Travel Insights

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

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Beaches along the Red Sea in Sharm El Sheikh

Cairo & Sharm El Sheikh - 8 Days

Equal parts cultural tour and beach getaway, this eight-day Egyptian escape takes you from the bustling streets of Cairo to the shores of the Sinai Peninsula. Get to know the capital by visiting the ancient wonders of Giza and Memphis, joining a tour of the medieval Salah El-din Citadel, and taking a stroll through the colorful Khan el-Khalili Bazaar. After a quick flight to the coastal resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, the rest of your trip is free to savor the sun-soaked beaches and clear waters of the Red Sea at your own pace.

Jerusalem's skyline from the Mount of Olives

Discover Israel & Jordan: Jerusalem, Amman, Petra & Tel Aviv - 9 Days

This 9-day journey through Israel and Jordan introduces you to some of the Middle East's most fascinating cultural and spiritual sites. After strolling the ancient waterfront and modernist squares of Tel Aviv, you'll hop over to Jerusalem to soak up the history and atmosphere of the Old City. Head west into Jordan to discover Roman ruins in Amman, then skirt the Dead Sea and Mount Nebo to reach the spectacular Nabataean city of Petra. After a detour into the wilds of the Wadi Rum desert, it's back to Tel Aviv for some beachside downtime before your departure.

Sunrise over Masada and the Judean Desert

Discover Israel & Jordan: Jerusalem, Amman, Petra, Wadi Rum & Tel Aviv - 14 Days

Ancient history comes to life on this immersive two-week journey through Israel and Jordan. Beginning and ending in Tel Aviv, you'll make your way through some of Israel's most important sites—from the 2,000-year-old Garden of Gethsemane to the clifftop fortress of Masada and the fabled city of Jericho. Hop over to Jordan to tour the archaeological wonders of Amman and Petra and spend an unforgettable night camping in the "Valley of the Moon." Back in Tel Aviv, you'll wind down with a day trip along the Mediterranean coast and free time to enjoy the city at your own pace.

Wine, Sun, and Romance in Athens & the Greek Islands - 13 Days

Experience the best of Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini on this romantic 13-day luxury voyage. You'll explore the ancient ruins of the Acropolis and sample local delicacies before being whisked away to drink red wines around Nemea and sail along the picturesque coastline of Nafplio. Then it's off to discover the beautiful beaches of Greece's islands, cruise turquoise waters on a catamaran, and cap the experience with a professional photographer documenting your sunkissed excursion around Santorini's most scenic locales.

Relax on a holiday on Oia, a Santorini Greek island

Sun and Sea in Athens, Naxos & Santorini- 11 Days

Soak up the sunshine on this 11-day luxury tour of Greece, Naxos, and Santorini. Enjoy a guided tour of Athens' ancient Acropolis, an escorted drive of the coastline, and a sunset over Cape Sounio. On Naxos, take lessons to windsurf, sail to the Small Cyclades, and catch a high-speed ferry to Santorini for a catamaran cruise over pristine waters to swim, snorkel, and lie out on the island's famous volcanic beaches.

Hiking in the Jungfrau Region of Bernese Oberland

8 Best Day Hikes in Switzerland

From snowy peaks and alpine meadows to vineyard-carpeted valleys, Switzerland's stunning scenery makes for some of Europe's best hiking. If you have only one day to spare for a walk here, these eight day hikes are all easily accessible and take you out into the middle of the most exceptional landscapes the country can offer.

Take to the Bernina Alps with the Bernina Express

Switzerland's Best Train Rides

Switzerland's rail network is one of the world's best, defying steep mountain gradients, threading through dramatic valleys and around beautiful lakes to showcase the country's finest scenery. Here is all you need to know about Switzerland's best train rides.

Romania in December: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

December is mid-winter in Romania, and that means cold temperatures and landscapes blanketed in snow and ice. Christmas markets add festive cheer to towns and cities. Read on to find out more about visiting Romania in December.

Romania in November: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

November is the start of winter in Romania and not generally a popular time to visit. However, if the idea of touring atmospheric medieval castles, churches, and monasteries appeals to you, November might be the ideal time. Read on to learn more about visiting Romania in November.

Romania in October: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

October is fall in Romania and the start of the low season. However, if you enjoy pretty fall colors, harvest festivals, and fewer crowds, it's a good time to visit. Read on to find out more about traveling to Romania in October.

Autumn landscape in the Carpathians, Romania

Romania in September: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

September is late summer/early fall in Romania, and this means it's shoulder season for travelers. Sunseekers, outdoor lovers, and cultural enthusiasts can enjoy a range of activities, depending on where they go in the country. Read on to learn more about traveling to Romania in September.

Romania in August: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

August is midsummer in Romania and a busy time to visit. The weather is hot and many people flock to the Black Sea coast, but you can also cool off with alternative outdoor adventures in the mountains. Read on to find out more about traveling to Romania in August.

Romania in July: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

July is midsummer in Romania, and that means coastal towns get busy with visitors trying to stay cool. It's hot and relatively dry, so the conditions are ideal for all kinds of cultural and outdoor activities—as long as you don't mind the crowds in the most popular places. Read on to find out more about traveling to Romania in July.

Romania in June: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

June is the start of summer—and of the high season—in Romania. Temperatures soar and many people flock to the Black Sea coast and to the mountains to cool off. Read on to learn more about traveling to Romania in June.

Romania in May: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

May is shoulder season in Romania, with warmer weather and a range of cultural and outdoor attractions ready and waiting. But it's also notoriously wet. Read on to learn more about traveling to Romania in May.

Sunset over a forest and castle in Romania

Romania in April: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

April is spring in Romania and the shoulder season between the quiet, cold winter and the hot, busy summer. With Orthodox Easter usually falling in April and bird migrations to the Danube Delta, there are wonderful cultural and natural attractions to enjoy in Romania in April. Read on to learn more about traveling to Romania in April.

Romania in March: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

March in Romania sits between winter and spring, and visitors may encounter both seasons, depending on where you visit. It's a good time for snow sports and cultural sightseeing. Read on to learn more about traveling to Romania in March.

Romania in February: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

February is mid-winter in Romania and temperatures are cold. But if you don't mind taking it slowly and enjoying indoor attractions, or alternatively skiing at some of Europe's most underrated resorts, then February's not a bad time to visit. Read on to learn more about traveling to Romania in February.

Romania in January: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

January is mid-winter in Romania and that means very cold temperatures and snow. But if you're looking for a low-cost ski vacation, Romania should be on your radar. Read on to find out more about traveling to Romania in January.

Highlights of the Netherlands - 7 Days

This action-packed 7-day itinerary takes you to many of the Netherlands' top highlights. Not only will you tour world-class museums in the vibrant capital of Amsterdam and explore modern architecture in the port city of Rotterdam, but you will go inside a Dutch cheese market, visit windmills in the countryside, and ride a bicycle alongside locals. Also on the itinerary are picturesque fishing villages, a boat tour of Biesbosch National Park, and an e-bike excursion in Hoge Veluwe National Park, home to a museum that houses an impressive collection of Van Gogh’s work. With a mix of cultural exploration, outdoor activities, fine art, and local experiences, this weeklong adventure is an excellent introduction to Holland.

The Annapurna massif rising over Pokhara

Lower Annapurna Trek: Australian Camp to Ghachowk - 4 Days

Short on time but packed with spectacular scenery, this 4-day itinerary whisks you away to Nepal's scenic Pokhara Valley. Embark on a series of gentle daily treks between traditional mountain villages, set against the backdrop of the towering Himalaya. Perfect for inexperienced hikers, families, or just those looking for a less strenuous trekking experience, you'll experience all the wonders of this region at a relaxed pace.

Explore and relax on the Domincan Republic's inviting "coconut coast" or Punta Cana

5 Days in the Dominican Republic - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days in the Dominican Republic is just enough time to explore a couple of different regions of this tropical paradise. Enjoy the best of both worlds when you visit the colonial heart of Santo Domingo (the oldest city in the Americas) and laze on the white-sand beaches of the north coast. Or make the most of your time by exploring one single region, such as the unspoiled wonderland of the Samará Peninsula.

History, Culture & Adventure in the Dominican Republic - 5 Days

Get ready to stroll the streets of the oldest city in the Americas: Santo Domingo. This is just the first first of many adventures you'll enjoy over five action-packed days that include the highlights of the Dominican Republic. You'll see it all, from the Spanish colonial fortresses in the south to the white-sand beaches in the north—plus stops along the way for hikes to romantic waterfalls and to visit national parks.

Explore the Northern Dominican Republic - 5 Days

Take the road less traveled when you explore the Dominican Republic's spectacular north coast. Colonial fortresses, cascading waterfalls, emerald lagoons, and Blue Flag beaches are just some of the highlights you'll experience on this brisk, five-day escape. Throw in some fresh grilled lobster and a chilled adult beverage or two, and you have the ingredients for the trip of a lifetime.

Active Adventure in Samaná - 5 Days

Get ready for nature excursions and beach life in one of the most romantic, unspoiled regions of the Dominican Republic: Samaná. This peninsula has it all, from rainforests and waterfalls to secluded white-sand beaches. Over five days you'll discover the highlights on various hikes that will take you from coast to jungle, where you'll visit laid-back towns, mangrove forests, offshore islands, and everything in between.

Discover the Green Heart of Holland - 7 Days

Holland's scenic landscapes draw crowds from all over the world. On this weeklong adventure through the "Green Heart" of the Netherlands, a region celebrated for its rolling meadows, quiet forests, and picturesque sand dunes, you'll see some of the country's most beautiful outdoor destinations. In between sightseeing in Amsterdam, visiting museums in Leiden, and learning about architecture in Rotterdam, you'll explore this natural wonderland on foot and e-bike. Cycle to the beach for fresh seafood, see historic windmills in the countryside, cruise around Biesbosch National Park on a boat tour — if you visit in spring, you'll see dazzling fields of tulips, too!

Off-the-Beaten-Path Luxury in the Netherlands - 5 Days

Get away from the crowds and experience Holland's finer things on this 5-day luxury tour around the Netherlands. Explore the smaller cities of Leiden, the Hague, and Delft, featuring classic Dutch attractions like picturesque canals, cobblestoned streets, world-class art museums, beautiful churches, historic windmills, and lovely squares lined with outdoor cafés. You'll stay in high-end hotels, including a landmark five-star hotel at the beach, a boutique hotel, and a hotel with its own Michelin-starred restaurant. Day-trip to Amsterdam for a boat tour, pedal to the coast on a self-guided bike tour, dine on fresh seafood, view Van Gogh originals up close — this short but sweet adventure has something for everyone.

Spectacular views over the Himalaya from Pokhara

Panchase Trek: Discover Nepal's Pokhara Valley - 4 Days

Ideal for families or those new to trekking, this scenic 4-day adventure is packed with incredible mountain views and gentle hikes between Nepali villages. Starting in the beautiful town of Pokhara, you'll set out in style with a boat trip across Lake Phewa. Then it's off into the lush landscapes of the Annapurna region, where the towering Himalaya provide a breathtaking backdrop to daily treks, culminating in a sunrise climb to the 8,202-foot (2,500 m) summit of Panchase.

Best of Amsterdam & Haarlem - 5 Days

This enlightening 5-day journey will take you to the highlights of Amsterdam and its surrounding region. Start at the Anne Frank House, then enjoy a private boat tour along the city's canals before visiting two world-class art museums, the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. On a day trip to the countryside, you'll see historic windmills, wander around a quaint fishing village, and sample traditional Dutch cheese in Edam. Spend the last part of the trip in the charming city of Haarlem, an easy side trip from the capital, where you'll visit the oldest museum in the Netherlands.

Himalaya Panorama: Trek to Pikey Peak - 8 Days

This 8-day adventure combines a moderately challenging trek at lower altitudes with incredible views across the Himalaya. Make your way through a landscape of snowcapped peaks, mountain villages, and Buddhist monasteries to reach one of Nepal's best-kept secrets—Pikey Peak. From its summit, you'll look out over a breathtaking panorama, including the best views of Mount Everest in the country.

Luxury Annapurna Villages Trek - 5 Days

Escape to a mountain paradise on this luxurious, 5-day trek through Nepal's Annapurna region. Perfect for inexperienced hikers or families, this route stays at a lower altitude without sacrificing the panoramic Himalaya views. By day you'll embark on a series of short, scenic hikes between traditional villages, while nights are spent in style at some of Nepal's loveliest boutique lodges.

Sunset views over Mount Everest from Renjo La pass

Nepal's Three Passes Trek - 22 Days

Tackle Nepal's acclaimed Three Passes Trek on this challenging 22-day adventure. From Kathmandu, you'll fly into the dramatic mountain scenery of Lukla and set out on foot through the mighty Himalaya, traversing dizzying passes and remote valleys to reach the doorstep of Mount Everest. Rest days en route will help you acclimate to the altitude, as you spend your free time exploring secluded mountain villages and learning about the local Sherpa culture.

Nepal's Three Passes Trek - 20 Days

This 20-day itinerary guides you along the legendary Three Passes route—one of Nepal's most challenging and spectacular treks. Traverse a rugged landscape of steep passes, glaciers, and the world's highest freshwater lakes to reach the doorstep of Mount Everest. With downtime to rest and acclimatize to the altitude, you'll gain insight into the rich Sherpa culture with visits to local villages and isolated monasteries.

24 Hours in San José, Costa Rica

Many travelers use San José as an overnight stay when flying in and out of Costa Rica, and nothing more. But you'd be amiss to skip exploring this culturally and historically rich capital, which mixes customs and traditions from across the country. In San José, you can taste regional delicacies and mingle with residents as you peruse markets, visit museums to learn more about the city's origins, enjoy aperitifs with rooftop city views, and more.

Nepal's Langtang Valley, near the border of Tibet

Langtang Trek - 10 Days

Brimming with spectacular scenery, this 10-day trekking itinerary introduces you to Nepal's Langtang Valley—and helps support the local community after the 2015 earthquake. Starting from the small village of Syabrubesi, you'll climb through lush bamboo and rhododendron forests to reach the Tibetan Buddhist monastery of Kyangjin Gompa. If you're feeling adventurous, hike up nearby Kyangjin Ri for 360-degree views of the Langtang Himal mountains before starting the descent back to Kathmandu.

Off the Beaten Path in Deventer & Otterlo - 5 Days

On this short trip, you will explore the central region of the Netherlands, known for its charming small cities and pristine forests. Begin by visiting Deventer, an enchanting historic city known for its narrow cobbled streets, quaint bookshops, beautiful squares, and excellent dining venues. Then base yourself in Otterlo for two days as you explore Hoge Veluwe National Park, home to the Kröller-Müller Museum, where you can view many of Vincent van Gogh's original masterpieces. Ride around the park and the surrounding countryside on an e-bike, looking for deer and wild boar, enjoying a picnic lunch, and sampling ice cream from a famous local institution. Enjoy the best of Holland away from the crowds!

Explore the Islands of Texel & Vlieland - 5 Days

Get away from it all on this relaxing 5-day escape. This trip takes you to a unique landscape in the far north of the Netherlands where a chain of small islands awaits in the Wadden Sea. You'll visit two of these islands — Texel and Vlieland — to enjoy leisurely bike rides, dazzling sand dunes, endless beaches, and vast marshes populated with diverse birdlife. Wade through mud flats, feast on freshly caught seafood, view a historic collection of messages-in-bottles, and walk for hours on the coast: there's so much to see and do on this laid-back island itinerary.

Windmills and tulip fields in Kinderdijk

Discover Amsterdam, Dordrecht & Rotterdam - 5 Days

Experience Holland in a nutshell on this colorful 5-day itinerary around some of the Netherlands' classic attractions. Start with a day in Amsterdam, exploring the city by boat and visiting the famous Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Then you will travel by train to the city of Dordrecht, a charming historic city that offers easy access to Biesbosch National Park, which you'll tour on an e-bike. Also nearby are the world-famous windmills at Kinderdijk, which you'll see up close, and lively Rotterdam, where you'll go on a walking tour to learn about the city's fascinating architecture. Circle back to Amsterdam on day five, where the trip ends.

Vincent Van Gogh Tour - 5 Days

Learn about the life and legacy of the great Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh — one of the most famous artists in the history of Western art — on this 5-day tour around the Netherlands. Start in Amsterdam, where you'll view some of the artist's original paintings at the Van Gogh Museum. Move on to the Dutch province of Brabant and Noordbrabants Museum in Den Bosch, home to several Van Gogh masterpieces. Zoom around the artist's onetime home of Nuenen on an e-bike, then finish the itinerary at Hoge Veluwe National Park and Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses the second-largest Van Gogh collection in the world.

Turkey Adventure: Cappadocia, Antalya, Kaş & Istanbul - 10 Days

Experience Turkey from east to west on this adventurous 10-day itinerary. Starting among the lunar landscapes of Cappadocia, you'll hike through rugged valleys and see the famous "fairy chimneys" by hot air balloon. Then it's on to the glittering Mediterranean coast to explore sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and coastal waterfalls. Your trip ends where Europe meets Asia in the vibrant capital of Istanbul, touring highlights like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar.

Explore Cusco, the Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu - 5 Days

Make the most of your time on this 5-day tour that focuses on one region of Peru. You'll base yourself in Cusco for most of the trip, sightseeing in the historic capital of the Inca Empire and day-tripping to fascinating destinations in the nearby Sacred Valley. Explore the archaeological site of Pisac, the Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo, the striking terraces of Moray, and the innovative salt mines in Maras. No itinerary in the area would be complete, of course, without a full day exploring the "lost city" of Machu Picchu. All of that and more await on this short but sweet getaway.

Belize in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

By December the dry season has arrived in Belize, meaning it's time for fun and sun. All the mainland highlights, like wildlife sanctuaries and Maya ruins, are easily accessible, as are the tours around the hundreds of islands all over Belize's Barrier Reef. Also, the idea of a Christmas holiday in this Caribbean locale is an attractive option for many folks in chilly North America and Europe.

Belize in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Take advantage of the pleasant final month of Belize's low season before the December tourist crowds arrive. Because while November does get a fair share of rain, the weather is quickly improving and the skies are bright and sunny more often than not. Taken together, these factors should be attractive to those looking for a great Caribbean holiday at budget prices.

Belize in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Belize in October may be the height of the rainy season, but not to fear: this country is open for business year-round. It's a great time to come and marvel at the exotic flora and fauna, discover Maya ruins, and embark on excursions to the atolls and coral islands around the famous Barrier Reef.

Belize in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Come to Belize in September and enjoy great wildlife spotting and dive excursions at low season prices. It may technically be the rainy season in this small Caribbean nation, but the sun is mostly out, meaning it's open for adventure. All you need to decide is how much time to spend on land and sea.

Belize in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Get ready for Belize's "little dry" season, which occurs in August and September. During this brief respite from the rainier months, the sun is out and it's the perfect time for nature hikes and tours around the islands. The best part is this is still considered the low season, so expect budget prices without the drizzly weather.

Belize in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Belize in July is all about the wildlife. Embark on nature treks to witness exotic birds like macaws and toucans as well as magnificent land animals such as monkeys, tapirs, and jaguars. Head out on the water to spot sharks, rays, dolphins, and green sea turtles. And if you work up an appetite, not to fear: by July, Belize is well into the lobster season.

Belize in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June may officially mark the start of the rainy season in Belize, but there's still plenty of fun and sun to be had. Diving and snorkeling conditions remain good during this month, plus it's a great time to spot exotic wildlife on both land and sea. Come for the Maya ruins and nature reserves, but stay for the Caribbean reefs and amazing sport fishing.

Kayaking in the crystal-clear waters of Belize

Belize in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the last month of Belize's dry season, which means it's the last chance to enjoy (mostly) sunny weather before the frequent rains arrive. This is the month to take advantage of diving, snorkeling, and water sports. It's also a great time to gaze at wildlife like howler monkeys and hike around Maya ruins without fear of a rainout. Continue reading to learn more.

Belize in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Belize in April is the perfect time for an island getaway. Diving and snorkeling conditions are ideal, the coastal breezes offset the higher temperatures, and marine wildlife is out in force. Plus, if you don't mind warmer temps, there are great wildlife spotting, tours, and activities on the mainland. Read on to learn more about the best ways to spend April in Belize.

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