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active 10 hours ago

Beatriz De Pablo Rocha

The combination of the two places where I grew up (Madrid and a small village in Badajoz, Extremadura) has made me a passionate traveler almost from birth. Unknown destinations visited by travelers who ran away from clichés and unusual places have always caught my attention, and from my point of view, these are the places that best allow you to get to know a culture and its traditions.

I firmly believe that each of the trips we make changes our life (even just a little), and that is why I rely on experiences when I have to choose a new destination and the activities to enjoy there. I had the opportunity to spend a couple of weeks in a favela in Cape Town and listening to the real stories of the people living there absolutely changed my mind. Since I started traveling (through most of Europe and several destinations in Africa and Central Asia), I have felt the need to share these amazing and very diverse experiences with all the people who allow me to do it and create in them a memory for a lifetime.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Custom-made itineraries and unique trips based in local experiences and the culture of Spain, Portugal Italy and Morocco."

How did you get involved in travel?

"As I had to travel a lot between Madrid and Badajoz as a child, I started to get curious about all the places I passed by. That curiosity grew and over the time I began to take trips that allowed me to know different destinations and cultures. I decided to guide my career in the world of tourism, and for 5 years I have turned my passion into my job, organizing trips that create memories in the lives of others."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"It’s really difficult for me to choose just one experience, but as we are talking about unique experiences probably I have to talk about the first time I lived a Flamenco show at a private and really small Sacromonte Cave, in Granada. Flamenco has always been special for me and could sound like “a cliché” in our country, but to watch a live show in such a magical and familiar place was absolutely memorable. "

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Recent trip reviews for Beatriz

Trust you specialist, and have the best time ever!
Spain | Jun 23 - Jul 3, 2024

Liz
Liz M.
West Lake Sammamish, WA | Reviewed on Jul 05, 2024
Our family was so lucky to have been assigned to Bea for our trip to Spain. She was fantastic. From the beginning, she listened to what we valued and had a lot of helpful input. She suggested many more ideas to consider than what we could fit it, so that we could choose what sounded best. The greatest thing about Bea was her quick response time. We had the basics of the trip finished quite early, but she had to wait on us for new passports to arrive, and then we went through some... Read more

Our family was so lucky to have been assigned to Bea for our trip to Spain. She was fantastic. From the beginning, she listened to what we valued and had a lot of helpful input. She suggested many more ideas to consider than what we could fit it, so that we could choose what sounded best.

The greatest thing about Bea was her quick response time. We had the basics of the trip finished quite early, but she had to wait on us for new passports to arrive, and then we went through some revisions as our flights changed. (She was beyond reasonable and quick when our entire trip added a day.) During the trip, we had more questions and required a bit of hand-holding with small details and she was unflappable during this time. Cheerful, quick, and full of good advice. KimKim uses a really efficient app during the trip so that communication is in real time.

It was hard to choose where to start our trip. I picked the route which was loosely based on the suggested trip plans on KimKim's website. We ended up starting in Madrid, and heading south with stays in Sevilla, Granada, and Malaga. We had short visits in Segovia, Ronda, Nerja, Frigiliana, and an activity in Marbella.

Our family includes 3 teen boys so our choices aligned with their interests. Bea hooked us up with a hot air balloon ride which was magical. We also enjoyed a segway tour in Madrid, a few walking tours including the Alhambra, an olive oil estate visit outside of Sevilla, a visit inside the caves of Nerja, a flamenco show in a cave above Granada, and a canyoning excursion near Marbella. On our own we booked a mountain biking day for the boys for our added last day. The fellas most enjoyed the adrenaline activities of canyoning (think swimming through a cave, sliding down natural slides on your behind, and doing 3-9m cliff jumps.) They also loved the hot air balloon ride. I am thankful that the early start time of that aligned with our jet lag near the beginning of the trip. We encountered some really special surprises too: our segway guide in Madrid, David, took us to a small, unremarkable door behind a convent. Inside was a cookie "business" being run by the nuns of the church. We never saw a human. We went in and spoke through a speaker about what we wanted to purchase, and a packed box of cookies appeared in this little door in the wall. During a walk in the very hilly whitewashed town of Friginiana, we came across a local cat rescue with a viewing window of the "gatos." This was our family's jam, and we never would have expected to find it set amongst the small, hilly lanes of the village. The boys were also happy to find the filming location of Naboo from Star Wars in Sevilla. Many teen photos were taken there, second only to cat photos.

The hotels that she recommended fit well with our expectations of location, family sleeping arrangements, and yes, air conditioning :) Our favorite hotels were the two times that we stayed in H10 properties in Sevilla and Malaga. Our Granada hotel was very charming. We enjoyed several dining experiences despite the kids not feeling tapas at every turn. We ended up at a few steak houses and mercados (markets) for even more choices. Our favorite spot for chocolate y churros was Cafe Futbol in Granada. Our favorite restaurant was a pizza place, also in Granada, called La Piccola Carmela. They had a fancier sister restaurant for authentic Spanish tapas. Our favorite place to eat in Malaga was Pampa Grill. Every breakfast was lovely. Zero issues.

I should add a last shout out to the incredible drivers that Bea chose for our longer drives. Our favorite driver was Jesus Ferreira, who we had twice. We loved him, and he really made the time spent so special. He took us to a spot that wasn't planned because he had a hunch, and he was right! We also liked Angel in Malaga and Alberto Zabala in Sevilla.

Our family had taken one trip to Europe before, which I planned. Despite it going well, when I began my research for this trip, I was dreading the legwork. The hours of planning, researching, and figuring timing of trains and when to reserve what, complete with FOMO about things that I didn't know existed. While reading family trip blogs I came across KimKim. I was intrigued and filled out an interest form. We were assigned to Beatriz, and it was like a local angel was inside of my head. She took away almost every worry and I cannot express my relief. We didn't look back. I highly recommend KimKim and Bea. We will use them again.

Hotel Reviews
H10 Casa de la Plata
Sevilla

This hotel was perfect for us. The H10 in Sevilla had probably the best staff that we encountered. The gentleman (Fran?) that checked us in had very good advice and ideas. Everything was modern and clean, beds were good, and we appreciated their decorating style. Irreverent art. Good location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Despite Sevilla not being much of a car town, this hotel is very close to a large square by the mushroom. (If you see it, you will know what I mean.)
Staff
Beyond helpful. Kind, smart, great english after we attempted spanish with them.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Casa 1800 Granada
Granada
H10 Croma Málaga
Málaga

This was our favorite hotel on the trip. It was in a good location and was very stylish and airy. At first, we arrived and thought that we were located too far away from the beach. But quickly we realized that all of the action that we wanted was in the area near us. Everything was nearby. The mercado was a half block away. The hotel rooftop was perfect - big enough for options but not a crazy DJ party like the RIU in Madrid. Loved the rooftop pool, small restaurant, and lounge area. Our family was given two rooms. One had a balcony deck so big that it wrapped around the corner and had a 2nd section with sun loungers. Room 801, btw. The other room was a tad larger but had two small balconies. Also great. Room 809. The breakfast was good. Decor was nice. The lobby has water and small snacks/treats out at all times.

Authenticity & Character
This hotel isn't quaint - it is new. However, that is a big part of Malaga. Lovely decorative tiles surround all of the decks.
Location
Close to everything that we wanted. About 100 restaurants within 4-5 blocks.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Really responsive air conditioning.
Activity Reviews
Private Madrid Segway Tour
Private Madrid Segway Tour
Madrid

We really liked this. We were all new to segways, but the learning curve isn't bad at all. The tour guide was a younger guy. He had a lot of information. For our teens, I'd maybe give him a "4" because he told about more history than they needed. He did take us to a few "hidden gems" that we wouldn't have found otherwise. I gave the activity vendor a 4 because two of our five segways had some slowing issues when accelerating, which suggests a not-super-thorough maintenance system. They were not dangerous at any time, but they weren't as easy to control as the other 3.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Segovia
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Segovia
Madrid

This was breathtaking. So glad that we had the opportunity to do it. I don't know why, but I had expected a more private experience. Instead the balloon held around 16 people. That was fine. The pilot had flown balloons for 23 years and was a pro. I was slightly worried when he gave a safety speech in spanish. I only understood an arm gesture and the word "important," which was concerning. Luckily some other riders clued us in that he was talking about landing positions, and they explained what we should do. We floated over Segovia and there was no bad place in the balloon. He steered it so that everyone was able to see each angle. We were in the air for over an hour. Our landing was perfect - no big bumps or tipping over. After the staff cleaned up the gear there was a small breakfast and a toast.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The pilot was amazing. The staff was kind and energetic
Transport
I am referring to the shuttle to and from the airport. They were proficient. The balloon pilot was a 5+
Private Transfer {{start_location}} to  {{end_location}} via Ronda & White Villages
Private Transfer {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} via Ronda & White Villages
Spain

We were lucky to get Jesus Ferreira Franco as our driver, two different times. I think his business is called Luxury Granada? What a kind, knowledgeable man. He became a friend by the end of our trip. Courteous, polite, caring, prepared, with excellent stories. This was, without a doubt, the best driver that we could have had. He made our trip better. Our sons all said that they missed him after we needed to have a different driver later on.

Quality of Experience
This driver had great stories - I'm sure that he could be quiet if that is what you prefer. We wanted to hear it all. He also had a big cooler of waters to hand out and lent us umbrellas for our time in Ronda during a freak bit of rain.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Love Jesus F.F. KimKim should book him whenever possible.
Transport
Guided Visit of Seville
Guided Visit of Seville
Seville

Our tour guide was named Carolina. She was great with teenagers and was open to what we wanted to see. Some of our kids really wanted to see the area that was used for the filming of Star Wars - Naboo - so we headed over there. We spent a lot of time in the palace, and then headed over to the Jewish Quarter. She even escorted us to a restaurant that we wanted to try for their tapas.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Visit an Andalusian Olive Oil Estate
Visit an Andalusian Olive Oil Estate
Seville

I gave this 4 stars because our kids were totally not into it. I liked it a lot, and I think that culture and history can be absorbed by things that aren't museums and famous monuments. The estate was really old and had the original equipment from the 1600's. We learned a lot about different olive varieties and mediterranean-area production. We saw the apparatus and had an oil tasting. There was a driver to the estate and back, so everything was so simple. It was located about 20 minutes from downtown Seville.

Quality of Experience
I loved that it was different. Not a museum :)
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was kind and knowledgeable. Driver was great!
Transport
Guided Visit of  Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Guided Visit of Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Granada

I imagine that there are tons of tour guides for the Alhambra. It is really important to see. We had no trouble finding our guide at the meeting place. He was knowledgeable and told us a lot about the gardens (which we did first) and the Alhambra. You really do get more than seeing it alone. Although, to be fair, we did not listen to any audio tours so cannot compare.

Quality of Experience
I liked hearing the more "secret" things, like about how oleander was used in the garden because the staff didn't like a certain female nobleperson. Oleander is beautiful but poisonous, which was how the staff described this woman.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide took us through a wood product shop at the end. This was the only time on our trip that we felt like American tourists, like he was going to get a kickback from any sales of wood items. Kind of soured us a bit. I'm pretty sure that this was rare because there were not many people in the shop.
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Granada

This was the most authentic way for us to see the dancers. It felt a bit touristy, but the location was definitely built into the side of the mountain and the dancers were amazing. They worked! You really need to see flamenco at some point in Spain. We ran into a family in our hotel that had arranged a lesson somewhere, and they had to perform for an audience after their lesson. This was somewhere else. We weren't that committed. Happy to just watch. It was just the right amount of time.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 08, 2024

Hi Liz!! Wow.. you brought a tear to my eye! Thank you so, so much for your kind words, definitely the best reward is to know that you had a great time along with your family! :) I'm sure you already shared your impressions with your drivers and guides (Jesús told us you had a fantastic time together!), but I will make sure they receive it too. You made the process so, so easy from the beginning and it was truly a pleasure to be a small part of this family trip! Thank you so much again, Liz!!! Best regards, Bea.

Beatriz was the best!!! So so helpful & had a...
Spain | Jun 15 - Jun 25, 2024

H
Hanna S.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 05, 2024
Beatriz was the best!!! So so helpful & had all the best tips. We had the best trip EVER thanks to her :) Read more

Beatriz was the best!!! So so helpful & had all the best tips. We had the best trip EVER thanks to her :)

Hotel Reviews
Vincci Larios Diez
Málaga

Such a beautiful hotel in a beautiful location! Loved the rooftop bar & the views!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Parador De Nerja
Nerja Málaga

Views from the hotel are breathtaking! Amenities are so clean & well maintained & staff is very friendly!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Casa 1800 Granada
Granada

Best hotel I’ve ever stayed in!! So much character, each room was a little different & the courtyard was beautiful. Absolutely loved the amenities here with the breakfast & tea with the free drinks/coffees! Life saver on a trip like this :) Staff was so nice as well!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dear Hotel Madrid
Madrid

Very nice hotel located right in the middle of things :) The rooftop bar and pool were so cool! Absolutely loved the views from our room & the terrace

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Free Day to Explore Málaga
Free Day to Explore Málaga
Málaga

Best first day! We arrived and had time to settle in then we got to explore! We found an awesome restaurant for dinner then went to the beach at night, hotel staff was so friendly & got us checked in immediately!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Privately Guided Visit of Málaga
Privately Guided Visit of Málaga
Málaga

Our guide was so informative and kept us all interested! Lots of cool places in the city we would not have picked up on if not for this tour :)

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sunset Málaga Cruise
Sunset Málaga Cruise
Málaga

Beautiful views! Staff is so friendly & accommodating :) It does get chilly once the sun starts to set so definitely keep in mind because lots of people were cold by the end!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Frigiliana Hike & Wine Tasting
Private Frigiliana Hike & Wine Tasting
Málaga

One of my favorite experiences of the whole trip! What a beautiful town!! The hike itself was the most amazing hike I have ever been on, I took so many photos to capture everything :) Our tour guide was kind, went at our pace, and offered to take photos of our group :)

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit of Granada Through Its Scents
Guided Visit of Granada Through Its Scents
Granada

Such a unique experience & so worth it! Very informative too & a great way to learn your way around the city :) Our tour guide was the best!! She was super interesting & funny as well! Loved the little box of scents you get at the end too!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Granada

Coolest experience ever!!! My entire family was in awe afterwards! The performers were all so beautiful and talented, you couldn’t take your eyes off them!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit of  Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Guided Visit of Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Granada

Beautiful views! I learned a lot about the Alhambra & the history of the city.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sierra Nevada E-Bike Route
Sierra Nevada E-Bike Route
Granada

Another must do!!! Kind of scary but also super cool & totally worth a fall or two! They go at your pace & at first it is definitely nerve wracking but once you get the hang of it it’s no problem! You will definitely be a little sore for a few days afterwards but nothing too bad. The views are incredible & the staff takes lots of photos and videos for you during the trip!! The included lunch was so fun too & a good way to boost your energy :)

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Spanish Cooking Workshop
Private Spanish Cooking Workshop
Granada

One of my favorite experiences & memories of the whole trip :) the little building & room where this class took place was so cute & felt like home. Annabelle was the sweetest teacher!!! One of my favorite people we met on our trip, she taught us all so much about the Spanish language, the food, & the culture! It is very hands on, she hardly touched a thing! Everything we made was soooo good & we were able to save the recipes to make on our own at home :) It was so nice to be able to sit at the table afterwards & eat with everyone. Annabelle definitely made the experience even better!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit of Madrid:  History, Culture & Architecture of the Capital of Spain
Guided Visit of Madrid: History, Culture & Architecture of the Capital of Spain
Madrid
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Excursion:  Madrid Countryside Winery Visit
Half Day Excursion: Madrid Countryside Winery Visit
Madrid
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 05, 2024

Hi Hanna! Where to start? Thank you so, so much for your kind words, I feel so grateful I could be a little part of your best trip ever! (such a responsibility!). We always work along with our local guides to try to create unforgettable memories for our travelers while discovering the country in the most honest and close way, as in the end, those experiences will be the most special ones, so I'm so, so happy to know you had an amazing time around Spain with your family. Thank you so much again! Best regards, Bea.

Moody Italy trip
Italy | Jun 20 - Jun 29, 2024

Bill
Bill M.
Camarillo, CA | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2024
Beatriz and her weekend support were wonderful. She was totally responsive the small things that come up and made sure everything went as planned. This is our second straight year with her and she has always been great. Looking forward to another trip with her in the future. Bill Moody Read more

Beatriz and her weekend support were wonderful. She was totally responsive the small things that come up and made sure everything went as planned. This is our second straight year with her and she has always been great. Looking forward to another trip with her in the future.

Bill Moody

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Saturnia
Venice

This hotel had a good location and great people working there. Breakfast was great!!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Mozart Rome
Roma

The Mozart was and good hotel. We were k no it in the actual hotel as they have some rooms a couple of blocks down the street. No way for the travel company to know this when they booked. Where they had us was under construction so it was a little noisy during the day and construction materials where we had to walkthrough to get to our rooms. Shouldn’t be use for anyone with disabilities, as even though it had an elevator, you had to walk stairs to get to your room. Fine for our group but not for many.

Authenticity & Character
When the construction is done it will probably be fine. The base hotel was great and the breakfast was very good.
Location
In a great location and walking distance to most places you would want to see.
Staff
It depended on the shift. Most or the staff was very helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Il Guelfo Bianco
Florence

The only reason this isn’t 5 starts is that the breakfast was pretty weak compared to the other hotels and other hotels we have stayed at in italy. Overall it was very good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Privately Guided Visit of Pompeii & Naples from Rome by Train
Privately Guided Visit of Pompeii & Naples from Rome by Train
Rome
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
Guided Visit of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum
Rome

The guide was great, very knowledgeable and good with people said all ages. but the directions where to find the guide need to be more specific. Either a transfer needs to be arranged or in the write up it needs to explain where the meeting actually, which was below the coliseum, not at the coliseum. Many taxi drivers don’t speak great English and many of our group had to walk about half a mile from taxi dropoff to the meeting place.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was great.
Transport
Depending on where the hotel is, having transport instead of using a cab would be much easier.
Gelato Making Class
Gelato Making Class
Florence

This class is for a maximum of 7 people at a time and the owner was willing to do 2 sessions once we got there, but we decided not to spend the extra time. This fact should be noted when booking. The owner said the travel company knew and should have told us. Not Kim Kim, their supplier. But the kids, which is who we picked to attend, thought it was great!! The owner was very friendly and very accommodating.

Quality of Experience
Hot Air Ballon Over Florence
Hot Air Ballon Over Florence
Florence

A must for anyone that hasn’t been in a hot air balloon. When I asked our group what was the favorite thing they did, almost all said the hot air balloon.

Quality of Experience
Once in a life experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everyone that worked there were very accommodating, friendly, informational, and very safety conscious.
Transport
The owner actually one of the vans so he could get to know our people better. He was wonderful.
Private Guided Visit of Florence Including Michelangelo's David
Private Guided Visit of Florence Including Michelangelo's David
Florence
Quality of Experience
The guide was very knowledgeable and great with the whole group.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena and San Gimignano
Tuscany Day Trip to Siena and San Gimignano
Florence

Both cities were unique so there was no overlap in info. The guide was very good at telling both the historical fact of both places and stories to bring them to life. This was a very good day.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Privately Guided Visit of St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace
Privately Guided Visit of St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace
Venice

Guide was very good and St. Marks was close to our hotel.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Venetian Lagoon Experience: Rowing in Venice
Venetian Lagoon Experience: Rowing in Venice
Venice

Once again, this was awesome. We were taught to row the boats, which was like a gondola, but made for two people to row. The operators were all women school teachers also doing this and they could row the boat without you if needed. Everyone got a chance to row both through the back canals in Venice and out in the open water. Everyone truly enjoyed the experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 01, 2024

Hi Bill! Thank you so much for your super detailed feedback and the kind words to our team! It could be tricky sometimes to put all 15 people on the same page while traveling, but you made it SO easy. I'm glad you had a great time and that the weather in the end allowed you to enjoy the hot air balloon! Definitely a unique experience :) It would be definitely a pleasure to accompany you on a third adventure with us. Sending you my best regards, Bea.

Smith Family Trip to Spain-2024
Spain | Jun 15 - Jun 25, 2024

S
Steve S.
Pottstown, PA | Reviewed on Jun 26, 2024
Our entire trip of Spain was organized, planned, and executed perfectly. Beatrice was phenomenal from the very start. We enjoyed all of our stays in Malaga, Nerja, Grenada, and Madrid. The hotels were luxurious, centrally located, and staffed with wonderful people. Each and every excursion, we met amazing, knowledgeable guides, who were friendly and passionate about their towns, and country. From Alejandro and Alphonso in Malaga, to Marta, Nacho, Manuel and Jose in Grenada to Alphonso... Read more

Our entire trip of Spain was organized, planned, and executed perfectly. Beatrice was phenomenal from the very start. We enjoyed all of our stays in Malaga, Nerja, Grenada, and Madrid. The hotels were luxurious, centrally located, and staffed with wonderful people. Each and every excursion, we met amazing, knowledgeable guides, who were friendly and passionate about their towns, and country. From Alejandro and Alphonso in Malaga, to Marta, Nacho, Manuel and Jose in Grenada to Alphonso in Madrid, we enjoyed spending our time with them, and learning the culture of each and every place we visited. Throughout our entire journey every pick up was on time, every excursion was exceptional, and anytime we needed to contact someone it was very easy to do. This is our second time as a family we have used Kimkim, and I will absolutely use them in the future as well.

Hotel Reviews
Vincci Larios Diez
Málaga
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Parador De Nerja
Nerja Málaga
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Casa 1800 Granada
Granada
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dear Hotel Madrid
Madrid
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Privately Guided Visit of Málaga
Privately Guided Visit of Málaga
Málaga
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Frigiliana Hike & Wine Tasting
Private Frigiliana Hike & Wine Tasting
Málaga
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sunset Málaga Cruise
Sunset Málaga Cruise
Málaga
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit of Granada Through Its Scents
Guided Visit of Granada Through Its Scents
Granada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sierra Nevada E-Bike Route
Sierra Nevada E-Bike Route
Granada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit of  Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Guided Visit of Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Granada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Spanish Cooking Workshop
Private Spanish Cooking Workshop
Granada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Excursion:  Madrid Countryside Winery Visit
Half Day Excursion: Madrid Countryside Winery Visit
Madrid
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jun 27, 2024

Hi Steve! Thank you so, so much for your kind words! I'm so glad you enjoyed your time here discovering the country with your guides, and hope you have created lovely family memories :) It was so easy to work with you and truly a pleasure!!! Sending you my best regards, Bea

Out of the Castles in Spain -- She did it!!!!
Spain | May 30 - Jun 5, 2024

Marcia
Marcia B.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jun 15, 2024
We asked for something unusual and Bea came through, especially with our guide Miguel, who was over the top. we were happy with the variety of things we saw. The app was perfect for transfers and tickets and the transfers were also good. Thanks Bea for arranging our trip for us. We couldn't have done it ourselves Read more

We asked for something unusual and Bea came through, especially with our guide Miguel, who was over the top. we were happy with the variety of things we saw. The app was perfect for transfers and tickets and the transfers were also good. Thanks Bea for arranging our trip for us. We couldn't have done it ourselves

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Oriente Zaragoza
Zaragoza

Clean efficiency hotel, Small room, without charm and with plastic plants. Good location however. Paled in comparison to other Hotels.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Parador de Chinchón
Chinchón (Madrid)

This was an amazing Hotel, like all the Paradors we stayed in. Thanks for putting us there.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jun 17, 2024

Hi Marcia! Again, thank you so much for your kind words. As you already know, this customized itinerary was totally a challenge so I'm glad that everything worked out and that you enjoyed it! :)It was super fun creating this itinerary from scratch with you, and I hope you discovered amazing castles and villages on the way! Best regards, Bea.

Great family trip
Spain | May 17 - May 30, 2024

Marcia
Marcia B.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jun 13, 2024
I want to Thank Bea for creating a wonderful trip for us. She was such a pleasure to work with. The App they asked us to download turned out to be a very helpful tool used by most of us. Our pickups and connections worked smoothly and everything went without a hitch. I want to thank her for her hard work and providing us a great trip with wonderful lodgings. We loved most of the guides and were happy with all of the arrangements, pickups and things we saw in did. While we enjoyed all of... Read more

I want to Thank Bea for creating a wonderful trip for us. She was such a pleasure to work with. The App they asked us to download turned out to be a very helpful tool used by most of us. Our pickups and connections worked smoothly and everything went without a hitch. I want to thank her for her hard work and providing us a great trip with wonderful lodgings. We loved most of the guides and were happy with all of the arrangements, pickups and things we saw in did. While we enjoyed all of the guides except one, some of them stood out and I would like to point those out and why we thought they were great.
17- first tour was the tapas tour -- that was so lovely -- there was food for every taste, and all of the locations were amazing. we couldn't believe the how much we learned and the presentation. Even the vegetarian, Pescatarian and children were happy. We were educated on Tapas and Cava and Vermouth -- which up to that point, we had never experienced. It flavored our entire vacation to try these things wherever we went and to have the confidence to eat off a Tapas menu throughout our visit. Our guide was Carla and we want to give her 5***** for guiding us through this experience and choosing such wonderful and varied things. It was a great start to our trip. We felt very pampered.
18 - Our trip to Monjuic was wonderful and we loved our guide Eduardo. It was our first castle of the trip and the entire experience was fun and we liked the 1/2 day . We also liked the adventure of taking the gondola to the top of Montjuic. We don't remember visiting the Olympic Barcelona, but perhaps we spent too much time in the castle. We were also a bit late arriving at our meeting point due to the train being unavailable for us.
19-- we were happy with Dani and the trip to see la Familia Sagrada and casa Mila. he was an excellent guide for us because he told us things then allowed us to explore at our own speed. He would always seem to be available when we had questions, but gave us the opportunity to see what we wanted. He was especially knowledgeable about the Family Sagrada. He had worked there at one time and the information he shared of the stages of development went back 30 years. I would also give him 5*.****
From a planning perspective, I felt that we didn't see quite enough Gaudi on this tour -- that was the only reason I came to Barcelona. I felt cheated that this was my only day to see his work. Park Guell was good and I loved it, but still missed out on so many other locations. That was probably my fault. I saw the itinerary and should have asked for more. All of our family loved Gaudi, even the children.
20 --Tossa de Mar -- we can't say enough about how much we liked this whole day and our guide Vicente. We all loved him and the tour. He gave us lots of info, was fun, good with the children and lots of personal time to explore. again 5*****.
21 -- Tarragona - we liked the town of Tarragona. Eduard was good, and very knowledgeable, but I think after Barcelona and Tossa de Mar, it paled in comparison .
21 -- Flamenco dancer -- we loved this, it was better than any of us expected. We could have easily watched for another half hour. Everyone, including the 4 year old was mesmerized. 5*****. the tapas afterwards were average bar food, I think we would have liked to go out on our own.

22 -- While we liked Cardona, we didn't care for our guide Ramon who didn't stick to the schedule that was proposed to us nor did he allow us any private time in the Castle part. He visited the Castle and the salt mine first, but we didn't get to go into the town, which sounded very interesting. We always enjoyed walking around old castle towns and seeing the Gothic and Romanesque buildings, however, we went to the castle and then the Salt mine first, and when asked about the town, he said it wasn't worth seeing Cardona because it was now closed. The KimKim schedule had us going to the town first, which is what every single one of the other guides had done. We now see the reason. He then tried to convince us to go to Montserrat, which was scheduled for a half day two days later. He said that is what he always did -- he confessed he didn't look at our itinerary. We cut the day short because we were really quite tired of this guide. He wasn't good with the children, in fact they chose to stay home the following day. We felt he was boring and repetitive and while he knew a lot, we had to hear everything a lot. We didn't enjoy our visits, but the salt mine was cool and we got to do it self guided. We couldn't give Ramon more than a 2** for his lack of following the schedule and annoying manner.
23 There were only 5 of us on this trip (as the family with children decided to stay home from the experience the day before), but those of us who wend enjoyed the visit to Girona. The guide Dulce, contacted me well in advance to find out more about us. That was the first guide to do that. We mentioned that in Girona we wanted to see the Game of Thrones sites, and she studied up on it so she knew where they were. I liked what she had to say. we also liked the Dali Museum and seeing the house. The only downside of this day was how crowded the Dali house was and the long drive. Afterwards she sent us some pictures she had taken of us. I would say Girona was one of the highlights of the trip.
24 Montserrat -- we had Jordi for this tour and we all liked him very much -- he was our kind of guide-- informative, and adventurous, he had a friend who stayed behind with my daughter who didn't feel she could walk back from the summit and was conscientious about where we were at all time. We love this type of guide. It was a great trip. 5***** for him and this was a great and spiritual part of the trip as we got a chance to light a candle for my Son-in-law's mother who died a week after their return to the USA. It was a special moment and we would like to thank the guide for giving us the private time to do this.
25 It was fun for everyone to take the fast train to Lleida. None of us had ever been on one. We liked very much having the seats that faced each other with the table in the middle -- thanks for arranging that. We played cards with the children . It all went very smoothly and the Parador Hotel Lleida was amazing. we all loved the rooms, the service the breakfast and the location. Thanks for arranging it for us. We also enjoyed the guide Jaume and the visit to La Seu Vella, the Gothic-Romanesque cathedral. we went back several times during our Llieda visit to look around some more and appreciate his introduction to the city.
26 -27 Now we come to our favorite guide of all. As much as we enjoyed the other guides, Miguel was over the top. 10********* I can't even explain how good he was except that he made sure we enjoyed every second. He knew a lot about the geology of the area, the history and spoke loudly enough that even my husband who was hard of hearing could hear. He was conscious of the interests of every person and we would rank him among some of the best guides we’ve ever used during our travel history. We felt blessed to have him for two days in Lleida (and again two days in Zaragosa with just Kim and I. He sent us an itinerary of way too many places to visit in one day, and we only made it to three each day, which was just perfect because it allowed us to explore and feel the history while he shared just the right bits with us. We often felt rushed along to match the guides timeline. This never happened with Miguel. If he had made an appointment with another guide to show us something special, he let us know in the morning what those times were so we could make choices. In addition, he would kindly tell a guide that they weren’t needed any more if he found that they weren’t as knowledgeable as he had hoped. One castle in particular that we visited was the highlight of the entire trip. Castell Montsonis. It is a castle that has always been lived in by Nobility and they have kept the castle in good condition. There was so much to see we really felt we were seeing something special and the guide Jaume was humorous and pulled all of in to the history of the Castle, which even had a dungeon with chains.
28 We thought Zaragoza was a beautiful city and enjoyed our visit, but would have liked to have more time there! Our Guide, Leyre, was excellent and we liked visiting both the old town, the Cathedral de Pilar and the palace de Aljaferia. The guide directed us to the TUBE where we found a great restaurant to eat, with enough time remaining to make it to the Palace in time for our tour with her. We enjoyed the day and the train ride was again very pleasurable.

Hotel Review
Parador de Lleida
Lleida

This is a beautiful hotel, located close to many activities, restaurants and the Castle. The Restaurant serves the best Breakfast that we had while traveling. The rooms were beautiful and the beds super comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
walking distance to restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
super comfy beds.
Activity Reviews
Exclusive Tapas Culinary Experience
Exclusive Tapas Culinary Experience
Barcelona

Our first tour was the tapas tour -- It was so lovely -- there was food for every taste, and all of the locations were amazing. we couldn't believe the how much we learned and the presentation. Even the vegetarian, Pescatarian and children were happy. We were educated on Tapas and Cava and Vermouth -- which up to that point, we had never experienced. It flavored our entire vacation to try these things wherever we went and to have the confidence to eat off a Tapas menu throughout our visit. Our guide was Carla and we want to give her 5***** for guiding us through this experience and choosing such wonderful and varied things. It was a great start to our trip. We felt very pampered.

Quality of Experience
Food
Everything -- every restaurant was unique and wonderful with beautiful presentations and Vermouth, wines and Cava
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Old Town, Montjuïc Hill & Castle Visit
Private Old Town, Montjuïc Hill & Castle Visit
Barcelona

Our trip to Monjuic was wonderful and we loved our guide Eduardo. It was our first castle of the trip and the entire experience was fun and we liked the 1/2 day . We also liked the adventure of taking the gondola to the top of Montjuic. We don't remember visiting the Olympic Barcelona, but perhaps we spent too much time in the castle. We were also a bit late arriving at our meeting point due to the train being unavailable for us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Barcelona & Gaudí;  An Architecture Walk
Barcelona & Gaudí; An Architecture Walk
Barcelona

We all loved Gaudi -- we were happy with Dani and the trip to see la Familia Sagrada and Casa Mila. Dani was an excellent guide for us because he told us things then allowed us to explore at our own speed. He would always seem to be available when we had questions, but gave us the opportunity to see what we wanted. He was especially knowledgeable about the Family Sagrada. He had worked there at one time and the information he shared of the stages of development went back 30 years. The only downside was that the day was too short and I didn't see enough Gaudi! The visit to the park Guell was self guided, but I think we could have used some more guidance. We separated and found we all saw different things.

Quality of Experience
Gaudi is amazing and all of his work. Would have like to have seen more.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Dani, our guide had great knowledge, was easy to hear even in the many crowds of people in Familia Sagrada.
Private Costa Brava Day Trip: Tossa de Mar and Panoramic Boat Ride
Private Costa Brava Day Trip: Tossa de Mar and Panoramic Boat Ride
Barcelona

Tossa de Mar -- we can't say enough about how much we liked this whole day and our guide Vicente. We all loved him and the tour. He gave us lots of info, was fun, good with the children and lots of personal time to explore. He found a nice place to have lunch - we really enjoyed our day.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Dani let us explore on our own, yet was there to guide us when we needed it. What I liked the most about him was that he had a great sense to know when we needed direction, wondered where to go -- all of a sudden he would be there.
Transport
Half Day Trip to Roman Tarragona
Half Day Trip to Roman Tarragona
Barcelona

Tarragona - we liked the town of Tarragona. Eduard was good, and very knowledgeable, and those of us who loved Roman history really enjoyed it. It was a short drive and we are glad we went. The Roman ruins were great and we liked walking around the town. We didn't get to walk into any of the ancient ruins or the castle, only view them from outside.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Flamenco Night
Flamenco Night
Barcelona

Exceeded expectations. We could have easily watched for another half hour. Everyone, including the 4 year old was mesmerized. 5*****. The singer was exceptional. The tapas afterwards were average bar food, but with excellent service.

Quality of Experience
Cardona Castle & Salt Mountain Cultural Park
Cardona Castle & Salt Mountain Cultural Park
Barcelona

-- While we liked Cardona, we didn't care for our guide Ramon who didn't stick to the schedule that was proposed to us nor did he allow us any private time in the Castle part. He visited the Castle and the salt mine first, but we didn't get to go into the town, which sounded very interesting. We always enjoyed walking around old castle towns and seeing the Gothic and Romanesque buildings, however, we went to the castle and then the Salt mine first, and when asked about the town, he said it wasn't worth seeing Cardona because it was now closed. He then tried to convince us to go to Montserrat, which we were scheduled for a half day two days later. He said that is what he always did -- he confessed he didn't look at our itinerary. We cut the day short because we were really quite tired of this guide. He wasn't good with the children, in fact they chose to stay home the following day. We felt he was boring and repetitive and while he we knowledgeable, we had to hear everything repetitively. We didn't enjoy our visit to Cardona. The salt mine, however was self guided. We couldn't give Ramon more than a 2** for his lack of following the schedule and annoying manner.

Quality of Experience
The guide.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Privately Guided Day Excursion to Girona
Privately Guided Day Excursion to Girona
Barcelona

There were only 5 of us on this trip (as the family with children decided to stay home from the experience the day before), but those remaining enjoyed the visit to Girona. The guide Dulce, contacted me well in advance to find out more about us. That was the first guide to do that. We mentioned that in Girona we wanted to see the Game of Thrones sites, and she studied up on it so she knew where they were. She scored. I liked what she had to say and what she showed us. We also liked the Dali Museum . The only downside of this day was how crowded the Dali house was and the long drive. Afterwards she sent us some pictures she had taken of us. I would say Girona was one of the highlights of the trip.

Quality of Experience
Girona is a great town -- we could have spent more time there. Glad we went.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Darci was funny, caring, thoughtful and communicative.
Transport
Half Day Excursion to Montserrat
Half Day Excursion to Montserrat
Barcelona

We had Jordi for this tour and we all liked him very much -- he was our kind of guide-- informative, and adventurous, he had a friend who stayed behind with my daughter who didn't feel she could walk back from the summit and was conscientious about where we were at all time. We love this type of guide. It was a great trip. It is such a spiritual place, both the mountain and the Monastery. We got a chance to light a candle for a special person who died a week after returning home. It was a special moment and we would like to thank the guide for giving us the private time to do this.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We had two guides and because of this we were able to split up. Some of us wanted to climb, others did not, so this worked out perfectly -- everyone was attended to.
Transport
Private Family Visit of Lleida
Private Family Visit of Lleida
Lleida

25 It was fun for everyone to take the fast train to Lleida. None of us had ever been on one. We liked very much having the seats that faced each other with the table in the middle -- thanks for arranging that. We were new to fast trains and played cards with the children . It all went very smoothly and the Parador Hotel Lleida was amazing. we all loved the rooms, the service the breakfast and the location. Thanks for arranging it for us. We also enjoyed the guide Jaume and the visit to La Seu Vella, the Gothic-Romanesque cathedral. We went back several times during our Llieda visit to look around some more and appreciate his introduction to the city and especially the explanation of all of the yellow and red striped flags.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Loved the fast train -- what a great way to travel. The train station in Barcelona was a bit confusing to navigate, but still went smoothly. Definitely needed the 30 minute advance arrival that KimKim recommended.
The Route of the Castles of the Sió
The Route of the Castles of the Sió
Lleida

Now we come to our favorite guide of all. As much as we enjoyed the other guides, Miguel was over the top. 10********* I can't even explain how good he was except that he made sure we enjoyed every second. He knew a lot about the geology of the area, the history and spoke loudly enough that even my husband who was hard of hearing could hear. He was conscious of the interests of every person and we would rank him among some of the best guides we’ve ever used during our travel history. We felt blessed to have him for two days in Lleida (and again two days in Zaragosa with just Kim and I). He sent us an itinerary of way too many places to visit in one day, and we only made it to three each day, which was just perfect because it allowed us to explore and feel the history while he shared just the right bits with us. We often felt rushed along to match timelines from other guides. This never happened with Miguel. If he had made an appointment with a host to show us something special, he let us know in the morning what those times were so we could make choices in order to make the appointments. In addition, he would kindly tell a guide that they weren’t needed any more if he found that they weren’t as knowledgeable as he had hoped. One castle in particular that we visited was the highlight of the entire trip. Castell Montsonis. It is a castle that has always been lived in by Nobility and they have kept the castle in good condition. There was so much to see we really felt we were seeing something special and the Host guide Jaume was humorous and pulled all of in to the history of Castle Montsonis , which even had a dungeon with chains. On the 2nd day with Miguel, we had our most picturesque day. Went into the edge of Pyrenees mountains following the river where there were many Castles on the mountain tops. Everywhere you looked there were old castle towns or lookout towers and Hermitages. We felt like we stepped back into history. I took way too many pictures, it was so beautiful and we loved feeling we were part of history, in addition we got to see what we all labeled as Rapunzel's tower and even got to climb to the top on a very narrow winding stairway. It was fun even those too nervous to climb.

Quality of Experience
Castell de Montsonis
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Miguel was over the top the best guide we had and both drivers were great and we were very comfortable -- plenty of room
Transport
Train Lleida to Zaragoza, Privately Guided Visit of Zaragoza, Train Zaragoza to Lleida
Train Lleida to Zaragoza, Privately Guided Visit of Zaragoza, Train Zaragoza to Lleida
Lleida

Zaragoza was a beautiful city and we enjoyed our short visit, but would have liked to have more time there! Our Guide, Leyre, was excellent and we liked visiting both the old town, the Cathedral de Pilar and the palace de Aljaferia. The guide directed us to restaurants in the TUBE where we found a great restaurant to eat, with enough time remaining to make it to the Palace in time for our tour with her. We enjoyed the day and the train ride was again very pleasurable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
we loved the train -- it was a painless way to travel and some of us had a flawless connection where they were picked up in Barcelona and taken to the airport
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jun 17, 2024

Hi Marcia! Wow!!! Thank you so, so much for your super detailed feedback! Definitely really, really helpful. I'm sure you already did, but I will make sure I share all your comments with your guides along the way :) Being a small part of such a great family trip has been truly a pleasure, and I hope you created lovely memories during this time. Sending you my best regards! Bea.

Great trip in Spain
Spain | May 22 - Jun 6, 2024

Beth
Beth T.
Sicklerville, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 08, 2024

Overall, the trip was great and we enjoyed all of the activities. Bea did a great job finding great experiences. All of the experiences were unique and interesting and a great mix of city sights and drives in the countryside.

The hotels were very good except the last one in Barcelona. While it was fine, it was not the excellent experience we had in the other hotels. For one thing, one of the two elevators was broken the entire time we were there.

Thanks so much

Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jun 10, 2024

Hi Beth! Thank you so much for your feedback! :) I'm glad you enjoyed all the activities you experienced around the country, hope you created lovely memories for the future! Best regards, Bea.

We had a wonderful time in Morocco
Morocco | May 26 - Jun 2, 2024

Lindy
Lindy S.
Australia | Reviewed on Jun 03, 2024

We had a wonderful time in Morocco…from the moment Othman picked us up at the airport, everything ran well. Most of our guides were fantastic and knew their jobs well. This is our second time booking through KimKim and won’t be the last.

Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 17, 2024

Hi Lindy! I'm so happy to know you had a wonderful time in Morocco! :) It was a pleasure to help you with this adventure, hope to do it again in the future! Warm regards, Bea.

Beatriz was just as amazing as she was in Por...
Spain | May 1 - May 25, 2024

Tom
Tom K.
Rockville, MD | Reviewed on Jun 02, 2024
Beatriz was just as amazing as she was in Portugal last year. The trip was well thought out and she came up with amazing ideas. Read more

Beatriz was just as amazing as she was in Portugal last year. The trip was well thought out and she came up with amazing ideas.

Hotel Reviews
Las Casas de la Judería
Seville

This was the worst hotel of our entire trip. First they gave us a room where we would have to go up about 10 steps just to get to the bathroom at night. As that didn't work for us, they offered us the room next door and told us to go on out and tour the city. When we came back they had only a really inferior room with lights that were shining on my wife all night because the cover was gone. They offered to put a towel over the light but never did. Then it got worse. We felt the problem was with the people at the reception who just didn't care.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Casa 1800 Granada
Granada

This was the very best hotel out of all the amazing hotels we stayed in. They should have five stars instead of only three. When we got there our guide was already waiting. They put us at ease right away and before we knew it, the luggage was in our room. We actually checked in after our tour. In addition to the great breakfasts they had a snack late in the afternoon which was our dinner on two occasions. Everybody was very welcoming from the people who were in charge of the food to the guy who arranged for our taxis. They also gave us great tips for where to eat.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It's so close to everything, the perfect spot. But not in an ostentatious location.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Seville Culinary Experience
Seville Culinary Experience
Seville

Just absolutely excellent in every respect, especially the person who led the group.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Visit of Seville
Guided Visit of Seville
Seville
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Visit an Andalusian Olive Oil Estate
Visit an Andalusian Olive Oil Estate
Seville

A wonderful experience led by the top employee.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The driver was very nice and very helpful.
Full Day Excursion to Doñana National Park & Visit the Village of El Rocio
Full Day Excursion to Doñana National Park & Visit the Village of El Rocio
Seville

There were lots of birds to see. However, the mosquitos were the thickest we have ever experienced and the guide, although very good with the birds, did not do the cultural things we were supposed to do.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
See above.
Transport
Spanish Guitar Experience
Spanish Guitar Experience
Ronda

The guitarist was terrific. Her facial expressions alone were worth the cost of this trip.

Quality of Experience
Entrance Tickets: Cueva de la Pileta
Entrance Tickets: Cueva de la Pileta
Spain

A real highlight of the entire trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide was amazing. I had some trouble walking and he was as solicitous as one can be.
Workshop:  Traditional Tile Decoration
Workshop: Traditional Tile Decoration
Granada

It's actually not so difficult but it was a lot of fun to do this and then pick them up 48 hours later.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Granada

These gypsies actually live in the caves and they are excellent dancers. It's a lot of fun.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Visit:  Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Guided Visit: Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Granada

It was a very worthwhile experience, with a good guide and an amazing place. You get so much more out of a private tour like this than we could have gotten on our own. The only thing is that she didn't want to go to the Jewish areas which happened to be very interesting for us. We ended up seeing it on our own later. She could have used the last half hour to wander the streets of the Jewish area but instead she left us in the Alhambra which was also worthwhile to see on our own after the tour. She should have gone to the scheduled Jewish area before the Alhambra instead of cutting the tour short by a half hour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
See above as to why she didn't get the fifth star.
Private Guided Visit of Úbeda
Private Guided Visit of Úbeda
Spain

The same guy as the day before. An amazing experience. Very glad we went to these two cities where most don't get to.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guy actually drove us back to the hotel before going back to Ubeda because I had forgotten my pills.
Transport
See above.
Guided Walking Visit of Ronda
Guided Walking Visit of Ronda
Ronda

Very fun guy. He went all out to make us feel at home in his city.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Visit of Granada Through Its Scents
Guided Visit of Granada Through Its Scents
Granada

A lot of fun, although the scents were a bit overblown. Definitely worthwhile.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Guided Visit of Baeza
Private Guided Visit of Baeza
Spain

This was an amazing experience from an excellent and very personable guide who did everything he could possibly do for us. Very worthwhile.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Medina Azahara Guided Tour at Night
Medina Azahara Guided Tour at Night
Córdoba

Unfortunately we didn't get to go. We had just parked the car which was not an easy accomplishment and she said to us, are you ready to take your car? We waited an hour for a taxi that never showed up.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
She should have made contact with us and made it clear she was expecting us to drive before we parked.
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jun 03, 2024

Hi Tom! Thank you so much for your super detailed feedback, as always :) As I already told you, I'm so glad you had a great time discovering so many places around Spain, and especially its Jewish Heritage. Thank you for trusting us again this year to plan your adventure! Sending you my best regards, Bea.

Portugal Trip was Perfect
Portugal | May 4 - May 22, 2024

D
Debbie W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on May 25, 2024
Our trip was the perfect mix of everything we had asked for. It included a mix of cities, small towns, food, culture and activities. There was enough free time for us to fill in with things we learned about during our travels. All of our accommodations were wonderful and the guides for all of our excursions were exceptional. Read more

Our trip was the perfect mix of everything we had asked for. It included a mix of cities, small towns, food, culture and activities. There was enough free time for us to fill in with things we learned about during our travels. All of our accommodations were wonderful and the guides for all of our excursions were exceptional.

Hotel Reviews
MeraPrime Gold Design Hotel
Lisbon

This hotel was in a great location. The rooms were small but very comfortable. The breakfast offered by the hotel was very good and had a large selection of different foods. Baixa can be a loud section of the city and we had to keep our windows closed during the night to keep the noise out. This wouldn't affect my decision to stay there again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Costa D’Oiro Ambiance Village
8600-544

Lovely hotel in a fairly convenient location. Their breakfast was exceptional with everything you can imagine on the buffet. Water pressure and temperature control in the shower was an issue but I would stay at this location again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pousada Castelo de Óbidos
Óbidos

This was the coolest place to stay. We had views of the castle courtyard from our room. The breakfast buffet was very good with several choices. The hotel staff were extremely helpful and obviously love their jobs in the castle. We would definately stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
MyStay Porto Bolhão
Porto

The location of this hotel turned out to be perfect once we got our bearings in the city. The bed was extremely comfortable and the room was clean. The "breakfast" was rather disappointing, especially after the fantastic breakfasts we had at all of our previous accommodations. We were surprised to receive a box of milk and juice and a cellophane wrapped bread with jam. The coffee was freeze dried and tea choice was limited - no nespresso!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Our interactions were all virtual. They were responsive and efficient but I can not really comment on "staff" as we never met anyone.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
 Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk
Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk
Portugal

Fantastic tour and tour guide!!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Full Day Private Guided Tour of Lisbon
Full Day Private Guided Tour of Lisbon
Lisbon

Our guide was very knowledgeable and took us around the city to see all the sights. I was disappointed that we did not really go "in" to any sights - only one church. We simply "walked by" everything. Our tour did include tickets to go into the Monastery in Belem but the lines were so long that we opted to pass rather then spend an hour standing in line. Having a prepaid tour should have included some priority placement in the line. Also since this was a full day tour it would have been nice to have the meal included. We paid for our lunch and for the guides meal too - While I didn't mind paying for the guides lunch, it seems like this should have been made clear at the purchase of the tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sintra Heritage Hike: Hidden Secrets
Sintra Heritage Hike: Hidden Secrets
Portugal

We loved our guide. Jorge was fantastic and was very knowledgeable. The picnic he prepared for us was so cute. This tour only included the entrance to the castle. It was a nice long hike.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Catamaran Excursion to Benagil Caves & Carvoeiro Beach
Catamaran Excursion to Benagil Caves & Carvoeiro Beach
Portugal

This was a lot of fun and the coast line that we saw was magnificent.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Secret Porto Walking Experience
Secret Porto Walking Experience
Porto

Our guide was very knowledgeable and took us on a great walking tour of old Porto.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Explore Porto's Culinary Scene and Bolhao Market
Explore Porto's Culinary Scene and Bolhao Market
Porto

The guides on this tour were amazing. This was a great food tour for the northern parts of Portugal.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Douro Valley Excursion with Wine & Olive Oil Tastings & River Cruise
Douro Valley Excursion with Wine & Olive Oil Tastings & River Cruise
Porto

Our guide was fantastic! We were fortunate to have a great group of tourists and a fun day together driving to the Douro valley, visiting the wineries, having a meal, enjoying the scenery and taking a boat tour.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jun 09, 2024

Hi Debbie! Thank you so much for your detailed feedback about your trip to Portugal! I'm so happy to have been a small part of this trip and really glad you enjoyed the mix of activities and free time around the country. It's been a pleasure helping you with this adventure. Best regards, Bea.