Travel Insights

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

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Ban Jelačić Square in Croatia's capital, Zagreb

Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, Hvar & Dubrovnik - 15 Days

Explore the best of Croatia on this 15-day itinerary, from Zagreb's edgy museums and architectural treats to the imposing fortress city walls in Dubrovnik. Spend three days enjoying the captivating Istrian peninsula and its gastronomy scene, then head to the travertine lakes of Plitvice before journeying down the Dalmatian coast to the historical cities of Zadar, Sibenik, and Split. You'll kayak amid the wooded Pakleni islands off the coast of Hvar, drink grk wine in Korcula, Marco Polo's hometown, and venture through the rugged wilds of the Peljesac peninsula.

The stunning Old Town of Rovinj along the coast of Istria

Best of Croatia: Pula to Dubrovnik - 15 Days

Explore the highlights of Croatia as you cross the country starting in the Istrian Peninsula in the north and working your way down the Dalmatian Coast to the "Adriatic Pearl", Dubrovnik. Along the way, you will explore ancient Roman ruins, medieval fortressed towns, and beautiful national parks. You will also bike, hike, kayak, and zip-line on this tour that highlights both adventure and cultural discovery.

Namo Buddha Monastery with the captivating Himalaya in the background

Balthali Village Trek - 6 Days

The Balthali Village Trek starts a short distance from Kathmandu on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley. Starting your trek in Jarsing Pauwa, you'll pass through quiet farming villages, verdant forests, and explore ancient temples. Immerse yourself in local traditions all the while enjoying stunning views of the Himalaya mountains wherever you turn.

8 Days in Chile - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In eight days, you can combine exploration of the Santiago area with one other major region—the Lake District, Atacama Desert, Patagonia, or Easter Island. Close to the capital, you can enjoy the culture of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, and wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley. For the adventurous, hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife tours await via the trip plans outlined below.

Explore Pucón and Chile's Lake District with a visit to Huerquehue National Park to see ancient Araucaria trees

6 Days in Chile - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With six days in Chile, you can get a taste of Santiago and spend a few days in one other region. Explore Pucón and the Araucaria forest, visit Valparaíso and Viña del Mar in Central Chile, trek through the Atacama Desert or Torres del Paine in Patagonia, or discover the ancient stones of Easter Island—all in these five itineraries below.

New Zealand: Auckland & Rotorua - 5 Days

On this active, five-day tour, experience two different cities in New Zealand. Begin in Auckland and stroll the trendy neighborhoods, followed by a day outdoors, including a dolphin and whale watching excursion. Then, travel to Rotorua, a geothermal destination. Explore the cultural and historical sites, dip into the hot springs, bike through the Redwoods Forest, and visit the famous Polynesian Spa.

Ultimate Auckland Tour - 5 Days

Enjoy an eventful five days in Auckland on this active itinerary. Upon arrival in the “Big Little City,” explore the town’s best shopping nooks, restaurants, museums, and parks. Then, go kiwi spotting on a day-to-night nature tour, followed by a wine tasting trip to Waiheke Island. The vacation concludes with a ferry ride to Rangitoto Island to explore the scenic volcanic destination and its lava tunnels.

Sunset colors in the peaceful woods near Tromsø

Multi-Day Dog Sledding Adventure in the Arctic - 8 Days

Norway's snowy landscapes above the Arctic Circle offer perfect conditions for dog sledding. With this 8-day itinerary, you'll spend half of the trip at a sustainable farm taking part in day-trips (traveling by dog sled, of course) involving trapping and fishing, while learning about local culture with an expert guide. Spend the other half of the trip in the 'Paris of the North'—a lively city called Tromsø—to round out this fun adventure.

How Many Days to Spend on Santorini

The crescent-shaped island of Santorini is compact enough that driving from one end to the other takes less than an hour, and it's easy to maximize a short trip. With only 24 hours here, you can see the ruins of Akrotiri, the vineyards at Megalochori, and the whitewashed villages of Oia and Fira. But to really experience Santorini, consider spending three to five days: you'll be able to sightsee, hike, and beach-hop while embracing the relaxed pace of island life.

Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 16 Days

Explore the best of Croatia on this comprehensive 16-day trip from the dynamic capital of Zagreb to the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik. Immerse yourself in culture, history, and stunning landscapes as you tour the romantic countryside of the Istrian peninsula, overnight in Plitvice Lakes National Park, and drive along the Dalmatian coast. You'll roam the tightly-woven network of cobblestoned streets in historic Rovinj, walk Split's 1,700-year-old stone-paved streets, leftover from Roman times, and feast on fresh-caught oysters and mussels in Ston after sampling wine native to the Pelješac peninsula.

Best of Croatia & Slovenia: Ljubljana, Rovinj, Hvar, & Dalmatia - 14 Days

Head off on an unforgettable adventure as you cover the best of Croatia and Slovenia in two weeks, starting in Zagreb. You'll cross borders to overnight in the capital of Ljubljana before venturing through the breathtaking scenery of Triglav National Park, the Soča Valley, and the Karst region. Your trip culminates along Croatia's Adriatic coast, from the Istrian Peninsula in the north through to the fortressed city of Dubrovnik in the south as well as Plitvice Lakes, Split, and Hvar in between.

The charming hilltop town of Buzet in the Istrian peninsula

Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Istria, & Dalmatia - 13 Days

Go from medieval hilltop towns in vineyard-covered Istria to charming coastal cities of the Dalmatian coast over the course of this 13-day trip. You'll begin in the art-forward capital of Zagreb before venturing to the romantic landscape of the Istrian peninsula where you'll hunt for truffles, tour fortressed villages, and relax on pebbled beaches. Carry on down the coast after spending the night in breathtaking Plitvice Lakes to watch a sunset in Zadar, visit your own personal island off of Korčula, and explore the rugged beauty of the Pelješac peninsula.

View of Korčula from atop Mt. Ilija on the nearby Pelješac peninsula

Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Šibenik, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 12 Days

This thorough 12-day self-guided tour covers Croatia's best, from cultural stops in Venetian-infused cities to the exploration of ancient Roman ruins. Explore medieval hilltop towns, lively markets, historic fortressed cities, and glittering salt pans. You'll sip local wine native to Korčula, ride through vineyards and olive groves across Hvar Island, and relax on Split's inviting Bačvice beach.

Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Šibenik, Hvar, & Dubrovnik - 11 Days

From the romantic countryside of Istria to the charming coastal cities along the Dalmatian coast, this complete 11-day journey covering the best of Croatia has it all. The trip begins in the bustling capital of Zagreb and then takes you to Pula, Rovinj, Poreč, and Motovun with Roman ruins, historic churches, and medieval hilltop towns waiting to be explored. You'll catch an unforgettable sunset in Zadar, wind your way through labyrinthine streets in Šibenik and Trogir, ride a bike across Hvar Island, and walk the ancient fortress walls of Dubrovnik, the "Adriatic Pearl."

Aveiro, the "Venice of Portugal," twinkles in December

Portugal in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Christmas is coming, and Portugal is in full festive swing, with brightly lit towns and cities, fairs popping up everywhere, and parties on the agenda. Before the holidays arrive, however, it's a quiet month, ideal for exploring hotspots that get crowded in sunnier months and taking advantage of low-season deals.

Check out Lisbon's cultural highlights and duck into a museum or café any time the weather starts to sour

Portugal in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Don't let the odd drop of rain dampen your visit to Portugal in November. With the right clothes and attitude, this can be a fantastic time to explore the cities, rural interior, and coast without the crowds—and the sun shines more often than you might expect. You'll love the peace, authentic vibe, and rock-bottom prices as fall begins to usher in winter.

It's still warm enough in the Algarve to visit a beach like Benagil and cool enough to hike the coastal trails

Portugal in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

One of the finest months to visit Portugal, October brings a riot of fall colors and some glorious clear days. While rains begin to fall on the north, the south is still largely sunny, making this a terrific time for coastal hiking, slow touring in the rural interior, and even the odd beach day. The crowds are drying up in the cities and at the country's UNESCO World Heritage sites, too, making this the perfect month for exploring in peace.

Spend time in the Douro Valley visiting wineries and admiring the changing foliage

Portugal in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September is hands-down one of the loveliest months to visit Portugal. The weather is still fine (but not as hot as August), the ocean has had all summer to warm up, and the crowds are finally starting to thin. And the first whisper of fall is bringing seasonal color and new wine to regions like the Douro as the grape harvest gets underway.

Stairway to the Romanesque church of Bom Jesus do Monte in Tenões just outside of Braga

Portugal in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Portugal brings on the summer highs in August. You'll have to contend with higher crowds, temperatures, and prices, but there's a delightfully upbeat mood in the air, as everyone seems to be on vacation and a stream of high-spirited festivals and late-night parties keep things nice and lively. And if the heat gets too much to handle, take the lead of the locals and head to the nearest "praia" for an invigorating dip in the Atlantic.

Take to the west Atlantic coast, like Nazaré to avoid the throngs of local and foreign travelers

Portugal in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July marks the start of peak summer season in Portugal, and just chilling on the coast appears more enticing than ever, with refreshing Atlantic waves to dive into, breezes taking the edge off the heat, and ice cream close by. The major cities and resorts are humming, and festivals are bringing a buzz to all corners of the country. If you like things lively, now's the time to go.

Venture to the Algarve in June ahead of the peak summer crowds to explore charming towns like Faro and of course, the stunning coast

Portugal in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Summer has officially arrived in Portugal, with beautiful sunshine up and down the country and a roster of happening festivals. June is a great month to visit, as the throngs that descend on beaches and cities in July and August are still a way off, temperatures haven't yet reached scorching point, and there are still some good deals to be had.

Explore Peneda-Gerês National Park in May while the weather is cool and sunny

Portugal in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

With longer days, plenty of sunshine, and temperatures climbing steadily higher, May is a fantastic month to explore Portugal's coast and cities, not to mention the vineyards and mountains that ripple across the hinterland. Go now before the big crowds of summer begin to show up.

Visit Sintra to see the Initiation Well in April when the crowds are still at bay

Portugal in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Spring has finally sprung, the countryside is blooming, there's lots of sunshine between the showers, and Easter is on the way, making April one of the most enticing Months to visit Portugal. Avoid the school holidays and you can still bag a good deal (and beat the crowds).

Coimbra's Jardim da Sereia is alight in blossoming flowers

Portugal in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

While there's still the odd shower and chilly day, the first whiff of spring is in the air in March, with days steadily getting milder and sunnier, and the countryside awash with blossoms. This is a great month for low-key, crowd-free city breaks, leisurely road trips, and coastal and backcountry hikes.

Road trip to Cabo de São Vicente, Europe's most western point

Portugal in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

While the weather can be cool and wet, a trip to Portugal in February means you'll be able to dodge the crowds in the sight-crammed cities and get the beaches, mountains, and trails virtually all to yourself. The cost of flights and hotels plummets, making for some tempting deals. And things heat up events-wise with carnival festivities up and down the country.

Porto's colorful buildings bring cheer even on the gloomiest of winter days

Portugal in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

If you're prepared for cooler temperatures and spontaneous showers, January can be a great month to see a low-key, untouristy side of Portugal. There are fewer crowds, lower prices, and some excellent deals available. The beach might be a no-go, but this is a terrific time to hit the cities or embark on a trek in the warmer south of the country.

Local Flavors of France: Paris & Loire Valley - 8 Days

Ignite your senses—and taste buds—with this delicious tour of Paris and the picturesque Loire Valley, home to countless castles and gastronomic delights. Discover iconic Parisian highlights and delve into local flavor with wine tasting, a cooking class, and more. After, board a train through the magnificent French countryside to explore the Loire Valley's castles and vineyards and sail through the sky on an unforgettable hot-air balloon ride.

The view of Dhaulagiri from Khopra Danda

Khopra Danda Trek & Bandipur - 14 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 eight 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 take part 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.

Cultural Chile & Easter Island Exploration - 9 Days

Enjoy a cultural adventure through Chile on this nine-day vacation. Start in Santiago to tour the landmarks and markets and take advantage of the burgeoning restaurant scene. Then, venture to Easter Island to explore the history and moai of the ancient Polynesian destination. Next, return to Santiago and venture out on day trips to Viña del Mar, Valparaíso, and the Casablanca Valley for a grand finale of wine tasting.

An Active Tour of Chile: Santiago, Valparaíso, & Torres del Paine - 9 Days

Explore the best of Chile's urban and natural landscapes on this nine-day adventure. Begin in the capital city of Santiago. Explore modern Chilean culture while visiting the markets, skyscrapers, and parks. Next, head to Valparaíso, the bohemian port town that features bright graffiti and classic architecture. Enjoy a visit to the Maipo Valley to take in its stunning mountain landscapes while sipping Chilean wine. Then, venture south to Patagonia for a visit to Torres del Paine National Park—one of the most famous and beautiful protected areas in the world.

Santiago & Atacama Desert Tour - 9 Days

On this scenic Chilean adventure, explore several regions of the country over the course of nine days. Begin in Santiago, and tour the landmarks and markets. Then, embark on two day trips—one to the neighboring towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, followed by an excursion to explore the beauty of Maipo Valley. Next, venture into the Atacama Desert region to discover the valleys, geysers, and villages, along with memorable sunrises, sunsets, and stargazing.

Bergen's colorful waterfront looks especially festive during the holidays

Norway's Fjords in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The transition from autumn to winter draws travelers to the fjords for city hikes, skiing, and festive ambiance. Others may seek the quiet landscapes above the Arctic Circle where Polar Nights let the Aurora Borealis shine bright. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Sunset over the fjords in the Hardanger region

Norway's Fjords in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

November is a quiet month to visit Norway’s fjords, allowing you to take advantage of the last autumn colors before the snow arrives. This is a month offering fewer crowds, early ski openings, Northern Lights, and great whale watching. This monthly guide will tell you what to do and where to go.

Hasselvika village at the edge of Trondheimsfjorden

Norway's Fjords in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is a glorious time to enjoy Norway’s fjords, with colorful fall scenery and far fewer travelers to contend with. This is when sunsets arrive earlier, temperatures begin to drop, and the Northern Lights reappear above the Arctic Circle. Find out what to do and where to go with this monthly guide.

The first signs of autumn in northern Norway

Norway's Fjords in September: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

September marks the end of high season in Norway’s fjords with lingering summer weather—perfect for road trips and enjoying outdoor activities and iconic views without the masses. This is also a great month to hike Bergen's surrounding mountains whilst taking part in its annual food festival. Read on to learn more.

Take a hike to Troll's Tongue overlooking the Hardangerfjord

Norway's Fjords in August: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

August does not disappoint as one of the most popular months to visit Norway’s fjords, providing an ideal environment for outdoor adventures enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. You can skip the crowds with lesser-known attractions or join the lively festivals while summer's still here. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Peak season in Norway offers more fjordcruise options

Norway's Fjords in July: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

It doesn’t get much better than July for experiencing Norway's fjords by land or sea. The agreeable weather is ideal for outdoor activities, fjord cruises, and loads of food and music-themed festivals taking advantage of the Midnight Sun. This monthly guide will tell you what to do and where to go.

Scenery near the village of Olden on the southern shore of the Nordfjorden

Norway's Fjords in June: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

June is ideal for travelers looking to optimize outdoor adventures in Norway's fjords. This is when days are long and nights are short; there's also reliable weather on land and sea, not to mention a slew of fun festivals to celebrate the Summer Solstice. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

The Seven Sisters Waterfall meets the Geirangerfjord

Norway's Fjords in May: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

May is a remarkable month for visiting Norway's fjords. Sandwiched between Easter and the Summer Solstice, this is the time to take advantage of longer days, blooming flowers, and rushing waterfalls like the Seven Sisters. You can also join locals as they celebrate Norway's biggest holiday: Constitution Day.

Norway's Fjords in April: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Spring has arrived in Norway’s fjords with melting ice, rushing waterfalls, and budding landscapes. This is a great time to get outdoors and explore trails and villages that may have bunkered down for the winter. Though tourism tends to rise for Easter, the fjords are still more affordable and peaceful than summer months. Read on to learn more.

A stunning fjord sunrise above the Arctic Circle

Norway's Fjords in March: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Visiting Norway's beautiful fjords in March will bring a touch of spring thanks to the increasing daylight hours. This is a great month to explore cultural sites in walkable cities, schuss the uncrowded slopes, and catch the Northern Lights above the Arctic Circle before they hibernate for the season.

Cruise through the snowy fjords on the Hurtigruten

Norway's Fjords in February: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Despite the chilly, wet weather, Norway's long, dramatic coastline offers winter sports and local festivals—as well as fewer tourists and lower prices. February is also a great time for taking a fjord cruise and catching the Northern Lights before they disappear in the spring. Read on to learn more.

Norway's Fjords in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

Norway's stunning coastline should not be skipped despite the cold and dark. The fjords in January offer milder temperatures than inland regions, as well as snowy activities, fewer crowds, and more affordable costs. This is also one of the best months for viewing the Northern Lights above the Arctic Circle. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Iguazú Falls in December: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

December marks the start of summer at Iguazú Falls. The days get longer, the temperatures climb, and tourist crowds build as the month goes on: it's a great time of year to visit, just as long as you plan ahead. Learn more about what to expect, where to go, and what to do in the national parks with this monthly guide to December at Iguazú.

Iguazú Falls in November: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

With pleasant weather and moderate crowds, November is a fine time to visit Iguazú Falls. True, you'll probably get wet—this is a fairly rainy time of the year in the region—but what else would you expect when visiting one of the largest waterfall systems in the world? Learn what to expect and what to do, plus top tips for boating and bird-watching, with this monthly guide to November at Iguazú.

Iguazú Falls in October: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

October is a good time for hiking, boating, and bird-watching at Iguazú National Park, just as long as you're prepared for precipitation. This is the rainiest month of the year in the region—then again, Iguazú is one of the largest waterfall systems in the world, so getting wet is par for the course (and part of the fun). Learn what to expect with this monthly guide to October at Iguazú Falls.

Rio de Janeiro and Iguazú Falls - 7 Days

On this weeklong trip to Brazil, experience city life, and then connect with nature. The trip kicks off in Rio de Janeiro, with a full-day city tour of sites like Christ the Reedemer, Sugar Loaf, and all the best beaches. Then, take a day trip to Pedra Bonita for scenic viewpoints. Next, venture to Iguazú Falls, a phenomenon that spans from Brazil to Argentina. Enjoy some free time before experiencing the falls from both countries, and tour the Iguazú River.

Explore Brazil: São Luís to Lençóis Maranhenses - 6 Days

This six-day trip through two regions of Brazil provides a great combination of culture and adventure. Begin in the charming island city of São Luís. Embark on a sightseeing tour of all the main streets, avenues, and squares. Then, travel to Barreirinhas, your home base surrounding Lençóis Maranhenses National Park. Boat along the Preguiças River, Atins Circuit, and Lagoa Azul Circuit, trek the dunes, and swim in lagoons along the way.

Highlights of Egypt: Cairo & Sharm El Sheikh - 7 Days

On this weeklong tour of Egypt, you'll enjoy a mix of cultural sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Tour ancient Egyptian landmarks in Cairo, behold the grand pyramids and the Sphinx in Giza, and see Roman ruins in Alexandria. Then you'll fly to the coastal resort of Sharm El Sheikh, venture out on a grand safari around Dahab, and relax by the Red Sea before circling back to the capital city.

Nile River Cruise & Cultural Tour: Cairo, Luxor & Aswan - 10 Days

See Egypt by land, sea, and air on this unforgettable 10-day adventure. Start in Cairo and the legendary pyramids of Giza, then fly to Luxor and take a ride down the Nile River, stopping to tour ancient temples along the way. Circle back to the capital and immerse yourself in Cairo's Islamic heritage as you visit mosques and museums and browse for souvenirs at the 14th-century market, Khan el-Khalili.

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