Travel Insights

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

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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.

See natural wonders like Bohol's Chocolate Hills as you loop your way through the Philippines from Manila

Philippines Explorer: Manila, Banaue, Bohol, Cebu & Palawan - 14 Days

If you want to see the most of the Philippines in just two weeks, this far-reaching, fast-paced itinerary gives you a taster of the archipelago's remarkable natural and cultural diversity. Beginning and ending in Manila, you'll travel from the remote northern rice terraces of Luzon to the far-western island of Palawan, visiting Indigenous villages, sprawling metropolises, unspoiled countryside, and tropical islands along the way.

Experience the many shades of blue in Bacalar's lagoon

Discover the Yucatán: Natural Treasures & Maya Heritage - 14 Days

This 14-day journey through the Yucatán Peninsula weaves nature, Maya culture, and ancient wonders into one memorable adventure. Start your exploration in Tulum, where pristine beaches meet well-preserved Maya ruins. Then head to the Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar for a serene escape before immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Valladolid, with its colorful colonial charm and archaeological wonders. Finally, venture to Holbox, an island paradise packed with nature experiences.

Enjoy a diverse adventure across the Philippine capital, coastal retreats, and idyllic islands

Essential Philippines: Culture, Nature & Islands - 14 Days

A perfect choice for those who want to sample the full spectrum of the Philippines' culture and nature, this 14-day highlights tour checks off some of the country's vibrant cities, natural wonders, and palm-fringed islands. Visit historic landmarks and learn about the country's past with tours of Manila and Cebu City, immerse yourself in nature in Bohol's Chocolate Hills and Cebu's Kawasan Waterfall, and snorkel through coral reefs and sunbathe on the pristine sands of Nalusuan and Balacasag.

Relax on the white-sand beaches in Boracay

Philippines Relaxed City & Island Getaway: Manila, Boracay, Cebu & Coron - 14 Days

With two weeks to spare, you can hop between three of the Philippines' most idyllic island retreats at a leisurely pace—and still have time for some city fun in the capital. Kick things off with a cycling tour of Manila's Intramuros district, then jet off to Boracay for boat tours, relaxing spa treatments, and plenty of beach time. Continue to the islands of Cebu and Coron to hike to waterfalls and snorkel with shipwrecks, then end with a quick shopping tour back in Manila for the perfect souvenirs.

Follow chimpanzees through the forest in Kibale National Park

Epic Uganda & Rwanda Adventure: Entebbe to Kigali - 14 Days

Experience two of East Africa's lesser-visited gems on this two-week adventure through Uganda and Rwanda. Spot rare wildlife and witness extraordinary biodiversity between five national parks, and get a taste of the local culture with visits to community-led initiatives and Indigenous villages. Highlights include spotting tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, tracking golden monkeys through Volcanoes National Park, and an aerial canopy walk through the Nyungwe Forest.

Delight in the antics of the macaques as you explore Ubud's Sacred Monkey Forest Sancturay

5 Days in Bali - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have just five days in Bali, it's wise to spend your time in one region. Wellness travelers can reinvigorate body and soul with spa treatments in Seminyak and purification rituals at Taman Beji Samuan. Those keen on culture can cook with a chef in Ubud and attend a kecak performance in Uluwatu. Active travelers will enjoy surfing and whitewater rafting, while those eager to encounter wildlife will appreciate a visit to the Sangeh Monkey Forest and snorkeling at Blue Lagoon Beach.

Ultimate Uganda Wildlife Tour: National Parks & Cultural Highlights - 14 Days

Wildlife lovers look no farther—on this far-reaching Ugandan itinerary, you'll check off five renowned national parks in two weeks. Start with explorations of Entebbe and Kampala, then set off to spot hippos on a boat cruise to Murchison Falls, track chimps through the forests of Kibale, and search out the Big Five on game drives in Queen Elizabeth. After a trek into the misty hills of Bwindi to meet its resident gorillas, you'll wind down with a horseback safari in Lake Mburo.

Wander Bavaria's medieval streets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Siebers Tower and Kobolzell Gate amid half-timbered buildings

10 Days in Germany - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Given Germany's size, you can visit at least four regions in 10 days. Active travelers will enjoy standup paddleboarding on Lake Constance and biking around Berlin, while history buffs will appreciate a Nuremberg World War II tour. Those keen on culinary experiences can take a Bavarian food and beer tour in Munich and sip riesling in Rudesheim. Travelers eager to embark on a multicountry trip can include an e-bike tour in the Czech Republic, an orchestra concert in Austria, or hiking in Switzerland.

Set off on a three-day hike through Mount Elgon National Park

Active Uganda Adventure - 14 Days

This active 14-day adventure across Uganda promises a diverse and thrilling experience, blending cultural exploration with adrenaline-pumping activities and wildlife encounters. The journey starts and ends in Entebbe, stopping in quaint villages and pristine national parks as you whitewater raft down the Nile, abseil down Sipi Falls, take a multiday trek up mighty Mount Elgon, and track chimpanzees through the Rwenzori Mountains.

Keep an eye out for hippos partially submerged in the Nile

Culture & Wildlife Tour of Uganda - 14 Days

This 14-day itinerary takes you through the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Uganda. Begin your adventure with a city tour of the capital, Kampala, before heading north to Jinja, known as the source of the Nile. Meet the Karamojong people in Moroto, then leave civilization behind as you venture into three national parks. Spend your time going on game drives, tracking chimpanzees through the forest, and cruising to cascading waterfalls.

Explore the gorgeous beaches of the Dominican Republic

Adventurous Family Tour of the Dominican Republic - 14 Days

This action-packed family tour of the Dominican Republic kicks off in Punta Cana, where you'll visit local beaches, cruise out to Isla Saona, and swim in the "blue hole" cenote of Hoyo Azul. Learn about the life of a Dominican cowboy on a horseback ride and ranch tour, discover the underwater world of the island via Scuba Doo, then head to wild and wonderful Samaná. Hike to the waterfalls of El Limón, trek to untouched beaches, and end by visiting the humpback whales of Samaná Bay.

Dunnotar Castle sits on the North Sea in Aberdeenshire

Self-Drive Scotland Highlights: Cities, Castles & Countryside - 11 Days

Explore castles, coastlines, and countryside on this 11-day Scotland trip that prioritizes nature, history, and insightful guided experiences. This self-drive itinerary trots through Scotland, crossing through the Kingdom of Fife to Aberdeenshire, into Cairngorms National Park, up to Inverness, and then back to the capital. You'll walk through ancient ruins, hike along beaches, and taste whisky at local distilleries as you take in some of the country's finest scenery.

Explore Kyoto's many temples and shrines as a family

Japan Family Highlights Tour: Osaka, Kyoto & Tokyo - 10 Days

Discover the best of Japan with your family on this 10-day vacation that hits the country's natural wonders and cultural landmarks at a kid-friendly pace. Begin in Osaka, where ancient temples meet glass-fronted skyscrapers. Then, delve into Kyoto's tea ceremony culture, wander through bamboo forests, and cruise the Katsura River. Finish your adventure with immersive tours in Tokyo's pioneering digital art and science museums and a restful day on the shores of Mount Fuji.

Gaze above the clouds at Unkai Terrace on Hokkaido

Family Tour of Japan's Hokkaido Island: History, Culture & Outdoor Fun - 10 Days

This family-centric tour focuses on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, known for its cooler climate and unspoiled nature. You'll hike around steamy ancient hot springs and learn about Japan's Edo period in Noboribetsu, then hop over to Toyako for lake cruises and a meet and greet with the brown bears of Showa Shinzan. Stroll the historic streets of Sapporo, create sweet treats at Ishiya Chocolate Factory, and end with outdoor excursions and relaxing resort time in Shimukappu.

The animé fans in the family will love a trip to Gundam Base Tokyo

Adventurous Family Fun in Japan: Animé, Theme Parks & Cultural Excursions - 10 Days

It's all about family on this fun-filled 10-day jaunt through Japan. Start in Tokyo, where the kids can meet their favorite animé characters in Akihabara, catch some Pokémon at the Pokémon Center, and discover the wonders of Tokyo Disneyland. Learn about the secret world of ninjas and take a day trip to the Fuji Five Lakes region; then, it's off to Osaka for historic castles and the neon lights of Dotonbori. End your vacation in style with a day of rides and roller coasters at Universal Studios Japan.

Start your journey across Bali at the iconic Tanah Lot Temple

Bali Nature & Culture Tour - 14 Days

Dive into Bali's cultural, natural, and historical wonders on this 14-day itinerary. Jump right into the action with a visit to three iconic temples, including a Hindu sea temple called Tanah Lot. Then, trade the south coast for the north as you head to Pemuteran, where you'll snorkel around Menjangan Island and trek in a national park. Your journey continues inland to the quaint villages of Munduk and Sidemen before visiting a range of beautiful beaches across Sanur to soak up some last-minute sun.

Explore Pura Lempuyang Luhur to see the iconic "Gateway to Heaven"

Balinese Cultural Escape - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary immerses you in the best of Bali's natural landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling adventures. Travel from the black sands of Pekutatan Beach to the quaint countryside of Sidemen, stopping at hidden waterfalls, Hindu temples, and lush rice terraces. You'll also dive into Bali's unique culture with a cooking class, a Barong performance, and an ikat fabric-making demonstration. Kick in a little adventure, too, with a sunrise trek to Mount Batur and a rafting trip down the Telaga Waja River.

Two girls at the Tsuten-kyo bridge at Tofuku-ji temple in Kyoto

Family Fun & Culture in Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka - 10 Days

Japan is a spellbinding destination for kids of all ages, and this family-friendly 10-day tour is the perfect introduction to the country's culture, food, and innovation. Split between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, you'll start with digital art and a river cruise in the country's capital before catching the bullet train west. Discover temples, monkeys, ninjas, and samurai in ancient Kyoto, then finish up in Osaka to visit a noodle museum and the world's largest aquarium.

The kids will love browsing the cute characters and charming souvenirs in Tokyo's busy shopping streets

Fun-Filled Family Highlights of Japan: Tokyo & Kyoto - 7 Days

Spend a week discovering some of Japan's most family-friendly highlights with this lighthearted itinerary. Start in Tokyo to walk the jam-packed alleyways of Tsukiji Fish Market and let the kids practice their Pokémon Master skills at the Pokémon Center. Ride a glass-paneled ropeway up the slopes of Mount Fuji, then hop a train to Kyoto for a family tea ceremony and a visit to the Kyoto Railway Museum. End with a stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway.

Learn about the history and culture of Kyoto with family-friendly tours and experiences

Relaxed Family Tour of Japan: Tokyo & Kyoto - 7 Days

See the best of Tokyo and Kyoto at an easy pace with a week of family-focused tours and cultural highlights. Discover ancient temples and animé fun in the capital, then spend a day on the wild rides of DisneySea. Continue to historic Kyoto, where youngsters can take part in a traditional tea ceremony, blaze their own trail through the Sagano Bamboo Grove, and meet the monkeys at Arashiyama Monkey Park. End with a family photo-op at the iconic red gates of Fushimi Inari.

Explore the bustling streets of Tokyo with your family

Adventurous Family Fun in Japan: Animé, Ninjas, Godzilla & Theme Parks - 7 Days

Family adventures abound on this high-octane weeklong tour through Japan. It starts in Tokyo as you explore historic temples, tour the animé-centric Akihabara, and learn to make authentic Japanese sushi. Then, it's off to Osaka for the neon lights of the Dotonbori district alongside the wild rides of Universal Studios Japan. End with a day at Awaji Island's Nijigen No Mori Park, where the kids can meet their favorite manga characters and battle against the monster Godzilla!

Views to the Isle Ornsay lighthouse from Skye—one of the six Scottish islands you'll visit on this trip

Island Hopping in Scotland - 12 Days

Stunning Scotland counts close to 800 islands in its territory, and with 12 days and the keys to a rental car, you'll get to explore a handful of the best. Discover the beauty of Arran and Mull, taste whisky on Raasay, explore religion on Iona, and admire the natural beauty of Skye. There's more fun to be had on the mainland, with a Scottish ceilidh evening in Oban, traditional trad music in Glasgow, and a few scenic hikes for good measure.

Taste Scottish whisky at its source on this 12-day jaunt around Scotland's best distilleries

Great Scottish Whisky Adventure - 12 Days

Sip, sample, and savor Scotland's top single malts with this 12-day self-drive whisky road trip. You'll journey across the country, visiting 13 distilleries to taste Highland, Lowland, and Speyside whiskies at the source. Collect a car in Edinburgh and head north to Aviemore to visit a cooperage workshop and taste smooth spirits. Drive out to the Isle of Skye and Oban, where coastal casks reveal new flavors, and explore nature in Glencoe and Loch Lomond. Finally, finish in Glasgow with a final toast!

Take a predawn hike to the top of Mount Batur and watch the sunrise

Active Adventure in Bali: Munduk, Ubud, Sideman & Uluwatu - 10 Days

Enjoy all the adventures Bali has to offer on this 10-day itinerary, leading active travelers on a sunrise hike atop Mount Batur, a cycle excursion through the island's verdant rice terraces in Ubud, and off-road escapades to a rubber plantation in the Pekutatan district. You'll also discover ancient temples nestled along Tamblingan Lake, witness a traditional dance performance, explore the countryside of Sidemen, and conclude with a surfing lesson on the white-sand beaches of the Bukit Peninsula.

Enjoy a mix of guided tours and free time while staying on Palawan Island for snorkeling

Philippines Active Adventure: Manila, Banaue, Sagada & Palawan - 14 Days

Combine natural landscapes with active adventures on this two-week exploration of the Philippines. Hike, bike, and snorkel your way across the bustling capital of Manila, the quaint villages of Banaue and Sagada, and the tropical island of Palawan. There will be plenty of time to relax, too, as you visit white-sand beaches and spend two days island hopping around the Bacuit Archipelago. Finish the trip back in Manila, where you can spend your last night shopping, dining, or enjoying some nightlife

Soak in the views from your private cottage (photo courtesy of Dís Cottages)

The 5 Best Hotels in Snæfellsnes

Black sand beaches, natural stone arches, and one of Iceland's most iconic mountains are just some of the natural sites that make up the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, so it's no surprise that the hotels all reflect different parts of the landscape and culture. Stay in a historic hotel in a lava field next to one of Iceland's oldest wooden chapels, watch the northern lights from your private deck on a plot of land made famous in the Icelandic Sagas, or take a dip in on-site geothermal baths with mountain views.

Treat your little ones to plenty of kid-friendly treats like daifuku (stuffed mochi) on a Tokyo food tour

Family Travels in Japan: Tokyo, Fujiyoshida & Kyoto - 7 Days

See the wonders of Japan with your family on this seven-day tour that starts in the bustling capital city of Tokyo. Explore the interactive art of TeamLab Planets and visit the historic Senso-ji temple, then you're off to see the peaks of Mount Fuji. Cruise along Kawaguchi Lake, ride the ropeway for sky-high views, and spend a day at nearby Fuji Q Amusement Park for thrilling rollercoasters and animé fun. End with a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto and a visit with curious monkeys in Arashiyama.

On a classic highlights tour of Thailand and Cambodia, you can ascend the strenuous climb of over 1,200 steps to Wat Tham Suea, Krabi, Thailand

2 Weeks in Thailand & Cambodia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to explore Thailand and Cambodia, you can check out the must-see sites of Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Siem Reap, and Phnom Penh on a grand highlights tour. Or, explore the same regions but opt for nature-focused activities featuring waterfalls, elephants, and unique (floating) villages. If you're eager to get your heart rate up, include a skydive, a rafting excursion, and a jungle ATV tour to your itinerary, or slow things down and spend more time lazing on the beaches of Phuket and Krabi.

Discover the beauty of Switzerland's southern lakes region, then hop over to northern Italy

Lakes Tour of Switzerland & Northern Italy - 14 Days

Though most famous for its soaring Alpine peaks, Switzerland is also dotted with shimmering turquoise lakes. This two-week itinerary will take you to the best, from medieval Lucerne in the north to Italian-speaking Lugano in the south. At each destination, you'll enjoy activities ranging from hot-air balloon rides and food workshops to wine tours and mountain ascents—you'll even hop the border into Italy to end the trip with kayaking and cycling around Lake Como and a jaunt around Milan.

Stay in a glass cabin with panoramic views (photo courtesy of Panorama Glass Lodges)

The 10 Best Hotels Near the Golden Circle

Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the natural phenomena of the Golden Circle or discover local culture and folklore, the region's best hotels exemplify different aspects of this favorite Icelandic route. Some offer amenities like private hot springs, others have international food halls, and many have saunas and hot tubs to relax under the northern lights after a long day of exploring.

Hunt for the northern lights in the Arctic Circle city of Tromsø

Chasing the Northern Lights in Sweden & Norway - 10 Days

Spend exciting evenings hunting for the northern lights during this 10-day tour of Sweden and Norway. Not only will you visit some of the world's best destinations for viewing the aurora borealis, from Tromsø's fjords to Kiruna's Aurora Sky Station, but you'll also discover snowy landscapes with a range of daytime activities. Take part in dogsledding trips and snowmobile rides, go whale watching and ice fishing, and stay at the original Ice Hotel that serves epic five-course dinners.

Discover Belém and the Belém Tower (on the bank of the Tagus River in Lisbon) on a Segway tour

10 Days in Portugal - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Portugal is an excellent amount of time to immerse yourself in luxury and embark on exclusive excursions. For a deep dive into the country's flavors and culture, split your time between Lisbon, Porto, and Évora. Or, if your idea of a perfect vacation includes time at the beach, swap in Lagos or the island of Madeira. Meanwhile, Douro Valley, Alentejo, and Comporta are ideal destinations for an off-the-beaten-path trip, and including time in Spain allows you to visit Seville and Granada.

Experience summer above the Arctic Circle in the fjords and islands around Tromsø

Scandinavia Summer Highlights: Helsinki, Stockholm, Luleå & Tromsø - 10 Days

Get off the beaten track during this exciting summer trip that covers three Scandinavian countries in 10 days. You'll start by tasting Finnish delicacies on a food tour of Helsinki, then fly to Stockholm for cultural tours and a wildlife safari in its surrounding forests. Continue to the pristine north, stopping in Swedish Lappland to kayak in Luleå's tranquil archipelago before ending in Norway's far-flung city of Tromsø, where Arctic day trips, whale watching cruises, and cable rides await.

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