Travel Insights

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

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Step into the past in historic Kyoto, with kimonos, tea ceremonies, and samurai

Active Family Tour of Japan: Culture, History & Nature - 14 Days

Adventure awaits on this 14-day family itinerary that blends culture, nature, and outdoor fun. Start in Tokyo to explore local cuisine and immerse the family in the world of animé in the lively Akihabara district. Hop over to Hakone for views of Mount Fuji, experience a tea ceremony and cycle through the bamboo groves of Kyoto, then catch a train to the neon lights of Osaka's Dotonbori district. After some gentle day hikes along the famous Nakasendo Trail, end in Matsumoto to visit its mighty castle.

Kick things off in Cappadocia, where you'll explore the famous fairy chimneys on horseback

Turkey Active Adventure: Cappadocia, Antalya, Adrasan & Istanbul - 12 Days

Unveil the treasures of Turkey on this 12-day trip that introduces you to the country's diverse landscapes in an adventurous fashion. Begin by biking through the distinctive rock formations of Cappadocia, then drift above the terrain in a hot-air balloon and explore more on horseback. Head to the Turquoise Coast to hike parts of the Lycian Way and zoom around Antalya by e-bike, then end your trip in Istanbul, getting to know the city on an active urban hike before rejuvenating at an authentic hammam.

Go beyond Japan's major cities and explore highlights like historic Kanazawa on this two-week family tour

Japan Off-the-Beaten-Path Family Adventure - 14 Days

Go beyond the highlights with two weeks of family fun throughout Japan's major cities and smaller towns. Get a taste of Tokyo with a kid-friendly food tour; then, it's off to Hakone for ropeway rides and green tea baths at a hot springs resort. Channel your inner samurai as you walk the Edo-era streets of Takayama, practice your painting skills with Kanazawa's artisans, don a kimono for a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, and end with a spin on Osaka's high-flying Tempozan Ferris wheel.

Dive into the heart of Japanese culture and tradition in Kyoto

Family Fun & Culture in Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 14 Days

Embark on a whirlwind tour of Japan's family attractions with this two-week tour brimming with culture, theme parks, and natural wonders. Ideal for families with kids aged seven and over, you'll start in neon-lit Tokyo as a base for Disney trips, Mount Fuji, and digital fun in the city. Head next to Kyoto for culture and adventures in Arashiyama and finish in Osaka, where you'll find the perfect blend of Godzilla, animé, and ancient shrines.

Mount Fuji, one of many natural wonders on your memorable trip to Japan

Japan City & Nature Tour for Families: Osaka, Kyoto, Hakone & Tokyo - 14 Days

With two weeks in Japan, you and your family can combine dazzling neon city time with outdoor excursions across lakes, mountains, and forests. Perfect for older kids and teens, this itinerary takes you from Osaka's ancient and modern landmarks to Kyoto's temples, shrines, and wildlife experiences. You'll discover the revered Mount Fuji over two days in Hakone and finish in Tokyo for sushi, river cruises, innovative digital art, and a memorable mountain hike.

Turkey Active Adventure: Cappadocia, Antalya, Kas & Adrasan - 13 Days

Pack your hiking gear and fly to Turkey for this active, 13-day adventure across Cappadocia and the Turquoise Coast. Explore the lunar-like landscapes of Cappadocia on foot and in a hot-air balloon before heading to Antalya, your starting point for hiking a section of the 310-mile (500 km) Lycian Way. Hiking isn't the only highlight of this trip, as you get to visit ancient ruins, admire eternal flames, and sail across the Mediterranean Sea to sunken cities.

Try delicious Turkish dishes and traditional Turkish coffee on this 15-day itinerary

Turkish Food & Culture Tour - 15 Days

Get ready to sample delicious Turkish food and drink across the country on this 15-day itinerary. Start in the bustling streets of Istanbul to dine at Michelin-star restaurants and explore its many markets. Then, fly to Cappadocia, where you can learn how to bake Turkish treats and watch a whirling dervish show. You'll also sample wine in Izmir, explore Greco-Roman ruins, choose the freshest dinner at Kusadasi Fish Market, and dine with farmers at Selia Artisanal Farm before ending your trip back to Istanbul.

Explore ancient wonders like the Celsus Library in Ephesus on your Turkey journey

Tranquil Turkey: Ancient Ruins, Modern Cities & Relaxing Spas - 12 Days

On this exciting—yet rejuvenating—tour of Turkey, you'll get to know many regions of the country in just 12 days. From the bustling streets of Istanbul to the ancient sites at Ephesus, Troy, and Aspendos, you'll explore cities old and new during in-depth tours. When you're not busy sightseeing, you'll relax in a hammam, soak in the thermal baths at Pamukkale, hike in a national park, and stroll through quaint Aegean villages.

Scotland City, Highland & Island Road Trip - 12 Days

This 12-day Scotland itinerary blends history, nature, and gastronomy into one epic trip. As you road trip from the historic streets of Edinburgh and grand Blair Castle to the rugged beauty of Cairngorms National Park and the captivating landscapes of the Isle of Skye, you'll delve into the art of whisky-making with distillery visits, witness wildlife on an off-road safari and full-day cruise, and experience the country's vibrant urban hubs with food tours and street art walks.

Choose between paragliding or relaxing on the beach at Ölüdeniz

Explore Turkey's Turquoise Coast by Land & Water - 12 Days

From the hectic bazaars of Istanbul to the ancient ruins of Ephesus—and on to the coastal charms of Bodrum and Fethiye—this 12-day itinerary showcases Turkey's spectacular Aegean shores. You'll wander through Roman landmarks, explore vibrant markets, and embark on a multiday sailing cruise to hidden paradises on the Turquoise Coast. Along the way, savor Turkish food and wine, participate in thrilling activities like paragliding and scuba diving, and unwind with plenty of beach time.

Try a variety of delicious Turkish dishes like "pide," also known as "Turkish pizza"

Turkish Food & Culture Tour - 12 Days

Embark on a tasty 12-day trip across Turkey, sampling the delicious dishes each region has to offer. Start in Istanbul, visiting top sights, like the Blue Mosque, as well as popular restaurants and street food vendors. Fly to Cappadocia next, learning how to cook in a village home and enjoying a traditional whirling dervish performance. Then, visit Urlice Vineyards to sample local wines, followed by the ruins of Ephesus and the hot springs of Pamukkale, before flying back to Istanbul for a hammam experience.

Cycle around key sections of Lake Biwa including charming canals

Cycling Expedition Around Japan's Lake Biwa - 8 Days

Active travelers will love cycling around the largest freshwater lake in Japan during this eight-day adventure. Starting and ending in the cultural powerhouse of Kyoto, you'll cycle the perimeter of Lake Biwa, admiring the natural landscapes and cultural attractions along the way. See a part of Japan that many international tourists overlook while enjoying classic local experiences like soaking in onsen baths and dining on traditional cuisine. This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers who enjoy a dose of culture, too.

What of the Balearic islands, calls out to you? Mallorca, Menorca, or Ibiza?

Mallorca, Menorca, or Ibiza: Which Is Best for You?

Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands, offers varied landscapes, from the Serra de Tramuntana to its pristine beaches, making it a haven for adventurers and sun-seekers. Menorca, often dubbed the quieter sibling, offers serene bays, UNESCO-listed sites, and a deeply preserved history evident in its prehistoric monuments and charming towns. On the other hand, Ibiza is a blend of vibrant nightlife and untouched natural beauty, attracting both partygoers and those searching for tranquil Mediterranean escapes.

Count the castles as you explore historic Aberdeenshire on a guided tour

Self-Drive Scotland Highlights: Cities, Castles & Countryside - 12 Days

This 12-day self-drive journey across Scotland takes you on a lap north from Edinburgh, through the Kingdom of Fife to Aberdeenshire, into Cairngorms National Park, up to Inverness, and then back to the capital. Explore ancient castles, wander wild coastlines, admire green countryside, and taste whisky at local distilleries as you embark on a series of immersive tours and guided experiences that bring the history and culture of "Caledonia" to life.

Trek through the plateau's of Japan's Kamikochi Valley

Relaxed Hike Along Japan's Nakasendo Trail: Mountains, Forests & Historic Sites - 7 Days

This active adventure takes you to some of Japan's most memorable sights, all via the historic Nakasendo Trail. You'll start in the post-town of Magome, where you'll stroll cobbled streets and see traditional architecture. Then, hike to Tsumago and enjoy its distinctive old-world charm. Trek through the bamboo forests of Nojiri, conquer the slopes of Torii Pass, then take the train to Matsumoto and tour the famed Matsumoto Castle. End on the alpine trails of Kamikochi and visit a working wasabi farm.

Take a cruise across tranquil Lake Toya in Hokkaido

Discover Hokkaido: Cuisine, History & Culture in Northern Japan - 7 Days

See the highlights of Japan's northern island of Hokkaido with this adventurous tour. Start in Sapporo, where you'll dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, climb Sapporo TV Tower for panoramic views, and take a day trip to the scenic canals of Otaru. Then, it's off to Noboribetsu for hiking through the famed Hell Valley, relaxing in bubbling hot springs, and a cruise along the peaceful shores of Lake Toya. End in the port town of Hakodate and bike, walk, or canoe the lakes of Onuma Quasi-National Park.

Explore the delicious cuisine of Japan with market tours, street food walks, and hands-on workshops

Culinary Excursion Through Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 7 Days

Take a deep dive into Japanese cuisine and culture on this weeklong food-filled adventure that kicks off in the capital city of Tokyo. Stroll the vibrant Shinjuku district, sample Wagyu beef, and say hello to cosplayers in lively Harajuku. Then, hop on the train to Kyoto, where you'll see city sights and try different varietals at the saké museum. Learn to make ramen noodles, then finish in the foodie paradise of Osaka, eating your way through the savory street foods of Kuromon Market.

Discover Lucerne and its famous Chapel Bridge on a highlights tour in the summer or on a Christmas-themed vacation

1 Week in Switzerland - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Switzerland, you have a variety of options, from summer and winter adventures to relaxed or activity-packed itineraries. For a summer trip, consider an Alpine excursion with mountain activities with wine-tasting tours, or embark on hikes in the Bernina Alps. Winter travelers will find Interlaken, Zermatt, and Chamonix to be ideal destinations for snowy escapades, while those traveling in December can enjoy the festive atmosphere that is perfect for a memorable Christmas getaway.

A quick flight from Adelaide takes you to Kangaroo Island, a protected haven for wildlife

Southern Australia Luxury Tour: Melbourne, Adelaide & Kangaroo Island - 7 Days

Experience the best nature, food, and culture with this luxurious weeklong adventure that checks off Australia's southern highlights. Join private foodie tours in Melbourne and Adelaide, experience a heartwarming penguin encounter on Phillip Island, cycle through Melbourne's vibrant neighborhoods, and escape to Kangaroo Island's pristine wilderness for an overnight jaunt.

Spend a day cruising and hiking in Shikotsu-Toya National Park

Best of Japan's Hokkaido Island: Sapporo, Noboribetsu & Hakodate - 8 Days

Japan's great northern island, Hokkaido, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. It's an uncrowded place where dramatic landscapes take center stage, with plenty of volcanoes, mountains, lakes, and geothermal attractions to choose from. This eight-day tour starts in the foodie capital, Sapporo, and from here, you'll visit the dramatic scenery in Noboribetsu and the mountains and lakes in two national parks before finishing in the cool port city of Hakodate.

See some of Kyoto's many temples including Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion

Best of Japan: Kobe, Kyoto, Mount Koya & Osaka - 8 Days

Japan's Kansai region is loaded with culture, urban attractions, and natural beauty—and is relatively compact. With just eight days you can experience much of the region's diversity, from Kyoto's ancient temples to Kobe's modern architecture, not to mention fishing villages, beaches, hot springs, and traditional crafts. Get a taste of some of Western Japan's finest sights and experiences on this well-rounded itinerary that will pique your curiosity and leave you inspired.

Explore Central Europe by rental car and relish the drive over the Bastei Bridge in Saxon Switzerland National Park en route to Prague

2 Weeks in Germany - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Germany, you can take advantage of its excellent train network to hop between the country's beautiful cities or stick to Southern Germany and explore historic towns and castles on a self-drive itinerary. Other options include a World War II-focused trip featuring Berlin, Nuremberg, Munich, and Prague, a summer road trip split between Germany's Romantic Road and Switzerland's mountain-backed towns, and a fast-paced Central Europe tour that combines five countries and seven cities.

The journey is the destination when you're driving through Norway's spectacular scenery

Scandinavian Summer Road Trip: Denmark, Sweden & Norway - 10 Days

Escape into a realm of fairy tales, fjords, and farm-grown culinary delights with this 10-day Scandinavian road trip. Greet Copenhagen's colorful cobbled streets, then continue to Funen Island to revisit your favorite Hans Christian Andersen tales. Delight in Skåne's most picturesque farm shops and vineyards before driving to Norway for waterfront saunas, fjord cruises, and medieval fun—and don't forget the reindeer!

Immerse yourself in the color and beauty on the island of Bali

Embracing Bali: Exploring Local Life & Natural Wonders - 10 Days

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural traditions of Bali on this 10-day tour. Learn the arts of Balinese cooking and painting, explore the lush rice terraces around Ubud, and trek to Bali's highest waterfall. At West Bali National Park, snorkel in the world-class waters and spot rare birds in the jungle. Grab a kayak to paddle through the waters of Banyuwadeng Bay at sunset, and savor the views from Lempuyang Temple on the slopes of Mount Lempuyang.

Sail around the Komodo archipelago and discover its remote beauty

Bali Nature Tour & Komodo Sailing Cruise - 10 Days

Discover the diverse ecosystems of Indonesia's islands on this 10-day nature-focused tour. Start in Bali to tour ancient temples and rice terraces around Ubud, meet macaques in the sacred Sangeh Monkey Forest, and spot dolphins at sunrise. Then fly to Labuan Bajo, the gateway to the spectacular Komodo National Park, to embark on a multiday sailing trip through the remote archipelago. Highlights include snorkeling with manta rays and trekking to see Komodo dragons in their natural habitat.

Take a day trip over to Nusa Penida for more coastal beauty and perfect beaches

Relaxation & Outdoor Adventure in Bali & the Gili Islands - 10 Days

Mix a dash of outdoor adventure with plenty of chilled-out relaxation for the perfect 10-day Balinese escape. Kick things off on the beaches of Seminyak with a traditional massage and a sea temple sunset. Hop over to the Gili Islands for snorkeling and beachcombing; then, it's back to Bali and the rice terraces and temples of Ubud. Take a sunrise hike to the top of a volcano, soak in a flower bath by a river, meet local monkeys and elephants, and go whitewater rafting through the island's lush interior.

Experience the underwater world of Bali, Indonesia on this two-week tour

Ultimate Diving Safari in Bali, Nusa Penida & Menjangan - 14 Days

Grab your flippers and your camera for this two-week underwater adventure in Indonesia. Hopping between the islands of Bali, Nusa Penida, and Menjangan, you'll experience crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and rich marine biodiversity as you embark on a series of privately-guided diving excursions. Come up for air in between with plenty of fun on dry land—exploring verdant rice terraces, visiting local temples, and learning to cook with the locals.

Explore the beaches of Natal in a dune buggy

Brazil's Coastal Gems: Rio de Janeiro, Foz do Iguaçu, Natal & Praia de Pipa - 15 Days

Discover Brazil's coastal highlights—and inland waterfalls—on this thrilling 15-day tour. Start in Rio to trek through rainforests and see iconic monuments like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain. Then, fly to Foz do Iguaçu to experience the full force of Iguaçu Falls on both sides of the border. Return to the coast for a dune buggy ride along Natal's dunes, followed by kayaking and mountain biking in Praia de Pipa, as you enjoy views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and turquoise-blue water.

Visit a number of art galleries and museums, including Kelvingrove in Glasgow

Culture & Creativity Tour in Scotland - 13 Days

Get inspired as you combine the best of Scotland's cultural opportunities and natural wonders on this 13-day tour. Dive into the heart of Scotland's historic and artistic soul with renowned museums and galleries, and unique guided tours. Start with afternoon tea in Edinburgh, then board a scenic train north to Aberdeen and Inverness, where castles await. Then, head for Glasgow to explore the legacy of a famous designer and architect before squeezing in a trip to Loch Lomond to finish the adventure.

Admire views of the Lauterbrunnen Valley on an easy hike along Höhenweg in Switzerland

5 Days in Switzerland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Thanks to Switzerland's trains and well-maintained roads, you can visit 2-4 regions in five days. Active travelers can immerse in the country's natural beauty by kayaking Lake Brienz and cycling around Lugano. Those keen on Swiss cuisine can take a tasting tour of the Maggia Delta and sample wine and cheeses in Morcote. Winter enthusiasts will enjoy snowshoeing in Grindelwald and sledding on Mount Gornegrat, and those eager to experience Christmas festivities can market-hop from Zürich to Geneva.

With a week in Panama, you'll have time to go beyond the skyscrapers and Casco Antiguo of Panama City

1 Week in Panama - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

One week in Panama is an excellent amount of time to explore the country's vibrant capital, hike in its highlands, and cruise between idyllic Caribbean islands. Panama City is a natural gateway, and a day or two here gives you ample time to explore its cultural highlights and the nearby Panama Canal. Then, include Valle de Antón, Boquete, or Santa Fe for time in the country's mountainous interior, while the San Blas Islands and Bocas del Toro are ideal spots for snorkeling and cruising among tropical islands.

On an itinerary to Bohol, you'll spend some time contemplating the distintive Chocolate Hills

10 Days in the Philippines - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in the Philippines, you can split your time between Manila, Cebu Island, and Boracay during a well-rounded tour of the city, mountains, and beaches. Or, delve into the local culture and stay in rice terrace-surrounded villages while making your way between Manila, Banaue, and Baguio. Other options include a relaxing island-hopping trip featuring Palawan and Coron, memorable diving opportunities from Moalboal, and nature excursions on Bohol Island.

Use Ushuaia, the southernmost town on the American continent, as a base to explore Patagonia's Beagle Channel

6 Days in Patagonia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you've got six days in Patagonia, it's best to focus on one region. Wildlife lovers will enjoy walking alongside penguins at Isla Magdalena and spotting dolphins in the Magellan Strait. Travelers interested in the natural beauty at the "End of the World" can hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park, while those eager to learn about glaciers should visit the Glaciarium in El Calafate, trek the Perito Moreno Glacier, or cruise to Grey Glacier. Fit adventurers keen on camping can tackle a section of the W Trek.

Explore the Great Barrier Reef with a private marine biologist guide

Australia Laid-Back Luxury Tour: Port Douglas & Sydney - 7 Days

Snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef and tick off the icons of Sydney with this luxury seven-day Australia trip that squeezes in two bucket list destinations. Picture yourself meeting cuddly koalas, swimming with sea turtles and tropical fish, and floating through an ancient rainforest near Port Douglas. In Sydney, you'll cruise across the harbor at sunset, go behind the scenes at the Opera House, cycle across the city, and join a private chef at home.

Experience the diverse culture and traditions of the Mexican state of Oaxaca

Oaxaca Highlights: Mexico's Most Diverse State - 14 Days

As one of Mexico's most ethnically diverse states, Oaxaca is a melting pot of remarkable food, culture, and outdoor activities. With this 14-day itinerary, you'll experience it all, from the Oaxacan capital to the Pacific coast, squeezing in a vast number of experiences along the way. Sample smoky mezcal and street food, trek in the jungle, kayak across a lagoon, join a tortilla workshop, release turtles, learn to surf, and finish with some free time to relax on your choice of golden beaches.

Fly to the remote Red Center for a luxury desert experience overlooking Uluru (photo courtesy of Longitude 131˚)

Luxury Australian Outback Experience: Sydney & Uluru - 7 Days

From city sights to mega monoliths, this seven-day luxury Australia itinerary ticks off two great Aussie bucket list items with one short trip. Starting in Sydney, you'll enjoy a multicourse lunch while cruising Sydney Harbour, go wine tasting in the verdant Hunter Valley, and meet kangaroos and koalas on a privately guided day trip. Then, fly to the Red Center to experience sunset over Uluru, see the Field of Light, dine under outback stars, and soar above Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in a helicopter.

Snap pics of Da Dia Reef on a Phu Yen beach day of the basalt, honeycomb-shaped rock formations

3 Weeks in Vietnam & Cambodia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Frequent regional flights make visiting 10 places in Vietnam and Cambodia possible in three weeks. History buffs will appreciate a Ho Chi Minh City heritage tour and a full day at Angkor Wat, while foodies can sample Hanoi street eats and join a cooking class in Hoi An. Those keen on culture can learn about Sapa's hill tribes, attend an Apsara performance in Siem Reap, and interact with artisans along the Mekong Delta. Beach lovers should escape to Nha Trang and Koh Rong for some snorkeling and island hopping.

Kick off your week in the Whitsundays at the opulent qualia Great Barrier Reef (photo courtesy of qualia)

Australia Luxury Reef & City Escape: Hamilton Island & Sydney - 7 Days

Experience the essence of Australian laid-back luxury with this seven-day Hamilton Island and Sydney trip. Start in the Whitsundays at an opulent award-winning resort, where you'll go diving on the Great Barrier Reef, helicopter above Heart Reef, and stand on Whitehaven Beach with a glass of sparkling wine. Switch to Sydney and tick off its icons in style. Cruise across the harbor at sunset, go behind the scenes at the Opera House, eat your way across the city, and climb over the famous bridge.

End your adventure in Melbourne, Australia's "cultural capital"

Australia Luxury City Tour: Sydney & Melbourne - 7 Days

Get a taste of Australia's two greatest cities with a week of urban adventures, private day trips, and stylish 5-star hotels. This perfectly-paced luxury trip starts in Sydney, where you'll tick off iconic landmarks, meet Aussie animals, and connect with Aboriginal culture. Then, switch to Melbourne, the creative capital, where you'll dive into the food scene, leave your mark during a street art masterclass, and meet the penguins at Phillip Island.

See gannet colonies on the dramatic clifftops of Cape Kidnappers (photo courtesy of Rosewood Cape Kidnappers)

Luxury Highlights of New Zealand's North Island - 7 Days

Discover the highlights of New Zealand's North Island on this weeklong luxury tour. From Auckland, you'll hit the road south, staying at spectacular 5-star hotels as you make your way toward Wellington. Meet native wildlife, soar above Rotorua's geothermal landscapes on a floatplane, go wine tasting in Hawke's Bay, and take an Art Deco vintage car tour in Napier. Explore Maori culture as you go with a traditional spa experience at Wai Ariki and a visit to the Ngati Pikiao community.

Wraparound views of Lake Wakatipu from your Queenstown luxury lodge (photo courtesy of Azur Lodge)

New Zealand South Island Luxury Getaway - 7 Days

This luxury South Island road trip takes you from Christchurch to Queenstown in a relaxed fashion, enjoying exclusive tours and 5-star stays along the way. Soar above Mount Cook National Park and Milford Sound / Piopiotahi on scenic flights, take a helicopter to New Zealand's highest-altitude whisky bar, and explore the unspoiled Mackenzie region by 4WD. Other highlights include steaming onsen baths beneath the stars, exhilarating jet boat rides, and Kiwi barbecue feasts.

Base yourself in this stylish 5-star Patagonian hotel near Puerto Natales (photo courtesy of The Singular Patagonia)

1 Week in Chile - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

One week is enough time to visit 2-3 regions in Chile. Luxury travelers keen on culture and cuisine will enjoy a cooking class, street art, and spa treatments in Santiago. Those seeking elevated outdoor experiences will appreciate a Cochamó helicopter tour and hike, an Atacama Desert balloon ride and stargazing, or a choice of activities in Torres del Paine National Park while at the 5-star Singular Patagonia. Travelers eager to visit Easter Island can indulge in private tours and gourmet meals at Explora Rapa Nui.

Visit farms and vineyards and take whale watching flights from Kaikōura

Luxury Food, Wine & Landscapes of New Zealand's South Island - 7 Days

Savor the best of New Zealand's world-class wines and farm-to-fork cuisine on this luxurious weeklong tour of the South Island. Begin in history-soaked Christchurch, then road trip north through coastal towns and wine regions. Take in the scenery with heli-picnics, whale watching flights, and boat trips in Kaikoura and Nelson, then taste fine wines in the renowned Marlborough region. Foodie highlights include visiting a kiwi farm and a cooking class with an acclaimed chef at Hapuku Kitchen.

Enjoy quiet luxury at Otahuna Lodge, in Christchurch (photo courtesy of Otahuna Lodge)

Luxury New Zealand Wellness Escape - 7 Days

Pamper yourself with a weeklong luxury wellness break in New Zealand's South Island. As you drive a scenic route from Christchurch to Nelson, you'll stay at boutique, 5-star retreats where decadent spa sessions, woodland hot tubs, yoga classes, and nature hikes await. Soak in geothermal pools at the award-winning Maruia Hot Springs and sail the idyllic Tasman Bay, pausing to explore isolated golden beaches where you can swim and relax.

Soak in one of the hot tubs with epic views (photo courtesy of Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon)

The 7 Best Hotels on the South Coast

Whether you're looking for a traditional stay, a modern one, or a mix of both, you can find what you need in these hotels on Iceland's South Coast. This region—known for geometric basalt formations, "diamond" beaches, and Europe's largest glacier—primarily offers guesthouses with limited services but an abundance of hospitality. These hotels all have that warm, personalized feeling, as well as amenities like hot tubs, tasty restaurants, and views of the landscape that have made Iceland a must-visit destination.

Explore Mount Aspiring National Park from your base at the 5-star Minaret Station (photo courtesy of Minaret Station)

Off-the-Beaten-Track Luxury in New Zealand’s South Island - 7 Days

Step off the beaten track and explore remote corners of New Zealand's South Island with this weeklong luxury tour. On this self-drive adventure, travel from Christchurch to Queenstown, staying at far-flung, 5-star lodges where gourmet cuisine, heli-tours, and hot tubs beneath the stars await. Discover natural gems like Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, the Mackenzie Region, and Milford Sound / Piopiotahi by air, 4WD, and boat, traveling as far as the country's highest-altitude whisky hut.

Settle into your suite before heading out to explore Portugal's buzzing capital, Lisbon (photo courtesy of AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado)

2 Weeks in Portugal - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Portugal is an excellent amount of time to experience the country's luxurious side while hopping between a few distinct regions. If you're eager to delve into the city's cultural hotspots, focus on Lisbon, Porto, and Évora, or swap in the Alentejo and Comporta for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The Algarve and Madeira are superb options for a slice of coastal splendor, while those curious about Spain's wonders can include Seville and Granada in their itinerary.

Sample the white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife of the Philippines

Philippines Beaches & Nightlife: Manila, Boracay, Cebu & Coron - 14 Days

Immerse yourself in the culture, beaches, and nightlife of the Philippines on this 14-day itinerary that takes you from the bustling streets of Manila to some of the best tropical islands. Cycle across the capital's Intramuros district and road trip to the Taal volcano before trading the city for the tropics on Boracay, where you can split your time relaxing on the beach and dancing the night away. Round out the trip with visits to Cebu and Coron to trek to waterfalls, and discover World War II shipwrecks.

Spend two weeks hopping between Philippine islands like Palawan

Island Paradises of the Philippines: Bohol, Palawan & Coron - 14 Days

Pack your swimsuit and your sense of adventure for this two-week Philippines getaway. After an introduction to the capital, you'll split your time between the islands of Bohol, Palawan, and Coron—filling your days with outrigger canoe tours, snorkeling excursions, and plenty of uninterrupted beach time. Highlights include meeting the world's smallest primates on Bohol, snorkeling over the World War II shipwrecks off El Nido, and cruising around the hidden lagoons and islets of the Calamian archipelago.

Discover Siargao and take a surf lesson in the Philippines surf capital or watch surfers from iconic Cloud 9 Beach

5 Days in the Philippines - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days in the Philippines, focusing on one or two regions is wise. First-timers seeking a mix of history, cuisine, and adventure will enjoy Manila heritage and street food tours paired with Boracay watersports. Those keen on culture and hiking will appreciate a Bangaan Rice Terraces trek and the chance to learn about Ifugao culture. At the same time, travelers eager for an island getaway can try surfing in Siargao, island hopping in El Nido, or snorkeling among Coron's shipwrecks and coral gardens.

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