Travel Insights

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

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Costa Rica from Coast to Coast - 14 Days

Hiking in the jungle, soaking in hot springs, snorkeling with tropical fish, horseback riding to waterfalls—these are just a few outdoor adventures that await travelers on this thrilling 14-day itinerary around Costa Rica. After a day in San José, you'll head to the Caribbean coast and spend a few days exploring Tortuguero National Park. Discover the natural wonders of Arenal and Monteverde before finishing up the adventure on the Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio National Park.

Spain FAQ

Spain is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, and for good reason. From north to south, you have options for hiking, beach days, UNESCO heritage sites, charming medieval villages, tasty tapas, and much more. If you're heading to this cultural goldmine, discover the answers to the most common FAQs—including how to get around, what to eat, and how much to tip.

Ultimate Spain Packing List

Though just one country, Spain offers a lot of diversity in terms of culture, terrain, weather, activities, and gastronomy. This mix is what makes traveling to Spain so appealing. Still, it can also make it a little tricky to pack, especially if you plan to combine northern and southern cities, explore the country between seasons, or visit the islands. Our ultimate packing list for Spain will help you decide what to bring and what to leave behind.

Blue skies over Évora's medieval cathedral

Historic Portugal: Évora, Coimbra, Douro Valley, Porto & Lisbon - 12 Days

This 12-day itinerary takes you on an epic journey through Portugal's cultural highlights and compelling history. Check off the major cities and iconic sites while seeking out a bounty of lesser-visited gems in between. Climb the towering, tiled staircase of Lamego, cruise down the Douro River in a traditional rabelo boat, cross the legendary bridge of Amarante, sip fortified wine in the riverside cellars of Porto, and gaze out over Lisbon's colorful rooftops from the medieval Castelo de S. Jorge.

Australian East Coast Adventure: Brisbane, Cairns & Sydney - 9 Days

Discover Australia's east coast with three of its most glowing cities. Start in Brisbane with a visit to the Australia Zoo, which houses over 1,200 wildlife species. Head to Cairns, a tropical paradise with sparkling waters and white sandy beaches. Snorkel in a sheltered lagoon near the Great Barrier Reef, followed by viewing this natural wonder from up close in a glass-bottomed boat. Next is Sydney, where you'll visit the most iconic sites of this dynamic, multicultural metropolis.

Sydney, Uluru & Port Douglas - 11 Days

Spend 11 days enjoying some of the best of urban Australia as well as outback excursions you'll not soon forget. It begins in the global metropolis of Sydney, where you'll experience its city sights and postcard beaches on walking tours. Then, fly to the Northern Territory for spiritual expeditions into the red deserts at Uluru before finishing the trip on the Great Barrier Reef and in the ancient rainforests of Daintree.

Laid-Back Portugal: Lisbon, Porto & More - 12 Days

Get to know Portugal at a relaxed pace on this 12-day itinerary that lets you explore Lisbon and Porto in-depth. Begin in the capital, where you'll uncover the ancient city's history and heart, then visit surrounding areas like Sintra, Évora, and Batalha on guided day trips. Next, catch a train to Porto to immerse yourself in the splendors of the north—wandering the colorful streets of the Ribeira district, taking a river cruise in a traditional boat, and spending a day in the rolling wine country of the Douro Valley.

Highlights of Portugal & Spain: Lisbon to Madrid - 13 Days

Journey through the heart of the Iberian Peninsula on this epic, 13-day itinerary. Start in Portugal to wander Lisbon's atmospheric neighborhoods, discover the hilltop palaces of Sintra, and immerse yourself in Évora's ancient history. Then it's time to head east into Spain, where Andalusian culture and cuisine come alive in Seville and Granada. Your adventure ends in Madrid, where you'll get to know the Old Masters at the Prado Museum and take a flavorful tapas tour through the capital.

Scenic Miradouro das Portas do Sol, Lisbon

11 Days in Portugal - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 11 days, you can get to the heart of Portugal as you travel from the northern wine country to the sun-kissed southern coast. Along the way, you'll spend ample time in its historic coastal cities, like Lisbon and Porto, and the medieval mountain towns of its interior. And if you're still thirsting for more, jet off to exotic islands like the Azores or hop the border to Spain for more fun times in Madrid and Barcelona.

Island Hopping in the Azores: São Miguel, Faial, Pico & Terceira - 15 Days

Explore the volcanic landscapes of the Azores on this 15-day self-driving tour that highlights four of the Portuguese archipelago's islands. Start in São Miguel, where you'll kayak across crater lakes and try stew made with geothermal heat. Then, hop between Faial, Pico, and Terceira to hike dormant volcanoes, explore deep magma chambers, and swim in natural pools made of solidified lava.

Foodie Highlights of Melbourne - 6 Days

Eat and drink your way through Australia's second city on this delicious, six-day introduction to Melbourne. Admire the modern skyline from a scenic river cruise, see the wineries of the Yarra Valley by hot air balloon, and taste the many flavors of Queen Victoria Market on a food lover's walking tour. As the trip winds down, you'll escape to the coast for an unforgettable drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road.

Melbourne & the Great Ocean Road Self-Drive Adventure - 8 Days

Embark on an eight-day adventure down Australia's marvelous southeastern coast. Begin with city tours of Melbourne, an eclectic coastal capital quickly emerging as a tourism hotspot. Then get behind the wheel for an unforgettable road trip down the famous Great Ocean Road, which stretches for 150 miles (241 km) amid golden beaches and unspoiled natural parks. In these natural wonderlands, you'll enjoy outdoor adventures and First Nations culture in equal measure.

Discover Stora Sjöfallet National Park in Swedish Lappland in the summer

Best Time of Year to Visit Sweden

The best time to visit Sweden depends on what you're after, though summer's long daylight hours (June to August) make it the most ideal for exploring cities and hiking in the north, while winter (December to March) brings snowy landscapes and seasonal activities like dogsledding and ice fishing, plus the best chances to see the northern lights. For fewer crowds and better value, spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) are great shoulder seasons with mild weather and a more relaxed pace.

Explore the Douro Valley and sample wines as you go

8 Days in Portugal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week and a day, there's ample time to plan a relaxing or action-packed trip to one, two, or even three regions of Portugal. Plan a gourmand's self-drive adventure in historic Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley wine country. Immerse yourself in the magnificent volcanic landscapes, misty forests, and golden beaches of the Azores or Madeira. Or lace up your boots for an in-depth hiking experience of the Algarve coast, including the fairy-tale palace at Sintra.

Explore Nature in Traditional Japan: Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto & Osaka - 9 Days

Explore Japan's natural beauty and intricate rituals on this fascinating nine-day itinerary. You'll travel back in time in Tokyo by wandering the streets in a kimono. Head to Hakone to cruise on Lake Ashi, enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji, and finish the day in soothing natural thermal springs. Continue to Kyoto for Buddhist temples, gardens, palaces, and shrines, then end in Osaka to revel in the city's dynamic "foodie" districts.

The Best of Brisbane & the Gold Coast - 6 Days

Experience the best of Australia's less-visited yet beautiful East Coast. This includes highlights of Queensland, like the eclectic metropolis of Brisbane and the endless beaches and shimmering skyscrapers of the Gold Coast. You'll also take day trips to charming Byron Bay, visit a koala sanctuary, and go off-the-beaten path on self-drive road trips to rainforest-covered national parks.

The Best of Australia's West Coast: Perth, Exmouth & Margaret River - 8 Days

Experience the highlights of Perth, Exmouth, and Margaret River on this action-packed holiday down Australia's west coast. Those looking for an extreme adrenaline rush can swim with whale sharks and ride rollercoasters. Immerse yourself in local heritage, bask on beautiful beaches, and join a few wine or brewery tours while taking in some of the best views in Australia.

View of Câmara de Lobos in southeast Madeira

Self-Drive Adventure in Madeira - 8 Days

This relaxed road trip introduces you to the Portuguese island of Madeira, whose volcanic landscapes and natural beauty make it a popular getaway from the mainland. Discover the charming Old Town and botanical gardens of its capital Funchal. Hike between Madeira's two highest peaks of Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, then decompress by taking a ferry to the island of Porto Santo—beaches renowned for their healing properties.

Self-Drive Southern Portugal: Lisbon, Alcácer do Sal, Aljezur & Lagos - 6 Days

Explore southwestern Portugal's stunning scenery on this six-day road trip from Lisbon to Lagos at your own pace. Set out from the capital to wind your way south through a land of sweeping beaches, whitewashed towns, and unspoiled countryside. Along the way, you'll stand at the edge of mainland Europe at Cabo da Roca, cross the Sado Estuary by ferry, and explore the wild beauty of Costa Vicentina National Park.

Highlights of Cairns: Where the Rainforest Meets the Reef - 6 Days

Experience all Cairns has to offer on this whirlwind Australian holiday. Spend the beginning of your trip relaxing and snorkeling around the Great Barrier Reef and Green Island. Continue into the rainforest to fly above the trees in a cable car and board one of the most famous train rides in the world, then dive into the heritage of the First Nations people as you learn traditional fishing techniques.

Highlights of Sydney - 6 Days

See the best of Sydney in under a week on this action-packed trip. Start with some adventuring in the Blue Mountains and Featherdale Wildlife Park before checking off iconic locales like the Opera House, Bondi Beach, and Taronga Zoo. Other highlights include a cruise to Shark Island National Park, and a twilight climb up the soaring Harbour Bridge.

Lunch with a view along Porto's riverfront

Portugal for Foodies: Porto, the Douro Valley & Lisbon - 6 Days

In under a week, this whirlwind itinerary checks off three of Portugal's culinary hotspots with a perfect balance of food tours, wine tasting, and sightseeing. Eat like a local on a journey through Porto's vibrant gastronomy scene, sip world-class wines in the scenic Douro Valley, and end in Lisbon for a lively tour of the capital by tuk-tuk.

Traditional "bure" with thatched roof, Navala village, Viti Levu

Best Time of Year to Visit Fiji

Fiji is an island destination with year-round appeal: hot sunny weather and inviting white-sand beaches. To make the most of island life, visit during the dry season when the conditions are ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. Come during the shoulder months, and you may have a beach to yourself and find a good flight and hotel deal. Meanwhile, the wet season offers rich cultural experiences, fewer crowds, and lower prices, but the weather is more prone to cyclones and daily rain showers.

Start your adventure on Terceira, where volcanic rock walls frame the lush farmland

Self-Drive Azores Adventure: Terceira & São Miguel - 8 Days

The Azores are a nature lover's paradise, and this eight-day road trip is the perfect introduction to two of the Portuguese archipelago's largest islands. Begin on Terceira to stroll through its UNESCO-listed capital and hop between volcanic sea pools, natural hot springs, and black-sand beaches. Then it's off to São Miguel, where you'll start with a tasting tour of Ponta Delgada before hitting the road toward turquoise lagoons, geothermal calderas, towering waterfalls, and ancient laurel forests.

Lisbon's oldest church, the Lisbon Cathedral

13 Days in Portugal - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 13 days in Portugal, there's almost nothing you can't do, whether that's hitting the highlights of major cities or going off the beaten path on the northern and southern coasts. It's enough time to experience Lisbon and Porto's culture and history while embarking on road-trip adventures to medieval mountain towns and secluded coves on the golden Algarve coast. There will also be time leftover for wine tours, jetting to offshore islands, and even an excursion to neighboring Spain for more fun.

Portugal Scenic Coastal Hike: Cascais, Azóia, Colares & Sintra - 8 Days

Discover Portugal's wild side on this eight-day coastal hiking trip. The adventure will begin with a food tour of Lisbon and a rest day in the gorgeous beach town of Cascais. Spend the next four days trekking around the expansive Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, passing through forests, dunes, coastal towns, and hilltop sanctuaries. End with some downtime in Sintra, a charming village known for its impressive palaces and castles.

Toast your travels at local vineyards on this Croatian adventure

Dalmatian Coast Food & Wine Tour: Split, Hvar, Korčula & Dubrovnik - 9 Days

Eat and drink your way down Croatia's Dalmatian Coast on this 9-day gastronomic adventure. Sample sweet and savory delicacies on a walking tour of ancient Split, then hop between the sun-soaked islands of Hvar and Korcula for wine-tasting and Adriatic views. Head to Ston for the country's best oysters, then end in Dubrovnik—touring the spectacular walled city and escaping to the countryside for a farmhouse feast.

Traditional fishing stilt aparatus of Koggala Beach, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Winter Holiday Adventure - 15 Days

Eschew the frigid winter for the sun-kissed beaches and verdant mountains of Sri Lanka. Over 15 adventure-filled days, you'll experience the highlights and natural beauty of this mystical gem of the Indian Ocean, from its highland tea plantations to its gilded southern shores. In between, you'll tour ancient cities, enjoy jungle safaris, explore cave temples, swim at romantic waterfalls, go whale watching, and much more.

Recently hitched? Head to Sri Lanka for the perfect honeymoon adventure

Honeymoon Adventure in Sri Lanka - 15 Days

Ancient temples, sun-kissed beaches, romantic waterfalls, and rolling green hills are the ingredients to create a honeymoon for the ages. Over 15 days, you and your newlywed partner will embark on active adventures and leisurely outings like picnics at waterfalls, nature hikes in rainforest reserves, visits to tea plantations, tours of Buddhist shrines, and explorations of cave temples. Plus, you'll hike up to Sigiriya, the country's iconic rock fortress.

Ancient Mihintale Temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

15 Days in Sri Lanka - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 15 days, you can travel the length and breadth of Sri Lanka while hitting every coast along the way: north, south, east, and west. And there's a lot to see and do on this island, from exploring ancient Buddhist cave temples to lazing on golden beaches, hiking up rock fortresses, and visiting historic tea plantations in the central highlands. Whether on holiday, a honeymoon, a wellness retreat, or simply chasing the endless summer, Sri Lanka has something for everyone.

Sri Lanka Luxury Wellness Escape: Kandy & Weligama - 15 Days

Sri Lanka is known for its deep Buddhist culture, ancient cities, unspoiled rainforests, and high-end resort living. In fact, this island nation in the Indian Ocean has set the trend for luxury holidays throughout South Asia, and you'll enjoy the good life over 15 event-filled days. It's an unforgettable journey that includes plenty of creature comforts with a focus on culture, adventure, and overall mind and body wellness.

Postcard-perfect Austrian village of Hallstatt in summer

Best Time of Year to Visit Austria

Austria's temperate climate, manageable crowds, and seasonal attractions mean the country is worth visiting at any time of the year. The winter months present snow-related sports, pretty snow-capped Alps, and cities replete with Christmas markets, while summer offers the best opportunities for water sports and visiting Austria's idyllic Lake District. And then spring and fall shoulder seasons bring more affordable hotel options, fewer crowds, picturesque city scenes, and stunning natural landscapes, from blossoming flowers to fall foliage.

Misty clouds over Fiji during the rainy season

Fiji in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January is the rainy season in Fiji and the low season for travel. Later in the month, after the Christmas and New Year holidaymakers have left, you can find good deals on accommodation and flights. Though rain is to be expected, you can still have a fun beach-centric vacation. Read on for more information on where to go and what to do in Fiji in January.

Middle Tavoro Waterfalls in Bouma National Heritage Park

Fiji in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February is the low season for travel to Fiji as it's the middle of the rainy season. It's one of the least busy months of the year, which is great news if you want a peaceful vacation at a good price. Relax on a beach between rain showers or go in search of gushing waterfalls. Find out more about where and what to do in Fiji in February below.

Explore the Sawa-i-Lau Caves in the Yasawa Islands group

Fiji in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is the rainy season in Fiji and a low season for travel. But if you don't mind a bit of rain, you can have a great time in Fiji this month. Temperatures tend to be hot when the sun comes out, so you can cool off with a swim in the sea, a waterfall, or even hidden caves. Read on to find out more about traveling to Fiji in March.

Stay at a homestay in a Fijian village to meet the locals

Fiji in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is the end of the rainy season in Fiji and the low season for tourism. However, levels of rain are much lower than in the previous months, so getting drenched isn't guaranteed. You can enjoy chilled-out time on a beach, hikes to full-flow waterfalls, or other nature-based activities, all without many other tourists. Find out more about traveling to Fiji in April below.

Fiji in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the start of the dry season in Fiji, which means clearer skies, calm seas, and pleasant temperatures. Although the dry season is generally a peak time to travel, visiting Fiji in May lets you beat the crowds while enjoying great weather. Island hop between the Mamanucas, hike on Taveuni, dive the Great Astrolabe Reef, and more. Read on to find out where to go and what to do in Fiji in May.

Fiji in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is one of the driest months of the year in Fiji, and it's the start of the peak season. However, it's less busy than in July and August, so it's an ideal time to come if you want to avoid the crowds. Hike, dive, snorkel, or relax at popular destinations on the main islands or travel further afield to a more remote island chain. It's all possible in June.

Fiji in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is the busiest time of year for travel to Fiji. The weather is dry and clear, the temperatures are warm but not too hot, and the sea is calm. Family travelers flock to Fiji this month (especially those from Australia and New Zealand), so bring the kids and let them make new friends at a resort kids' club while you relax poolside with a cocktail. Read on to discover more about traveling to Fiji in July.

Fiji in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is one of the busiest months for travel to Fiji, but for good reasons: the weather is warm but not too hot, the seas are calm and ideal for activities like diving and snorkeling, and even the furthest, most remote of Fiji's islands are accessible. Whether you want to chill out at a comfortable beach resort or get more active and off the beaten path, you can do this in Fiji this month—just as long as you book in advance.

Fiji in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September is toward the end of the dry season in Fiji, and although it's a popular time to travel here, it's not as busy as July and August. This is an ideal time to visit Fiji to make the most of its beaches, world-class diving, exciting surfing, and other active pursuits in great weather but without the worst of the crowds. Read on to find out more about where to go and what to do in Fiji in September.

Colorful Hindu Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple in Nadi, Fiji

Fiji in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is the end of the dry season in Fiji and a shoulder season for travel. It's an excellent time to come if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy generally good weather but don't mind an increased chance of rain. One of Fiji's major festivals, Diwali, also sometimes falls in October, and if so, this is a great time to visit a Hindu temple. Keep reading to learn more about where to go and what to do when traveling to Fiji in October.

Fiji in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is the start of the rainy season in Fiji, and while many travelers opt to stay away, they're missing out. The rains aren't that heavy or persistent this month, making for a decent beach holiday and fun excursions out of doors, as long as you're prepared. Find out more about what to see and do in Fiji in November.

Island hop between the islands of the Yasawa Group

Fiji in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is early in the rainy season in Fiji, and while that would typically mean the low season for tourism, don't be fooled: late December is one of the busiest times of the year in Fiji. Book accommodation and flights well in advance if you're traveling at this time and plan on enjoying a great end-of-year party. Alternatively, visit earlier in the month for a quieter experience. Here's what to see and do in Fiji in December.

Mexico's Culinary Heart: Mexico City & Puebla - 7 Days

This food-focused itinerary takes you to central Mexico for a week of vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions. Start in the capital to snack on scorpions and street food in the Mercado de San Juan and marvel at Aztec farming techniques in the floating gardens of Xochimilco. After some sightseeing at the pyramids of Teotihuacan, it's on to Puebla, where you'll learn to make tortillas and mole poblano like a local.

Vibrant colors at a market in San Cristóbal de Las Casas

A Culinary Journey Through Oaxaca & Chiapas - 14 Days

Authentic culture and cuisine take center stage on this epic, two-week journey through central and southern Mexico. Snack your way through Mexico City's best food market, then head into Oaxaca for unspoiled beaches, mezcal tastings, and hands-on gastronomy workshops. Continue to Chiapas to end your trip cooking with the local indigenous community and exploring the wilds of Sumidero Canyon by boat.

Learn the secrets of a perfect handmade tortilla

Mexican Gastronomy & Indigenous Traditions - 9 Days

This nine-day itinerary takes you off-the-beaten path to discover the local cuisine and indigenous heritage of three distinct Mexican regions. Start in Mexico City with a gastronomic tour of the Aztec capital and a boat ride through the floating gardens of Xochimilco. Transfer to the mountains of Hidalgo to try your hand at mushroom picking and traditional weaving alongside the locals, then head to Puebla to stroll its flavorful markets and master the art of handmade tortillas.

Kids love snorkeling around Costa Rica's friendly (and stunning) beaches

Family Adventure in Arenal & the Nicoya Peninsula - 10 Days

From zip-lining through the jungle canopy to snorkeling with tropical fish, outdoor adventures await you and your family on this thrilling 10-day trip around Costa Rica. You'll start with a few days in the Arenal region, hiking around volcanoes and waterfalls, before heading to the Monteverde Cloud Forest for zip-lining and wildlife spotting. Then finish the adventure with several days on the Nicoya Peninsula, where you'll snorkel, visit a scarlet macaw refuge, and enjoy a family-oriented boat safari.

Look out for curious capuchin monkeys as you hike around Manuel Antonio National Park

Costa Rica's Natural Wonders - 10 Days

Get a taste of Costa Rica's famous biodiversity on this active 10-day adventure through some of the country's most remarkable natural landscapes. Spend a day getting to know San José before heading to the slopes of Arenal Volcano for sloth spotting, nature hikes, and hot spring soaks. Continue to Monteverde to trek through its biodiverse cloud forest, then turn south toward Manuel Antonio National Park to end your journey with a catamaran cruise along the Pacific coast.

Dettifoss waterfall in Vatnajökull National Park in Northeast Iceland

Self-Drive Iceland North, East & South: Half Circle Fly & Drive - 11 Days

The best of eastern and southern Iceland awaits on this 11-day self-drive adventure that follows the Ring Road and explores the top sites of Lake Mývatn, the Eastfjords, the South Coast, and the Reykjanes Peninsula. You'll thrill to such fun activities as whale watching from Húsavik, hiking on Skaftafell glacier, and snorkeling the Silfra fissure. Plus, you'll have time to discover Reykjavik and Iceland's fascinating cultural history dating back to the Viking era.

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