jurassic Coast at your own pace. Start in Lyme Regis and travel east along England's south coast, taking in dramatic chalk cliffs, shingle beaches, prehistoric earthworks, and charming thatched villages before ending in historic Lulworth.

Explore Botswana: Okavango Delta & Chobe Trail -7 Days

Prepare to enter the Okavango Delta in Botswana—one of the world’s most unique wilderness areas. Follow the hippo trails in dugout mokoros (traditional dugout canoes) and join your guide on nature walks to discover the islands. You'll head up to Chobe National Park, where you'll watch the African sunset from the comfort of your river cruise, and experience a close encounter with hippo and elephants. Your tour ends in Zimbabwe and the spectacular Victoria Falls, where you can take part in several available adrenaline activities.

Trekking in Bolivia: La Paz & Cordillera Real - 6 Days

Challenge yourself on one Bolivia's most epic treks through the Cordillera Real, which boasts incredible landscapes. The journey will start with two exciting days in La Paz, Bolivia's administrative capital and the highest capital in the world. You will get ready for trekking through the mountains by walking down from the top to the bottom of the city, hitting some exciting landmarks and local markets. You will then spend the next three days on an alternative Inca Trail. Enjoy the dramatic mountain scenery and pass through small towns that will give you a feel of Bolivia's Andean culture.

Sunset in Trincomalee (Photo courtesy of Pixabay)

Sri Lanka in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is the beginning of Sri Lanka’s off-season, so visitors can expect to benefit from lower prices and shorter lines at the attractions. At this point, the summer crowds are gone and the winter ones haven't yet arrived. The inter-monsoon season brings intermittent rain and thunderstorms throughout the island.

Buddhist stupa in Anuradhapura (Photo courtesy of Pixabay)

Sri Lanka in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September is shoulder season in Sri Lanka. It’s a good opportunity to take advantage of thinner crowds and lower prices, before October brings in the rain and thunderstorms of the inter-monsoon period.

A Hindu temple in Jaffna, Sri Lanka (Photo courtesy of Pexels)

Sri Lanka in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

In August, the southwest monsoon is nearing its end in Sri Lanka. With lower rainfall than surrounding months and many tourists from the northern hemisphere on summer vacation, it’s a popular time to visit. Consider a trip to Trincomalee or Yala National Park for wildlife spotting, celebrate the Kandy Perahera, or witness one of the country's largest temple festivals in Jaffna.

Fire dancers perform at the Kandy Perahera (Photo courtesy of Pexels)

Sri Lanka in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Sri Lanka’s two distinct monsoon seasons truly make it a year-round destination. While July is a wet month in southwestern Sri Lanka, the island’s northeastern half will be dry. This is a good time to explore national parks, wander along deserted beaches, and enjoy July’s colorful festivals.

June is a great time to see blue whales in eastern Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

In June, the southwest monsoon rains are falling over Sri Lanka. Colombo is damp and humid, and the island’s southern beaches and mountainous center are experiencing intermittent rainfall. Sri Lanka’s northeastern half will be dry, however, making this a good time to explore the island’s less-touristed regions.

The "White Stupa" in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November is shoulder season in Sri Lanka. The rain and thunderstorms of the inter-monsoon season keep away the crowds, so visitors can enjoy lower prices and shorter lines. Consider traveling near the end of the month, when the weather in the southwest of the country starts to clear up.

The view from Little Adam's Peak near Ella, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

December is the beginning of Sri Lanka’s high season. The main tourist areas in the southwest will be cool and dry, and Buddhist pilgrims start flocking to the summit of Sri Pada, or Adam’s Peak. This is a great month to visit Colombo, Kandy, and the island’s most developed beaches.

Majestic Sri Lankan leopards can be seen in Yala National Park

Sri Lanka in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

In May, the southwest monsoon will have started in Sri Lanka, and travelers can expect several hours of rain per day in Colombo and on the island’s southern beaches. On the other hand, the northeast monsoon will be over; this is a great month to check out northern and eastern Sri Lanka, the Cultural Triangle, and the hill country.

Flowers bloom in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka (Photo courtesy of Pexels)

Sri Lanka in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

April is considered a shoulder season in Sri Lanka. The weather's generally good during this month, although the southwest starts to experience heavy evening thunderstorms during this “inter-monsoon” period. Visitors to Sri Lanka in April can enjoy reasonable weather in both the north and south of the island, with fewer crowds than at other times of year.

Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka (Photo courtesy of Pixabay)

Sri Lanka in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

March is the last month for excellent beach weather in the southwest of the island, and the peak tourist season is winding down at this time along with the sunny skies. The Cultural Triangle is dry, and the north and east don’t receive too much rain this month, making it a great time to visit.

Sri Lanka in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By February, peak tourist season is well underway in Sri Lanka. The beaches in the southwest are pleasant and dry, and the northeast monsoon is winding down. The Cultural Triangle also has good weather at this time.

The Seema Malaka Temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

January is part of the high season in Sri Lanka, when the main tourist areas in the southwest are cool and dry. While the monsoon season is still going on in the northeast of the country, the late autumn rains in the "Cultural Triangle" will have mostly finished by now, making it a good time to visit the island’s historic sites.

Spend a few nights relaxing in the fjords between Oslo and Bergen

Oslo, Bergen & Alta Winter Tour - 12 Days

This 12-day itinerary is ideal for travelers who prefer to skip the peak-season crowds. The adventure kicks off in Norway's up-and-coming capital where you'll explore Oslo's best neighborhoods on your own and with a local guide. From here, travel by train, ferry, and bus to get to Bergen with a peaceful two-night stay in Aurland along the way. After exploring Bergen's museums, Christmas markets, and nearby fjords, you'll fly above the Arctic Circle to sled with huskies and hunt for the Northern Lights.

5 Days in Slovenia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days in Slovenia, you'll have just enough time to see the highlights and discover the best parts of this beautiful, diverse country. From the Julian Alps to peaceful Lake Bled, from the underground wonder of Postojna Cave to the beautiful colors of the Soča River, the following unique itinerary ideas are the perfect inspiration for any kind of traveler.

8 Days in Slovenia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With eight days in Slovenia, you'll have ample time to explore the country's beautiful scenery. Hit the highlights with a route that includes hiking in Lake Bled, biking in Bovec, and sipping wine in Goriška Brda, or sleep in a cozy mountain hut in the Julian Alps and explore the UNESCO Heritage-listed Skocjan Caves. Whether you're looking to spend time on the Adriatic Coast or the mountains—or both—the following unique itinerary ideas have something for everyone.

Japan in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is, arguably, the best month to travel to Japan (although this will depend on what you want to experience!). Temperatures in most places are still warm, but the intense humidity and increased rainfall of summer has subsided. Autumn leaves begin appearing at higher elevations and more northern latitudes. Here are some important things to know about traveling to Japan in October.

Japan in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September in Japan tends to be a month of two faces: earlier in the month, temperatures remain high and a second rainy season hits, bringing typhoons to some parts of the country. Later in the month, conditions are better for getting out and about, with warm but not overly hot temperatures, and clear skies. Here are some important things to know about traveling to Japan in September.

Japan in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

August is the hottest month of the year in Japan, and conditions are generally quite uncomfortable, with high humidity and hot nights. But, there are exceptions to this, and having a great time in Japan in mid-summer depends on knowing the best places to go, and the right experiences to enjoy. Here's what you need to know about traveling to Japan in August.

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