Travel Insights

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

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A chunk of ice falling off a glacier near El Calafate

Discover the Highlights of Patagonia - 8 Days

Experience the highlights of Patagonia in just a little over a week on this action-packed trip. After a day of sightseeing in Buenos Aires, the real adventure begins with a trek across the surface of a glacier near El Calafate. Explore the dramatic scenery of the south with hikes around El Chaltén and the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. You'll then travel to the Lake District, basing yourself in the picturesque alpine town of Bariloche, renowned for its artisanal chocolate shops. Finish the trip at a more relaxed pace with a kayak trip and a nature hike.

A dramatic fall sunset of Llyn Ogwen and Tryfan in Snowdonia National Park, Wales

The United Kingdom in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September marks the beginning of the quieter shoulder season in the United Kingdom, following the peak of summer, although temperatures can remain quite warm well into the month. Later in September, the leaves start turning autumnal, especially in the northern parts of the country. Read on to find out more about traveling to the UK in September.

Explore the Great Orme on Wales' north side of Llandudno in August

The United Kingdom in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

With July, August is the warmest and busiest month in the United Kingdom. It's a good time to enjoy the outdoors, whether a hike in a national park or a day at the beach. However, expect crowds at the most popular locations and attractions. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in August.

A winter's day in Scotland's Cairngorms National Park

The United Kingdom in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

While the United Kingdom tends to be cold, damp, and dark in December, it also comes alive with Christmas lights and festivities. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy indoor cultural attractions and want to get into the festive spirit. Find out more about traveling to the UK in December.

A January misty morning over Llyn Padarn in Wales' Snowdonia

The United Kingdom in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January is a good time to visit the United Kingdom if you enjoy indoor cultural and historic attractions. The cold weather and short days mean this is the low season for travel to the UK, but many city-based attractions are still open to enjoy. Read on to find out more about traveling to the UK in January.

Scotland's misty Loch Fada and Old Man of Storr during a "dreich" February day

The United Kingdom in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February is winter in the United Kingdom, and that means short days and cold temperatures. However, it also means low season, so if you'd prefer to visit the most popular indoor cultural and historic attractions without the crowds, February isn't a bad time to visit. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in February.

Drizzly weather on idyllic Gold Hill in Shaftesbury, Dorset England

The United Kingdom in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is the beginning of spring in the United Kingdom, although winter conditions can linger. Some popular sites can get busy if Easter falls in March. Otherwise, this month is a good time to explore the cities without the crowds. Read on to learn more about visiting the United Kingdom in March.

A grand estate overlooks manicured gardens in

The United Kingdom in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is spring in the United Kingdom, and the country's famous flower gardens start to come into their own. Although the weather can be changeable, this is a good time to get outdoors and experience the gardens and parks. Read on to find out more about visiting the UK in April.

Take to the Cornish coast in May and visit Lizard Point

The United Kingdom in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the loveliest month of spring in the United Kingdom, and although the weather can be changeable, it's often sunny and pleasant. Flowers bloom in the wild and manicured gardens, and there are considerable events to attend. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in May.

Visit Stonehenge to capture a sunset in June

The United Kingdom in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is the start of summer in the United Kingdom, and while the weather isn't guaranteed to be warm and fine, this is a good time to visit without the biggest crowds. There's a huge range of cultural, music, and sporting events to enjoy this month. Read on to learn more about traveling to the UK in June.

A sunny summer's day over Twr Mawr Lighthouse in Wales

The United Kingdom in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is midsummer in the United Kingdom, and the weather is generally pleasant and conditions good for all kinds of activities. It's the peak season for tourists, but it's generally less crowded outside the most popular spots than in some other parts of Europe in July. Find out more below about traveling to the UK in July.

Discover Oxford University's Radcliffe Camera in the Old Bodleian Library

History & Fantasy Tour of Southern England - 7 Days

Get ready for a week of adventures as you tour fascinating historical sites in southern England. It begins in Bath, a marvel of a city dating to Roman times, and is featured in the hit TV series "Bridgerton." Then, after seeing birds of prey at a falconry center, head to medieval Oxford and tour some of the amazing locales filmed in the "Harry Potter" movies. Whether you're traveling solo or with the whole family, it's good fun.

Family Fun in London & Highland Adventures in Scotland - 10 Days

Experience the highlights of London and Scotland over 10 days on an itinerary perfect for the whole family. Discover London's famous palaces, enjoy a "Harry Potter" tour, and see ancient archeological sites at Bath and Stonehenge. Take an overnight train to Scotland, walk the historic streets of Edinburgh, visit countryside locales seen in the "Outlander" TV series, and even ride the "Hogwarts Express" amid Highland scenery.

Discover Bariloche & the Lake District - 5 Days

Discover the alpine charm of Bariloche and the strikingly beautiful scenery of Argentina's Lake District on this 5-day adventure. Base yourself in the picturesque lakefront town of Bariloche, enjoying its artisanal chocolate shops and Swiss-style architecture. You'll venture to the region's lakes and mountains each day, exploring the shoreline forests on horseback and sailing to islands covered with native forests. Return to Bariloche each evening to dine on local specialties like wild boar and freshly caught lake trout — the perfect way to end a day out in the wilderness!

Cityscape of London featuring the famous London Eye

Explore London & Paris - 10 Days

Get ready for 10 action-packed days in two of Europe's most romantic capital cities: London and Paris. You'll experience the major sights on walking tours, from Big Ben and Buckingham Palace to the River Seine and the Louvre. You'll even ascend to the Eiffel Tower's top floor and marvel at views that stretch out to the horizon. The best thing about this itinerary is that it includes scheduled tours while also giving you ample time to explore these historic cities on your own.

Take in a sunset over the city from the London Eye

10 Days in England - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 10 days, you can experience the highlights of England while also embarking on off-the-beaten-path adventures. Travel from the southern coast to the glassy lakes of the far north, and in between, head off on countryside hikes and visit ancient Roman ruins. And if walking tours of historic cities like London and Oxford still leave you wanting more, then add a jaunt to Paris into the mix.

Family Adventure in the Netherlands & Belgium - 14 Days

Bring the whole family along on this kid-friendly journey around the Netherlands and Belgium! Start with a cruise along the canals of Amsterdam and a visit to a futuristic science museum. Then ride an old steam train to Medemblik, where you'll board an antique ship to Enkhuizen, known for its cheese markets. Cycle through the sand dunes to the North Sea, spot colorful tulip fields, and feast on traditional stroopwafels before spending three days at a popular Dutch theme park. Then cross the border to Belgium, where you'll go on a food tour of Antwerp, stay at a real Belgian farm, and relax at the beach resort of De Panne. Offering a great mix of outdoor adventure and cultural education, this itinerary is a hit with travelers of all ages.

White sand dunes and crystal clear waters in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park

Brazil's Route of Emotions: São Luis to Fortaleza - 10 Days

Following the coastline of northeastern Brazil, the "Route of Emotions" takes in some of the country's most breathtaking and little-known landscapes. This 10-day adventure follows the scenic route as you traverse the shifting sand dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, explore the mangrove swamps of the Preguiças River by boat, and dive into crystal clear waters in the beach paradise of Jericoacoara. After an exhilarating trip to Ilha do Amor by dune buggy, the adventure draws to a close as you reach the waterfront city of Fortaleza.

Bike past spectacular Guatemalan scenery

Best of Guatemala by Mountain Bike - 15 Days

This exhilarating, 15-day mountain biking adventure introduces you to some of Guatemala's most rugged and rewarding scenery. Setting out from Antigua, you'll explore little-known local routes as you cycle west to Lake Atitlán and onwards to the Cuchumatanes Mountains. Follow switchback trails, steep climbs, and dramatic descents as you make your way through a landscape of towering volcanoes and lush river valleys.

Check out Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye

Best of Scotland - 14 Days

Embark on a two-week adventure in Scotland that covers all corners of this beautiful Celtic nation, from the cities to the coastal Highlands. You'll visit Edinburgh's medieval landmarks, tour charming country villages, walk amid ancient castles at Loch Ness—and that's just the start. After admiring the sweeping coastal views on the Isle of Skye, you'll hike through wooded glens and along rushing rivers in national parks. The kicker is a visit to actual "Harry Potter" filming locations while riding a train used in the film.

The dramatic La Fortuna Waterfall surrounded by dense rainforest

Essential Costa Rica: Waterfalls, Jungles & Volcanoes - 8 Days

This relaxed, 8-day itinerary immerses you in the unspoiled nature of Costa Rica. Starting from the capital of San José, a scenic drive takes you to the Caribbean coast to discover the spectacular wildlife of Tortuguero National Park. Then it's on to the magnificent landscapes of Arenal National Park, where the iconic volcano towers over lush rainforests and tumbling waterfalls. Spend your days hiking through the forest canopy, soaking in natural hot springs, and swimming in jungle rivers—ending your adventure on a sweet note with an unforgettable chocolate making and tasting experience.

Cruise down the Nile River from Luxor to Aswan

Ultimate Egypt: Cairo, Nile River Cruise & the Red Sea - 14 Days

Cultural highlights, river cruising, and a beach vacation combine on this unforgettable two-week Egyptian adventure. Starting in Cairo, you'll marvel at the Great Pyramids and explore the city's world-class museums before flying south to Luxor, capital of the ancient pharaohs. Shift gears and board a scenic cruise down the Nile River to Aswan, exploring temples and tombs along the way, then head to the coast to end your journey on the gorgeous Red Sea beaches of Sharm El Sheikh.

Sunset over the desert surrounding Petra

Journey Through Jordan & Israel: Amman to Jerusalem - 9 Days

Ancient sites and natural wonders abound on this whirlwind 9-day journey through Jordan and Israel. Starting in Jordan, you'll travel south along the historic King's Highway to visit the otherworldly shores of the Dead Sea and wander the magnificent canyons of Petra. After an unforgettable night of camping in the "Valley of the Moon," it's on to Israel, where you'll explore desert fortresses and ancient caves before touring the many historic and holy sites of Jerusalem.

Picturesque stone houses of Arlington Row in the Cotswolds

Historic England & the Highlights of Scotland - 10 Days

See ancient England and rugged Scotland over 10 action-packed days. Travel back through the ages by visiting Roman baths and Neolithic ruins in southern England and the Cotswolds region. Then work your way north, stop and visit Shakespeare's hometown, tour famous football stadiums, and discover the rich culture of Glasgow. Finally, travel through Scotland's Highlands region and go road tripping around its most heralded island, the Isle of Skye.

Journey to the Amazon, Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca - 13 Days

Explore the Amazon jungle, the ancient city of Machu Picchu, the floating islands of Lake Titicaca, and more on this exciting 13-day adventure through Peru. You'll get oriented in Lima before heading into the rainforest for several days of wildlife spotting and excursions on the jungle river. Then transfer to Cusco to explore the ancient Inca capital and the nearby Sacred Valley. Discover Machu Picchu at dawn before traveling onward to Puno. You'll spend a few days traveling around Lake Titicaca, visiting islands and learning about indienous cultures, at the end of the journey.

An aerial view of Kilt Rock waterfall on the Isle of Skye

Scotland in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July brings the warmest temperatures of the year for exploring the western lochs and isles (and occasional waterfalls) and taking road trips on the north or east coasts. Of course, there's plenty to do in and around lively Glasgow and Edinburgh with easy access to trails, castles, and beaches—just make sure to bring a layer wherever you go.

The 7 Best Hotels with Views in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio perfectly mixes sandy ocean beaches with hilly rainforests, so it’s no surprise that many travelers head to the region for its exceptional views. When staying in the area, make the most out of this perk by booking one of kimkim’s recommended hotels with the best ocean and jungle views.

Arenas del March Beachfront & Rainforest Resort

The 6 Best Beach-Access Hotels in Manuel Antonio

If you’re staying in Manuel Antonio, you probably already know about the area’s exceptional beaches. Don’t miss a moment in the sand and surf by booking one of kimkim’s recommended hotels with beach access, a surprisingly unique amenity for the area.

The 5 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Whether you’re traveling to Manuel Antonio for the beaches or national park, you have plenty of options for accommodations. Try one of kimkim’s recommended mid-range hotels in Manuel Antonio. Although you’ll find plenty of luxury lodgings that fit perfectly into this beautiful region, you don’t have to break the bank to find exceptional views, comfort, and those upscale amenities.

The 5 Best Standard Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Blending ocean and jungle, Manuel Antonio offers a slew of activities to enjoy, including sea kayaking, snorkeling, mangrove boat tours, wildlife hikes, foodie tours, and more. Budget-minded travelers might want to save on accommodation to splurge on adventures. If that’s you, check out kimkim’s recommended standard hotels in Manuel Antonio, which offer reasonable pricing without compromising quality.

The 5 Best Luxury Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is one of the most beautiful regions in Costa Rica, as it blends dense jungle hillsides with the scenic coastline of the Pacific Ocean. Many hotels and resorts use the hillside to offer some of the country’s best scenery overlooking the jungle and ocean. Elevate the beauty by staying in one of kimkim’s recommended luxury hotels in Manuel Antonio.

The 5 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio is a family-friendly destination, chock full of activities and perks adored by all ages. Kids and adults alike will love hiking through the national park and time spent on the beach. Luckily, kimkim recommends quite a few family-friendly hotels in Manuel Antonio, so you can ensure everyone is happily entertained.

The 5 Best Mid-Range Hotels in La Fortuna

Like many travelers to Costa Rica, you might want to visit Arenal/La Fortuna, one of the most beautiful regions in the country. The main site is Arenal Volcano, which sits in the lush Arenal Volcano National Park. To take advantage of your time in the area, consider staying a night or two at one of our recommended mid-range hotels, which offer affordable yet comfortable stays.

The 7 Best Standard Hotels in La Fortuna

Arenal/La Fortuna is a popular Costa Rican region, mostly known for the country’s most famous volcano. You’ll also find a sprawling national park and several thermal pools to enjoy. For the budget-minded, choose from one of kimkim’s recommended standard hotels, which still offer a comfy stay without breaking the bank.

The Best Turtle Nesting & Hatching Experiences in Costa Rica

One of the most popular experiences in Costa Rica is observing the mighty sea turtles. For thousands of years, several turtle species have used Costa Rican beaches to safely lay their eggs, with each turtle laying roughly 60 to 100 eggs at a time. About two months later, baby turtles wriggle out of the sand and make their way to the surf. Two of the best places to observe nesting and hatching are Guanacaste and Tortuguero, and kimkim provides details on which tours to choose.

Highlights of Lima, Cusco & the Sacred Valley - 9 Days

Divide your time between Lima and Cusco — with a quick side trip to Machu Picchu — on this outdoorsy 9-day itinerary around Peru. These two cities have plenty of historic sights and cultural attractions to explore, from pre-Inca ruins and colorful food markets in Lima to the quaint streets and ancient temples of Cusco. But they're also excellent places to base yourself while making excursions into the surrounding areas. Zoom around the Sacred Valley on a quad bike, trek through vibrantly hued hills at Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain, and enjoy a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, where you'll spend the night before venturing up to Machu Picchu at dawn.

Kids play area at Baldi Hotsprings Resort (photo courtesy of Baldi Hotsprings)

The 5 Best Family Hotels in La Fortuna

Arenal/La Fortuna is an ideal location for families. Area activities, such as horseback riding, hiking near the Arenal Volcano, soaking in hot springs, river rafting, and touring coffee plantations, appeal to all ages and let you dive deep into the region’s natural environment and culture. To make your trip to the area even better, check into one of kimkim’s recommended family-friendly hotels.

The 8 Best Hotels with Hot Springs in Arenal/La Fortuna

One of the biggest appeals of Arenal/La Fortuna is the geothermal hot spring network, heated naturally by Costa Rica’s famous volcano, Volcán Arenal. Although great for day trips, many of the hot springs in the area have overnight lodgings, so you can fully take advantage of your time soaking in the pools. Kimkim has several recommendations for hot spring hotels in La Fortuna, ranging from standard to luxury.

Baltic Outdoor Adventure: Lithuania, Latvia & Estonia - 20 Days

Immerse yourself in the unspoiled nature of Baltic Europe on this adventurous 20-day itinerary. Spanning Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, you'll explore medieval capitals, ancient forests, and windswept coastlines as you kayak, canoe, cycle, and hike your way through the spectacular and shifting scenery. Unforgettable excursions include exploring the sand dunes of the Curonian Spit by bike, bobsledding down the rugged slopes of Sigulda, and paddling along the pristine rivers of Soomaa National Park.

Opt for an itinerary that takes you on a series of hikes, like a trek to Lago di Saoseo, considered one of Switzerland's most beautiful mountain lakes

Best Time of Year to Visit Switzerland

Switzerland has two high seasons. Winter (December to March) offers some of Europe's finest Alpine snow sports. Summer (June to August) offers the best hiking opportunities and the country's liveliest festivals, such as Europe's biggest celebration of jazz, the Montreux Jazz Festival. Meanwhile, the low seasons of spring and fall let you see popular sights like the iconic Matterhorn without the huge crowds.

Gourmet Experiences & Outdoor Adventures in Peru - 10 Days

Learn to make ceviche, hike through rainbow-colored hills, taste pisco at a historic Peruvian winery, and ride a zipline through the Sacred Valley on this exciting 10-day journey through Peru. Offering a mix of gourmet experiences and thrilling outdoor activities, the trip starts in Lima, where you'll go on a foodie tour. Then you'll travel down the coast to Huacachina to try "surfing" on massive sand dunes and tour family-run wineries. Continue to Cusco, day-tripping to the Sacred Valley before visiting Machu Picchu and ending with a hike around Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain.

Inca Ruins, Peruvian Wineries & the Amazon Rainforest - 10 Days

From the ancient city of Cusco to the lush waterways of the Amazonian rainforest, this diverse 10-day trip showcases Peru's fascinating culture and magnificent landscapes. Begin with a brief stay in Lima, where you'll have time for sightseeing before continuing to the wine-growing region around Ica and the massive sand dunes of Huacachina. Then you'll catch a flight to Cusco and explore the ruins of the Sacred Valley. Explore Macchu Pichu on an early-morning excursion and hike around the vibrant Palcoyo Rainbow Mountain. You'll wrap up the trip with a few days in the Amazon, spotting wildlife, learning about indigenous cultures, and boating along jungle rivers.

Where to Eat in Puerto Viejo

Because it's a popular spot on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, you have plenty of foodie options to keep you going throughout your stay in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. As a coastal beach town, the restaurant scene includes the expected staples, such as incredible seafood dishes and traditional Costa Rican grub. But you'll also find lively and colorful beach bars, plus trendy cafes serving international breakfast dishes.

Best Things to Do in San Sebastián

Coastal San Sebastián sits in Spain's scenic north, in Basque Country. Known as a foodie hub, you can enjoy the city's culture with walking or e-bike tours and dive into the renowned gastronomy with a cooking class. Get out of the city to visit farms, vineyards, and some of Northern Spain's most popular walking trails within this coveted region of Europe.

Explore Ecuador's Mindo Cloud Forest and see wildlife like dazzling hummingbirds

Discover Ecuador's Cultural Highlights & Natural Wonders: Quito, Cotopaxi & Baños - 8 Days

Experience Ecuador's natural wonders beyond the lively capital city Quito on this eight-day discovery tour. Before heading into the wilderness, you'll base yourself mostly in Quito, exploring its museums, architecture, and cuisine. Take a day trip to the sapphire waters of Cuicocha Lagoon, shop for handicrafts in Otavalo Market, and hike amid the cloud forests of Mindo. Transfer to Cotopaxi National Park, sleep in a traditional hacienda, and have fun in Baños—Ecuador's adventure capital.

Discover the Best of Porto & Lisbon - 6 Days

Explore Portugal's liveliest cities, Porto and Lisbon, on this six-day tour. You'll start in Porto with a private sidecar tour, enjoying views of the surrounding scenery. Then you'll head into the Douro Valley to taste a variety of wines—including port!—at family-run estates. Road trip through the countryside, stopping to visit the medieval village of Óbidos and Aveiro, the so-called "Venice of Portugal," on the way. You'll spend the last few days discovering Lisbon and learning how to make traditional Portuguese dishes during a chef-led cooking class.

Views from "World's End" in Sri Lanka's Horton Plains National Park

Sri Lanka Outdoor Adventure: Rafting, Hiking & Waterfalls - 12 Days

Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, this jam-packed 12-day itinerary highlights Sri Lanka's most dramatic and diverse landscapes. Hike to five of the country's most scenic waterfalls, raft down the raging Kelani River, see rare wildlife in Horton Plains and Udawalawe National Parks, and end your adventure with some well-earned downtime on the white sand beaches of Weligama.

Hike the Northern Cornish Coast - 10 Days

This 10-day adventure combines city tours with hikes along England’s southwest coast. It begins in London with a pub tour, after which you’ll transfer to Cornwall to begin the great trek. Starting in the seaside resort of Bude, you’ll hike south along the water as you enjoy views of rugged clifftops, sandy bays, ancient ruins, and charming villages. It ends back in London with a deep dive into the city’s rich legacy while touring historic neighborhoods.

Family Fun in England: Wizards & Castles - 10 Days

Take the family on a magical 10-day adventure around England's capital. It includes all the highlights, from Big Ben and Buckingham Palace to Stonehenge and Windsor Castle. And the thread that ties the whole journey together is an imaginative tale of a boy wizard. This trip includes many "Harry Potter"-themed activities, such as musical productions, soundstage tours, and visiting actual filming locations.

The charming green countryside of the Lake District

English Countryside by Rail & Road - 10 Days

Experience the best of England's natural wonders and historic highlights on an epic self-drive tour around the country. Over 10 event-filled days, you'll visit the most beautiful regions in northern and southern England, including the Lake District and Dorset County. Even better, you'll have the freedom to explore on your terms as you pick and choose which villages, sights, and landmarks to stop at along the way.

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