Travel Insights

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

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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.

The 6 Best Hotels Near Downtown Santa Elena in Monteverde

Santa Elena is Monteverde's hub and is where local restaurants, cafés, grocery stores, and shops are found. If you'd like to stay close to the downtown area, you have several hotel options, and many still maintain those Costa Rican cloud forest vibes.

The 6 Best Hotels Surrounded by Nature in Monteverde

One of the appeals of Monteverde is its dense cloud forest, so you'll find many hotels surrounded by nature and offering a quiet reprieve in the jungle. You'll have your choice of eco-lodges with organic eateries, bungalows surrounded by protected rainforest, and plenty of options allowing you to watch wildlife right from your room.

Female kudus visit a watering hole in Etosha National Park

Discover Namibia's Dunes, Coast & Wildlife – 5 Days

Explore Namibia's wildlife-filled parks and dune-swept coastline on this compact tour. Start in the historic capital, Windhoek, then escape south to Etosha National Park to spot a kaleidoscope of African wildlife on safari. Continue along the remote Skeleton Coast to discover shipwrecks and German seaside towns, finishing in Sesriem for desert sunsets and cheetah sightings.

Photo courtesy of Monteverde Rustic Lodge

The 7 Best Lodges in Monteverde

A cozy lodge is an excellent choice when staying in the misty cloud forests in Monteverde, as many sit in the jungle and offer views within or above the treetops. Sleep in luxury cabins with plush furnishings, area staples operating since the 1980s, or lodges with spas, outdoor pools, and fine dining restaurants.

New Zealand North Island Explorer - 9 Days

Ideal for adventure lovers and active travelers, this nine-day, self-drive itinerary features the best of New Zealand's North Island. Board an ocean safari for dolphin watching in the Bay of Islands, explore New Zealand's rich Maori history, and experience the mighty power of the Pacific Ocean at Cape Reinga. After beachcombing and snorkeling time at Snells Beach, head inland to Rotorua for rejuvenating geothermal pools, a Maori cultural dinner, and sparkling glowworm caves.

Photo courtesy of Hotel Lomas del Volcán

The 4 Best Lodges in Arenal

Arenal offers several lodges, many featuring iconic views of Arenal Volcano while also sitting within the Costa Rican jungle. Our top picks for accommodation in Arenal maintain an authentic atmosphere while still providing amenities like on-site eateries and hot springs. Enjoy staying in cabins, bungalows, and wooden rooms with warm decor and private outdoor spaces.

Photo courtesy of the Springs Resort & Spa Arenal

The 7 Best Hotels for Romance & Honeymoons in La Fortuna

Arenal/La Fortuna offers a romantic mix of beautiful scenery, relaxing hot springs, and cultural activities—an ideal spot for a honeymoon or getaway with your partner. Our recommendations for the best hotels for a bit of romance include luxury stays where you get your own private bungalow and plunge pool, plus other properties surrounded by the Costa Rican jungle with fine-dining eateries and secluded hot springs.

The 6 Best Hotels with Views of Arenal Volcano

The main attraction in Arenal/La Fortuna is the region's famed volcano, a cone-shaped peak often shrouded in clouds. Early morning is the best time to catch cloud-free views, so we recommend staying in an area hotel offering vistas of Arenal Volcano. Enjoy those views from your room with your morning coffee or common areas like open-air restaurants, hot springs, and yoga platforms.

The 5 Best Standard Hotels in Central Oslo

Oslo is an expensive city, but Norway's capital has its share of affordable hotels that have renovated rooms, contemporary lounge spaces, and healthy complimentary breakfasts, adding to the appeal. Plus, you'll be within walking distance of all the city offers, including fjord excursions and top attractions like Palace Park and the Nobel Peace Center.

Historical Highlights of Yorkshire & Northumberland - 6 Days

Uncover the jewels of England's northeast coast as you travel through the land of Romans, Vikings, and Anglo-Saxons on this six-day, self-drive itinerary. See the infamous York Minster Cathedral and the moors and dales that have inspired writers from Emily Brontë to Herman Melville. Unearth history through the ages as you walk in the footsteps of kings through the magnificent castles and abbeys of Yorkshire and Northumberland, discovering the wild beauty of these regions along the way.

Wonders of Chilean Nature: Santiago, Atacama Desert & Patagonia - 11 Days

Explore some of South America's most astonishing landscapes on this 11-day nature tour of Chile. First, head north to Atacama to ride e-bikes and buggies through the desert, watch the sunrise over steaming geysers, and gaze at stars through powerful telescopes. Then, go south to the glacial terrain of Patagonia to spend several days climbing and hiking through lakes, forests, and peaks in Torres del Paine National Park.

Mountains, forests, and lakes in the Rockies

How Many Days to Spend in Canada

When planning a trip to Canada, two weeks is an ideal amount of time to visit multiple regions or immerse yourself in one province, getting to know the area well. Alternatively, If you're strapped for time, one week is plenty to visit two, even three provinces in the Maritimes. And with only five days, you can choose a highlights tour of one or two cities, like Ottawa and Montréal or Toronto and Niagara Falls.

Photo courtesy of Downtown La Fortuna Hotel

The 6 Best Hotels Near Downtown La Fortuna

Staying close to La Fortuna gives you a mixed stay in the Arenal region, combining the area's famed jungle and volcanic views with the culture of its central hub. Our list of the best hotels near downtown La Fortuna includes those right in the action, properties a short walk from local restaurants and shops, and accommodation in the jungle yet just a quick five-minute drive from town.

Wild horses graze in Torres del Paine National Park

Chilean Nature Adventure: Santiago, Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine & Puerto Varas - 15 Days

This 15-day odyssey will take you to some of Chile's most fascinating sites and spectacular landscapes. Get to know the bustling city of Santiago, see the driest desert in the world at San Pedro de Atacama, marvel at glaciers in Torres del Paine National Park, and learn about Chile's colonial history in the scenic lakeside town of Puerto Varas. Cap off your adventure with a food tour of Santiago's best restaurants and a trip to Colchagua Valley wine country.

Chilean Culture & Nature: Santiago, Atacama Desert & Easter Island - 11 Days

Monumental archaeological mysteries, natural phenomena, and urban life are all part of this 11-day Chilean itinerary. From sprawling Santiago to the awe-inspiring Atacama Desert and Easter Island, each moment of your trip will offer opportunities for memorable experiences. Travel by air, car, hot-air balloon, bike, and horseback for a dynamic adventure through South America and across the South Pacific.

Autumnal foliage and pencil pines at Maroondah Reservoir in Australia's Yarra Valley wine country

3 Weeks in Australia - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can experience many of Australia's classic highlights and lesser-frequented gems in three weeks, covering multiple states and three coasts. You can even have time left to factor New Zealand into the itinerary. You'll cover major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, see the marine life of the Great Barrier Reef and cuddlier animals on Kangaroo Island, and venture into the outback of South Australia and the Northern Territory.

Sand patterns in Namibia's Kalahari Desert

Namibia Desert & Dune Safari Adventure: Kalahari Desert & NamibRand Nature Reserve – 5 Days

Experience Namibia's vast, ancient deserts on this five-day adventure tour. Drive yourself to the Kalahari Desert, where you'll meet the Indigenous San people and take wildlife-filled game drives with an expert guide. Next, hike the epic three-day Tok Tokkie Trail through the NamibRand Nature Reserve, trekking over dunes, sipping desert sundowners, and camping under star-studded night skies.

The 5 Best Hotels Surrounded By Nature in Arenal

A popular reason to visit Arenal/La Fortuna is the region's beautiful natural surroundings, which include dense jungle and the famed Arenal Volcano. To really experience Costa Rica's appeal, you may want a hotel enveloped by nature. Kimkim's list consists of the best hotels giving you that experience, from luxury lodges to standard properties with volcano views.

Little girl looks at a birdwing butterfly sitting on a plant in the Cairns' rainforest

Brisbane, Port Douglas & Sydney Family Adventure - 14 Days

This jam-packed two-week itinerary is perfect for active families wanting to explore the best of Australia's wildlife and outdoor lifestyle. Get up close and personal with the country's cutest and scaliest animals, see the city sights of Brisbane and Sydney by boat, bike, and kayak, and discover the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Along the way, you'll ride a cable car over the rainforest, dive into the Mossman River for a snorkeling tour, and wind up hiking the breathtaking Blue Mountains.

Explore Chile’s Atacama Desert & Lake District – 11 Days

Discover Chile's famous Atacama Desert and Lake District on this 11-day adventure. Tour the historic capital Santiago before delving into the Atacama's otherworldly landscapes, exploring its lunar-like salt flats, flamingo-filled lagoons, and spurting geysers. You'll stargaze and ride desert buggies, soak in geothermal pools, and end with a trip to Chile's lush Lake District for bird spotting on Chiloé Island.

Turkey at a Glance: Istanbul, Cappadocia & Şirince - 7 Days

Hit the highlights of Turkey's diverse landscapes on this well-rounded, weeklong itinerary. Start in the center of it all in Istanbul to see the famous Blue Mosque and cruise down the Bosphorous Strait, then move to the plains of central Anatolia and witness Cappadocia's stunning rock formations from high above in a hot air balloon. After, fly to the Aegean coast to explore Sirince and the archeological sites of Ephesus, home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World

See the salt flats and volcanoes of Chile's Atacama Desert

Ultimate Chile Adventure: Cities, Wine Country, Deserts & Mountains - 15 Days

Feed your adventurous soul with this 15-day tour of Chile. Begin in Santiago with bike tours of the city and visits to Chile's wine country for tastings of its best varietals. Then, it's off to the Andes Mountains and the Atacama Desert, where you'll travel through the mystical Moon Valley and swim in saltwater lagoons. Fly south to Patagonia to see the penguins of Magdalena Island in Puntas Arenas, then close the trip by hiking the mountains and glaciers of Torres del Paine National Park.

Praia dos Porcos and Ilha Dois Irmãos in the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha

5 Days in Brazil - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A five-day trip to Brazil can focus on one or two nearby cities, time in nature—whether tangled jungle or a sandy beach—or a couple of locales separated by a short flight. Explore Rio de Janeiro intimately or divide your time between Rio and Foz do Iguaçu to hike to Iguaçu Falls. Alternatively, discover the Amazon and its ecosystems with a tour of its waterways, wildlife, and people, cook like a local and lie out on the beaches of Bahia, or enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling in the waters of the private beaches of Fernando de Noronha.

How Many Days to Spend in Finland

Finland is a fun, relaxed destination—there's always time for a sauna—however long or short your trip. In five to seven days, you can check out the capital city, Helsinki, and surrounding natural areas, such as Finnish Lakeland. Meanwhile, depending on the season and your interests, you could head north to Lapland. And with an extended 10-day trip, you can delve deeper into the wilderness and national parks to enjoy fun winter or summer outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking.

Basque Coast near San Juan de Gaztelugatxe

North of Spain Ultimate Roadtrip - 13 Days

Immerse yourself in Northern Spain's breathtaking natural beauty, medieval history, and world-class gastronomy on this 13-day road trip. Traverse the dramatic Basque coast, sail to the stunning beaches of the Cíes Isles, and explore the foodie hotspot of San Sebastián. Along the way, you'll discover the world's first winery under the Cantabrian Sea, tour the best of Bilbao's pintxos bars, and marvel at the masterpieces of the legendary Guggenheim Museum.

Camlihemsin's tea plantations under a dramatic sky

Discover Turkish Tea in the Black Sea: Istanbul, Trabzon & Camlihemsin - 7 Days

Tea lovers rejoice—this seven-day odyssey leads you in search of Turkey's finest brews. Start in Istanbul, where you'll get lost in the famous Grand Bazaar. Head to Trabzon to visit the Hagia Sophia Mosque and marvel at the Black Sea coast, then continue into the lush Firtina Valley to stroll the exquisite tea gardens of Camlihemsin. As you explore a world of fairy-tale villages, emerald valleys, and hidden waterfalls, you'll sample the region's best teas and visit a series of local farms and producers.

Celebrate the festive season at a Belgian Christmas market

Belgium in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is winter in Belgium, but the country doesn't get as cold as some other Northern European countries, so you can still enjoy a city break in generally comfortable conditions. With Christmas markets set up around the country throughout the month (and sometimes as early as November), visitors can enjoy shopping, food and drink, fairground rides, and pretty decorations. Learn more about travel to Belgium in December.

Tour historic Bruges in November and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood

Belgium in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is late fall in Belgium, and although the weather can be wet, it's an excellent time to head to one of Belgium's attractive cities. Retreat to a fine museum, gallery, church, or restaurant when the weather turns damp, and take a stroll past medieval and Renaissance architecture when you want to get out of doors. Read on for more information on visiting Belgium in November.

Waterfall in a canyon in the High Fens, Ardennes

Belgium in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is fall in Belgium, with cool but not very cold temperatures and few tourists around. It's a great time of year to enjoy the colors of nature, especially the forests of the hilly Ardennes region. The autumn colors provide a beautiful backdrop to the small country's hundreds of castles, from Renaissance palaces to turreted fairy-tale-like castles. Read on to learn more about traveling to Belgium in October.

See the fall colors in the Ardennes in September

Belgium in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September in Belgium is the beginning of fall, but the weather remains warm and pleasant, and the summer crowds have dispersed. It's a great time to visit if you want to explore the beautiful historic cities without the masses—and at a lower price. The autumnal colors also start to spread across Belgium at this time, with the hilly, forested Ardennes region particularly colorful early in the season. Find out more about traveling to Belgium in September.

Take a dip in the North Sea and stroll the iconic Palace Pier at Blankenberge

Belgium in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is midsummer in Belgium and the peak season for travel. Belgians head to the North Sea coast—join them at the beaches and on hiking and biking trails. Check out fascinating Ghent, cool off in the sea at Blankenberge, or kayak into the lush forests of the Ardennes. Find out more about traveling to Belgium in August below.

Cool off at De Panne on the North Sea coast

Belgium in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is midsummer in Belgium, and the fine weather draws larger crowds (and higher costs). Visitors love Belgium's historic cities in July, and the capital, Brussels, which hosts a UNESCO-listed festival dating to the 14th century. To escape from the heat of the cities, head to the North Sea coast for swimming, cycling, walking—and land sailing. Read on for more information.

Skyline of Ghent's landmarks seen from St. Michael's Bridge at sunrise

Belgium in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is the start of summer in Belgium, but it's still the shoulder season before the summer rush. That makes it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the good weather and summer concerts and festivals without the high prices or oppressive crowds. Explore the medieval and modern culture in Ghent, see an enormous reenacted battle in Waterloo, and enjoy some live music. Here's what you can see and do in Belgium in June.

Belgium in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is spring in Belgium and a great time to come to enjoy good weather, smaller crowds, and more affordable prices. Spring flowers add color to the cities and countryside, and a 13th-century procession in beautiful Bruges provides a good reason to visit this Flemish city in May. Find out more about what to see and do in Belgium this month.

Famous cobbled street, Muur van Geraardsbergen, takes part in one-day road cycling race, Tour de Flanders, annually

Belgium in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is spring in Belgium and a great time to head outdoors in search of colorful flowers (you won't have to go far). Admire the carpets of bluebells at Hallerbos forest or make the most of the annual opening to the public of the royal family's private greenhouses at Laeken. There's a lot to see and do in Belgium in April.

Scenic South Africa Road Trip: Cape Town & Garden Route - 13 Days

Spend 13 days in South Africa enjoying the highlights of Cape Town, plus a jaunt through wine country and down to the Cape of Good Hope. You'll then embark on an epic road trip along the Garden Route, one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. Stop in national parks, visit charming towns, hit the waves in surf towns—you'll even have time to search for the "Big Five" on multiple safari game drives.

The Gilles arrive on Grand Place for the Binche Carnival in March

Belgium in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is the start of spring in Belgium, and although temperatures can still be quite cold, excitement for the end of winter is in the air. A major reason to visit Belgium this month is to attend a traditional Lent parade, such as the centuries-old Carnival of Binche in French-speaking Wallonia. Flower lovers are also in luck, with the first spring blossoms appearing. Here's where to go and what to do in Belgium in March.

Belgium in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February in Belgium is the low season. But it's a great time to visit if you want to explore the cultural attractions without the crowds of summer. Plus, it's prime time for winter sports such as ice skating and cross-country skiing. Whether you're visiting the art galleries of Brussels or medieval carnival parties in Binche, it's easy to forget that it's midwinter. Find out more about traveling to Belgium in February.

See the Brabo Fountain and Stadhuis in Antwerp's Grote Markt in January

Belgium in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Though January is midwinter in Belgium, it's a great time to visit if you want to enjoy the arts and culture of the northern European country without the crowds—or the high prices. Brussels is brimming with excellent art galleries, while the historic port city of Antwerp is a must-visit for foodies. Still want to get outside and do something active? Look for ice-skating opportunities in the cities and countryside. Learn more about traveling to Belgium in January.

How kimkim Hotel Visits Work

The goal of kimkim's hotel visit program is to provide accurate, on-the-ground, and unbiased information to our travelers about their accommodation options. Our staff regularly visits each location, ensuring the best offerings for authentic, locally-owned, and boutique properties across various budgets.

Aerial of Odeceixe Beach on Portugal's west coast

6 Days in Portugal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Six days in Portugal will leave you wanting more. The good thing, however, is that the country's small size relative to other popular European countries works in your favor, allowing you to pack in a diverse range of cities and scenery in under a week's vacation. You'll have time to see the highlights of Lisbon and Sintra, spend time on the beaches of the Algarve, get to know the Azores, or discover the country's Jewish heritage.

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