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active 4 hours ago

Alex Mottler

I am a kimkim Travel Specialist with the goal of making sure your time spent in Italy or Norway is extraordinary! I have had the opportunity to visit 17 countries and 45 of the United States (plus Puerto Rico) so far! Learning about different cultures, trying new foods like Fårikål, and enjoying the beauty of our planet, such as the beaches of Sardinia, are paramount to enjoying a fulfilling life, in my opinion. My hope is to help as many people get the most out of life through incredible experiences as I can.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in covering Norway & Italy's best-to-see excursions for those looking to see the country as a "traveler" rather than a "tourist", like I enjoy doing. If you're hoping for a true Viking experience or a family-filled adventure where you can taste delicious food in the Tuscan countryside, to learn about the cultural highlights, and see incredible views of nature, I will be a great resource for your trip to the land that invented Salmon Sushi or the former center of the world (Rome)! "

How did you get involved in travel?

"My father was in the United States Army's Special Forces for most of my youth, and my mother is an Italian-born immigrant, which enabled my family to move around Europe and the U.S. starting at age 7! Growing up accustomed to the lifestyle of moving around and being taught to respect every culture I interact with made me want to continue traveling more on my own as I've progressed in life, and I'll never stop! My experiences motivated me to earn a degree in Sociology and to frequently travel solo, explore the world with my fiancée, and continue traveling the globe with my family. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"One of my favorite memories was taking a cruise along the Sognefjord, the deepest and longest fjord in all of Norway, where I saw some seals swimming nearby. The cruise offered samples of delicious local seafood (mussels & scallops, crawfish & crabs, and prawns), including some of the freshest fish I've ever had! After the cruise docked, I was able to take a cablecar ride up the beautiful Mount Ulriken where I met a guide for a fantastic hike to the peak of the tallest mountain in Bergen (there are seven major hiking mountains to visit around Bergen). Seeing foxes and red deer run around while looking out over the fjord and mountain range was a very unique experience! All of that before flying back home to Bolzano, Italy, where we lived at the time. "

Alex is part of the following groups: Italy Travel Agents, Norway Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries
Honeymoon itineraries

Favorite experiences

Cruise Lake Como in a Venetian Limousine

Discover the most beautiful towns and historical villas on Lake Como with a non-stop boat cruise. Choose from either the north or south route that traverse the lakefront. With either option, you’ll enjoy scenic landscapes, charming details of lakeside towns, lush gardens, mountain views, and...

Explore Lofoten by Car

Explore the Lofoten Islands at your own pace with a road trip! One of the best ways to appreciate the stunning natural scenery of the islands is to follow the famous E10 road, which runs along the archipelago. You'll find numerous places to stop and admire the dramatic landscape along the...

Family Food Tour & Cooking in Rome

In this family-friendly tour of Rome’s food culture, you’ll first enjoy the city’s markets and then learn how to make traditional pizza on your own. Kids and families love this experience, as it offers lifetime memories and teaches new skills. You’ll visit Rome's most beautiful and ancient...

Reindeer Feeding & Northern Lights Experience near Tromsø

This cultural experience takes you on a quest to find the Northern Lights while feeding a herd of reindeer at a traditional lavvo hut. You'll have plenty of time to interact with the animals, feed them, pet them, and take photos. In addition, your guide will share the Sámi people's stories,...

Dogsledding & Northern Lights Excursion in Alta

Enjoy a thrilling dogsledding experience followed by viewing the Northern Lights in the world-famous Alta region. You'll start by meeting an eager team of huskies waiting to take you into the wilderness. Get into your gear and learn how to manage your own dog team. Then, you'll travel into the...

Recent trip reviews for Alex

Sun, Stories & Italy: A Mother–Daughter Adventure
Italy | Jul 1 - Jul 8, 2026

C
Christine D.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 08, 2026
The trip was absolutely magical! The trip was great overall - planning went well, we were supported while in Italy, and had so much fun together! The only complaint would be the heat, but that isn't kimkim's fault. Sun screen and lots of water were essential! Read more

The trip was absolutely magical! The trip was great overall - planning went well, we were supported while in Italy, and had so much fun together!

The only complaint would be the heat, but that isn't kimkim's fault. Sun screen and lots of water were essential!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel A La Commedia
Venice
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
We saw a few ants in the bathroom and living room floor. I notified the front desk staff and they said they would take care of it.
Hotel Florida
Sorrento
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Navona Colors
Rome
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Roman Pizza Making Experience
Roman Pizza Making Experience
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Italy
Welcome to Italy
Italy
Quality of Experience
Amalfi Coast Day Trip with Positano Boat Transfer
Amalfi Coast Day Trip with Positano Boat Transfer
Sorrento
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Family City Highlights by Golf Cart
Private Family City Highlights by Golf Cart
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Colosseum & Roman Forum Visit with Arena Floor Access
Colosseum & Roman Forum Visit with Arena Floor Access
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Venetian Highlights Walk
Venetian Highlights Walk
Venice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Depart Italy
Depart Italy
Italy
Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jul 10, 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Christine! I'm so happy to hear your was such a magical experience. It was a pleasure helping you plan your Italian adventure, and I'm glad everything came together smoothly and that you felt supported throughout your journey. Italy certainly knows how to turn up the heat in the summer! 😊 I'm glad you were able to make the most of it with plenty of water, sunscreen, and unforgettable experiences. Thank you again for trusting me with your travels.... Read more

Thank you so much for your wonderful review, Christine! I'm so happy to hear your was such a magical experience. It was a pleasure helping you plan your Italian adventure, and I'm glad everything came together smoothly and that you felt supported throughout your journey.

Italy certainly knows how to turn up the heat in the summer! 😊 I'm glad you were able to make the most of it with plenty of water, sunscreen, and unforgettable experiences.

Thank you again for trusting me with your travels. I hope the memories you made together stay with you for years to come, and I'd love to help you plan your next adventure whenever you're ready!

Alex & the kimkim team!

Amazing family trip!! Everything went smoothl...
Norway | Jun 16 - Jun 27, 2026

M
Melissa L.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jul 07, 2026
Amazing family trip!! Everything went smoothly and all the activities were great! Alex did a great job! Read more

Amazing family trip!! Everything went smoothly and all the activities were great! Alex did a great job!

Hotel Review
Karl Johan Hotel
Oslo

Centrally located, very helpful staff. Wonderful breakfasts. Rooms are small.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jul 07, 2026

Thank you so much, Melissa! I'm glad you & the family had a wonderful time, got home, and have plenty of new memories to always reminisce about from now on! It was a pleasure working with you, and kimkim would love to help again in the future!

Absolutely Amazing!!
Norway | Jun 18 - Jun 27, 2026

Rita
Rita R.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Jun 28, 2026
Everyone and every stop was amazing! It was truly so awesome to let the professionals do the planning- zero worries and so much fun! Our trip had so much that my husband and I, as well as my 82 year old mother enjoyed every part of it - truly a huge weight off my shoulders and I came back refreshed rather than exhausted. Alex and his team are gems and I plan to use them for our next trip! Read more

Everyone and every stop was amazing! It was truly so awesome to let the professionals do the planning- zero worries and so much fun! Our trip had so much that my husband and I, as well as my 82 year old mother enjoyed every part of it - truly a huge weight off my shoulders and I came back refreshed rather than exhausted. Alex and his team are gems and I plan to use them for our next trip!

Hotel Reviews
Thon Hotel Opera
Oslo

A great hotel - new and updated. Rooms were great and very modern. Food was awesome and it was right near a great food hall and places to visit.

Authenticity & Character
Great ascetic
Location
Easy to get to all sightseeing places
Staff
Helped my mom out when she had an issue fisninf us - so kind!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Other than the lack of aircon - fans were provided and the rooms were cool
Scandic Neptun
Bergen

This hotel was just ok. A little on the older side and need of renovation. The floor we were on also had some water damage, maybe - it smelled badly in the corridor at times. Otherwise it was clean and comfortable. Food was great - location was top notch.

Authenticity & Character
A little on the olderside6
Location
Easy to get to the warf.
Staff
Helpful and very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our floor hallway smelled like mold or sweage.
The Dock 69 39 By Scandic
Tromsø

This hotel is right in the center of all things new in Tromso - new restaurants and cafes and shopping- but all the historic stuff also. The roof top bar and restaurant was a great place for my family to watch the Midnight Sun Marathon. Its a great new build- comfortable and modern rooms - and the food was top notch! Planning to go back and this will be where we stay-

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Helpful and quick
Cleanliness & Comfort
Brand spanking new and shiny
Activity Reviews
Fjord Cruise to Rosendal
Fjord Cruise to Rosendal
Bergen

The ride to and from Rosendal was amazing, as was the ferry which was very comfy. But on Rosendal it is not very easy to get around unless you are planning to walk. There are also not a ton of shops near the warf - so it was a slow aftwrnoon.

Quality of Experience
Planning ahead more.
Self-Guided Tromsø Exploration
Self-Guided Tromsø Exploration
Norway

Tromso was so easy to navigate - walking most places was easy to do.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 30, 2026

Rita, thank you so much for your thoughtful review! Your review makes me grin from ear to ear from how sweet you are. It was lovely helping you, your husband, and your mother enjoy this special trip. Knowing that each of you found something to enjoy—and that you were able to truly relax without the stress of planning—means the world to us.

We're so grateful for your kind words and your trust in our team. It was an honor to be part of creating these memories, and we can't wait to help you plan your next adventure. Thank you again for choosing us!

Best regards,
Alex + the kimkim Team

We did so many varied activities. As a grandm...
Norway | Jun 16 - Jun 27, 2026

Nancy
Nancy F.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 28, 2026
We did so many varied activities. As a grandmother traveling with teenaged grandchildren, I was appreciative of the activities that appealed to young people. Norway offers so many out of doors wonders and we did our best with all of them. Our personal guides were great; we felt that we got to know them in the short time they spent with us. All in all, a great success and just what I wanted for this trip. Read more

We did so many varied activities. As a grandmother traveling with teenaged grandchildren, I was appreciative of the activities that appealed to young people. Norway offers so many out of doors wonders and we did our best with all of them. Our personal guides were great; we felt that we got to know them in the short time they spent with us. All in all, a great success and just what I wanted for this trip.

Activity Reviews
Sauna Experience
Sauna Experience
Oslo

Hands down this was the most fun experience we had in Oslo. A beautiful sunny evening in the sauna right on the edge of the fjord with fantastic views and plunges into the fjord followed by dinner at a nearby fish restaurant.

Cider Tasting with Food Pairing
Cider Tasting with Food Pairing
Norway

We had several "viking" meals of small plates paired with cider and this one was the best at the orchard where the apples are grown.

Quality of Experience
Fjærlandsfjord Cruise & Bøyabreen Glacier Visit
Fjærlandsfjord Cruise & Bøyabreen Glacier Visit
Balestrand

Great outing, all that it was expected to be. Details of the boat's identity need to be updated; the boat listed is out of service.

Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jul 09, 2026

It was so fun getting to work with you on this generational adventure, Nancy! I'm thrilled to hear how much you loved your time in Balestrand, like I always do when I get to visit! Norway is a truly special place, for anyone at any age, with natural beauty that wow's around every corner - as you clearly got to enjoy!

I'm truly happy to hear how satisfied you are after coming home, and I hope you never forget the memories made in Norway.

kimkim is here to help with any adventure you want to experience next!

Best regards,
Alex & the kimkim team

Italy 2026
Italy | Jun 12 - Jun 21, 2026

Lisa
Lisa D.
Spring Valley, NV | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Overall, it was amazing. Only two minor hiccups which could have been prevented with more proactive communication. However, they were handled quickly and only slightly inconvenienced me. Loved the path of the gods hike; however, having everyone in the group introduce themselves first and maybe answer an icebreaker question or two would go a long way in making the tour more enjoyable. Our group was quiet and we jumped into the hike with no introductions. Of note, all of the tours could be... Read more

Overall, it was amazing. Only two minor hiccups which could have been prevented with more proactive communication. However, they were handled quickly and only slightly inconvenienced me. Loved the path of the gods hike; however, having everyone in the group introduce themselves first and maybe answer an icebreaker question or two would go a long way in making the tour more enjoyable. Our group was quiet and we jumped into the hike with no introductions. Of note, all of the tours could be better improved with intros and icebreakers so the group can more easily get to know each other and relax. My favorite day was the day trip through Tuscany (Siena, San Gimigiano). Our guide, Giacomo, made the experience unbelievable. He was so knowledgeable about the area, Italian food, and Italian wine. It was a long day but worth it. Metro in Rome was easy to navigate. No problems with either train transfer. Well worth what I paid for the trip.

Hotel Reviews
Don Antonino Relais
Sorrento

Good location. Neighbors upstairs were noisy but that’s not the hotel’s fault. Good size room. Very quiet, secluded, and peaceful property. I wish breakfast started before 8:00. I had early morning tours scheduled and never had time to try their breakfast, so I can’t comment on that.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Hermitage
Florence

I like being close to the sights but this was a little too close. Tourist crowds were noisy late into the night. I would’ve preferred a hotel 5-10 minutes away.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Donna Francesca
Rome

Tiny but clean. All I needed was a bed and a bathroom and that’s what I got.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 24, 2026
Ciao Lisa! Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and for sharing such detailed feedback about your experience. We're delighted to hear that you had an amazing trip overall and felt it was well worth the investment. We also appreciate your candid comments regarding the two communication hiccups. While we're glad our team was able to resolve them quickly, your feedback is a valuable reminder of the importance of proactive communication, and we'll continue working to improve in that... Read more

Ciao Lisa!

Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and for sharing such detailed feedback about your experience.

We're delighted to hear that you had an amazing trip overall and felt it was well worth the investment. We also appreciate your candid comments regarding the two communication hiccups. While we're glad our team was able to resolve them quickly, your feedback is a valuable reminder of the importance of proactive communication, and we'll continue working to improve in that area.

Thank you as well for your suggestion about group introductions and icebreakers. That's excellent feedback that we'll share with our tour partners - we can certainly see how taking a few minutes at the start of an activity could help create a more comfortable and connected group dynamic. We'll be sharing this recommendation with our tour partners and their guides as an opportunity to enhance the guest experience for our Travelers.

We're especially happy to hear how much you enjoyed the Path of the Gods hike and your Tuscany day trip. Giacomo will be thrilled to know that his knowledge, enthusiasm, and expertise made such a lasting impression. Experiences like Siena and San Gimignano are truly special, and we're glad they became a highlight of your journey.

Thank you again for traveling with us and for taking the time to share your insights. We hope to help you plan another unforgettable adventure in the future!

Warm regards,
Alex & the kimkim Team

Fabulous support and planning all around!
Norway | Jun 7 - Jun 13, 2026

Nita
Nita J.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jun 14, 2026

Fabulous support all around--from Alex and his epic planning and clarity, to the support during the trip with my changing some plans around. The hotels were fabulous, the adventures planned were spot-on. I will book with Kim Kim again and have already recommended them many times!

Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 17, 2026
We had so much fun working with you, NIta! I'm so glad you loved the hotels and pace of everything! Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! It was a pleasure helping you plan this trip and ensuring everything came together smoothly, even as plans evolved along the way. Creating personalized itineraries that allow travelers to make the most of their journey is always my goal, so your feedback means a great deal. Thank you again for trusting me with your travel plans and for... Read more

We had so much fun working with you, NIta! I'm so glad you loved the hotels and pace of everything! Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! It was a pleasure helping you plan this trip and ensuring everything came together smoothly, even as plans evolved along the way.

Creating personalized itineraries that allow travelers to make the most of their journey is always my goal, so your feedback means a great deal.

Thank you again for trusting me with your travel plans and for recommending my services to others. I look forward to helping you create more unforgettable adventures in the future!

The best
Norway | Jun 2 - Jun 6, 2026

Fran
Fran C.
Casselberry, FL, USA | Reviewed on Jun 07, 2026

This was my first time using Kimkim and I highly recommend it. Accommodations were nice, the one in Balestrand was exceptional, with a gorgeous view.
I love the way Alex and Maria were so accessible and knowledgeable.
I would absolutely recommend!

Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 14, 2026

Fran! It was so much fun working with you! I'm so glad you loved Balestrand like I do, I knew you would! Thank you so much for your kind review and recommendation! We're delighted to hear that your first experience with kimkim was such a positive one.

Maria and I greatly appreciate your kind words about our accessibility and knowledge. It was a pleasure helping you plan your journey, and we're thrilled that we could make the process smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.

We hope to help you plan another memorable adventure in the future!

Best,
Alex, Maria, and the kimkim Team

Our trip to Italy was absolutely wonderful, a...
Italy | May 26 - Jun 4, 2026

Priti
Priti M.
Macungie, PA, USA | Reviewed on Jun 05, 2026
Our trip to Italy was absolutely wonderful, and much of that was thanks to the exceptional planning and organization by Alex and his team. Every detail was thoughtfully arranged, from accommodations and transportation to tours and daily logistics, allowing us to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about the details.
The itinerary was well-balanced, giving us the opportunity to explore Italy's rich history, beautiful landscapes, and incredible cuisine.
What we appreciated most was...
Read more

Our trip to Italy was absolutely wonderful, and much of that was thanks to the exceptional planning and organization by Alex and his team. Every detail was thoughtfully arranged, from accommodations and transportation to tours and daily logistics, allowing us to fully enjoy the experience without worrying about the details.
The itinerary was well-balanced, giving us the opportunity to explore Italy's rich history, beautiful landscapes, and incredible cuisine.
What we appreciated most was the peace of mind that came from knowing everything had been taken care of. Instead of focusing on schedules and arrangements, we were able to immerse ourselves in the culture, sights, and experiences that made the trip so memorable.
We are extremely grateful to the team for their professionalism, attention to detail, and dedication that went into making our Italian vacation such a success.
Diliana was extremely helpful and always available and quick to help us when we had any questions.
Our guide in Florence was very versed in the history and gave us a fabulous tour. Also, our driver and guide Luca gave us a phenomenal tour when we spent a day with him touring Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. Five stars to Luca!
We would highly recommend Alex and his team from kimkim to anyone looking for a seamless, stress-free, and truly enjoyable travel experience.

Hotel Review
Hotel Residence Amalfi
Amalfi

Our stay at Hotel Residence in Amalfi was absolutely exceptional. Waking up to panoramic vistas of the sparkling coastline and enjoying sunset from the terrace made this trip truly unforgettable. A particular highlight was the incredible Michelin-starred restaurant in the hotel. The dining experience was outstanding, with exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and a stunning setting that perfectly complemented our stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Conveniently located.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Day Trip to Capri, Anacapri & Blue Grotto
Day Trip to Capri, Anacapri & Blue Grotto
Sorrento
Quality of Experience
Blue Grotto was an experience of a lifetime!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half-Day Trip to Pompeii
Half-Day Trip to Pompeii
Naples
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gulf of Naples Sunset Cruise
Gulf of Naples Sunset Cruise
Naples
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting
Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting
Florence
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Day Trip to Positano, Amalfi & Ravello
Private Day Trip to Positano, Amalfi & Ravello
Sorrento
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private City Walk with Michelangelo's David
Private City Walk with Michelangelo's David
Florence
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 08, 2026
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and generous review, Priti. It truly means a great deal to us to hear that your trip to Italy was such a memorable experience. It was our pleasure to help plan your journey, and we're delighted that the itinerary allowed you to enjoy Italy's history, landscapes, cuisine, and culture while feeling confident that all the details were taken care of behind the scenes. Creating seamless, stress-free travel experiences is exactly what we strive for, so your... Read more

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and generous review, Priti. It truly means a great deal to us to hear that your trip to Italy was such a memorable experience.

It was our pleasure to help plan your journey, and we're delighted that the itinerary allowed you to enjoy Italy's history, landscapes, cuisine, and culture while feeling confident that all the details were taken care of behind the scenes. Creating seamless, stress-free travel experiences is exactly what we strive for, so your feedback is incredibly rewarding.

I’m especially happy to hear that Diliana and our team was able to support you throughout your trip and provide assistance whenever needed. I’ll be sure to share your kind words with her. We're also thrilled that you enjoyed your time with your guide in Florence and that Luca made your day along the Amalfi Coast so special. We'll make sure both Luca and our local partners receive your wonderful compliments.

Thank you again for trusting us with your Italian adventure. It was a pleasure working with you, and we’re grateful for your recommendation. We hope to help you plan another unforgettable journey in the future.

- Alex & the kimkim Team

Outstanding experience thanks to kimkim!
Italy | May 16 - May 24, 2026

Alex
Alex M.
kimkim HQ | Reviewed on Jun 03, 2026
Outstanding experience across the board. Venice was pleasantly surprising thanks to staying in the Canareggio region of Venice - super close to walk to all the major highlights, with plenty of great food around, but not filled with tourists, or in the region where the university is in, "Dosorduro". Water taxis are FAR superior to gondola rides. My only regret was only doing the St Marks Basilica Tour (SUPER BEAUTIFUL), rather than the combo tour that includes Doge's Palace after. Como was... Read more

Outstanding experience across the board. Venice was pleasantly surprising thanks to staying in the Canareggio region of Venice - super close to walk to all the major highlights, with plenty of great food around, but not filled with tourists, or in the region where the university is in, "Dosorduro". Water taxis are FAR superior to gondola rides. My only regret was only doing the St Marks Basilica Tour (SUPER BEAUTIFUL), rather than the combo tour that includes Doge's Palace after.

Como was truly magical. I highly suggest allocating funds for fun towards the private boat day! Staying in Como city was much better than friends told me, I thought Menaggio & Bellagio were a tad overrated and too small to spend more than a day, whereas Como had plenty of shops to explore, waterfront to relax by, the funicular railway to go above Lake Como to a panoramic viewing area, and lots of lovely restaurants to indulge in aperitivo!

Milan was not awesome for 3 days. I'd say 1-2 nights TOPS. The Duomo di Milano is ridiculously gorgeous and the Galleria Vittorio is the most beautiful shopping center ever, but you can do those in a couple of hours (including the Skywalk above the Galleria Vittorio for a better, uncrowded, side-view of the Duomo). If you're a soccer fan, you can spend time going to San Siro to see where Milan plays, but other than the two landmarks that are next to each other that I mentioned, or going to the Navigli district to eat at one of the dozens of great happy hour spots along the canal, leave Milan and go to the more beautiful parts of Italy. Fun fact - aperitivo (happy hour where you buy a drink and get free snacks with the drink) was invented in Milan!!!!

Hotel Reviews
Charly Hotel
Milan

Not great, kind of reflected the city. Family owned, but they were abrassive upon entry, clearly not happy to see Americans because they treated the other American couple the same, but were very happy to speak with the German couple before us. No elevator, and the first floor of rooms is up one flight of stairs, only a luggage elevator. We had to move rooms because the A/C didn't work, and Milan was going through a heat wave. I am a very big guy, and extensively well trained in self-defense - this location at night made me very uncomfortable while having my fiancée with me, and it was a boring street far away from any city highlights or tour meeting points during the day. We had to taxi everywhere. The reason this gets a 2-star and not a 0/1-star is because they have a cute dog that you can play with, a lovely little garden at the dining area for breakfast (one of the worst breakfast-included experiences), and it's only a few blocks from the metro and main Milan train station, which was convenient when we left the city.

Authenticity & Character
Italian aesthetic, but weirdly designed rooms, they had us in an attic, which wasn't expected.
Location
Way too far from tour meeting points or cultural landmarks.
Staff
Unkind upon entry. Neutral/unfriendly during every interaction.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nothing wrong with the cleanliness, but they advertise "double" beds, but use French Double beds which are smaller than typically Euro Double beds - which are more similar to an American Queen bed.
Hotel Barchetta Excelsior Como
Como

Best hotel throughout my entire trip. Every room apparently has a city or lake view. The kindest staff - my fiancée & I showed when there was a HUGE crowd of angry spanish-speaking folks and rude americans, but the staff were polite and calm with every single person before us, and after as we waited for the elevator. Beautiful room, STUNNNNNNIINNNNNGGGGGG LAKE COMO VIEW. Breakfast was the best buffet I've ever had at a hotel in Italy - they literally have self-serve mimosas. The buffet staff had the oldest lady in the room pop the bottle to celebrate the start of the day, everyone's mood was so fun!

Authenticity & Character
True Italian feel. The interior design aesthetic was lovely, the bar and hotel restaurant were great with wonderful cuisine, the staff were superb and kind as you'd expect Italians to be.
Location
Literally steps away from Lake Como and the ferry terminal to visit the other parts of the Lake.
Staff
20/10 - the best people.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean. Daily bed-making and room tidying. I felt ashamed but they even folded my dirty laundry and left it in a neat pile when we came back from exploring the town.
Hotel ai Mori d'Oriente
Venice

Fantastic location. The staff was very friendly the moment I walked through the door, and gave my fiancée and me a house-drink voucher for each of us to enjoy as a welcome before we went out to explore, along with a fruit basket in our room! The breakfast buffet was great, and they have outdoor seating in the cutest little courtyard to enjoy on a nice-weather morning!

Authenticity & Character
Locally owned hotel that doesn't have a ton of rooms, so it's a home-like feel with a lot of comfort. Great showers!
Location
Perfectly located for a water taxi to drop you off, or a less than 15-minute walk from the train station where you only cross 2-bridges, both have ramps rather than just stairs for suitcases to be pulled with ease
Staff
So sweet from the moment we entered, to the moment we left :)
Cleanliness & Comfort
Top tier.
Activity Reviews
Private Lake Como Experience by Boat
Private Lake Como Experience by Boat
Como

5,000,000,000,000,000,000/5 experience. Can't say enough about this, but Francesco is the man. Super insightful, from Como, has a home you can rent on Lake Como, you get bottles of prosecco. He knows how to engage with you and have fun, but also give you space to feel like VIP's in the back of the boat. Stopped in Bellagio and it was fun, but being on the boat was way better. Stopped in the middle of a cove to jump off the boat and swim with ducks & swans!

Quality of Experience
The best day ever with my fiancée.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Francesco is the best Italian guide I've ever met. We're so lucky to have hung out with him, but he owns the company and is the only driver, so you'll get him and love it.
Transport
Day Trip to Murano, Burano & Torcello
Day Trip to Murano, Burano & Torcello
Venice

Gianfranco was our guide, and he was fantastic. My fiancée & I were the only 2 who booked the tour for that day, yet he made it a really great experience anyway. Gianfranco likes to become friends with the people he tours with, rather than just talking at you. Burano is so fun & beautiful! Murano is a little overrated and just filled with glass shops, but the tour of the glass making is TOTALLY cool and worth it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
St. Mark's Basilica Visit with Terrace Access
St. Mark's Basilica Visit with Terrace Access
Venice

Outstanding tour. Our guide was wonderful, Martina. Small group experience, perfect to keep us altogether and to answer everyone's questions thoroughly, didn't feel rushed at all. Super kind and knowledgeable. She ensured we took plenty of pictures and took pictures of us on the Terrace!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alex Mottler

Stunning Norway!!
Norway | May 1 - May 8, 2026

Linda
Linda K.
Narragansett, RI | Reviewed on May 09, 2026
An absolutely wonderful trip to beautiful Norway! Alex and his team arranged an idyllic itinerary combining the must-see sights of Oslo with an immersive tour of gorgeous fjords and picturesque villages. The scenic Flåm railway was breathtaking! Hiking and boating to see the stunning fjords was otherworldly! Add a cheese tasting, culture walk, RIB safari, traditional Norwegian lunch, funicular ride, and so much more added to our amazing experience. Our accommodations and activities were... Read more

An absolutely wonderful trip to beautiful Norway! Alex and his team arranged an idyllic itinerary combining the must-see sights of Oslo with an immersive tour of gorgeous fjords and picturesque villages. The scenic Flåm railway was breathtaking! Hiking and boating to see the stunning fjords was otherworldly! Add a cheese tasting, culture walk, RIB safari, traditional Norwegian lunch, funicular ride, and so much more added to our amazing experience. Our accommodations and activities were expertly chosen and we couldn't have been more pleased. Alex and his team were communicative, professional, friendly and truly cared that our experience in Norway was beyond memorable. We highly recommend Alex and his team.

Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on May 15, 2026
Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words, Linda! It was truly a pleasure helping you experience the beauty of Norway. Nick, Maria, Grant, and I are thrilled to hear that the combination of Oslo, the fjords, Flåm, and the villages created such a memorable adventure for you. The Flåm Railway, fjord hikes, and RIB safaris really are unforgettable experiences, and we’re so glad you enjoyed all the special cultural touches along the way as well. We especially appreciate your recognition... Read more

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words, Linda! It was truly a pleasure helping you experience the beauty of Norway. Nick, Maria, Grant, and I are thrilled to hear that the combination of Oslo, the fjords, Flåm, and the villages created such a memorable adventure for you. The Flåm Railway, fjord hikes, and RIB safaris really are unforgettable experiences, and we’re so glad you enjoyed all the special cultural touches along the way as well.

We especially appreciate your recognition of our team. Travel doesn’t always go exactly as planned, so it means a great deal to know that the support the kimkim team could provide and communication throughout your experience helped make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Creating meaningful, seamless experiences for our travelers is always our top priority, and your stunning pictures throughout your trip meant the world to us to see!!!!

Thank you again for trusting us with your journey to Norway, and for taking the time to share your experience. kimkim will be ready to help again in the future with another adventure whenever you're ready!