Travel Insights

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

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Dubrovnik's Banje Beach and fortress walls

Classic Croatia: Plitvice, Hvar, Korčula, & Dubrovnik - 15 Days

Discover Croatia on this classic 15-day route starting in the charming capital of Zagreb. You'll tour the castle-laden hills of the Zagorje and discover cascading waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes before visiting the coastal cities of Zadar, Šibenik, and Split. You'll hike, kayak, swim, and cycle your way across Hvar and Korčula islands and the Pelješac Peninsula, drive to Montenegro for a scenic day trip, and end your stay in Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic."

Best of Guatemala by Mountain Bike - 16 Days

Spend 16 days riding on two wheels as you explore Guatemala's lively towns and unrivaled natural splendor; you'll traverse from Antigua to the sparkling waters of Lake Atitlan, then ascend the country's highest mountains in Huehuetenango. You'll return from this action-packed escape inspired by both the rugged beauty of the land as well as the warmth and loveliness of the Guatemalan people, not to mention the new friends you'll make on the trails.

Provence in December: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Though the nights are a little longer and the days cooler, December kicks off La Calendale Christmas season in Provence brightening spirits. Every village, town, and city gets a festive makeover of twinkling lights, lively window displays, and bustling Christmas markets. Plus, it's time to hit the slopes of the Southern Alps now that the ski season is underway.

The well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater in Arles

Provence in November: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Summer is a distant memory with cooling temperatures and changing foliage. The vineyards of Provence transform into a blaze of gold, bronze, and red while towns and villages celebrate the "primeur" tastings of the season’s harvest from months earlier. And with the Toussaint holidays, you can expect reduced hours at major sites and attractions.

Saint-Tropez looks out onto the Mediterranean

Provence in October: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Even though it’s the rainiest month of the year, it’s still Provence. That means the showers are short and heavy, leaving you time to enjoy the bouts of sunshine. Plus, the Mediterranean Sea is pleasant enough to entice beachgoers and harvest festivals are plenty. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Lavender fields in the Valensole plateau

Provence in July: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

July is undoubtedly the busiest time of the year and for good reason, as the weather is beach-perfect, the festival season is in full swing, and Provence's famous lavender fields are blooming. This is also the month of France's biggest holiday, Bastille Day, with celebrations all over the region. Read on for more tips on where to go and what to expect in Provence this month.

Tour the number of vineyards strewn throughout Provence, like this one in the Gigondas region

Provence in September: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

There’s a welcome change in the air as August’s chaos turns into September’s calm. Temperatures taper off as the month progresses and the holidaymakers migrate home. Plus, the vineyard's darkened vines bear grapes ready for the picking: it’s the start of the vendange (grape harvest) season!

Rocky coast along the Côte d’Azur near Saint-Raphaël

Provence in August: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

If you can’t beat the crowds, you might as well don your party hat (or swimsuit!) and join in the revelry. August sees plenty of festivals, the French join tourists on their holidays, and the extensive coastline teem with beachgoers and traffic. To avoid disappointment, book activities and restaurants in advance and read on as this guide will tell you what to do and where to go.

Villefranche-sur-Mer looks over the French Riviera

Provence in June: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Despite the heat, soaring prices, and crowds, June offers sublime beach-perfect weather tempting the first bathers into the sea. Not to mention a chock-full roster of festivals and events, including the popular Fête de la Musique. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Provence in May: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Hands down May is one of the loveliest months of the year to visit Provence as the warm weather draws in the sun-seekers looking to enjoy the beaches along the French Riviera, as well as partake in the host of activities on offer everywhere else. With so much to do and so much to see let this monthly guide help you plan your Provençal adventure.

Provence in April: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

April transitions to Provence's shoulder season when visitor numbers increase, yet there are still bargains to be had. The weather is warm during the day and though there are plenty of April showers, they're short and give way to clear blue skies that characterize the south coast. Wildflowers and trees bloom inviting skiers to trade in their ski boots for hiking gear and Arles' marks the start of the bullfighting season with its Easter Feria.

Mountains in Écrins National Park peek through the clouds in the Champsaur Valley

Provence in March: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

There's something for everyone in March: winter sports on the slopes of the Southern Alps, white water rafting along the Ubaye River, and the cultural delights of Nice's Vieille Ville (Old Town). Spring is here and with that comes warmer weather, blooming flowers, and lively parties for Carnaval.

Performer in the Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) parade in Menton

Provence in February: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

February in Provence offers much to the intrepid traveler, no matter the interest. Snowy adventures on the highest peaks of the Southern Alps, blossoming yellow mimosa trees along the southern coast, and festivals to welcome in the spring season pop up in places like Menton and Tourrettes-sur-Loup. Find out what to do and where to go with this February guide.

Historic Avignon's Palais des Papes and Pont Saint-Bénézet glow serenely in the early evening

Provence in January: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

The Mediterranean coast remains quiet with near-empty beaches offering a serene environment in a part of France that is crazy busy the rest of the year. Meanwhile, the Provençal Christmas season continues seeing plenty of food and wine festivals, among others, there's the much-sought-after black truffle. Hit the slopes of any of the stellar resorts, shop the winter sales, and discover cultural delights within Lourmarin's Château walls.

13 Days in Greece - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In just under two weeks, you can easily tour Greece’s capital, mainland, and islands. Make your way from Athens to the Cycladic islands to Crete at a slower pace, or pack in guided historical tours or adventurous activities as you hop through the same destinations. You can also elect to explore one specific region, such as Crete or the Greek mainland, where you can discover unique villages and get a feel for the area’s history and culture. Read on for some great itineraries that make the most of a 12-day trip.

12 Days in Greece - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With twelve days in Greece, you can dig deep into one region, like the mainland or the Cyclades, and still have time to explore the iconic sights and flavor of Athens. There are myriad ways to divide up your days depending on your desired pace and preferences: hop around an island chain; devote more time in fewer destinations through a historical lens; or hit the road to discover villages, towns, and unique ruins. See some options below.

Feel weightless in the salty waters of the famous Dead Sea

5 Days in Jordan - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days makes a quick trip to Jordan, but it's enough time to hop between the country's southern highlights—a couple of hours of driving on well-maintained highways is all that separates Petra, the Dead Sea, and the desert wilderness of Wadi Rum. Active travelers can lean into Jordan's outdoor offerings with an itinerary filled with hiking, canyoning, and diving in the Red Sea. Yet another time-maximizing option? Pair Petra with a tour of Jerusalem and "Holy Land" sites in the West Bank.

Greek Islands in January: Travel Tips, Weather, and More

The vast majority of visitors hit the Greek Islands in the hot heyday of summer, but January offers sublime tranquility and bargain prices, with no other tourists in sight. Weather is unpredictable and chilly, but the sky is often crystal clear. And although many tourist businesses are closed for winter and ferries reduce their schedules, this also a time when the islands have returned to their normal pace and authentic lifestyle.

The Twelve Apostles at sunset off the Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia

5 Days in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days is a quick trip to Australia—you'll want to embark on a regional adventure to make the most of your time. A tour of Sydney offers stops at all the popular landmarks and a day trip to the Blue Mountains. Or, explore Far North Queensland, including the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. You can even journey deep into the outback of Uluru Alice Springs. Learn more in our itinerary picks below.

Santiago & Torres del Paine - 6 Days

Explore several sides of Chile on this six-day itinerary. Begin in the cosmopolitan city of Santiago to learn about the culture. Next, visit the neighboring coastal towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso for some sightseeing. Then, head to one of the most impressive landscapes on earth, Torres del Paine National Park. Hike to the base of the iconic towers and get an up-close look at the majestic Grey Glacier during a boat tour.

Ultimate Tour of Galicia: Santiago de Compostela, Lugo, & Vigo - 5 Days

Spain is the perfect country in which to escape for a few days, and Galicia is one of its most beautiful areas. This five-day jaunt will take you from the cobbled streets of Santiago to the green mountains of the Ribeira Sacra wine country. The cherry on top is a boat tour to the Cíes Islands, a small group of islets with white-sand beaches crystalline waters.

Ultimate Tour of Galicia: Santiago de Compostela, Lugo & Vigo - 6 Days

Even in six days, you can enjoy the highlights of Galicia. This region is as culturally rich and naturally beautiful as any other in Spain, but it's less visited than popular tourist destinations like Catalonia and Andalusia. The itinerary starts in Galicia's capital of Santiago, and from there, you'll travel to inland wine country plus charming coastal cities while also embarking on a boat trip to beautiful offshore islands.

Spain Road Trip: Madrid, Leon, & Santiago de Compostela - 7 Days

One week is all you need to embark on the road trip of a lifetime through Spain. You'll spend the first day in Madrid, seeing the sights and enjoying local cuisine, before hopping in your car and heading north. You'll stop in León, a well-preserved medieval city, then travel through wine country, visit the gardens of country homes, and end the trip in Santiago de Compostela, the last destination on Spain's most famous pilgrimage route.

End your road trip with time spent in Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Spain Road Trip: Madrid, León & Santiago de Compostela - 8 Days

This eight-day road trip includes the best parts of Spain's rich culture, historic cities, and memorable landscapes. In Madrid alone, you'll tour famous city sights, dine at authentic tapas bars, and take in a live flamenco performance. Then it's time to hit the road as you travel to Salamanca, León, and finally to Santiago de Compostela, the final destination on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Spain Road Trip: Madrid & Santiago de Compostela - 9 Days

Spain's Galicia region is famous for its beautiful coastline, countryside, and religious pilgrimage sites. You'll experience this first-hand on your own four-wheeled pilgrimage that'll take you from the busy streets of Madrid to the green mountains of Galician wine country and finally to the historic city of Santiago. Throw in an excursion to offshore islands, and you have the ingredients for the perfect Spanish adventure.

Spain Road Trip: Madrid, Leon, & Santiago de Compostela - 10 Days

The best thing about a road trip in Spain is that you're not only guaranteed to see beautiful landscapes but you'll visit incredible cities as well. This 10-day tour offers the best of both worlds as you drive from the capital of Madrid to León and then to Santiago and the heart of Galicia. Along the way, you'll stop for wine tours, river cruises, and even an island hop.

Relax on the white-sand beaches of the Cíes Islands, Spain

Spain Road Trip: Madrid, Leon & Santiago de Compostela - 11 Days

Spain is the perfect country for a road trip, as the landscapes and culture change from region to region. Over 11 days, you'll drive from the capital of Madrid into Galicia, where you'll indulge in everything from wine tours to boat excursions to islands rimmed with white-sand beaches. You'll even visit the historic city of Santiago de Compostela, the terminus of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route.

Step inside the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, where the popular Camino de Santiago pilgrimage ends

Spain Road Trip: Madrid, Leon & Santiago de Compostela - 12 Days

Part of the fun of traveling through Spain is seeing how the culture changes from one region to another. You'll experience this phenomenon over 12 days as you travel from the nation's capital Madrid to Galicia. This is a unique part of the country that has it all, including historical religious sites, unspoiled coastlines, exotic islands, and some of the best seafood anywhere in the world.

Argentina Wine Country: Buenos Aires and Mendoza - 7 Days

This seven-day trip through Argentina is perfect for wine lovers. You'll start in the romantic and lively Buenos Aires, then will discover the gems of Argentine wine country, including Lujan de Cuyo and Uco Valley in Mendoza, touring wineries and walking through vineyards as you learn about the winemaking and its history. More importantly, you'll taste your way through Argentina's finest varietals, discovering this country's flavor and traditions as you go. Cheers!

Explore Chilean Patagonia - 6 Days

On this brisk, six-day excursion, experience the unforgettable landscapes of Chilean Patagonia. Explore the capital city of Santiago to start, then travel to Punta Arenas to visit Magdalena Island, home to a colony of more than 150,000 penguins. Then, embark on a trek into the famed Torres del Paine National Park, a Patagonian Mecca for hikers. The vacation concludes with a stunning boat trip to Glacier Grey.

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

May is a great time of year to visit Iguazú. The weather is relatively cool, you won't run into major crowds, you'll experience blue skies instead of rainy days, and the low level of the river makes it a good time of year for boat adventures and hiking alike. Find out more about what to expect at Iguazú in May with this monthly guide.

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

Consider yourself lucky if you're visiting Iguazú in April. Thanks to comfortable fall weather with warm sunshine and blue skies, it's a perfect time to see one of the world's most impressive waterfall systems—just as long as you avoid visiting during busy Semana Santa (Holy Week), when Argentine and Brazilian tourists come in droves. Check out this monthly guide for more on what to expect at Iguazú in April.

Active Adventure in Jordan: Wadi Mujib, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba - 5 Days

On this outdoor-focused itinerary, you'll spend five days exploring Jordan's dramatic landscapes, from windblown deserts and living canyons to ancient cultures and Red Sea reefs. Go canyoning in Wadi Mujib, hike your way through Petra, and enjoy world-class snorkeling and diving off the shores of Aqaba. Spend two of your evenings gazing at the stars from traditional Bedouin camps in Little Petra and Wadi Rum.

11 Days in Greece - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 230 inhabited islands and a sprawling mainland, Greece offers more than enough culture, adventure, and relaxation to fill an 11-day trip. You'll likely start with must-see sites in Athens, then explore two or three of the major Cycladic islands. Other options include road tripping the Peloponnese peninsula, going off the beaten path on less-visited isles, or a combination of all of the above.

How kimkim Trips Work in Portugal

With its iconic beaches, fairytale castles, and ancient cities, Portugal is a destination for every traveler. At kimkim, our Portugal specialists have years of experience planning individually-tailored trips full of authentic, memorable moments. Here's a quick introduction to kimkim, how our trips work, and what makes us unique. We'll explain how we created personalized itineraries, and what to expect during your trip.

Turquoise bay in Cape Range National Park near Exmouth

Best of Western Australia: Exmouth, Margaret River & Perth - 10 Days

This 10-day trip through Western Australia includes plenty of outdoor adventure. Journey to Exmouth to swim with whale sharks and explore Ningaloo Reef, followed by an active tour of Cape Range National Park and its beautiful gorges. Then, visit Margaret River to explore sacred Aboriginal caves, go wine tasting, and take a whale watching cruise. Next, travel to Perth to shop the city and embark on day trips to the Pink Lake of Kalbarri and the pristine Rottnest Island.

French Panorama: Paris, Marseille & Nice - 10 Days

Spend 10 days taking in some of the top treasures in France from north to south. You'll start exploring Paris with local guides to see its star attractions and secret spots, then head to the historic city of Marseille. Continue to the famed French Riviera and the seaside city of Nice to end your trip in the sun.

5 Days in Croatia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days makes a quick trip to Croatia, but it's enough time to focus on a single region like coastal Dalmatia or Istria in the north. You can cover country-wide highlights if you don't mind a fast pace and flying open-jaw—thanks to the frequency of international flights to both Zagreb and Dubrovnik, you can start your trip in the north and work your way to the southern coast. Learn more with these fun itineraries.

Brazil Amazon Adventure: Manaus & Careiro - 5 Days

On this five-day Brazilian adventure, experience Amazonian culture and the spectacular rainforest. Land in Manaus, the capital of the Amazon region, and do some sightseeing upon arrival. Next, visit the Meeting of the Waters—a river phenomenon—on the way to Careiro. Spend the next few days immersed in the biodiverse environment of the Amazon Jungle Lodge and its rich surroundings, from nature hikes to canoeing, and piranha fishing to nocturnal wildlife tours.

See if you can spot scarlet macaw parrots in the wild

Explore Brazil: From Rio de Janeiro to the Amazon - 7 Days

Experience a combination of city life and destinations in nature on this week-long Brazilian adventure. Begin in Rio de Janeiro, and embark on a full-day city tour to Christ the Redeemer, Sugar Loaf, and the best beaches in the area. Then, take a day trip to Ilha Grande to soak up the sun and explore a few of the many islands and beaches. Next, head to the Amazon to do some touring of Manaus before arriving in Careiro to enjoy activities in the Amazon rainforest, including canoeing, piranha fishing, and a nocturnal nature tour.

Brazil Adventure: Rio de Janeiro, Iguazú Falls, & Pantanal - 10 Days

Embark on a fun and active journey through Brazil on this 10-day tour. Begin in the bustling seaside city of Rio de Janeiro for some sightseeing—Christ the Redeemer, a cable car ride, and the best beaches included. Next, embark on a scenic hike along the Pedra Bonita trail, followed by a tour of the mesmerizing Iguazú Falls, from both Brazil and Argentina. Then, venture to Pantanal, with its densely biodiverse tropical wetlands, for more active exploration.

Active Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho & Phu Quoc - 10 Days

On this 10-day tour of Vietnam, enjoy a mix of cultural excursions and active adventures. Go sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City, then hop on a bicycle for an epic ride through the Mekong Delta, passing orchards and riverside villages. Next, take a boat to the famous floating market in Can Tho before winding the trip down with some relaxing beach time in the island paradise of Phu Quoc.

Best of Jordan: Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum, & The Dead Sea - 6 Days

This six-day trip through Jordan covers all the major highlights. With a mix of touring and free time, you can cater the trip to your personal preferences. Begin in Amman, where you can relax or go to a cook-and-dine experience to learn about the local cuisine. Then, head to Petra to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Royal Tombs, the Monastery, and more. Next, venture to Wadi Rum to explore—and camp in—the desert, before a relaxing finale at the Dead Sea.

Explore Myanmar: Yangon, Bagan, Gwa, & Ngapali - 10 Days

On this 10-day tour of Myanmar, learn about the history and culture of this Southeast Asian gem. Begin in Yangon to visit colonial streets, markets, and Shwedagon Pagoda. Next, fly to Bagan to explore the ancient temples—there are more than 2,000, total—and enjoy a cooking class hosted by a local cook. Then, check in to the eco-friendly Arakan Nature Lodge in Gwa, and enjoy the beach. The trip concludes in Ngapali Beach, with its iconic palm trees and fresh seafood.

Guatemala Adventure: Ram Tzul, Semuc Champey, Candelaría & Laguna Lachúa - 5 Days

Explore Guatemala's great outdoors on this five-day nature adventure. Marvel at the exotic flora and fauna at Ram Tzul, visit a beautiful waterfall, and swim in the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey. Next, explore the caves in the limestone mountains of Candelaría before touring Laguna Lachúa National Park, a unique ecosystem teeming with wildcats and exotic birds.

Maya Journey in Guatemala: Tikal, Río Dulce, & Quirigua Ruins - 5 Days

Embark on a five-day, Mayan-themed expedition through Guatemala. Begin in the northern jungles where you'll spend time with monkeys and tropical birds before visiting the ruins at Tikal National Park. Then take boat tour down the Río Dulce and enjoy more birding. Cap the adventure with an exploration of the Quirigua Ruins and its famous sandstone monuments before traveling back to Guatemala City.

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

January is the middle of summer in Argentina and Brazil. Temperatures soar into the high 90s and you’ll have to contend with crowds of visitors from all over the world, but it’s still a good time to see the falls—and their spray of water helps keep you cool on the hottest days. Find out what to expect and which activities to try in this monthly guide.

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

It's hot and humid at Iguazú Falls in February. Temperatures reach into the high 90s—it's a great time to take a boat ride on the Iguazú River and feel the cool spray of the falls—and crowds come to the national parks from all over the world, so you'll want to plan your trip well ahead of time. Find out more about weather, costs, and seasonal attractions in this monthly guide.

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

March is a great time to visit Iguazú: crowds have thinned out after the summertime rush, but the river level is high, making the waterfalls look especially dramatic. Whether you want to go on a boating adventure, spot exotic butterflies, or hike in the park after dark, learn more with this monthly guide on what to expect at this time of year.

Highlights of Jordan: The Dead Sea, Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman, & Jerash - 5 Days

On this five-day tour, experience the best highlights of Jordan. Arrive in Amman and head to the Dead Sea for some post-travel relaxation. Then, ride to Petra to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and its beautiful canyons and rock formations. Next, take a day trip to the sand dunes of Wadi Rum, before heading back to Amman to do some sightseeing in the capital, along with a sendoff tour of the Jerash ruins.

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