Travel Insights

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

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Follow wooden paths and dirt trails through the lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park

2 Weeks in Croatia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Croatia, you can embark on a well-rounded highlights tour that features Zagreb, the Dalmatian Coast, and Istria. Or, take the wheel on an ultimate road trip and spend more time on charming islands and detour to Montenegro. Alternatively, visit neighboring Slovenia and its capital of Ljubljana before zipping down the Dalmatian Coast on a self-drive itinerary, or pick up the pace and hike, raft, kayak, zipline, and cruise your way through the country on a multi-sport adventure.

This is prime territory for spotting the Northern Lights

Tromsø & Alta Winter Tour - 8 Days

This exciting and less-traveled winter adventure (November to April) takes you deep into Norway's boreal territory for spectacular snowcapped scenery. The tour begins in the quietly sophisticated city of Tromsø where you can sled with huskies during the day and chase the Northern Lights after dark. Continue to Alta for snowsports in the Arctic and a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprised of rock carvings.

Skip the crowds with a winter road trip in the Lofoten Islands

6 Days in Norway- 8 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With six days in a country as vast and varied as Norway, pick one general region and stick to it. Summer travelers can choose from a number of active road trips that involve hiking, whitewater rafting, and incredible scenery, while those visiting in winter can stay in an igloo above the Arctic Circle or spot wildlife in the Lofoten Islands. And pairing city tours of Oslo and Bergen, with a ride on the famed Flåm Railway in between, is great in any season.

Discover the Palamós coast when you set out to explore the province of Girona

9 Days in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days, you could plan a grand tour of Spain that not only includes Barcelona but lesser-visited locales along the coast. The stunning Costa Brava is one option, as are the white sands of the Costa de la Luz, in the Andalusia region. You could also take road trips to the north of Spain for a food tour of Basque Country, or south to La Mancha to see the land of Don Quixote.

Wildlife Spotting in Zimbabwe: Hwange & Lake Kariba - 8 Days

This trip to Zimbabwe is perfect for nature lovers as it combines two of Africa's top locations to see wildlife—Hwange National Park and Lake Kariba. Go on safari in Hwange to see lions and elephants before heading to the lake for stunning views and the chance to relax in style on the savanna.

Hiking the Dingle Way - 8 Days

Prepare to fall in love with the rugged beauty of west Ireland on this active, yet easily completed trip that will take you through charming towns and villages along the Atlantic coast. You'll hike 111 miles (179 km) along the Wild Atlantic Way, which is often hailed as one of the top 100 destinations in the world. Walk in the footsteps of Catholic pilgrims on the Kerry Camino, enjoy some of Ireland's best beaches, and discover some of Ireland's ancient artifacts like Ogham stones and ringforts.

Take a drive through the Irish countryside

South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days

A great choice for families or travelers who prefer a little independence, this itinerary will take you on a leisurely road trip through some of Ireland's most scenic cities and natural sites. Experience the allure of Ireland as you drive along the coast and over verdant hills between stop at the medieval Rock of Cashel, Killarney National Park, and the Cliffs of Moher.

Hiking the Wicklow Way - 9 Days

This itinerary takes adventurous travelers through ancient forests and glacial valleys of Ireland's Wicklow Mountains. Starting in the picturesque village of Clonegal, you'll hike along Ireland's most popular hiking trail that winds through small towns and country villages where you can experience authentic Irish hospitality. End your hiking trip in Dublin, where you can wander around Marlay Park and enjoy the lively nightlife.

Zimbabwe Safari Adventure: Victoria Falls & Hwange - 5 Days

Discover Zimbabwe's natural beauty on this adventurous five-day safari itinerary. Experience outdoor activities like whitewater rafting and ziplining at Victoria Falls before spending two days at a safari camp in Hwange National Park. If you've always dreamed of heading out to the savanna to get close to elephants and lions, then this trip will deliver heart-pounding thrills.

Luxury Zimbabwe Safari: Victoria Falls, Hwange & Matopos - 9 Days

Explore Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Matopos National Park in style with this upscale nine-day itinerary. Take in the natural beauty of Zimbabwe with safari outings and guided hikes in areas populated by big game and diverse bird species. This trip is perfect for those who want to experience the wildlife of the African savanna while enjoying top-tier service and amenities at your base camp.

The blue-and-white domed buildings in Santorini

Athens, Santorini, & Mykonos Exploration - 6 Days

This excursion takes you through the major highlights of the country's capital and two of its most popular islands, all in a 6-day timespan. In Athens, you'll visit the iconic Parthenon constructed in 438 BC, then go souvenir shopping at the bustling Monastiraki flea market. In Mykonos and Santorini, you'll lay on famous beaches, explore agricultural villages, eat fresh cuisine, and of course watch the sunset.

Arenal Volcano, an active stratovolcano in northwestern Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano & Playa Sámara Excursion - 5 Days

Embark on this five-day adventure that introduces you to the natural beauty of northwestern Costa Rica. You'll get to witness native animals during rainforest and sea tours, hike through Arenal Volcano National Park and stand on the active side of the volcano, and take up various activities at Sámara Beach, from snorkeling to horseback riding and laying on the golden sand.

Explore Historic Southern England - 10 days

Embark on a 10-day self-drive tour through the rolling hills of the English countryside. Amid its verdant forests and wild moors, you'll discover vast treasures in the form of medieval villages and ruggedly beautiful coastline. This adventure includes stops at some of the gems of England, like Canterbury, the castles of South Downs, Devon, the Isle of Wight, Cornwall, and Oxfordshire.

Kongde & Ama Dablam Luxury Trek - 13 Days

This luxury trek takes you through the Khumbu region of Nepal, bringing you to the foot of the world’s highest mountains. Throughout the trek, you will have great views of Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam, as well as great glaciers, snowfields, and ridges. At the end of each day, you'll retire to luxury accommodations, where you can enjoy a hot shower, sink into a cozy bed, and dine with phenomenal views of the Himalaya just beyond. Along the way, you'll also learn the history and traditions of the Kathmandu Valley, experience the culture of amazing Sherpa villages, and have the opportunity to visit famous Buddhist monasteries.

Colombian Cities and Nature: Bogotá, Amazon, Medellín, and Pacific Coast - 15 Days

This high-end itinerary covers a great deal of the country's territory, from its main cities to some off-the-beaten-path natural wonders. The adventure begins in Bogotá and its surroundings, then takes you deep into the heart of the mighty Amazon River, where you'll have a series of unforgettable days exploring the jungle via foot, canoe and small boats. Afterwards, you'll fly to Medellín to enjoy the city's history and vibrant modern culture before leaving for the Pacific Coast— a dense rainforest where you'll visit tiny villages and partake in a variety of activities including hiking and soaking in hot springs.

Highlights of Slovenia: Bled, Bovec, Ljubljana, & More - 10 Days

Get introduced to Slovenia on this self-drive trip that takes you through some of its most popular spots. After starting on the shores of Lake Bled, you'll make your way independently through the Julian Alps down to the Adriatic coast and back to the capital of Ljubljana, exploring from mountaintops down to the shores and underground along the way.

South Island Tour: Christchurch, Akaroa & Hanmer Springs - 5 Days

Enjoy the outdoors of New Zealand's South Island on this quick, five-day trip. Begin in Christchurch and go punting on the Avon River, stroll Hagley Park, and zipline through the Adventure Park. Next, tour the Banks Peninsula, where time stands still. Discover the bays, villages, galleries, and cafés, as well as Akaroa, nestled in the heart of a volcano. Go swimming with Hector’s dolphins and view little blue penguins on a night tour. Then, head to Hanmer Springs for a therapeutic soak or two in the thermal pools, take a scenic hike, or go mountain biking along New Zealand High Country and Hanmer Forest Park.

Northern New Zealand: Auckland, Bay of Islands & Matakana - 5 Days

On this short-yet-eventful tour of New Zealand, experience both the city and island life. Begin in Auckland, and take a scenic dinner cruise along the local harbors and marinas. Then, travel to the Bay of Islands and enjoy time in Paihia. Swim with dolphins, lounge on Te Ti Beach, and visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds for a guided history tour and a cultural performance. The trip concludes with an excursion into the Waipoua Forest, with its famous trees and acclaimed Matakohe Kauri Museum.

Luxury Annapurna Panorama Trek & Jungle Safari - 13 Days

Experience all that Nepal has to offer in this luxury trip that combines the thrill of trekking the Himalaya, going on exotic jungle safaris (by jeep and by boat), and exploring both city centers and rural life... all in style. This itinerary combines a 4-day trek through the Annapurna region with time to explore Kathmandu, the lakeside city of Pokhara, as well as a stint in the jungle, where you'll stay in an elephant camp. Spend your days adventuring and your nights relaxing in luxe accommodations, as you enjoy sweeping vistas and stellar hospitality.

Jewels of The Nile: Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan - 8 days

Explore Egypt on a luxurious Nile River cruise as you visit Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan. Highlights will include visiting the Pyramids of Giza, seeing art and artifacts at the Egyptian Museum, and Karnak Temple in Luxor. As you cruise down The Nile, you will also have time to relax and take in the scenery.

Discover the Great Pyramids, Aswan & Abu Simbel - 8 days

On this eight-day cruise, you'll have time to marvel at the wonders of Egypt and relax while traveling on one of the largest artificial lakes in the world — Lake Nasser. You'll see major sights like the Great Pyramids of Giza, the ancient structures of Aswan, and the monumental temples at Abu Simbel.

Ancient Egypt & Oasis Adventure: Cairo, Alexandria & Siwa - 10 days

Discover some of Egypt's most historic and exotic locales as you travel from Cairo across the country to the western oasis of Siwa. First, marvel at the great pyramids of Giza, see pharaohs' treasures in the Egyptian Museum, and tour one of the finest libraries of the ancient world in Alexandria. Then continue west to the Siwa Oasis to visit archaeological sites and enjoy a desert safari.

The Beagle Channel's lighthouse at the end of the world, Ushuaia

6 Days in Argentina - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Six days is a quick trip to Argentina—you'll want to focus on regional exploration to make the most of your time. Combine a day of tango and touring Buenos Aires with a journey through Mendoza's wine country or the wonder of Iguazú Falls. Another option is to head south to Patagonia; choose between the diverse marine ecosystem of Puerto Madryn, seeing the Perito Moreno Glacier up close in El Calafate, or traveling all the way down to the Ushuaia, the Southernmost city in the world.

16 Days in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In sixteen days, you could experience two or even three different regions of Spain. You can combine a highlights tour of Madrid, Barcelona, and Andalusia with an island hop around the Balearic Islands. There's also the option for a self-drive road trip to either Basque Country or southern Spain, and you could indulge your appetites by visiting the best tapas bars and taking the best wine tours in the country.

Checkout out Madrid and the equestrian monument to Philip IV in the gardens of the Royal Palace in the Plaza de Oriente

15 Days in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

There are no limits to the type of Spanish vacation you can plan with 15 free days. You can revel in the Moorish history of Andalusia, take a road trip into Spanish Basque country, go off the beaten track in La Mancha, and even hop a border into Portugal. If an island holiday is more your speed, consider horseback riding along the rugged coast of Menorca and sailing to secluded coves on the larger and equally beautiful Mallorca.

Inca ruins in the neighborhood of Miraflores, Lima

8 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With eight days in Peru, you can achieve a comprehensive tour of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, plus a couple of days enjoying the cuisine and culture of Lima. Or skip the capital city in favor of another point of interest: add a short Inca Trail trek, cruise around Lake Titicaca, or hike to colorful Rainbow Mountain. You can even pair a quick Machu Picchu adventure with a few days in the Peruvian Amazon. Learn more below.

Monteverde & Samara - 5 Days

This fun, five-day Costa Rica itinerary takes in many of the country's natural highlights, from wildlife reserves to beautiful beaches. Enjoy a combination of outdoor activity and relaxation, structured and free time, to ensure your quick trip to Monteverde and Samara is just what you want it to be. As this is a self-driving tour you can go at your own pace.

13 Days in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In just under two weeks, travelers can experience most of Spain's most beloved highlights without rushing. First-time visitors will enjoy spending time in Madrid, Seville, Granada, and Barcelona, with day trips from each. You can also opt to spend your whole trip in either the north or south, combining well-known points of interest with deeper cultural dives: think farm stays, coastal drives, and a cooking class in the Andalusian countryside.

Pikey Peak to Lukla Trek in the Lower Everest Region - 13 Days

Sir Edmund Hillary claimed that the view of the lower Everest region from Pikey Peak is the best in all of Nepal, and we're inclined to agree. This trek has the advantage of being slightly farther away from the big peaks, meaning views from the trail encompass much more of the Himalaya. You'll also visit Thupten Choling Monastery, where you can meditate with the resident nuns and monks. Enjoy the extraordinary scenery, get acquainted with Sherpa culture, and explore Kathmandu on this gorgeous route.

The view of Dhaulagiri from Khopra Danda

Khopra Danda Trek - 13 Days

Also known as the Khopra Ridge, this moderate, off-the-beaten-track adventure is a peaceful alternative to more popular treks in the region. For nine days you'll climb your way through local villages, terraced farmland, and dense bamboo, oak, pine, and rhododendron forests with rewarding vistas of snow-capped Annapurnas. There are plenty of chances to observe and participate in traditional Nepali lifestyle rituals, including staying in teahouses and taking a day-hike to Kaire, a sacred lake that Hindus believe will help you achieve Nirvana.

Annapurna Multisport: Trek, Bike, & Raft - 12 Days

This action-packed and adventure-filled trip will keep you on the move and get your heart rate pumping! Explore Nepal by mountain bike, river raft, and trekking trail. You'll hike through a beloved route in the Annapurnas, but will veer off-the-beaten-path for a unique mountain experience, all the while taking in incredible panoramas of extraordinary scenery.

Catch a fjordcruise to Bergen in the village of Flåm

Oslo to Bergen Summer Adventure - 6 Days

This 6-day itinerary combines Norway's two largest cities and a stunning mountainous area between them. Begin in modern Oslo—the fastest-growing capital in Europe—before heading westward to Eidfjord and Utne, home to the stunning Hardangervidda National Park. Top it off with a cruise to charming Bergen, the historic Hanseatic city known as the gateway to the fjords.

Multi-Day Trek in the Norwegian Highlands - 6 Days

Halfway between Norway's two largest cities—Oslo and Bergen—lies an extraordinary wilderness area situated between two national parks. This itinerary includes four days of hiking along well-marked trails (becoming more difficult each day) from Geilo to Finse. Start and end the trip with some urban culture and nightlife in the two aforementioned cities to round out this awesome adventure.

12 Days in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Twelve days in Spain is a great trip duration for getting to know two of the country's regions. Pair six days in Barcelona with a sun-filled week exploring the Balearic Islands or the Costa Brava, or hop between the major cities of central and southern Spain. Or, stick to one region or theme and do a deep dive: take a Southern Spain road trip inspired by local expertise, or see the country through the lens of food and wine on a culinary tour.

Cruise on Madre de Dios is the Peruvian Amazon

6 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Six days is just enough time for an efficient tour of the country's highlights. You can certainly visit Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley—and if you fly into Cusco instead of Lima, you can even fit a short Inca Trail trek in the itinerary. If this isn't your first visit to Peru, you might want to skip Machu Picchu in favor of a wildlife tour in the Amazon or an excursion to the more remote reaches of Northern Peru. Find out more below.

From Slovenia's Alps to the Adriatic: Lake Bled, Soča Valley, Piran - 14 Days

Ideal for travelers looking for a natural getaway packed with outdoor recreation, this exploration of Slovenia's rugged western region combines picturesque lake vistas with high-alpine mountain huts in Triglav National Park, cave spelunking, and sunsets on the coast. The trip begins in Ljubljana, a European Green Capital, and continues north to the unforgettable scenery of lakes Bled and Bohinj and the Julian Alps. You'll then travel south through the emerald waters of the Soča River Valley and lush hillsides of Goriška Brda wine region, ending your adventure with a dip into the waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Spanjola fortress at sunset in Hvar, Croatia

Discover Ancient Croatia: Dubrovnik to Hvar - 8 Days

This exciting itinerary combines self-driving to explore Croatia's breathtaking scenery alongside guided tours to discover the country's ancient history. After arriving, you can stroll past Dubrovnik's spectacular architecture along cobblestone pathways and self-drive through the Pelješac peninsula to the charming island Korčula. From Korčula, you will drive to Split where you can take a day trip to the picturesque Plitvice Lakes National Park before catching a ferry to the beautiful Mediterranean island Hvar and finally, departing back to Dubrovnik.

The ultimate breakfast view at Yeti Mountain Home, Kongde

Kongde Luxury Trek: Phakding, Namache Bazaar, Kongde - 12 Days

This deluxe trek is great option if you're short on time yet keen to see the Everest region — and do so in style! You'll spend your nights relaxing in a beautiful, luxury Himalayan lodge and your days either trekking or flying through the Everest region by helicopter. The highlight of the trek is Kongde, a village perched high on a ridgeline with incredible panoramic views that few trekkers get to see.

Cuba in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

December is peak season, especially during Christmas week, as Canadians and Europeans flood in droves. But the weather is as perfect as any month of the year. And three of Cuba’s premier festivals occur, including an unforgettable religious procession and the equally memorable fireworks “battle” (or parranda) of Remedios. But expect higher prices, and plenty of other visitors crowding your pictures.

Cuba in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The dry season finally arrives in November, bringing heaps of sunshine and agreeable temperatures. Plus, this month Cuba hosts some of the most popular festivals of the year. The tourist floodgates begin to open also, but not so much than Cuba feels crowded, and expect higher hotel and other rates than in prior months.

Che Guevara mural in Havana's Plaza de la Revolucion

Cuba in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

With temperatures cooling after the blitz of summer, and the peak season crowds still two months away, October can be a good time to visit. You’ll have much of Cuba more or less to yourself, and at bargain prices. However, overall it is the rainiest month. And this is a peak month for hurricanes, although the chance of one striking and affecting your visit remains very slim. Plus, three of Cuba’s premier music festivals take place in October.

Cuba in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

By September the suffocating heat of peak summer months begins to recede, but temperatures and humidity remain high. Havana and Western Cuba also see a second spike in rainfall. By month’s end the mid-summer tourist crowds and high-season hotel rates give way to far fewer visitors and bargain prices—making this month a win-win for travelers who don’t fear that September is the apex of hurricane season.

Cuba in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

We’re well into Cuba’s rainy season by August, with the hottest temperatures and highest humidity. Yet summer vacationers from Canada and Europe flock to the beaches to take advantage of Cuba’s scorching sunshine and ocean breezes—the rains are mostly heavy downpours perfectly timed to coincide with afternoon siestas. Plus, baseball season begins this month.

Cuba in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

July is one of the hottest and humid months of the year, although the chance of rain diminishes. It’s also one of the liveliest, with Cuba biggest carnival—in Santiago de Cuba—and its most important revolutionary celebrations, making this a great month to experience quintessential Cuban culture. Mid-July begins the Cubans’ own holiday season—a chance to vacation alongside the locals—while Canadians and European families flock to the beach resorts.

Cuba in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The summer wet season begins in earnest in June, when the humidity begins to resemble a sauna. The Eastern Provinces are the hottest part of the country, and by June often insufferably so. Understandably, this is the low season for tourism. Don't worry: there's still plenty of glorious sunshine. And in spite of the weather, there are some major advantages to off-season travel. You won’t be competing with crowds, and early summer travel offers the lowest prices of the year.

Cuba in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Cuba’s wet season officially begins in May so, yes, rain will likely be part of your experience. Fortunately, this usually means late afternoon thunderstorms following hot, sunny mornings. But you’ll have much of the country more-or-less to yourself as this is a low-season month. And the beginning of May is a great time to be in Havana for the country’s most important annual event—the May Day Parade—when you can experience Cuba at its most political.

Cuba in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Although the temperature is hotting up, this is still a fabulous month weatherwise, as the prolonged dry period (la seca) of Western Cuba extends through April. Heaps of sunshine and little rain. What’s not to like? Plus, Havana hosts several important cultural events. Not least, every three years, visitors get to enjoy the Biennal art festival, and while Easter is not the big deal it is in other Hispanic cultures, you can witness religious processions in any year.

Mogotes from Hotel Los Jazmines in Vinales

Cuba in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

This is a fantastic month weather-wise, as Western Cuba typically experiences a prolonged dry period—la seca—with relatively little rain, and warmer temperatures than January or February. In fact, many visitors feel that March offers the most agreeable climate of the year, although high-season room rates typically still apply. It’s a good time, too, to enjoy some of Cuba’s more off-beat musical festivals.

Classic car and Capitolio at unset in Havana

Cuba in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Although visitors are fewer than in January, February is, with good reason, still a very busy month, especially in Havana, Trinidad and Viñales. The sun shines without being overbearing, rain mostly stays away, and nighttime temps are refreshingly cool. Further afield the number of visitors thins, and it’s easy to find attractive off-the-beaten-track venues.

Cuba in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

This is a peak month in Cuba for travel. Havana, Trinidad, and Viñales in the heart of tobacco country can all seem overrun (although things have eased in Havana since 2019, with U.S. cruise ships no longer calling). This is also a peak festival season, and Havana is abuzz with celebration. Hotel rates are high, but there are plenty of bargain-priced casas particulares (private B&Bs). And though weather is variable, you’ll mostly experience gorgeous sunny days.

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