Travel Insights

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

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Wellington's iconic century-old furnicular

New Zealand North Island Road Trip: Auckland to Wellington - 8 Days

See the North Island from top to bottom on this eight-day New Zealand road trip. Get to know the "City of Sails" in Auckland, then set out into the rainforests of Waitakere and the lush farmland of Waikato. Visit Hobbit houses in the real Middle-earth and venture into glowworm-illuminated caves, then follow the smell of sulfur to Rotorua and its geothermal wonders. After hiking to the dormant volcanoes of Tongariro National Park, end your adventure among the quirky urban charm of Wellington.

Enjoy afternoon tea under a historic glass atrium (photo courtesy of Grand Hotel)

The 4 Best Luxury Historic Hotels in Oslo

When choosing a hotel in Oslo, consider that the most opulent options have a storied past from the 19th century for travelers who appreciate old-world charm. All the properties on this list have been restored in recent years with a spate of new features—like a full-service spa or underground jazz club—adding modernity to the historic surroundings. Read on to learn more.

A road through the North Island's Waitakere Ranges

Nature-Filled North Island Road Trip - 7 Days

Experience the great outdoors of New Zealand's North Island on this week-long, road trip itinerary. Loop your way south from Auckland to spot whales in Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, hike through the lush rainforests of the Waitakere Ranges, and glimpse the real Middle-earth in Matamata. Discover the geothermal marvels of Wai-O-Tapu in Rotorua, take an evening kayak tour into the glowworm canyons of Tauranga, and end your adventure back in Auckland with a sunset harbor dinner cruise.

Views over Nahuel Huapi Lake in Bariloche

Chile & Argentina Discovery: Santiago, Patagonia, Iguazú & Buenos Aires - 15 Days

Explore the natural wonders of Chile and Argentina on this adventurous 15-day tour. Start in Chile's capital, Santiago, where you'll go on walking tours and wine tastings. Then, spend a week in Chilean and Argentine Patagonia whitewater rafting, hiking, and kayaking in majestic glacial landscapes. Fly to northern Argentina to see the UNESCO-listed Iguazú Falls, and end the tour in elegant Buenos Aires.

The walls of Sesriem Canyon, Nambia, illuminated by the setting sun

5 Days in Namibia - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Namibia is a vast country with a wide variety of desert and coastal landscapes, and with five days in the country, you can get a taste of its highlights. Most tours start in the Germanic capital, Windhoek, from where you can embark on a self or private guided tour. Be amazed by vast red dunes, ancient canyons, abundant wildlife and birds, eerie shipwrecks along the coast, and European-like cities.

A desert adapted mother elephant and her calf walk a dried river bed in Namibia's northwestern region

Namibia in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is midsummer in Namibia and a low season for travel. Namibian summers tend to be hot and wet, but notable exceptions exist. Keep your cool at the bone-dry dunes of Sossusvlei or the foggy Skeleton Coast, or embrace the heat and go bird-watching in the Caprivi Strip. If you are in Namibia for Christmas, make the most of a hot festive season. Read on for more tips for traveling to Namibia in December.

See fur seals at the Cape Cross Seal Reserve along Namibia's southern coast

Namibia in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is the start of Namibia's long, hot, wet summer. It's low season for travel, but that's great news if you don't mind hot weather: bird-watch in the Caprivi Strip, seek out migrating whales off Walvis Bay, and spot seals (and a lot of shipwrecks) along the Skeleton Coast. Read on to learn more about where to go and what to do in Namibia in November.

Cool off with a beer during Oktoberfest in Namibia's capital, Windhoek

Namibia in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is the start of the hot, wet summer season in Namibia. It's the shoulder season for travel, but if you don't mind the heat, you can enjoy bird-watching in the beautiful Caprivi Strip as well as the wetlands near Swakopmund. And if you want to cool off with a cold beer, make a beeline to Windhoek in October for a traditional Oktoberfest party!

Discover the red dunes of Sossusvlei in the southern part of the Namib Desert, in the Namib-Naukluft National Park of Namibia

Namibia in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September marks the start of the short spring season in Namibia. Traveling to the country now is lovely because the weather is warm and dry, with low humidity. Meanwhile, wildlife viewing is still decent before the rains of summer arrive. It's a popular time to visit, but if you want to experience the Etosha National Park or the red dunes of Sossusvlei at their best and most comfortable, don't hesitate.

Go on safari and spot black rhinoceros in the Ongava Reserve in August

Namibia in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is winter in Namibia and peak season thanks to the ideal conditions for wildlife viewing in the national parks and game reserves. As well as highlights such as Etosha National Park and the Ongava Private Game Reserve, visitors to the African country in August can enjoy some exciting cultural festivals in different parts of the country. Read on for more information on what you can see and do in Namibia in August.

Namibia in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is midwinter in Namibia and the perfect time to visit the national parks and game reserves. Wildlife spotting, road tripping, and desert hiking are all excellent ways of experiencing Namibia this month. Read on to find out more about where to go and what to do.

Namibia in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is the start of winter and the peak season for travel in Namibia. Cool, arid conditions make it a great time to spot African wildlife, including rhinos, hippos, giraffes, and elephants. Road tripping is a popular way of experiencing Namibia's varied landscapes, from wetland to desert and coast to city. It's all possible in June.

Visit the Kunene region to seek out the Epupa Falls

Namibia in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is a transitional month in Namibia, a warm but dry month between the wet summer and the cool winter. It's shoulder season for travel and a great time to photograph this African nation's natural and cultural attractions without extreme weather conditions or many other visitors. Find out more about traveling to Namibia in May.

Snap pics of the unique aloe varietal: the Quiver Tree, in southern Namibia

Namibia in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is fall in Namibia and a great time to visit to enjoy warm temperatures, lush landscapes, and cultural festivals. Photographers of all skill and experience levels will find this an excellent month to travel through the varied country, offering lush and desert landscapes, attractive cities, and awe-inspiring expanses. Find out more about traveling to Namibia in April.

Aerial view of Skeleton Coast dunes meeting the Atlantic Ocean

Namibia in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is late summer in Namibia and is generally a hot time of year, although some areas are much hotter than others. Visit the capital, Windhoek, to enjoy cultural festivals; spot flamingoes at wetlands near Swakopmund; or take a 4WD safari along the Skeleton Coast. There's plenty to see and do in Namibia, even in the low season. Read on to find out more.

Close up of African flamingoes at Namibia's Walvis Bay Wetlands

Namibia in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February is midsummer in Namibia, and temperatures can range from warm on the coast to scorching in the desert. Summer is the best time of year to go bird-watching, so grab a pair of binoculars and get ready to see flamingoes, pelicans, and Okavango species. Find out more about traveling to Namibia in February.

A shipwrecked "skeleton" along the infamous Skeleton Coast of Western Namibia

Namibia in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January is midsummer in Namibia, bringing sweltering, wet conditions inland. However, coastal areas of the country remain cool, so there's no need to avoid Namibia this month if you prefer cooler temperatures. Spot pink flamingoes in the wetlands near Swakopmund, admire sunrises and sunsets from the golden dunes of Sossusvlei, and discover the shipwrecks of the dramatic Skeleton Coast.

The colorful Buenos Aires barrio of La Boca at sunset

Explore Argentina & Uruguay: Buenos Aires, Montevideo, Mendoza & Patagonia - 15 Days

From the rush of capitals Buenos Aires and Montevideo to the calm of Patagonia, Nahuel Huapi National Park, and the Humid Pampas, you'll travel by boat, car, and air on this far-reaching 15-day tour. See the highlights of Argentina and Uruguay with a mix of adventure and quiet moments to soak up the landscape—sipping local malbecs, watching mesmerizing tango, relaxing on the beach, and spending the day on a working cattle ranch.

Nature & Culture in Northern Argentina: Buenos Aires, Puerto Iguazú, Salta, Cafayate & Purmamarca - 15 Days

From thundering waterfalls to multicolored mountains, the geography of northern Argentina is as impressive as it gets. With this 15-day itinerary, witness unforgettable sights like Iguazú Falls in Misiones and the Cerro de los Siete Colores in Jujuy. At the same time, learn about the history and culture of northern Argentina, from the Inca who called the region home to the Argentine revolutionaries that won independence from Spain.

Argentina is filled with natural wonders to discover

Buenos Aires & Northwest Argentina: Natural Wonders, Waterfalls & Wine - 15 Days

From red-rock desert paintings to waterfalls that span two countries and the pulse of tango, this 15-day Argentine adventure will show you the country's diverse landscape and rich cultural heritage. Travel from Buenos Aires to Argentina's northwest by air and on the open road, with plenty of time to sip the country's famous malbec wines along the way.

Aerial view of Monte Fitz Roy and Las Vueltas River

North to South in Argentina: Buenos Aires, Iguazú Falls, Península Valdés & Patagonia - 15 Days

Experience Argentina's geographical extremes and admire the beauty of nature on this far-reaching 15-day itinerary. Explore the barrios of Buenos Aires and both sides of Iguazú Falls before heading south to Patagonia. Look for wildlife as you travel across lakes, seas, and glacial ice in Puerto Madryn, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén before returning home with memories that photos could never do justice to.

Self-Drive Scotland: Inverness, Isle of Skye, the Trossachs & Edinburgh - 5 Days

Walk in the footsteps of royalty with this five-day highlights tour of Scotland's spectacular scenery. Discover "paradise in the Highlands" at Balmoral Castle as you pass through the sweeping plateaus of the Cairngorms. Cruise the mysterious Loch Ness and explore Scotland's most photographed castle at Eilean Donan before hiking rugged peaks on the Isle of Skye. A delve into the history and atmospheric backstreets of enchanting Edinburgh rounds off this small but perfectly formed itinerary.

Explore Brazil's Green Coast: São Paulo to Rio de Janeiro - 10 Days

If you're looking to see a bit of everything on your trip to Brazil, you'll love this itinerary which includes cities, culture, beaches, and outdoor adventure. Start off in bustling São Paulo, then explore the historic town of Paraty and its surrounding nature. Afterward, head to the lushly-forested island of Ilha Grande for beachside relaxation, hiking, and water sports. Finish in Rio de Janeiro, where you'll discover the city's highlights and make an optional visit to a community social project.

Spot lions in South Africa's famed Kruger National Park

Southern Africa Highlights: Wildlife & Natural Wonders - 14 Days

This two-week adventure delivers the grand highlights and lesser-visited gems of southern Africa. Arrive in Cape Town to witness living history on walking tours and go wine tasting in the famous Cape Winelands. Jet off to Zimbabwe for sunset river cruises and vintage train rides around Victoria Falls, then hop over to Botswana for game drives in Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. Your trip culminates back in South Africa with more safari adventures in Kruger National Park.

This hotel overlooks the Mathallen Food Hall (photo courtesy of Scandic Vulkan)

The 3 Best Hotels near Grünerløkka in Oslo

These three hotels near Grünerløkka will get you close to the trendy arts district along the Akerselva river and keep you within walking distance of Oslo's city center when you're ready to explore more mainstream attractions. You'll find graffiti-lined streets, independent restaurants, and live music venues—lending to a Brooklyn, New York vibe.

Stay in a Neo-Renaissance building in the heart of Oslo (photo courtesy of Hotel Christiania Teater)

The 3 Best Mid-Range Historic Hotels in Oslo

The fast-growing city of Oslo offers plenty of glossy new architecture, but there are still charming hotels that have stood the test of time. Below is a compiled list of three mid-range options in Norway's capital dating back to the 19th century with renovated interiors that blend nicely with the buildings' original details. Read on to learn more.

Australia Cities & Wildlife Adventure for Families - 14 Days

This active two-week Australian trip starts with a hot air balloon flight across Melbourne and finishes on the shores of Sydney. Perfect for active families with older kids, this itinerary ticks the best of Australia's wildlife and outdoor lifestyle boxes. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, climb a mountain in Tasmania, hike in the rugged Blue Mountains, and hit the surf at Bondi Beach.

Spend a few hours or more exploring the Vigeland Sculpture Park in Norway's capital

The 6 Best Hotels near Vigeland Sculpture Park in Oslo

With more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland, this enormous park is one of Oslo's top attractions, but it's a healthy trek from the city center, where most tourists stay. Luckily, we've compiled a list of hotels with easier access to this veritable open-air museum (free of charge; open 24/7). Here are our top picks for the best hotels in Oslo, close to the Vigeland Sculpture Park.

A lodge and its infinity pool overlook Grootberg Canyon

Namibia Luxury Fly-In Safari: Etosha, Damaraland & Sossuvlei – 7 Days

Travel Namibia in style on this luxury, seven-day fly-in safari. Touchdown in Etosha National Park for a wildlife-studded game drive where you'll traverse Africa's largest salt pan before flying on to remote Damaraland. Here, you'll marvel at prehistoric rock art and wander petrified forests before ending in the Namib Desert, where Sossusvlei's towering dunes await.

Namibia Desert & Wildlife Fly-In Safari: Sossuvlei, Skeleton Coast & Etosha – 7 Days

Discover Namibia's deserts, rugged coastline, and wildlife-packed national parks on this week-long sky safari. Explore hulking dunes and never-ending salt pans in Sossusvlei before flying to the infamous Skeleton Coast for shipwreck and seal sightings. Finally, go on safari in Etosha National Park, where waterholes teem with iconic African animals.

Golden dunes of the Skeleton Coast fall into the Atlantic Coast

Namibia Desert & Dune Luxury Fly-In Safari: Sossusvlei & Skeleton Coast – 5 Days

Take to the skies on this luxury, five-day Namibia sky safari. Touchdown in the Namib Desert, exploring Sossusvlei's famous salt pan and towering dunes, then fly to the wind-battered Skeleton Coast. Here, you'll discover eerie shipwrecks and geological marvels, then spot desert-adapted wildlife on a game drive. The trip ends with a fishing expedition in the marine-rich waters off this torrid coastline.

Vibrant Mexico: Mexico City, Guadalajara & Puerto Vallarta - 13 Days

Explore the history and culture of Mexico with this 13-day tour, starting in the country's capital, Mexico City. Float the colorful canals of Xochimilco, sample Mexican street food, and wander local neighborhoods like Roma and Coyoacán. Then, it's off to Guadalajara for amazing architecture, lessons on the magic of cacao, and a visit to the town of Tequila for distillery tours and tastings. Your trip culminates on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, where you'll swim with dolphins and volunteer at a sea turtle camp!

Order a beverage among elegant furnishings and hand-painted murals (photo courtesy of Hotel Bristol)

The 8 Best Historic Hotels in Oslo

Norway's capital is swiftly gaining new modern architecture, but there are still a surprising number of hotels that make use of their buildings' historical roots. That's not to say they are dated: all the properties on this list have been restored in recent years with fresh room decor and features like upscale lounges and restaurants that blend nicely with original 19th- and 20th-century details. Read on for the best historic hotels in Oslo.

A winding road in the Marlborough Sounds

New Zealand Ultimate North to South Island Road Trip - 9 Days

Brimming with adventure, spectacular nature, and lively cities, this nine-day road trip dives into the best of New Zealand's North and South Islands. Visit cosmopolitan Auckland and sample Waiheke Island's best beaches and wineries, then head to Rotorua for thrill-seeking activities, Maori villages, and natural hot springs. After a breathtaking ferry ride across Marlborough Sounds, your trip ends with whale watching and a scenic drive along the Kaikoura Coast to Christchurch.

The 5 Best Luxury Hotels in Central Oslo

If you are looking for a luxury hotel in Oslo near the best attractions, these options—many with historic roots—have up-to-date, posh rooms, sophisticated restaurants, and possible amenities ranging from spas and indoor pools to piano bars and underground jazz clubs. Here are our top picks for the best luxury hotels in Central Oslo.

The 5 Best Hotels with Pools in Tamarindo

Though Tamarindo is known for its idyllic coves, inlets, and white-sand beaches, sometimes you need a break from the surf and want to relax by the pool. Tamarindo has several lodging choices that offer swimming pools, including many with multiple pools or areas where you can relax in sunloungers and still enjoy those ocean views.

Photo courtesy of Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas

The 7 Best Boutique Hotels in Tamarindo

Boutique hotels in Tamarindo offer a blend of relaxation and authenticity while in the middle of the buzz on the region's famed white-sand beaches. You can choose from luxury hillside hotels, beachfront villas with bohemian vibes, and standard hotels with unique amenities, like happy hour, surf lessons, and beach clubs.

Photo courtesy of Jardín del Eden Boutique Hotel

The 6 Best Hotels for Romance & Honeymoons in Tamarindo

Tamarindo's reputation for tropical white-sand beaches makes it an ideal spot for a romantic trip. Couples can enjoy relaxing on the beach and taking in the sunsets or combine their vacation with something more active, like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or learning how to surf. And to enhance your stay, opt for accommodation with perks like private hot tubs, spa treatments, outdoor showers, and beach views.

This hotel in Aker Brygge has a rooftop restaurant with fjord views (photo courtesy of The Thief)

The 5 Best Hotels near Aker Brygge in Oslo

Deciding where to stay in Norway's capital can be a difficult decision, but the newly-developed Aker Brygge waterfront precinct is a great place to consider. Though the area really comes alive during the summer months, thanks to outdoor dining and fjord excursions, there are events and attractions for every season, including the new National Museum with the most extensive art collection in the country. Check out these five hotels within a 10-minute walk from the action.

Australia & New Zealand for Families: Big Cities, Adventure & the Reef - 14 Days

The perfect itinerary for families with active older kids and teens, this two-week tour takes you to the heart of Australia and New Zealand's natural wonders. Discover Sydney and Melbourne's top attractions before heading north to Cairns for an epic day at the Great Barrier Reef. Travel through the rainforest and down the Great Ocean Road, then hop over to New Zealand's adventure capital of Queenstown to explore mountains, fjords, and "Lord of the Rings" country.

Relax in a stylish hotel lounge near the new Munch Museum (photo courtesy of Clarion Hotel Oslo

The 5 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Central Oslo

These mid-range options are great for travelers who want contemporary furnishings and access to major highlights from Palace Park to the Oslo Opera House, not to mention outstanding breakfasts and cozy lounge areas. Here are the top picks for the best mid-range hotels in Oslo.

Ultimate South Africa: Cape Town, Simon's Town, Franschhoek, Kruger & Johannesburg - 14 Days

This two-week sojourn in South Africa delivers the highlights, from cultural outings to wine tastings to wildlife adventures. In Cape Town, you'll get to know the region on city tours, guided hikes, and day trips to the Cape Winelands region to enjoy great food and wine. After walking with penguins near the southern Cape, you're off to Kruger National Park for wildlife safaris before ending the trip in Johannesburg, where you'll witness living history from the Apartheid era before heading home.

Catch a rainbow at Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls

Wild South Africa & Zimbabwe: Kruger National Park & Victoria Falls - 7 Days

Discover wildlife and natural beauty up close on this weeklong adventure that takes you to South Africa and Zimbabwe's most spectacular sites. Start in Kruger National Park to explore by safari as you observe "Big Five" wildlife by day and nocturnal beasts in the evening. Enjoy life at the lodge and experience a traditional meal grilled over open flames. Finish your expedition by marveling at the overwhelming beauty of Victoria Falls and trying out some extreme sports activities.

Photo courtesy of Casa Chameleon Hotel Las Catalinas

The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in the Gulf of Papagayo

The hidden coves and beaches along the Gulf of Papagayo's rugged coastline offer a relaxing and active stay. Spend your days sunbathing at the beach or enjoy ventures like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding in the protected waters. And if you're after that beachfront experience, this region offers plenty of options.

Argentina Highlights: Buenos Aires, Iguazú, Mendoza & El Calafate - 15 Days

From the subtropical waterfalls of Igauzú to the subpolar forests of Patagonia, experience all that Argentina has to offer on this 15-day itinerary. Begin with evenings of tango and folk music in Buenos Aires before flying to Iguazu Falls National Park to see the largest waterfall system in the world. Taste wines and olive oils from artisan producers in Mendoza, then fly south to El Calafate to see the natural wonders of Los Glaciares National Park.

Cape Reinga in New Zealand's Bay of Islands

Unwind in New Zealand's Winterless North - 9 Days

Experience the best of New Zealand's North Island, known for its rich Maori culture, subtropical beaches, and buzzing city life. Launch your nine-day tour in Auckland with a bungee jump off the Sky Tower and a dinner cruise around its twinkling harbor. Then road trip your way north to the tropical paradise of the Bay of Islands to discover pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, and the magical Waipoua Forest.

Photo courtesy of Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

The 5 Best Beach Hotels in Tamarindo

If you're planning to visit Tamarindo, it's probably for its renowned beaches and coastline. To truly experience this region's famous shores, you might want to stay in a beachfront hotel or lodgings that offer direct beach access. You'll find plenty of options, from luxury hotels with sports equipment to standard accommodation with common spaces right on the sand.

Photo courtesy of Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel

The 7 Best Mid-Range & Luxury Hotels in Tamarindo

With such an idyllic setting, Tamarindo offers plenty of beautiful mid-range and luxury boutique hotels to enhance your stay along the region's famed coastline. Choose from luxury hillside hotels, beachfront cabins, villas with private pools, and bungalows with bohemian vibes.

The 4 Best Standard Hotels in Tamarindo

Many visitors choose to stay in Tamarindo for its incredible coastline, beaches, and opportunities for water sports. Surfers from all over the world come here to catch waves, which means there's plenty of entertainment, restaurants, and local shops to enjoy. Some of the best standard hotels in Tamarindo double as surf schools, so you can enjoy the total experience.

The 6 Best Hotels for Romance & Honeymoons in Monteverde

Monteverde is an ideal location for a Costa Rican honeymoon, with its misty and romantic cloud forest and abundant wildlife. Couples will find intimate properties surrounded by jungle greenery that offer amenities like private balconies, soaking tubs, fine dining restaurants, spas, outdoor pools, and happy hours.

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