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active 22 hours ago

Barbara Rebella

“I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list”.
This quote is a good representation of myself. I grew up in a little town in Liguria, Italy, and I’ve always wanted to explore the world, meet new people, and know different cultures. After my graduation, I lived for six years in Rome, where I met my husband, and then in Genoa. With him, I traveled to several places, at first as a couple (Jordan, Zanzibar, and South Africa to mention a few), and more recently with our two beautiful kids (Maldives, Dubai, Andalusia, Hawaii, etc.). Of course, Italy takes a special place in my heart, especially Sicily, with its amazing food, people, and history.
Since 2021 I live with my family in Washington State, Seattle area. From here I’m happy to help travelers discover Italy (no matter if it’s their first or tenth time there) and the authenticity of its people, tradition, food, and cultural heritage.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"We are specialized in creating personalized, tailor-made itineraries, to discover the authentic beauty of Italy, including cooking classes, wine tasting, and artistic masterpieces. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the canals of Venice, the visit to a Barolo winery in Piedmont, or a trek in the Portofino natural park with breathtaking views, we take care of every detail to make your trip unforgettable, helping you and the ones you love to build once-in-a-lifetime memorable experiences."

How did you get involved in travel?

"My father was a sailor, so, I guess, traveling is in my blood! I started traveling to see him when his ships docked somewhere not too far from home, sometimes every 6 months…
My passion for travel runs deep and is rooted in my love for discovering new cultures, and experiencing authentic food and traditions. I love helping people to create truly memorable and enriching travel experiences, and break out of their routines. I truly enjoy understanding their needs, and I’m dedicated to making sure that each trip is a truly unique and unforgettable journey."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Many of my travel memories are related to the people I met and the food I shared with them.
Recently I had the privilege of experiencing, once again, the beauty and richness of Sicily with my family and friends. We rented a house by the sea, near Agrigento, and had the opportunity to truly immerse ourselves in the local culture. We had the opportunity to visit Piazza Armerina (Villa Romana del Casale - Patrimonio Mondiale dell'Umanità UNESCO) with its stunning mosaics, and Caltagirone (Ceramiche di Caltagirone (ceramichecaltagirone.com) with its beautiful ceramics. My truly unforgettable experience, however, has been having dinner with the landlord who hosted some friends for a traditional dinner, inviting us to enjoy a simple, delicious cuisine made by local old ladies."

Barbara is part of the following groups: Italy Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Favorite experiences

Venice Night Walking Tour

This fascinating tour takes you through the dreamlike beauty of Venice by night, with its mysterious and dark side streets known as calles. After the sun melts into the horizon, you’ll explore the districts of San Marco, Rialto Market, and Dorsoduro. As people head out for dinner in the bustling...

Boat Tour in Cinque Terre

Explore the picturesque coastline of the Cinque Terre with a boat cruise. You’ll depart from Monterosso Al Mare and glide through the water on a comfortable motorboat. Most visitors see Cinque Terre from within the towns or along the trails. However, from the sea, you’ll notice the incredible...

Chianti Wine Tasting & Farm Lunch

Absorb Chianti’s scenic countryside with a driving and winetasting tour. You’ll twist and turn along panoramic roads, tour wine cellars, learn about the history of growing Chianti grapes, and savor a traditional lunch of local products on a family farm. As you set off for Chianti, enjoy the...

Lake Garda with Kids & Teens

Lake Garda is the most family-friendly Italian lake. There are many activities to enjoy in amazing nature and a significant number of theme and water parks for everyone but specially designed for kids. Although this is a self-guided tour, you can still take advantage of our team’s experience...

Family Boat Tour & Scavenger Hunt in the Venice Islands

This family-friendly excursion to the islands of Burano, Torcello, and Murano is the perfect way to experience the idyllic scenes beyond bustling Venice. With a scavenger hunt leading the way, you’ll explore the Venice Lagoon, solve mysteries, and listen to spy stories. Enjoy gliding through the...

Recent trip reviews for Barbara

Barbara was incredibly attuned to our needs a...
Italy | Mar 19 - Apr 8, 2024

J
Jeff T.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Apr 09, 2024
Barbara was incredibly attuned to our needs and preferences. She was promptly responsive to our questions and adapted to our changing needs. We couldn't have hoped for a better facilitator. Rafaella and Daniella were phenomenal. They consistently informed us regarding upcoming activities and kept us informed about itineraries, guides, drivers, et cetera. All of our drivers were fantastic (with one exception). Not a significant factor. Our absolute favorite was Daniele. He... Read more

Barbara was incredibly attuned to our needs and preferences. She was promptly responsive to our questions and adapted to our changing needs. We couldn't have hoped for a better facilitator.

Rafaella and Daniella were phenomenal. They consistently informed us regarding upcoming activities and kept us informed about itineraries, guides, drivers, et cetera.

All of our drivers were fantastic (with one exception). Not a significant factor.

Our absolute favorite was Daniele. He deserves special recognition!

We will definitely use KimKim again, and will highly recommend them to our friends and family for any future travel plans!

Local specialist: Barbara Rebella
Barbara
Barbara Rebella
Local specialist in Kirkland WA | Replied on Apr 15, 2024

Jeff, Caroline.
Thank you very much from all my Team for your kind words.
We work hard to satisfy all our Traveler's needs, and reading such excellent reviews melts our hearts.
We are so glad you enjoyed your vacation in our beautiful country, and we are proud to have allowed you to experience so many beautiful places, especially your Italian roots!!
Once again, thank you so much, and I look forward to assisting you again on your next travel adventure! I wish you and Caroline all the best.
Arrivederci a presto!!
Barbara

Barbara and Massimo truly went above and beyo...
Italy | Oct 7 - Oct 16, 2023

L
Lorie B.
Kalamazoo, MI | Reviewed on Oct 18, 2023
Barbara and Massimo truly went above and beyond what we expected. They were constantly in contact with us and resolved any questions or issues we had. I would highly recommend them in planning your next trip. Read more

Barbara and Massimo truly went above and beyond what we expected. They were constantly in contact with us and resolved any questions or issues we had. I would highly recommend them in planning your next trip.

Activity Review
Lake Como Food experience
Lake Como Food experience
Italy

Valentina and her family were so warm and kind. It was really a unique experience to go into their home to cook. My only advice might be to improve on the menu selection a bit.

Local specialist: Barbara Rebella
Barbara
Barbara Rebella
Local specialist in Kirkland WA | Replied on Oct 19, 2023

Dear Lorie and Kevin.
Thank you very much! Your kind words melt our hearts!
So happy to help you celebrate your wedding anniversary with this trip!

Wish you both all the best, and maybe we will "meet again" for your next trip to Italy!!
Warm regards.

Barbara

Venice, Florence, Amalfi and Rome!
Italy | Oct 2 - Oct 10, 2023

G
Greg F.
Northglenn, CO | Reviewed on Oct 18, 2023
Barbara planned an amazing vacation for us across Italy and on short notice. It ended up including a gondola tour in Venice, riding a Vespa through wine country, and cruising along the Amalfi Coast. Barbara got us to four cities without a rental car. All pickups, whether it was by boat, train or car went seamlessly. The hotels she picked were clean, comfortable, and in walkable areas. During the trip, Barbara and her collegues were extremely responsive and helpful. Any last minute changes we... Read more

Barbara planned an amazing vacation for us across Italy and on short notice. It ended up including a gondola tour in Venice, riding a Vespa through wine country, and cruising along the Amalfi Coast. Barbara got us to four cities without a rental car. All pickups, whether it was by boat, train or car went seamlessly. The hotels she picked were clean, comfortable, and in walkable areas. During the trip, Barbara and her collegues were extremely responsive and helpful. Any last minute changes we needed, they took care of it. A wonderful experience!

Activity Reviews
Cooking class. Pizza and gelato making!
Cooking class. Pizza and gelato making!
Rome

Fun, informative, and generous with the wine. But more people than we were expecting in what was called a small group (about a dozen people)

Wine tour by Vespa
Wine tour by Vespa
Italy

This was just the best. A patient tour guide taught us to ride the Vespa and then guided us out of Florence and into wine country. It was fun, beautiful and the wineries were gorgeous.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Tour and Accademia Visit (Michelangelo's David) - wine tasting
Guided Tour and Accademia Visit (Michelangelo's David) - wine tasting
Florence

An extremely informative private tour

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice

The gondola ride was pretty, but it felt like we were in a gondola traffic jam. Each boat just a few feet apart.

Local specialist: Barbara Rebella
Barbara
Barbara Rebella
Local specialist in Kirkland WA | Replied on Oct 18, 2023

Dear Greg and Marike!
Thank you very much for your kind words and feedback.
Organizing this trip has been a pleasure, and we thank you for trusting us on such a special occasion.

I hope to plan another holiday to Italy for you in the future. Until then, all the best and safe travels!
Warm regards

Barbara

Very helpful and huge time saver!
Italy | Jul 6 - Aug 2, 2023

Andrew
Andrew B.
Bradley, IL | Reviewed on Aug 03, 2023

Our local specialist was very pleasant and extremely helpful as she created our 4 week itinerary to Italy. She listened to all of our preferences and shaped the trip around our requests. I have no idea how much time we saved with her booking all the hotels and many excursions. She also provided a lot of great recommendations for restaurants and activities during our down time. This was my second time using KimKim and I will be using KimKim for my next trip too.

Local specialist: Barbara Rebella
Barbara
Barbara Rebella
Local specialist in Kirkland WA | Replied on Aug 03, 2023

Thank you very much, Andrew, for your kind words!
It has been a pleasure working with you and helping you discover my beautiful Country from North to South!
I'm thrilled you had a great experience and appreciate my recommendations.

I wish you and Maggie all the best !!
Barbara