Travel Insights

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

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Plan your trip to Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana, with a kimkim specialist

How Kimkim Trips Work in Slovenia

Slovenia remains one of Europe's best-kept secrets, hidden between Italy, Croatia, Austria, and Hungary, and chock-full of storybook lakes, castles, and Mediterranean and Alpine landscapes. With the help of a kimkim travel specialist, you'll kayak on Lake Bled, sip wine in the hills of Goriska Brda, wander cobblestone streets in Ljubljana, and explore underground caves few travelers get to see. Learn how our local specialists will help tailor the perfect trip based on what activities and places interest you the most.

Everest Base Camp: Nepal or Tibet?

Mount Everest straddles the Nepal-Tibet border, and travelers interested in visiting base camp can do so on either side of the world's tallest mountain. Trekking is only one of several ways to get there, and both starting points come with their own set of considerations. Nepal offers challenging trekking routes and scenic helicopter rides, while Tibet boasts incredible Everest views and the chance to see a less-visited area—read on for more of what to expect.

Active Chilean Patagonia Adventure in Torres del Paine National Park - 8 Days

Experience the splendor of Torres del Paine National Park—plus the colorful capital city of Santiago and a working Patagonian ranch—on this outdoorsy eight-day itinerary. Start with a day of sightseeing in Santiago, then travel to the quaint port town of Puerto Natales. Get an early start to enter the national park and spend four days hiking the famed "W" Trek. Then wrap up the adventure with a day trip to a traditional sheep ranch on the remote Antonio Veras Peninsula, only accessible by boat.

Spend a day at Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina

Torres del Paine & El Calafate - 8 Days

Deep south of Chile and Argentina, this 8-day itinerary explores some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. First, head to Chilean Patagonia's Torres del Paine for snow-capped peaks and thundering waterfalls. Next, bus to Argentine Patagonia for a glacier hike and other activities while based in El Calafate—a traveler hub with a range of services. Kick off the whole trip in Santiago for a taste of big-city culture.

A hobbit hole in Matamata's Hobbiton on New Zealand's North Island

New Zealand's North Island - 6 Days

From Auckland to Taupo, this six-day itinerary presents the highlights of the North Island's diverse and dramatic landscapes. You'll trek amid emerald lakes and ancient volcanoes, explore The Shire from "Lord of the Rings," and discover the sacred thermal waters of Wai-O-Tapu.

View of Mount Ngauruhoe from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Tongariro National Park

New Zealand's North Island - 7 Days

Explore the beauty of New Zealand's North Island, from the foodie's haven of Wellington to stunning Tongariro National Park. This seven-day tour starts in Wellington and ends in Auckland, with a variety of local activities including hiking, visiting Lord of the Rings' filming locations, touring wine country, and spotting local wildlife.

Highlights of New Zealand: From North to South - 15 Days

Traverse New Zealand on this two-week adventure-packed trip, covering the highlights of North and South Island. Discover diverse landscapes, from world-class surfing beaches, volcanic islands, and fern forests to geothermal waters, glacial fiords, and imposing mountains. Along the way, you'll visit historic mining towns, go wine tasting, hike, paddle, and fly your way across the country.

Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia

Torres del Paine O Trek Adventure - 11 Days

This 11-day trip achieves the Paine Massif circuit—commonly called the "O"—in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park. More adventurous than its sister trek, the "W" (which follows a portion of this trek), the "O" is suited for those seeking a lesser-visited and more challenging route. You'll also get two nights in Puerto Natales and an arrival day in Chile's capital with just enough time to check out the sites.

The 9 Best Boutique Hotels in Quito

There is something for everybody in Quito, and a hotel for every taste and sensibility. Top neighborhoods include the historic center and hip La Floresta. English is largely spoken at these hotels, with an attuned staff that understands foreign tourists' unique needs and expectations. Street noise can be a challenge in some places. If you're a light sleeper, request an interior room; earplugs are always a good idea. WiFi and breakfasts are pretty much standard.

Unexpected Luxury: Fabulous Travel Experiences in Slovenia

Afternoon naps in luxury treehouses. Leisurely wine tastings in some of Europe's oldest vineyards. Days spent shopping and dining in Slovenia's well-kept capital city. Get ready to be wowed by the surprisingly luxe experiences in this tiny, mountainous, off-the-beaten-track country.

Discover Manu in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon

Ultimate Guide to Manú: Remote Gem of the Peruvian Amazon

Peru is richly endowed with natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Many of its mythic sites are firm fixtures on the tourist trail. To escape the crowds, you can visit a remote nature reserve with unparalleled biodiversity: Manú National Park.

Slovenia Cycling Adventure - 7 Days

Discover Slovenia's diverse natural beauty on this thrilling week-long cycling trip from the Julian Alps, through wine country to the seaside. Take in unforgettable views on this challenging ride as you pedal across stunning terrain. You'll climb up mountain passes and follow emerald green rivers in Triglav National Park, go wine tasting in the vineyards of Goriška Brda, and swim in the Adriatic Sea in historic Piran. The tour is suitable for all levels. Its many variations cater to all tastes – on gravel or trail, from easy to difficult. However, a basic fitness level is necessary.

Cycling Tour of Southeast Italy - 8 Days

Spend a week cycling through Italy's Apulia region in the Mediterranean southeast. Start in ancient Matera to see 9,000-year-old cave dwellings, then continue to the laid-back Ionian coast. Cycle through endless olive groves, white-walled coastal resort towns, and quiet country roads.

Cycling in Tuscany - 6 Days

Active travelers dreaming of a Tuscan retreat will love this six-days cycling itinerary that winds through medieval towns and quiet wine country. Begin in the artistically vital city of Pisa where you can learn about the Italian Renaissance before beginning your cycling trip through the lush countryside. You'll pass villas on your way to bustling Lucca, enjoy thermal spa treatments in Montecatini Terme, and visit the home of Leonardo da Vinci before enjoying a final night in the piazzas of Pisa.

Enjoy delicious plates like this seafood cataplana on a foodie tour of Olhão

Food Tour of the Algarve - 7 Days

Spend a week exploring the Algarve's culture, nature, and history through a culinary lens. Eat and drink your way through Portugal's favorite dishes, visit olive farms, and try your hand at preparing a three-course meal from scratch. Foodies and nature lovers will love sampling Mediterranean cuisine and relaxing at night in luxurious accommodations.

Nature & Food in the Algarve - 8 Days

Spend a week enjoying nature and the warm Mediterranean coast on this relaxed 7-day itinerary. Sail with wild dolphins, go horseback riding along the crystal waters of the Ria Formosa lagoons, and relax with a nourishing spa in a remote natural preserve. Round out your trip with a visit to the Castro Marim salt marshes, a tour of a beekeeping farm, and a sampling of freshly harvested oysters.

Adventure in the Algarve - 7 Days

Escape the hustle and bustle and discover adventure in the Algarve on this packed 7-day itinerary. Try rock-climbing, line fishing for your lunch, and horseback riding on shallow beaches. Spend the night on a sailing boat, paddle in hidden coves, and relax in the warm Mediterranean sunshine.

Michelin Star Dining in the Algarve - 7 Days

Spend a week exploring world-class cuisine at five of the top Michelin Star restaurants in the Algarve. Visit a world-famous wine cellar, explore medieval town squares, and try go-karting on Europe's largest race track. Spend the day with a traditional clam picker and discover Portugal's diverse culinary traditions.

Istrian rolling hills and vineyards, Croatia

Cycling in Croatia's Istrian Peninsula - 7 Days

Pedal through the vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields of Istria's rolling landscape on this week-long cycling tour. Reminiscent of Tuscany, this part of Croatia offers a slower pace of life with its medieval hilltop villages, charming seaside towns, and rich, flavorful food. You'll sample wines and olive oils, visit ancient Roman ruins, and bask on sunny pebble beaches between tranquil rides through the countryside.

Best Places to Eat in the Gulf of Papagayo

On the north end of Costa Rica's Pacific coast lies the Gulf of Papagayo, a tropical beach-laden region that's still relatively undiscovered. As remote as Papagayo is, you'll find many options for grabbing a bite. Most are centered in Playas del Coco, where you'll find (very) fresh seafood, vegetarian Lebanese cuisine, and authentic Italian fare. The list below also includes a beachfront option in Playa Ocotal and innovative Asian-fusion in Playa Hermosa.

Best of China - 13 Days

This packed itinerary checks off China's top cultural and natural highlights. Visit Beijing to see the Forbidden City and hike along the Great Wall, then take the bullet train to Xi'an to discover the Terracotta Warriors. Visit Guilin to marvel at the world's tallest Buddha and enjoy Yangshuo's serene countryside. Then, tour Chengdu's panda research station before finishing your trip in metropolitan Shanghai.

View from the village of Cacela Velha in Ria Formosa

Algarve Luxury Wellness Escape - 4 Days

Leave your worries behind and treat yourself to a relaxing getaway on Portugal's stunning southern coast. Recharge in the spa at your five-star hotel, dine on gourmet food, and go on a cycling tour of Ria Formosa National Park on this long weekend break. Nourish your mind and body in the turquoise waters and Iberian sunshine of Algarve.

Luxury Wellness Escape in Algarve - 8 Days

Pamper yourself on this eight-day getaway to a resort in sun-soaked southern Portugal. Recharge your body, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, and explore the natural beauty of Ria Formosa National Park. You'll bask on Mediterranean beaches, stretch your muscles on a yoga retreat, dine on gourmet food and more on this blissful week in paradise.

Northern England's Castles - 5 Days

Explore iconic medieval castles in England's Northeast region. Visit ruins and modern-day palaces, discover the area's military history, and spend quiet afternoons strolling in countryside villages. Start your trip in industrial Newcastle, then continue to Alnwick Castle to see the backdrop for the Harry Potter films. End on the wild Northumberland coast to see isolated 16th-century Lindisfarne castle and sample fresh-caught lobster.

Top Regions in Ireland

Ireland is a study in diversity. From the gentle slopes of the Mourne Mountains to the looming Cliffs of Moher, from the patchwork fields to the pebble beaches, and from the kinetic energy of Dublin's streets to the reconciled northern metropolis of Belfast, no two regions are exactly alike. That makes Ireland a veritable treasure trove of culture, sights, and activities perfect for newcomers.

3 Options for Crossing the Border Between Argentina & Chile

Crossing the border between Argentina and Chile is a memorable journey in itself. There are three main crossing points, each with distinct scenery—and modes of transportation. After sipping wine in Mendoza, bus over the snow-capped Andes to Santiago. Cruise in a catamaran across glacial lakes from Bariloche. Or, cross the dramatic Atacama Desert, passing through a center of Argentine indigenous culture. Learn more about all three options below.

Look out towards the Atlantic from Cap Spartel Lighthouse

Moroccan Cities from Coast to Coast - 14 Days

Travel from the Atlantic Coast to the Strait of Gibraltar on this two-week tour of Morocco's famous cities. Hop between ancient hubs like Marrakesh, Fes, and Tangier, as well as photogenic, blue-hued Chefchaouen and Essaouira with its nearby Caves of Hercules. Along the way, you'll explore Roman ruins and mosques, wander maze-like souks, drive through the striking Atlas mountains, and take a Moroccan cooking class.

Villarrica Volcano looming in the distance

Santiago & the Lake District - 5 Days

Kick off this 5-day Chilean sojourn in Santiago for a day of cultural and culinary delights. You'll then fly south for activities surrounding native forests, hot springs, glaciers, and waterfalls. Base yourself in the traveler hub of Pucón for lakeside strolls with views of one of Chile's most active volcanoes—not to mention international eats ranging from Middle Eastern to French to Peruvian.

Lake Pehoé, Torres del Paine National Park

Chile Grand Tour: Santiago, Torres del Paine & Easter Island - 15 Days

Outdoor adventurers rejoice—this curated 15-day itinerary immerses you in the unparalleled natural beauty of Chile. First, you'll head to the far north of the country and tour the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert. Then it's off to Patagonia and Torres del Paine National Park, home to the most awe-inspiring mountains and unspoiled nature in Chile. You'll then finish the journey far west in the Pacific, amid the mysterious stone idols of Rapa Nui, also known as Easter Island.

Los Cuernos, or “the Horns,” in Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park

Patagonia's W Trek & Marble Caves - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary packs a lot of punch for those keen on experiencing as much Chilean nature as possible. Start off with some urban culture before flying south to frolic with thousands of penguins. Next, you’ll spend several days trekking in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. Finish in northern Patagonia's Aysén region for glaciers and marble cave formations you won't soon forget.

Highlights of Britain's East Coast - 12 Days

Explore the ancient history and modern culture of northeast England. Visit medieval York, discover Roman ruins, and sample hearty English pub food in Tynemouth. See the impressive Durham Cathedral, 16th-century Lindisfarne, and the wild seascape of the Farne Islands. End your trip in Edinburgh—home to the Scottish monarchy, world-class whiskey, and the café where J.K. Rowling penned the first Harry Potter novel.

Polynesian moai statues at a beach on Easter Island

Atacama Desert & Easter Island - 13 Days

This 13-day trip combines two bucket-list items in Chile, rarely visited by tourists. Kick-off with a day in Santiago before you're jetting off again—this time to the South Pacific. Halfway between Tahiti and Chile, Easter Island is graced with white sand beaches and 600+ mysterious statues carved from volcanic rock. The second half of the trip takes place in a high-altitude desert on the mainland with sand dunes, geysers, hot springs, and starry skies—perfect for sipping Chilean wine.

Culinary Tour of Wales - 5 Days

Explore local cuisine and adventure on this 5-day journey through Wales' intimate landscapes. Hike the mountain grasslands of Brecon Beacons and taste local whiskey, then visit sleepy harbor towns and ancient monasteries in Pembrokeshire. Drive along the spectacular Cambrian coast, then end your trip in the jagged mountains of Snowdonia, where mountain views and medieval castles await.

Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 8 Days

Explore the southwest corner of Ireland at your own pace on this 8-day walking itinerary of the Kerry Peninsula. This popular driving route is even better on foot as you cover the countryside from cliffs to beaches across rolling pastures, peat bogs, and mountain ranges. Start in Killarney, walking through Kenmare, Sneem, and Caherdaniel. Veer west through Waterville and Cahersiveen to your final village in Glenbeigh.

Chile's Iconic Wine Valleys - 6 Days

Calling all oenophiles: This guided six-day tour is a chance to become a Chilean wine connoisseur. Starting in the capital city, you'll hit the open road for the country's best wine valleys, offering an array of climates, varietals, and production techniques. There will be estates and vineyards to explore galore, as well as dozens of tastings—often paired with delectable local cuisine.

Santiago & Patagonia Exploration - 13 Days

Few other places in the world can compete with Patagonia's wild, jagged mountains and enormous panoramas. With this 13-day adventure, you'll get the best of the region—in both countries—starting with Chilean Patagonia. Here, you'll partake in the famed W Trek, a multiday hike that covers the furthest reaches of Torres del Paine. Then, bus over to Argentine Patagonia for ancient glaciers and the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. Kick off the adventure in Chile's capital for a dose of big-city culture.

Chile's Beaches & Natural Wonders - 12 Days

Stretching thousands of miles in length, Chile can feel a world away with its mountains, glaciers, deserts, and rugged coastline. This 12-day trip hits the highlights with a series of unique guided tours. Move at a relaxed pace as you make your way from the Atacama Desert in the north to Patagonia in the south. You'll also make urban stops in Santiago, Valparaíso, and upscale Viña del Mar for two days of beachy fun.

Hike a portion of the Osorno Volcano while staying in a German-style town

Central Chile, Lake District & Atacama Desert - 13 Days

Thin and uniquely long in shape, it can be hard to know where to start in a country like Chile. This 13-day itinerary explores three distinct regions known for urban culture and outdoor adventure. After a taste of Santiago and its nearby wine region, fly north to the driest desert in the world known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then fly south to the Lake District for volcanoes, waterfalls, and a road trip to Chiloé Island—a booming food destination with coastal trails.

Central Chile, Lake District & Atacama Desert - 12 Days

Experience three distinct regions in Chile with this 12-day itinerary that combines culture and outdoor adventure. After a taste of Santiago and its nearby wine region, fly north to the Atacama desert known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. You'll then fly south to the Chilean Lake District for volcanoes, waterfalls, and a road trip to Chiloé Island—a burgeoning foodie destination with coastal hiking trails.

Mt. Fitz Roy looms above the town of El Chaltén

Los Glaciares & Torres del Paine - 8 Days

This active trip highlights two UNESCO-listed parks in South America with some of the most magnificent scenery in the world. Start off in Argentine Patagonia for several days in Los Glaciares National Park—home to a whopping 13 major glaciers and the iconic Mt. Fitz Roy. Next is Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia for snow-capped peaks, thundering waterfalls, and turquoise lakes. Kick off the adventure in Buenos Aires for a taste of big-city culture.

Wine with a view on both sides of the Andes

Wine Regions in Argentina & Chile: Which is Best For You?

Both Argentina and Chile have multiple wine producing regions that welcome visitors, from world-famous destinations like Mendoza to coastal wineries near the Pacific Ocean that make an easy detour on your way to the beach. Whether you're interested in tasting a crisp white in a desert canyon or sipping a full-bodied Chilean red under the stars, you have great options on both sides of the Andes—learn more about the six main regions with this guide.

Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & the Pacific Coast - 11 Days

This 11-day itinerary combines mountain adventures with beaches, starting in Rincón de la Vieja to explore the environs of one of the country's most active volcanoes. Then travel deeper inland to spend a few days crossing suspension bridges, ziplining over trees, and hiking through the jungles of La Fortuna and the Monteverde Cloud Forest. More than stunning white-sand beaches, you'll end your trip in Manuel Antonio National Park, rich in biodiversity and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Interact with parrots at a wildlife rehabilitation center

Family Adventure in Manuel Antonio National Park & La Fortuna - 7 days

Natural wonders await on this refreshing weeklong journey around Costa Rica. Highlights along the 7-day trip include the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park, the awe-inspiring Arenal Volcano and the nearby Hanging Bridges, the pristine Damas Island Estuary, and much more. Mixing wildlife viewing and outdoor adventure, this itinerary captures the essence of the Costa Rican motto — Pura Vida!

Howler monkey in a Costa Rica rainforest

Highlights of Costa Rica Wildlife - 12 Days

This itinerary is specifically tuned for wildlife lovers. Expect to get up early and stay out late to see monkeys, lizards, birds, insects, and other spectacular fauna that inhabit the virgin rainforest, cloud forest, and swampy estuaries covered here. The trip begins with a southwest journey from San José to Parque Nacional Corcovado (Corcovado National Park) before continuing northwest along the Pacific coast. Next, head inland to Monteverde for birdwatching and spotting wildlife in the unique ecosystem of the cloud forest.

Argentina's Lake District is not short on scenery

Trekking in Bariloche - 7 Days

An alpine hub in Argentina's Lake District, Bariloche is considered one of the most scenic spots in the country, offering a plethora of year-round activities. Starting in Buenos Aires, you'll fly to the Andean foothills on the shores of Nahuel Huapi Lake for a series of treks, history tours, and kayaking excursions while enjoying the town's numerous restaurants and chocolate shops.

A malbec vineyard surrounded by mountains

Argentina's Wine Country: Buenos Aires & Mendoza - 7 Days

This fun weeklong trip splits time in two of Argentina's most desirable destinations: Buenos Aires, with sophisticated restaurants, theaters, history, and architecture, and the smaller, more relaxed city of Mendoza, surrounded by impressive Andean views and lush vineyards. Take part in guided activities like tangoing, wine tasting, trekking, rafting, and ziplining for the ultimate South American adventure.

Best Places to Eat in Tamarindo

Despite being a small surf town, Tamarindo is officially on the radar of intrepid travelers seeking a slice of tropical paradise. Restaurants continue to pop up to meet the growing demand, and now visitors can find everything from shrimp burgers at a chilled-out seafood shack to beachside fine-dining, flame-grilled barbecue buffets, and even gluten-free Sicilian pizza. Here are eight best bets for getting your grub on in Tamarindo.

Sunrise in Torres del Paine National Park

Torres del Paine Relaxed Adventure - 6 Days

This itinerary covers a lot of ground in less than a week yet sticks to a relaxed pace. After a day exploring Santiago, fly south to Torres del Paine—one of the most famous national parks in the world. Here, you'll stay two nights at a luxury eco-camp for a range of outdoor activities that capitalize on the views. As an added bonus, you'll visit a working Patagonian ranch for the ultimate taste of local culture.

Langtang, Gosaikunda & Helambu Trek - 17 Days

This two-and-a-half-week trek through Langtang and Helambu is one of the most spectacular Nepal has to offer. Just north of the Kathmandu Valley, this route is classified as moderate and will take you from the banks of the Bhote Kosi River through the Langtang Valley to the sacred Gosaikunda Lake and the Hyolmo villages of Helambu. You'll see expansive mountain views, travel through lush forests and sleep in Nepali tea houses on this Himalayan adventure.

Take in the views of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks on your multiday hikes through the Dolomites

Dolomites High Traverse: Hut-to-Hut Hiking in Italy - 7 Days

On this seven-day trek, you'll encounter some of the world's most beautiful Alpine scenery, including Tre Cime di Lavaredo, a mountain group that includes three of the most famous peaks in Italy's Dolomites. It's a rugged adventure where you'll hike between mountain huts, traverse sheer rock walls on the famous via ferrata routes, and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in cozy "refuge" lodges along the route.

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