My name is Caterina, and I am a Travel Designer at Your Custom Journey.
I was born in a small village in Calabria, located in the southern region of Italy. At the age of 19, I moved to Pisa, Tuscany, where I graduated in Foreign Languages. Throughout my journey, I have had the opportunity to work and live in some of Italy’s most iconic cities, including Pisa, Florence, and Venice, and I finally settled in the Roman countryside in 2020.
As a traveler, I am filled with enthusiasm and curiosity. I love to explore new cultures and experiences, immersing myself in their unique art, traditions, colors, smells, and flavors.
During my travels, I enjoy connecting with locals to discover hidden gems, traditions, curiosities, local crafts, and, of course, the local cuisine and wine. I consider myself a foodie!
Every journey leaves me with additional "baggage"—not physical baggage to check in, but a collection of unforgettable experiences, memories, and new knowledge that enrich my soul and heart. Each adventure makes me feel like a child again.
I would love to be your local Italian friend and share my passion for travel, especially for my beloved country. Italy, with its rich art, diverse cultures, and various traditions, is a place waiting to be discovered from South to North.
Your trip to Italy will be an immersion in a vibrant canvas filled with countless shades. My primary goal will be to provide you with the right palette of colors to paint it beautifully.
Caterina's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Enjoy a tour of Florence, hitting all the major sites, including Michelangelo's David at the Accademia, the monuments and statues of Piazza Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, Duomo Square, and Giotto's Belltower. You’ll also stop to visit the Vasari Corridor, Baptistery and Gates of Paradise by...
Discover the world-famous wine region of Chianti, filled with tidy rows of vines, picturesque medieval villages, and stunning castles. Explore the hills between Siena and Florence, a landscape dotted with wineries and full of history. You’ll tour medieval castles, such as Brolio and Meleto, visit...
Follow a guide around Rome and explore all of the city's impressive highlights in one day. You’ll enjoy a visit to the Vatican, view the Sistine Chapel, admire the Colosseum, and discover the twisting streets in the heart of Rome. Get an early start and visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine...
Enjoy a unique perspective of bustling Venice with a walking tour in the Dorsoduro district. You’ll discover the famous floating city by following off-the-beaten-path routes, passing through hidden alleyways, and visiting unknown sites. Wander through local neighborhoods, enjoy stunning palaces...
Over 100 feet (40 m) below the characteristic and lively streets of Naples is a totally different world. The city’s underground is unexplored and isolated by time but deeply connected with the world above. It’s the heart of Naples and the place where the town was born! Take a trip into the past...
Recent trip reviews for Caterina
First time users and had outstanding experience and service!
Italy
|
Sep 27 - Oct 16, 2025
Gary T.
Ashburn, VA
| Reviewed on Nov 03, 2025
We contacted KimKim about a year ago to begin planning a 3 week trip through Tuscany. Caterina worked with us and developed several options after listening to our likes/dislikes and we finally agreed on a final trip plan. We are both experienced travelers but out trip was made so much better by the planning and support we received through out the trip. Beginning with Lucia meeting us at the airport and escorting us to our hotel in Florence, meeting us to pickup and return our rental car and...
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We contacted KimKim about a year ago to begin planning a 3 week trip through Tuscany. Caterina worked with us and developed several options after listening to our likes/dislikes and we finally agreed on a final trip plan. We are both experienced travelers but out trip was made so much better by the planning and support we received through out the trip. Beginning with Lucia meeting us at the airport and escorting us to our hotel in Florence, meeting us to pickup and return our rental car and the daily checkins and reminders of what was planned for the next day. Also great service from Stella in Bologna and Beatrice in Venice. Now for the trip, wonderful accommodations in all locations. The drivers who met us or drove us on day trips were excellent along with the guides at each location. Overall, it was all very easy and relaxing as well as first class service throughout the trip. I will be using KimKim in the future because being retired, we have the flexibility to arrive for cruises early or stay later and this will be perfect for planning extra days to enjoy those trips
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Nov 04, 2025
Ciao Gary,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a real pleasure to help plan your journey through Tuscany and the rest of Italy. Knowing that you felt welcomed and supported by my entire team, Lucia, Stella, and Beatrice, is the greatest reward.
I also want to thank you for sharing your wonderful photos with me. Seeing your smiles and the moments you experienced makes everything even more special.
I’m thrilled that the experience was relaxing, well-curated, and met your...
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Ciao Gary,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a real pleasure to help plan your journey through Tuscany and the rest of Italy. Knowing that you felt welcomed and supported by my entire team, Lucia, Stella, and Beatrice, is the greatest reward.
I also want to thank you for sharing your wonderful photos with me. Seeing your smiles and the moments you experienced makes everything even more special.
I’m thrilled that the experience was relaxing, well-curated, and met your expectations.
Whenever you’d like to plan extra days before or after your cruises, we’ll be here and would be happy to help.
Sending a big hug to you and Joan,
Caterina🌻
Catrina and Beatrice are Travel Goddesses
Italy
|
Sep 29 - Oct 10, 2025
Joe O.
Southport, NC
| Reviewed on Oct 11, 2025
This was by far the best vacation my wife and I have ever taken. And it was all due to the detailed planning by Catrina and the exceptional on sight concierge service provided by Beatrice. Every single detail was planned and executed to perfection. Every lodging, travel, and activity were spot on and fit our expectations exactly. I can not stress enough how much the up front planning and the on ground communication during the trip made a difference. Fantastico!!
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Oct 17, 2025
Dear Joe,
Thank you so much for sharing these kind words!
Beatrice and I are both deeply grateful 🥰for your appreciation. Knowing that every detail came together perfectly and that you felt supported during your travels is exactly what we aim for.
"Grazie di cuore," and we look forward to helping you plan your next "fantastica" adventure!
Caterina
We had a wonderful time in Italy. Beginning w...
Italy
|
Aug 9 - Aug 16, 2025
Maureen A.
Newark, NJ
| Reviewed on Aug 23, 2025
We had a wonderful time in Italy. Beginning with our Personal Concierge (Ms. Beatrice Carrafelli), and drivers that made the transportation easy. All of our guides were terrific. We enjoyed Ms. Martina especially with her dedication in explaining Florence. Both the Aleph Rome Hotel and Grand Hotel Villa Cora were great. We love to return someday.
Special thanks to Caterina who prepared our itinerary. Thanks for all your planning.
The Angelastro’s
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Oct 16, 2025
Dear Angelastro Family,
What a joy to read your message 🥰
Thank you so much! I’m truly delighted to know that your Italian journey was everything you hoped for.
Beatrice, Martina, and the rest of our team will be so happy to hear your kind words.
It was such a pleasure to plan this itinerary for your wonderful family and we’ll be waiting to welcome you back to Italy whenever you’re ready for another adventure.
With warmest regards,
Caterina
Fabulous family vacation in Rome, Florence & Venice
Italy
|
Jul 26 - Aug 2, 2025
Beth K.
Los Angeles, CA
| Reviewed on Aug 04, 2025
What a fabulous vacation in Rome, Florence & Venice. Catarina took care of every detail from when we arrived until we departed. Beatrice, our onsite contact was outstanding. The local guides were fabulous and our tours outstanding. The hotels were in great locations.
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What a fabulous vacation in Rome, Florence & Venice. Catarina took care of every detail from when we arrived until we departed. Beatrice, our onsite contact was outstanding. The local guides were fabulous and our tours outstanding. The hotels were in great locations.
Hotel Reviews
Hotel Della Conciliazione
Rome
Fabulous location. Rooms were a bit on the smaller side with no drawers to store clothes. Amenities were nice as well as the breakfast.
Staff
We were 3 people but towels were only provided for 2. And didn’t replenish to thr correct amount on the second cleaning either. Otherwise, everything else was fine.
Hotel Brunelleschi Florence
Florence
Fabulous hotel, outstanding service. Wonderful central location.
Palazzo Veneziano Venice
Venice
Activity Reviews
Small Group tour of Colosseum underground, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum ( max 6 people)
Rome
Loved small group tour. Guide was very knowledgeable.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Small group tour of Vatican City , Sistine Chapel & saint Peter's Basilica
Rome
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Florence and Accademia City Tour
Italy
Loved the private tour with Martina. She was friendly, personable and added so much knowledge to our visit.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Wanna be Italiano - Florence cooking class and market tour
Italy
One of the highlights of our trip and the only one that wasn’t a tour or a museum or church. Love Italian food and seeing the Grand Market and learning how to make our own pasta was a fun time for all.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Admission tickets - Uffizi Gallery - skip the line
Florence
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice
A nice gondola ride around Venice. Not sure how this service would be different than others available.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Didn’t interact with us very much. Would have been nice to be told what we were passing
ACTV 2 days Transport VENEZIA 48H PASS
Venice
It was nice to have access to the waterway bus line as Venice is made up of hundreds of islands and transport is needed
St Mark’s and Doge’s Palace Tour - Small group tour
Venice
The mosaics here made this church and palace different than what we saw previously. Also, since Doge had a prison, it gave us something more to see
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Aug 13, 2025
Dear Beth,
Thank you for your wonderful feedback🥰! I’m thrilled to hear you enjoyed your family vacation in Italy. It was a pleasure handling every detail for you and your beautiful family, and I’m glad Beatrice and our local guides enhanced your experience.
I also hope you enjoyed the local cuisine and the culinary tips I shared 😊
Tasting each city's flavors is such an important part of the experience!
I’m delighted you enjoyed your trip, and I hope the memories last a long time!
Warm regards,
Caterina
I couldn’t have asked for a more well thought...
Italy
|
May 25 - Jun 4, 2025
Erin J.
Okolona, KY
| Reviewed on Jun 12, 2025
I couldn’t have asked for a more well thought out itinerary! Caterina took care in planning both where we stayed, as well as what was planned each day, making the trip pretty perfect. We were able to soak up every moment thanks to the intentional planning of Caterina and the whole KimKim team. Shout out to Francesco for greeting us with a big smile upon arrival and for being available with helpful info when needed!
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I couldn’t have asked for a more well thought out itinerary! Caterina took care in planning both where we stayed, as well as what was planned each day, making the trip pretty perfect. We were able to soak up every moment thanks to the intentional planning of Caterina and the whole KimKim team. Shout out to Francesco for greeting us with a big smile upon arrival and for being available with helpful info when needed!
Hotel Reviews
Grand Hotel Villa Balbi
Sestri Levante
Gorgeous. Knowledgeable staff. Friendly. .
Hotel Cerretani Mgallery Collection
Florence
Central location. Clean, welcoming, and charming.
Location
Centrally located to historic Florence
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Jun 16, 2025
Dear Erin,
I'm truly overwhelmed with gratitude for your kind words.
It means everything to me that the itinerary not only met your expectations but also helped create such special memories.
Planning this journey for four amazing women like you was an absolute pleasure.
Thank you for embracing every moment with so much enthusiasm and openness. Your energy made all the difference!
Francesco also sends his warmest hugs to all of you.
I hope this is just the beginning of many more adventures together.
With all my affection,
Caterina 🌷🌷
KimKim makes traveling so simple!
Italy
|
May 26 - Jun 7, 2025
Linda B.
Coeur d'Alene, ID
| Reviewed on Jun 08, 2025
The city tour of Genoa with our guide Laura gave us so much insight to the history and age of the city! We’re glad we did not miss out of that!
Our Guide, Falu, drove us to Pontinvrea and provided us with all the translations with the local municipality to discover the address where my grandfather was born!!
It was so exciting and delightful to see the engagement of everyone helping us find my familial roots!! A true highlight.
Next, Gabby took us on the wonderful and exhilarating...
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The city tour of Genoa with our guide Laura gave us so much insight to the history and age of the city! We’re glad we did not miss out of that!
Our Guide, Falu, drove us to Pontinvrea and provided us with all the translations with the local municipality to discover the address where my grandfather was born!!
It was so exciting and delightful to see the engagement of everyone helping us find my familial roots!! A true highlight.
Next, Gabby took us on the wonderful and exhilarating hike to Vernazza! She was a complete pleasure to spend the day with.
All the drivers were professional and punctual. We appreciate all of them as well!
Lastly, we’d like to express our appreciation for Catrina. She made the process of creating our trip to Italy seamless. Thank you for pulling this wonderful trip together for us. We enjoyed every bit of it.
Grazie,
Tom and Linda
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Jun 15, 2025
Dear Linda and Tom,
What a joy it was to read your message! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing the special moments of your trip with me. It brings me immense joy to know that each part of your journey held something truly meaningful for you.
I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed your visit to Genoa with Laura, the hike through the Cinque Terre with Gabby, and especially that Falu was able to guide you through such a personal experience in Pontinvrea. Discovering your roots is...
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Dear Linda and Tom,
What a joy it was to read your message! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing the special moments of your trip with me. It brings me immense joy to know that each part of your journey held something truly meaningful for you.
I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed your visit to Genoa with Laura, the hike through the Cinque Terre with Gabby, and especially that Falu was able to guide you through such a personal experience in Pontinvrea. Discovering your roots is incredibly touching, and knowing that you were welcomed with such warmth makes it even more special. 🥰
It was a real pleasure to plan this trip for you, and knowing that you experienced it with such joy and gratitude is the greatest reward for me.
Sending you a big hug and looking forward to your next Italian adventure!
Caterina 🌻
Caterina did a great job with the planning of...
Italy
|
May 22 - May 26, 2025
Lisa C.
Purcellville, VA
| Reviewed on May 28, 2025
Caterina did a great job with the planning of our trip. I had to make many changes along the way due to constantly changing family schedules, etc, and she was very flexible. all of our drivers for our excursions and transfers were great and communicated really well with us. This is our 4th time using Kimkim and we have referred many friends to your company who have in turn been happy with their trips. We will definitely use Kimkim again for our future travel!
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Aug 19, 2025
Ciao Lisa,
Thank you very much for your kind words! It was truly a pleasure to support you throughout the planning of your special journey, even with all the changes along the way. I'm so glad that everything went well, and I can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure.
Warmest regards to the whole family!
Caterina
Absolutely magical! Our Christmas trip to Italy
Italy
|
Dec 22 - Jan 1, 2025
Ana C.
St. Marys, GA
| Reviewed on May 01, 2025
Absolutely magical! Our Christmas trip to Italy with KimKim was truly the experience of a lifetime. From start to finish, every detail was thoughtfully planned by Caterina and perfectly executed by Martina and all the team.
Gianni was our guide in Naples. It was the perfect balance between iconic sights and hidden gems. His knowledge in Naples and Pompeii made it so much more interesting. Stefano was our guide in Mt Vesuvius. He went far and beyond with our son Lukas, making it the...
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Absolutely magical! Our Christmas trip to Italy with KimKim was truly the experience of a lifetime. From start to finish, every detail was thoughtfully planned by Caterina and perfectly executed by Martina and all the team.
Gianni was our guide in Naples. It was the perfect balance between iconic sights and hidden gems. His knowledge in Naples and Pompeii made it so much more interesting. Stefano was our guide in Mt Vesuvius. He went far and beyond with our son Lukas, making it the experience of a lifetime for him!.
We were received by Beatrice in Rome and did the Colosseum with Livitaly. Maura was our guide for all the historical monuments and made the day a very special one.
Beatrice escorted us to the train and Marta was waiting for us in Florence where Martina guided us through this wonderful city showing her knowledge and experience. How can we forget our day with Alessandro in Pisa! He made it more interesting since he is originally from there and knew all the stories!
Our last stop was Venice, where Beatrice met us and escorted us to the espectacular hotel! She also went with us to Murano and Burano for a magical day. We met Alessia for a wonderful tour around the city and spent New Years with fireworks overlooking the water! What a wonderful way to enjoy the season!
I want to mention our drivers, Carmine, Flavio, Giulio for being so nice and professional.
We spent 11 wonderful days with wonderful people. Every guide we met was friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about sharing their love for Italy. Special thanks to our drivers and guides-your enthusiasm, stories, and recommendations made each day unforgettable. The restaurants and gelato shop suggestions were spot on, and the private tours allowed us to skip the crowds and make the most of every moment.
What truly set this experience apart was the personal touch and flexibility. When we had a last-minute change or request, the team accommodated us with a smile, making us feel like family.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved-from the planners behind the scenes to our wonderful guides and drivers. You gave us a Christmas we’ll never forget and memories we’ll treasure forever. We can’t wait to return and explore more of beautiful Italy with you!
If you’re considering a trip, look no further, KimKim will make your Italian holiday dreams come true
Hotel Review
Sina Centurion Palace Venice
Venice
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on May 05, 2025
Ciao Ana,
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your kind words. It was truly a pleasure to create this special journey for your lovely family🥰. Knowing that every guide, stop, and detail contributed to your meaningful moments fills us with joy.
A special thanks from me and the entire team.
Warm regards,
Caterina
Exceptional Service and an Unforgettable Journey!
Italy
|
Apr 18 - Apr 26, 2025
Ana C.
St. Marys, GA
| Reviewed on Apr 30, 2025
I recently returned from a trip organized by Caterina, and I cannot recommend the service highly enough!
From the very first inquiry through my constant changes until the moment I returned home, the whole team provided outstanding service and attention to detail.
The planning process was seamless. Caterina listened carefully to my preferences and crafted an itinerary that perfectly matched my interests and budget. Every aspect was thoughtfully arranged. I especially appreciated the...
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I recently returned from a trip organized by Caterina, and I cannot recommend the service highly enough!
From the very first inquiry through my constant changes until the moment I returned home, the whole team provided outstanding service and attention to detail.
The planning process was seamless. Caterina listened carefully to my preferences and crafted an itinerary that perfectly matched my interests and budget. Every aspect was thoughtfully arranged. I especially appreciated the personalized touches, like restaurant recommendations and insider tips for each destination.
During the trip, everything went off without a hitch. We were met in Milano by our driver Alessandro and by Roberta who was always super responsive. Our tour guide Barbara was awesome! Her knowledge of the city and her personality made our day with her a very enjoyable one! Our transfer to Torino with our driver Michele was smooth and fast, same as the one from Torino to MIlano with our driver Francesco.
Transfers were punctual, guides were knowledgeable and friendly, and each activity exceeded my expectations. Once again It is clear that KimKim has strong relationships with local partners, which made the whole experience feel authentic and special.
I will definitely be booking my next adventure with them and recommending their services to friends and family!
Thank you for another unforgettable trip!
Activity Reviews
Private tour of Milan - Cleary Family
Milan
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private tour of Milan Highlights with La Scala theatre
Milan
Barbara was great! Lots of history and fun facts about the city.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on May 05, 2025
Ciao Ana,
Thanks so much again for your wonderful words! I’m absolutely delighted to hear that everything exceeded your expectations. I can’t wait to share your compliments with our amazing team, they’ll be so happy to hear it!
I can’t wait for your next adventure with us!
Warm hugs,
Caterina
Caterina worked very closely with us to plan ...
Italy
|
Oct 12 - Oct 19, 2024
Nick B.
Seattle, WA
| Reviewed on Oct 26, 2024
Caterina worked very closely with us to plan the perfect trip. She listened to our suggestions and accommodated our changes and requests. The trip and plans were smoothly executed seamlessly.
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Caterina worked very closely with us to plan the perfect trip. She listened to our suggestions and accommodated our changes and requests. The trip and plans were smoothly executed seamlessly.
Hotel Reviews
Grand Universe Lucca
Lucca
Activity Reviews
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private full-day tour to discover the Cinque Terre
Italy
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private guided tour of Lucca with bike tour
Italy
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Airport Transfer
Italy
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Evening Aperitivo Tour
Rome
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Colosseum, Forum Tour & Palatine hill
Rome
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere