Profile photo for Alex Mottler
6951 messages
active 11 hours ago

Alex Mottler

I am a kimkim Travel Specialist with the goal of making sure your time spent in Norway is extraordinary! I have had the opportunity to visit 45 States (plus Puerto Rico) and 17 countries so far! Learning about different cultures, trying new foods like Fårikål, and enjoying the beauty of our planet, such as the Norwegian fjords, 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 the U.S. and Europe beginning 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 our house in Bolzano, Italy, where we lived for a couple of years near my cousin's vineyard. "

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

Art, Culture & History Walk in Balestrand

Discover the humble village of Balestrand on a walk with a local guide. Your host will share stories of the town's history and its people—still today, a vibrant artist colony. The tour starts at Høyviksalen, also known as the Høyvik Hall, where you'll find furniture made by the famous (at least...

Kayaking in the Sognefjord

The Sognefjord isn't nicknamed the "king of the fjords" for nothing. This is Norway's deepest and longest fjord, stretching 205 km (127 miles) from just north of Bergen, on the west coast, to Jotunheimen National Park. There are many arms to the Sognefjord, including the UNESCO World Heritage...

Fjord Cruise to Hardangerfjord

This tour features a lovely cruise from Bergen to Rosendal, a small village on the southern shore of the Hardangerfjord, which is known as the "queen of the fjords." The journey isn't short on scenery either, as the ship sails through the fjords of Bergen and abounds with spectacular views of...

Hike with Husky Dogs near Tromsø

Enjoy a hike through the countryside near Tromsø in the company of adorable Huskies and their pups. You can cater this family-friendly activity to your liking, choosing hiking routes that vary from easy to medium. As you walk with a guide, you'll learn about the kennel and what the Huskies do...

Northern Lights Adventure in Tromsø

Chase the Northern Lights and capture the beauty of Norway at night. Your hosts commit themselves to find the Aurora Borealis and will drive around in the pursuit of clear skies. Along the way, you'll learn about the science behind the colors and hear stories about local culture, folklore, and...

Recent trip reviews for Alex

Your team quickly adapted to cancellations an...
Norway | Dec 27 - Jan 3, 2026

A
Andrew A.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jan 10, 2026

Your team quickly adapted to cancellations and weather issues that we encountered. We also felt they your team personally assisted us throughout the trip. Thanks

Local specialist: Alex Mottler

Norway Honeymoon
Norway | Dec 21 - Jan 2, 2026

Austin
Austin J.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Jan 06, 2026

Kimkim was incredibly helpful the whole way through. If we wanted to add something or take something off the itinerary, they did it with ease and were very accommodating. We could reach them at any time of the day and they’d respond within a couple of hours at least. The trip we went on to Norway was so much fun, and the excursions we did were amazing. In country travel was easy and we just had to show up with our documents and go. Would recommend Kimkim to anyone.

Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jan 06, 2026
Austin, thank you so much for this wonderful review! We're truly grateful you took the time to share your experience. It was my pleasure helping plan your Norway adventure, and I’m so glad the process of building the itinerary felt flexible and easy! Some folks don't like how fast I can move with getting them a high-quality itinerary, but I'm grateful you both appreciated it :) Nick, Maria, and I loved working with you both before and during the trip. It means a lot to us to hear that our... Read more

Austin, thank you so much for this wonderful review! We're truly grateful you took the time to share your experience.

It was my pleasure helping plan your Norway adventure, and I’m so glad the process of building the itinerary felt flexible and easy! Some folks don't like how fast I can move with getting them a high-quality itinerary, but I'm grateful you both appreciated it :)

Nick, Maria, and I loved working with you both before and during the trip. It means a lot to us to hear that our availability and in-country recommendations helped make the trip smooth and enjoyable. Norway is such a special destination, and we’re thrilled the excursions and experiences lived up to your expectations. Not everyone will get to go in their lives, but those who do, like you, see quickly why it's such an incredible country!

Thank you as well for recommending kimkim to others—that’s the highest compliment we could receive. We are excited to help you plan another adventure whenever you’re ready!

Best Norway and Northern lights Hunt trip
Norway | Dec 27 - Jan 3, 2026

Brenda
Brenda A.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jan 04, 2026
My husband and I had the best time on our trip to Norway and much of it had to do with Nick, Alex, and their team from kimkim. They not only helped us plans and reserve all the fun activities on our trip, but were also available while we were in Norway. They really listen to our interests, goals, and budget for the trip and planned the best activities. We had a few cancelled and rescheduled activities due to the weather while we were there and they kept us informed and helped us process... Read more

My husband and I had the best time on our trip to Norway and much of it had to do with Nick, Alex, and their team from kimkim. They not only helped us plans and reserve all the fun activities on our trip, but were also available while we were in Norway. They really listen to our interests, goals, and budget for the trip and planned the best activities. We had a few cancelled and rescheduled activities due to the weather while we were there and they kept us informed and helped us process rescheduling and refunds. It was so comforting to know that they were available should we have any questions while we were on our trip. They were responsive, helpful, and overall so friendly and wonderful through the whole process. Some of our favorite memories from the trip are seeing the northern lights ( my husband's bucket list item and the reason for the trip) , and the visit to see, feed, and ride reindeer sleds as well as learn about the Sami people who herd them and share a tradition meal with them. We highly recommend kimkim and will definitely use them again on future trips!

Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jan 04, 2026
Thank you so much for this thoughtful and generous review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that your trip to Norway was such a memorable experience and that we could play a part in making it special. It was a pleasure working with you to plan a journey that matched your interests, goals, and budget—and we’re especially happy that your husband got to see the northern lights and check off such an important bucket-list dream. The reindeer sledding and time spent learning about Sami culture... Read more

Thank you so much for this thoughtful and generous review! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that your trip to Norway was such a memorable experience and that we could play a part in making it special.

It was a pleasure working with you to plan a journey that matched your interests, goals, and budget—and we’re especially happy that your husband got to see the northern lights and check off such an important bucket-list dream. The reindeer sledding and time spent learning about Sami culture are truly unique experiences, so it’s wonderful to hear those became favorite memories as well.

Travel in Norway can certainly be impacted by weather, so we’re glad we could help navigate the changes and provide support while you were on the ground. Knowing our travelers feel informed and cared for during their trip is incredibly important to us.

On behalf of Nick, myself, and the rest of the kimkim team, thank you again for your trust and kind words. kimkim will be happy help you plan another adventure whenever you’re ready!

Warm regards,
Alex

Wonderful 9 day winter trip to Norway
Norway | Dec 21 - Dec 29, 2025

D
Debbie T.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Dec 31, 2025
We had a wonderful 9 day trip to Norway planned by Kimkim. We flew to Oslo, spent 2 days there and then flew to Tromso. We were super lucky and had an amazing night to see the Northern Lights from a boat. Bucket List item for sure! Unfortunately Tromso didn't have much snow so we were unable to go snowmobiling or sledding with huskies. However Kimkim was able to pivot and schedule a snowshoeing trip with Huskies instead. That turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip (in addition to... Read more

We had a wonderful 9 day trip to Norway planned by Kimkim. We flew to Oslo, spent 2 days there and then flew to Tromso. We were super lucky and had an amazing night to see the Northern Lights from a boat. Bucket List item for sure! Unfortunately Tromso didn't have much snow so we were unable to go snowmobiling or sledding with huskies. However Kimkim was able to pivot and schedule a snowshoeing trip with Huskies instead. That turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip (in addition to the Northern Lights.) Also in Tromso, we did a cold plunge/spa experience aboard a small boat which was also a lot of fun. Then we flew to Bergen where we did Norway in a Nutshell trip and then took the train ride from Bergen back to Oslo.

Hotel Reviews
Scandic Byporten
Oslo

We had a beautiful suite here. The staff was very friendly and the breakfast was great. The location was perfect with lots of attractions and restaurants within walking distance.

Authenticity & Character
Wonderful gingersnaps and Groll in the lobby
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms were too warm but the windows were able to be opened. Heated bathroom floors!
Quality Hotel Saga
Tromsø

Nice hotel with wonderful breakfast. Good location with lots to do within walking distance. The rooms were very small. We had 2 rooms and the one that was for our 3 teenagers was definitely too small for 3 people. The rooms were toward but the windows were able to be opened. Heated bathroom floors!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms were too small for 3 people
Skostredet Hotel
Bergen

This is a new hotel and was beautiful. Again, the rooms were too hot but the windows could be opened. The bathroom was strange but functional. Ironically this was the nicest hotel that we stayed at but it was the only one without heated bathroom floors. The hotel is near many restaurants and attractions. The breakfast was amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Brand new. Clean.
Location
Can walk to many attractions and restaurants.
Staff
Super nice woman at the front desk
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms were hot!!
Scandic Oslo Airport
Gardermoen

Very convenient if taking an early flight. Nice hotel with large rooms, heated bathroom floors, and an excellent breakfast. Dinner at the hotel was more than adequate.

Authenticity & Character
No atmosphere. Just a hotel near the airport
Location
Right near the airport. 10 min taxi ride. $43 USD one way for a taxi or $8 for the local bus. As we are a family of 5, we took a taxi.
Staff
Courteous. Booked us a taxi.
Cleanliness & Comfort
We had a large room with a sitting area. The bathroom was huge.
Activity Reviews
Self-Guided Oslo Exploration
Self-Guided Oslo Exploration
Oslo

Our plane was late and the taxi driver was also late which didn't give us much time. We walked to dinner which was nice- slippery!

Oslofjord Dinner Cruise
Oslofjord Dinner Cruise
Oslo

This one was ok. Nothing special about the food or the view. Seemed too long.

Quality of Experience
Food
We ordered a cheese tray on our own
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They weren't very attentive or friendly.
Private City Walk
Private City Walk
Oslo

Christina was an excellent guide. We saw a lot of sights and learned some history. She inquired about our interests before we set off so she could speak to those on our tour. It was a fun morning.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Self-Guided Tromsø Exploration
Self-Guided Tromsø Exploration
Norway

Our plane was late as was our taxi. We didn't have time to explore this day. We walked to dinner. Unfortunately all the stores were closed during our time in Tromso due to Christmas.

Quality of Experience
Northern Lights Hunt by Boat
Northern Lights Hunt by Boat
Tromsø

Amazing! We happened to be there for a strong night of Aurora. Eventhough we weren't given the right place to embark the ship. we made it to the ship in time for sailing. The Aurora was everything I hoped for. Amazing!!!

Quality of Experience
Kvaløya Husky Sledding Excursion
Kvaløya Husky Sledding Excursion
Tromsø

We didn't get to do this experience but w went snowshoeing with the huskies instead. It was so much fun! The guides were great and we had a lot of fun despite not having much snow. It was a little bit long- after the snowshoeing we went to a small hut for a piece of cake and a hot beverage. Being there for 15 min (instead of an hour) would have been plenty.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sauna Adventure Boat
Sauna Adventure Boat
Tromsø

This was a great experience. My daughter found it on TikTok and I asked Kimkim about it. They have a small outdoor hot tub, 2 indoor saunas and and indoor spa as well. There were only 7 of us booked at the time we attended and that's all I would recommend. Otherwise you wouldn't be able to move throughout the activities at your own will. We also did a cold plunge from the edge of the boat into the arctic water- invigorating!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Self-Guided Bergen Exploration
Self-Guided Bergen Exploration
Bergen

We went up to the top of the mountain to watch the sunset which was really neat. It was quite crowded to take the funicular back down the mountain. Unfortunately it was 12/26 and most of the shops were closed.

Quality of Experience
Shops should be open later
Fløibanen  Funicular Ticket
Fløibanen Funicular Ticket
Bergen

Beautiful views

Quality of Experience
Norway in a Nutshell Day Trip
Norway in a Nutshell Day Trip
Bergen

Beautiful to see the fjords from the water. The train ride from Flom was also quite scenic. It's a long day without much activity.

Quality of Experience
Depart Norway
Depart Norway
Norway

I would not recommend doing the Norway in a Nutshell trip on 12/27 and taking the train from Bergen to Oslo on 12/28. This is the one thing about the trip I'd change. We'd much rather have had a day to explore Bergen (12/27) and then on our last day (12/28), had our luggage transported to Oslo while we did the Norway in a Nutshell trip. We met some other people who had their luggage transported to Oslo while they did the day trip. I would NOT have wanted to drag my luggage all day in the Norway in a Nutshell trip. That would have ruined the day. Also, our nicest hotel was in Bergen and it would have been nice to actually eat breakfast there (it didn't open until 8 and we had to leave 1 morning at 8 and the other day at 7:45), or just enjoy time at the hotel.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Dec 31, 2025
Thank you so much for the kind, helpful review, Debbie! Nick, Maria, and I were so happy to work with you and your group, and we appreciate your understanding about weather causing issues with some of your reservations. Being able to see the Northern Lights was hopefully as amazing as we discussed, and snowshoeing with the huskies sounds amazing! I'll make sure to forewarm more folks about doing the Nutshell experience back-to-back with the ride from Bergen to Oslo during planning, along... Read more

Thank you so much for the kind, helpful review, Debbie! Nick, Maria, and I were so happy to work with you and your group, and we appreciate your understanding about weather causing issues with some of your reservations. Being able to see the Northern Lights was hopefully as amazing as we discussed, and snowshoeing with the huskies sounds amazing!

I'll make sure to forewarm more folks about doing the Nutshell experience back-to-back with the ride from Bergen to Oslo during planning, along with the experience you had on the Oslofjord Dinner Cruise to let folks be able to keep that in mind when deciding what to do while in Olso.

It was great working with you and kimkim would be happy to help with more adventures in the future!

Trip was a blast! Planning could have been better.
Norway | Nov 17 - Nov 23, 2025

Madelynn
Madelynn F.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Nov 24, 2025
Trip was a blast! Was the perfect time of year to visit Tromsø and will be visiting Bergen again in the late spring/summertime! Planning could have been better. Almost missed an excursion due to the meeting point listed being in a completely different location than the actual meeting point. Luckily, the excursion company waited before departing and called me to gave me directions on where I was supposed to go. Another hiccup happened when my private transfer from the airport to my last hotel... Read more

Trip was a blast! Was the perfect time of year to visit Tromsø and will be visiting Bergen again in the late spring/summertime! Planning could have been better. Almost missed an excursion due to the meeting point listed being in a completely different location than the actual meeting point. Luckily, the excursion company waited before departing and called me to gave me directions on where I was supposed to go. Another hiccup happened when my private transfer from the airport to my last hotel was booked 5 minutes after the planes arrival, which was not enough time to allow for delays. Sure enough, my flight was delayed and luggage pickup was also delayed, so the driver for the private transfer was mad and tried to charge me for him waiting an hour when it was outside my control, despite me messaging him he didn’t have to wait. as I said above, it was the perfect time of year to visit Tromsø, lots of snow but not too cold, and 3 days was enough time to do everything I wanted to do there. Bergen on the other hand, rained the entire time I was there and hiking was a struggle due to slushy snow, which is typical this time of year. There were lots of things to do around Bergen, but sadly only had a day and a half, which is why I plan to visit in the late spring/summer. Other than planning errors, all reservations were legit and I had fun!

Hotel Reviews
Scandic Torget
Bergen

Loved this hotel! Very charming and right by the dock where all the historic buildings are. Breakfast was good and felt very safe when I was there.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right by the dock and in the center where I could get to all meeting points by walk.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Thon Hotel Tromsø
Tromsø

Breakfast was amazing and in a very convenient location to all the places I needed to go for my excursions. However, my room was not clean when I stayed there, and had to return a pillow because there was visible dirt on it, and the back door (this room had a glass door to a open area behind the hotel) that would not lock, so I felt a little unsafe.

Authenticity & Character
Just a hotel.
Location
Convenient
Staff
Helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
need better cleaning.
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 26, 2025

Thanks for the feedback, Madelynn, glad you had fun!

Great trip to Norway!
Norway | Oct 17 - Oct 28, 2025

Wiley
Wiley C.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Oct 30, 2025
We had a terrific trip to Norway and all of the kimkim team did a great job! One of my travel fears is being underway and encountering a snag. How can I easily get it resolved? Twice we needed help and the kimkim 24/7 service team came through quickly and decisively. Read more

We had a terrific trip to Norway and all of the kimkim team did a great job! One of my travel fears is being underway and encountering a snag. How can I easily get it resolved? Twice we needed help and the kimkim 24/7 service team came through quickly and decisively.

Hotel Reviews
Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge
Alta

Wow wow wow! This is a great lodge in an ideal wilderness setting. Great views- Yes, great staff- Yes, gourmet food- Yes! We loved this place.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Home Hotel Bryggen
Bergen

From the moment we entered reception we were not happy. We were trying to book a luxury trip to Norway and this was clearly a budget hotel. Not at all what we wanted. And our first room was a dungeon looking at the side of the adjoining building. kimkim customer service was able to get us an upgraded room that was much better but we still found NOTHING to like about this place. Terrible way to start our trip to Norway.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Scandic Ishavs Tromso

For us, seeking a luxury trip experience, this was just so-so. But great location with amazing views.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Very indifferent.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Fløibanen  Funicular Ticket
Fløibanen Funicular Ticket
Bergen

Fun thing to do and great views.

Quality of Experience
Explore Bergen
Explore Bergen
Bergen

Fernando was an excellent guide and we enjoyed the tour.

Quality of Experience
Private Hardangerfjord & Waterfalls Day Trip
Private Hardangerfjord & Waterfalls Day Trip
Bergen

Our guide, Arne, was the best guide we have ever had. We had a great day with him. He is a local and was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and really treated us as VIP's. And we were surprised at how much we enjoyed the visit to Viking village.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cultural Walk with a Local
Cultural Walk with a Local
Bergen

Fernando was an excellent guide even though he is from Ecuador (how is this a local?)

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Nærøyfjord Cruise & Flåm Railway Day Trip
Private Nærøyfjord Cruise & Flåm Railway Day Trip
Bergen

Our guide, Arne, was the best guide we have ever had. We had a great day with him. He is a local and was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and really treated us as VIP's.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Winter Whale Watching Excursion
Winter Whale Watching Excursion
Alta

Wow, one of the coolest experiences we have ever had on vacation! Our captain was just amazing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Northern Lights Hunt
Northern Lights Hunt
Alta

We are conflicted on this. The weather was far less than optimal- it was snowing. So we ended up driving around in a van for 3 hours basically doing nothing. For any lights "hunt" the issue is what to do when the weather is just not cooperating. Like no chance of seeing lights.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Reindeer Feeding & Northern Lights Experience
Reindeer Feeding & Northern Lights Experience
Tromsø

Another excellent excursion. It was great to learn more about the Saami people and customs, but really cool to be able to feed a herd of reindeer (40-50?).

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Northern Lights Dinner Cruise
Northern Lights Dinner Cruise
Tromsø

Yes- we finally saw the northern lights! Very nice tour boat and crew. The dinner was good, Even though they had a large crowd on board the boat was big enough to not feel crowded.

Quality of Experience
Husky Puppy Training Visit
Husky Puppy Training Visit
Tromsø

One of our top 3 experiences in Norway. Boy we loved this. It is located in a very scenic spot. They had a very friendly and helpful staff but more importantly some 170 dogs! And we got plenty of time to play with them. And the provided lunch was very good and delivered in a very nice traditional building.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Northern Lights Hunt by Boat
Northern Lights Hunt by Boat
Tromsø

We should not have gone on this excursion. It was a run down , cramped boat with a rag tag crew. And very unsafe. We felt like this should not be offered by kimkim.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 24, 2025
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed review of your Norway trip, Wiley. We’re thrilled to hear that so many experiences—from the Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge and whale watching to the Flåm Railway and Reindeer Feeding—left a lasting impression. It’s wonderful that guides like Arne and Fernando made your days so memorable with their knowledge, enthusiasm, and personal touch. We also greatly appreciate your honest feedback regarding accommodations and certain... Read more

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed review of your Norway trip, Wiley. We’re thrilled to hear that so many experiences—from the Sorrisniva Arctic Wilderness Lodge and whale watching to the Flåm Railway and Reindeer Feeding—left a lasting impression. It’s wonderful that guides like Arne and Fernando made your days so memorable with their knowledge, enthusiasm, and personal touch.

We also greatly appreciate your honest feedback regarding accommodations and certain excursions. While we’re glad our team could help with room upgrades in Bergen and support you quickly when challenges arose, we take all comments seriously and will continue working with our partners to ensure a consistently high standard, including assessing experiences like the Northern Lights Hunt by boat. Your insights are invaluable in helping us improve for future travelers.

Thank you again for trusting KimKim for your adventure and for highlighting both the standout moments and areas for improvement. We’d be delighted to assist with your next journey whenever the time comes!

Warm regards,
Alex

Quick Review of Norway
Norway | Oct 8 - Oct 14, 2025

John
John L.
Jacksonville, FL | Reviewed on Oct 15, 2025
Our food tour was special and well organized and our guide to pulpit rock was great especially since we had the challenge of hiking in a light rain most of the way. The funicular above Bergen to watch the sunset is a unique experience. One thing to watch is store and restaurant hours - a lot of shops are closed on Sundays and only one restaurant was open in Rosendal on Monday - luckily it was terrific. Read more

Our food tour was special and well organized and our guide to pulpit rock was great especially since we had the challenge of hiking in a light rain most of the way. The funicular above Bergen to watch the sunset is a unique experience. One thing to watch is store and restaurant hours - a lot of shops are closed on Sundays and only one restaurant was open in Rosendal on Monday - luckily it was terrific.

Hotel Reviews
Bergen Børs Hotel
Bergen

Suggest upgrading to a deluxe room for a little more room. First class bar and breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Location
On the harbor and near shipping and restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Victoria
Stavanger

Smaller rooms but central - staff was great and helpful

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Karl Johan Hotel
Oslo

Attentive staff and perfect location to walk around Oslo

Authenticity & Character
Old style with current amenities
Location
Very central and very walkable.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Fløibanen  Funicular Ticket
Fløibanen Funicular Ticket
Bergen

Not to be missed. A dramatic view of Bergen and the fjords.

Quality of Experience
Clear night and great meal at the restaurant
Pulpit Rock Hike with Lunch
Pulpit Rock Hike with Lunch
Stavanger

Top shelf hike with incredible experience at the pinnacle. It was fairly tough made more difficult with misty rain the entire time. Andi was great and brought very welcomed lunches. Wish we had a clearer day but would do it again.

Quality of Experience
LLP
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Taste of Oslo Street Food Walk
Taste of Oslo Street Food Walk
Oslo

Well organized and a true inside experience. He knew interesting places and made sure we had a true taste of the local food. Special thanks for accommodating Bev’s food allergies. Deep understanding of history of Norway. Excellent!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private City Walk
Private City Walk
Oslo

No clear plan for the day - said she really didn’t like the city and preferred to take a walk in the forest.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 24, 2025
Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful review, John. We’re delighted to hear that your Norway trip was filled with memorable experiences—from the Pulpit Rock hike and Bergen funicular to the Oslo street food tour. We’re especially glad the guide accommodated Bev’s food allergies and helped make the experience both safe and enjoyable. It’s great to know that the hotels, particularly Karl Johan, Hotel Victoria, and Bergen Børs, provided comfort, central locations, and attentive service. Your... Read more

Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful review, John. We’re delighted to hear that your Norway trip was filled with memorable experiences—from the Pulpit Rock hike and Bergen funicular to the Oslo street food tour. We’re especially glad the guide accommodated Bev’s food allergies and helped make the experience both safe and enjoyable.

It’s great to know that the hotels, particularly Karl Johan, Hotel Victoria, and Bergen Børs, provided comfort, central locations, and attentive service. Your tip about store and restaurant hours is a helpful note for future travelers.

Thank you again for your kind words. We’re thrilled that you enjoyed these experiences and would be delighted to assist with your next adventure.

Warm regards,
Alex

Great Planning and Execution
Norway | Sep 13 - Sep 18, 2025

Michael
Michael L.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Oct 03, 2025
Alex and team were great to work with - knowledgeable, resourceful, and responsive. Kim Kim's process and online tools were quite well developed. We loved every bit of the custom itinerary Alex devised for us to see the splendor of Norway's fjords. Some travel partners show up well during part of the process and then disappear. Alex and team were with us all the way. I'd be happy to work with them again. Read more

Alex and team were great to work with - knowledgeable, resourceful, and responsive. Kim Kim's process and online tools were quite well developed. We loved every bit of the custom itinerary Alex devised for us to see the splendor of Norway's fjords.

Some travel partners show up well during part of the process and then disappear. Alex and team were with us all the way.

I'd be happy to work with them again.

Hotel Reviews
Kviknes Hotel
Balestrand

Magnificent hotel, beautifully situated. Great staff and solid food.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Det Hanseatiske Hotel
Bergen

Terrible experience. Despite having reserved many months ahead, we were given rooms on the part of the fourth floor not served by an elevator. Not a great result for older folks. We were not clear why we got the worst rooms in the hotel when we had reserved so far in advance. The attendant, in a tired white undershirt, did not represent the hotel well. The 4th floor rooms were run down and the hottest in the hotel with no way to moderate temperature. Opening hte window was no solution due to noise from the nightlife just outside. While the the hotel is conveniently situated, location doesn;'t overcome the downsides.

Authenticity & Character
See above.
Location
Staff
Honor reservations made well ahead with decent rooms. Show more professionalism.
Cleanliness & Comfort
See above.
Hotel 1904
Ålesund

Great staff and location. Upper floor room had a funny configuration but worked out ok.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Cider Tasting with Food Pairing
Cider Tasting with Food Pairing
Balestrand

Lovely little glimpse into local culture and economy. Short walk from hotel was lovely.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Self Guided Exploration Balestrand
Self Guided Exploration Balestrand
Balestrand

Magnificent town with some good walks.

Quality of Experience
Geirangerfjord Cruise & Day Trip
Geirangerfjord Cruise & Day Trip
Norway
Quality of Experience
Explore Ålesund
Explore Ålesund
Norway

Lovely town. Sadly, time to explore was curtailed trying to deal with luggage lost by the airline.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 24, 2025
This review is truly helpful, I appreciate your time for the candid feedback to help us improve what we offer, Michael! My team and I are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the custom itinerary and the beauty of Norway’s fjords, and that our team was able to support you throughout the entire planning and travel process. Your kind words about our responsiveness and tools mean a great deal. We also appreciate your honest feedback about the Det Hanseatiske Hotel in Bergen. It’s always our goal... Read more

This review is truly helpful, I appreciate your time for the candid feedback to help us improve what we offer, Michael! My team and I are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the custom itinerary and the beauty of Norway’s fjords, and that our team was able to support you throughout the entire planning and travel process. Your kind words about our responsiveness and tools mean a great deal.

We also appreciate your honest feedback about the Det Hanseatiske Hotel in Bergen. It’s always our goal to ensure accommodations meet expectations, and we’ll continue working with our partners to prevent issues like this in the future.

It’s wonderful to know that the other hotels, especially Kviknes Hotel (my favoriteeee) and Hotel 1904, and activities like the Geirangerfjord cruise and cider tasting, added so much enjoyment to your trip. Your comments will help us keep improving and providing exceptional experiences.

Thank you again for sharing your experience, and we would be thrilled to plan your next adventure!

- Alex

Knowing that Alex was a phone call away, even...
Norway | Sep 10 - Sep 19, 2025

D
Diana P.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Oct 02, 2025

Knowing that Alex was a phone call away, even though the planning was air tight, was a comfort to me.

Again, the planning was air tight including vital times, mode of transportation and what to expect. If you have something go wrong, chances are...you were not paying attention. There was plenty of time to explore and decide what you wanted to do and when to do it. The meal at the taproom was a nice touch with the paring of a variety of dishes with different beers.

Diana

Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 24, 2025

This feedback makes me so grateful to have gotten to work with you, Diana. I’m delighted to hear that the planning and itinerary gave you both confidence and flexibility throughout your trip. It’s wonderful that the balance of structure and free time allowed you to explore at your own pace, and I’m glad the taproom meal was a highlight!

It was a pleasure assisting you, and I’m always just a phone call away whenever you plan your next adventure.

Best regards,
Alex

Norway - an exquisitely beautiful country
Norway | Sep 9 - Sep 23, 2025

Lisa
Lisa S.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Sep 28, 2025
Norway is an exquisitely beautiful country. The fjords, mountains, and other scenery were breathtaking. We had two weeks immersed in cruising the fjords with wonderful guides, self-guided hiking up to the ridges for breathtaking views, biking in a small town, and kayaking in the Norwegian Ocean. It was a nice balance of different activities. The overall planning and pre-booking with detailed itinerary was excellent. This upfront planning let us relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery... Read more

Norway is an exquisitely beautiful country. The fjords, mountains, and other scenery were breathtaking. We had two weeks immersed in cruising the fjords with wonderful guides, self-guided hiking up to the ridges for breathtaking views, biking in a small town, and kayaking in the Norwegian Ocean. It was a nice balance of different activities.

The overall planning and pre-booking with detailed itinerary was excellent. This upfront planning let us relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery without having to navigate logistics. Hotels were nice and centrally located for walking convenience to activities. The days were fairly scheduled with activities but opportunities to have free time to explore.

Highly recommend KimKim to plan your next adventure.

Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 24, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful review, Lisa. We’re so glad to hear that your two weeks in Norway were filled with such memorable experiences—from fjord cruises and ridge hikes to biking and kayaking. It sounds like you enjoyed a perfect mix of adventure and scenery. We’re especially glad that the detailed planning and pre-booked itinerary allowed you to relax and focus on the beauty around you. It’s great to know the centrally located hotels and balance of scheduled activities... Read more

Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful review, Lisa. We’re so glad to hear that your two weeks in Norway were filled with such memorable experiences—from fjord cruises and ridge hikes to biking and kayaking. It sounds like you enjoyed a perfect mix of adventure and scenery.

We’re especially glad that the detailed planning and pre-booked itinerary allowed you to relax and focus on the beauty around you. It’s great to know the centrally located hotels and balance of scheduled activities and free time worked well for your travel style.

Thank you for recommending us! Your kind words mean a great deal. We’d love to help you plan another adventure whenever you’re ready!