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Irene Lappa

Growing up as an only child, my main concern was to socialize, find the best way to communicate with other kids and thus never feel the lack of sibling(s). Luckily, my parents loved traveling and they chose road trips to introduce the world to me. Most of my childhood memories are related to meeting new friends in the most unexpected locations, playing around in every opportunity, visiting archaeological sites and museums, hiking on untrodden trails and swimming in beaches of stunning beauty.

Needless to say, the way life started for me, led me to have a great appreciation of the knowledge of different cultures and mentalities and to realize early the value of the experiences gathered on each travel.

Now, after many more travels, I consider myself a very lucky person to have the chance sharing these experiences with new friends by designing their travels.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Crete, Peloponnese, and the wine routes of Greece and Italy; elegant, cultural travels and road trips with a touch of wine and food as I think they are the basis of a place's culture."

How did you get involved in travel?

"I have always been involved in travel, one way or another, but to be more specific, I believe it all begun when I dared to leave behind my career as an assistant director in the Greek film industry and to allow myself a re-approach.

At that point, I started from scratch. I needed to reply to myself, some critical questions with sincerity. What do I want to do? What will make me happy doing it every day? What do I know and love? Well, I answered the following: "I love traveling and I love wine. I know some things about traveling and I can certainly enjoy tasting wine." So, that was it. Next step was easy. I started my studies in both tourism and wine and while studying, I was hired from a travel agency to organize trips for independent travelers. What a revelation! I adored it!

Some years after that beginning, continuing to study wine -it's a never ending process- I feel at home. I am happy to work with the Travel 12 group, where we share the same passion for traveling and we love offering unique and lifechanging experiences."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"It was on 2010 when I decided to travel on my own for the first time. After a demanding 120-day film project, where I worked hard at a crazy pace, I realized that I wanted quality time with myself to pamper me and offer me the space to listen to my needs and wants.

With that in mind, I took the ferry and drove myself to one of my favorite places in Greece, the island of Crete. The concept was, a road trip in a large island with long driving distances, without company. The act was, a two-month road trip where some wonderful things happened! I met interesting people, I discovered unique, off-the-beaten-path locations (even though I'd been in Crete many-many times) and most important, I realized two things: 1st I didn’t want to work in films any more, and 2nd I didn’t feel lonely at any time on a trip that I was traveling alone!

One year after that travel experience, I found myself in a new orbital of studies, everyday life and to conclude, in a happy place. "

Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Irene

Irene was so amazing and helpful throughout t...
Greece | Jun 17 - Jun 28, 2025

S
Shannon M.
| Reviewed on Jun 29, 2025
Irene was so amazing and helpful throughout the entire process of the trip. We had an absolutely great honeymoon we will never forget. Everything ran smoothly from the shuttle pickups/transfers, the hotel accommodations, to the excursions. Irene thoughtfully curated the perfect trip filled with culture, beautiful meals, friendly people, and astonishing views. Dimitris was also so helpful being available with any questions or concerns. Read more

Irene was so amazing and helpful throughout the entire process of the trip. We had an absolutely great honeymoon we will never forget. Everything ran smoothly from the shuttle pickups/transfers, the hotel accommodations, to the excursions. Irene thoughtfully curated the perfect trip filled with culture, beautiful meals, friendly people, and astonishing views. Dimitris was also so helpful being available with any questions or concerns.

Hotel Review
Antony Suites
Naxos

the most friendly and helpful staff. Anna took the time to go through the best restaurants and sights to see. Breakfast each morning was fresh, delicious, and delivered timely. The room was beautiful and kept clean daily and was the perfect location to explore the beautiful island of Naxos.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Farm to table Cooking Class in Naxos
Private Farm to table Cooking Class in Naxos
Naxos

The most incredible and unexpecting class. The tour of the olive factory and land along the ride was beautiful and informative. We had the best time making a home cooked meal in a traditional greek home.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Santorini Wine Tour
Santorini Wine Tour
Santorini

Penny and george provided the best experience. Penny was so informative and made it such a fun experience

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Irene Lappa

This is my first experience using Kim Kim. I ...
Italy | Jun 21 - Jun 25, 2025

J
Justin S.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jun 26, 2025
This is my first experience using Kim Kim. I have to say this is by far has been one of the best vacation experiences I have had. Our travel consultant, Irene. Was truly amazing. She went out of her way to make sure we had everything for the trip we needed and experienced the best of Rome that we could in our short period of time. She had to work with a timeframe that was around a preplanned cruise. In addition she had to work with dietary restrictions my wife had due to celiac disease. This... Read more

This is my first experience using Kim Kim. I have to say this is by far has been one of the best vacation experiences I have had. Our travel consultant, Irene. Was truly amazing. She went out of her way to make sure we had everything for the trip we needed and experienced the best of Rome that we could in our short period of time. She had to work with a timeframe that was around a preplanned cruise. In addition she had to work with dietary restrictions my wife had due to celiac disease. This made activities, particularly eating in Rome, somewhat of a difficult problem however she handled this with amazing care and success. Everything went so smooth and we experienced all the highlights of Rome. I cannot wait to use Irene or Kim Kim again! I also can not thank Irene enough!! I would highly recommend for any of your vacation needs. I will definitely be using them in the future.
Dr Justin Sherfey.

Hotel Review
Eitch Borromini Palazzo Pamphilj
Rome

This hotel was in the central part of the city next to an amazing plaza. This made walking to everything very easy. Though he’ll tell itself was full of good amenities, including a rooftop bar. Felt very safe at this hotel as well. Would highly recommend.

Location
Pop
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Irene Lappa

I wish everyone the amazing vacation we had!
Italy | Jun 7 - Jun 15, 2025

Mona
Mona P.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2025
KimKim, and Irene especially, planned an amazing trip for my daughter and I . Traveling to Italy with just the two of us felt a bit daunting, and trying to create an experience that would both hit the highlights and allow us to just immerse in a new place was so overwhelming to me. On the advice of a friend, I reached out to KimKim and within 24 hours we had a perfect itinerary, and every detail was taken care of. We had beautiful boutique hotels, expert and timely transportation from every... Read more

KimKim, and Irene especially, planned an amazing trip for my daughter and I . Traveling to Italy with just the two of us felt a bit daunting, and trying to create an experience that would both hit the highlights and allow us to just immerse in a new place was so overwhelming to me. On the advice of a friend, I reached out to KimKim and within 24 hours we had a perfect itinerary, and every detail was taken care of. We had beautiful boutique hotels, expert and timely transportation from every airport/train station/hotel when we transferred cities, tours that were intimate and perfectly timed. The whole experience was flawless. They were so accessible on WhatsApp throughout the whole trip, and when I thought we may miss a train due to traffic, they were immediately responsive and assured me that they would help us navigate if we needed to find a later train.

I will use KimKim again and literally recommend them, it seems, at least daily as I share our experience. Already have my wheels turning for next year.

Hotel Reviews
Casa Howard Firenze
Florence

A beautiful boutique hotel with impeccable service.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to Piazza Santa Maria Novella, with a wine window on the way.
Staff
They even came in early one day to make sure we had breakfast and snacks for a day trip... incredible.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Continental
Sorrento

Beautiful rooms, beautiful pool, wonderful staff. Do not miss the rooftop restaurant.

Authenticity & Character
The staff felt like family even just during our short stay.
Location
Close to Marina Grande and shopping.
Staff
They were just charming and wonderful. We felt cared for like family.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Modigliani
Roma
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Express Colosseum Tour
Express Colosseum Tour
Rome

Great tour guide, perfect amount of time.

Morning Florence Highlights Walking Tour
Morning Florence Highlights Walking Tour
Florence

Great high level, efficient orientation to Florence. Left us wanting more!

Pizza and Gelato Making Class in Florence
Pizza and Gelato Making Class in Florence
Florence

Perfect way to spend an afternoon out of the heat! Was fun and light and we enjoyed every minute.

Tuscany Day Trip with Siena, San Gimignano & Pisa
Tuscany Day Trip with Siena, San Gimignano & Pisa
Florence

We loved this! Perfect (short) trip to Pisa, thoroughly loved our trip to the Corbucci vineyard with impeccable food and wine, San Gimignano was so quaint and perfect, and Siena... we got a great glimpse. It was a long day but we loved each minute.

Pasta-Making Class in Sorrento
Pasta-Making Class in Sorrento
Sorrento

Felt like one of the most authentic Italian experiences we had...We had a great time, made great food. It was long, so prob best for families with older kids, but their pizza experience seemed amazing as well (we worked alongside that crew!).

Amalfi Coast Boat Tour From Sorrento
Amalfi Coast Boat Tour From Sorrento
Sorrento

Cannot say enough...it was magic.

Trastevere Afternoon Food Tour & Wine Experience
Trastevere Afternoon Food Tour & Wine Experience
Rome

Loved every minute. A perfect collection of food and drink.. we were with another fun family and our guide was great. Don't miss it.

Local specialist: Irene Lappa

Kimkim ensures every detail is cared for!
Greece | May 28 - Jun 9, 2025

Robin
Robin S.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jun 14, 2025
Irene and the entire team planned and executed a prefect trip! The mix of ancient sites, guide selection, restaurants and and beach outings were perfect! Read more

Irene and the entire team planned and executed a prefect trip! The mix of ancient sites, guide selection, restaurants and and beach outings were perfect!

Hotel Reviews
Athens Manor Houses
Athens
Authenticity & Character
Location
No
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Olive Green Hotel
Heraklion
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kouros Hotel Mykonos
Mikonos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Antony Suites
Naxos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Malmo Historic Hotel
Chania
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Naxos E-Bike Tour with Farm visit and Olive Oil Tasting
Naxos E-Bike Tour with Farm visit and Olive Oil Tasting
Naxos
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Vineyard Picnic Experience
The Vineyard Picnic Experience
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local Transfer in Chania
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local Transfer in Athens
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mythical Argolis Day trip
Mythical Argolis Day trip
Athens
Quality of Experience
Lo
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Acropolis Hill & Museum Tour
Private Acropolis Hill & Museum Tour
Athens
Quality of Experience
Lo
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local Transfer in Mykonos
Mykonos
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Knossos & Museum Tour
Private Knossos & Museum Tour
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Delos & Rhenia Day Cruise
Delos & Rhenia Day Cruise
Mykonos
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Snorkeling Boat trip in Chania
Snorkeling Boat trip in Chania
Chania
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Balos & Falassarna Beach Tour with Lunch
Balos & Falassarna Beach Tour with Lunch
Chania
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I
Transport
Local specialist: Irene Lappa

Everything was so well organized and flawless...
Italy | May 8 - May 17, 2025

B
Benjamin S.
Canada | Reviewed on May 21, 2025
Everything was so well organized and flawless. The tripp went as smooth as it could of possibly gone. Read more

Everything was so well organized and flawless. The tripp went as smooth as it could of possibly gone.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Certosa Di Maggiano Siena
Siena

The staff and place was just amazing! I highly recommend for a getaway close to Siena.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
25hours Hotel Florence Piazza San Paolino
Florence

Well situated and staff was very helpful! lots of amenities and cool design.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sentho Rome
Rome

Well located and very helpful staff. The rooms are modern and clean. Rooftop and garden in the middle of Rome

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Villa Poggiano 
Montepulciano
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Car Rental Pick-up
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Car Rental Drop-off
Italy

Dropping off the car in Rome was a bit complicated because we had not been warned there is a dedicated parking for rental cars and we kep trying to go to the rental office. If you know about the dedicated parking, it is no issue, but if you don't, you might turn in circles a bit.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Vatican Semi Private Tour
Vatican Semi Private Tour
Rome

Tour guide was very knowledgeable and helped us move through the crowds.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Rome

We loved our tour guide. Was friendly and knew a lot about the Forum and Art.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Irene Lappa

Gentleman's Trip to Italy
Italy | Apr 17 - Apr 26, 2025

S
STEVE T.
Canada | Reviewed on May 13, 2025
My brothers and I had a amazing trip to Italy, beautiful Italy with its historical sites, amazing food, and incredible coastal and mountain views. The tour guides were very knowlegeable and were very interesting. The drivers and boat captain were very professional and always on time. The hotels that were selected met our needs and were clean and were located strategically so our tours were close by. Irene (KimKim) did an amazing job of planning our trip, tickets were purchased ahead of... Read more

My brothers and I had a amazing trip to Italy, beautiful Italy with its historical sites, amazing food, and incredible coastal and mountain views. The tour guides were very knowlegeable and were very interesting. The drivers and boat captain were very professional and always on time. The hotels that were selected met our needs and were clean and were located strategically so our tours were close by.

Irene (KimKim) did an amazing job of planning our trip, tickets were purchased ahead of time so we could skip the line. Tour guides and drivers were all on time and pleasant to deal with. The hotels chosen were perfect for our needs. Overall I would give it a 9.5 out of 10.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Modigliani
Roma
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Pupetto Positano
Positano SA

Great location on the water but a lot of stairs if you want to go up to the road. However, nice easy path to get to Positano.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Palazzo Guardati Hotel Sorrento
Sorrento

great location right in the middle of Sorreto

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hilton Rome Airport Hotel
Fiumicino

Nice hotel but they were supposed to just hold our credit card but they actually charged it and we had to wait 2 weeks to see it get off our pending charge.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
staff charged our credit card but was just supposed to hold it.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Aperitivo & Stroll around Sorrento
Aperitivo & Stroll around Sorrento
Sorrento

This was probably our best memory of our trip. Sorrento is such a beautiful small town on the coast. The shopping was really nice cheap and good stuff. The tour guide was very knowlegeable and interesting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
professional, knowlegable, spoke very good english
Transport
Local transfer in Amalfi Coast
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Useful Information
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Express Colosseum Tour
Express Colosseum Tour
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Trastevere Afternoon Food Tour & Wine Experience
Trastevere Afternoon Food Tour & Wine Experience
Rome

Food and drinks were amazing. Tour guide too.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Vatican Guided Tour
Vatican Guided Tour
Rome

Tour guide very knowlegeable and spoke very good English

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Evening Drinks & Golf Cart Tour
Evening Drinks & Golf Cart Tour
Rome

This was our first day/night in Italy and it gave us a good sample of Rome has to offer. Tour guide gave us some good restaurant recommendations. He was amazing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Amalfi Coast Boat Tour From Sorrento
Amalfi Coast Boat Tour From Sorrento
Sorrento

Beautiful boat tour along the coast. It was a beautiful day weather wise. The captain was professional and knowledeable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Pompeii Tour
Private Pompeii Tour
Pompeii

Tour guide was very interesting telling us all about Pompeii and the history. One of our favorite stops.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Irene Lappa

Excellent experience in Greece - would definitely recommend kimkim!
Greece | Oct 20 - Nov 2, 2024

A
Agnes H.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2024
We used kimkim to help us organize a 2-week trip for 4 (2 couples) to Greece, and we had a fabulous time! Irene was the specialist we worked with and she put together a full plan in a very short time that included hotels, tour guides, entry tickets to museums and sites, ferry tickets, private ground transportation and driver, and experiences such as sailing, a cooking class, wine tasting, and more. We were primarily in Athens, Delphi, Galaxidi, Nafplio, and the island of Hydra, but saw many... Read more

We used kimkim to help us organize a 2-week trip for 4 (2 couples) to Greece, and we had a fabulous time! Irene was the specialist we worked with and she put together a full plan in a very short time that included hotels, tour guides, entry tickets to museums and sites, ferry tickets, private ground transportation and driver, and experiences such as sailing, a cooking class, wine tasting, and more. We were primarily in Athens, Delphi, Galaxidi, Nafplio, and the island of Hydra, but saw many historical sites and other points of interest along the way, such as Mycenae, Epidavros, the temple of Poseidon, and the Corinth Canal.

Everything went smoothly at every step in the planning and during the trip. We were interviewed early on to establish a price range for the trip and Irene stayed within the agreed-upon range delivering on everything we requested. Communication was very good as we worked out the plans, with daily communication by email as well as phone. Once the trip was underway, kimkim provided both a WeChat group and a support number where we could quickly reach them in the event of any issues.

One of us is gluten intolerant and Irene took care to ensure that every hotel we stayed at provided gluten-free alternatives for breakfasts, the chef for the private cooking class adjusted the menu accordingly, and that the restaurants she reserved for us (which were excellent) had gluten-free options.

It cost a bit more to have someone make the plans for us, but we felt the quality of the service and the trip were well worth the additional cost, not to mention the ease of having someone who knows the country help line up all of the plans and make sure they worked together seamlessly.

We will definitely use them again!

Hotel Reviews
Avra Hotel
Rafina, Attica

The main attraction of this hotel is that it is located by the port where the ferries come through and near to the airport (to which it offers a shuttle service) o it is good for people in transit. Rooms are small, but clean and comfortable, and there is a nice breakfast buffet. Wifi was poor and intermittent, so we constantly lost connection and had to reconnect.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Location supports people in transit to/from ferries or the airport, it is not a destination hotel.
Staff
Front desk staff were perfunctory. Staff in the restaurant were warm and welcoming.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hydroussa Hotel Hydra
Hydra

Beautiful old (but updated) hotel in a central but quiet location. Friendly and helpful staff. Extensive breakfast buffet with indoor and outdoor eating areas. The queen bed was 2 single beds pushed together.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful old hotel, nicely updated.
Location
Centrally located and short walk to the port and restaurant area but also away from the noise of the nightlife so it was quiet at night.
Staff
Staff was very pleasant and went out of their way to offer help.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable.
Leto Nuevo Hotel
Nafplio

Very nice, clean, and updated hotel in the old town. The old town is on a hill and the hotel is up the hill, so there are many steps to climb to get to it when on foot, but there is an area where cars are allowed a block away which makes it easier to move luggage to/from a car or taxi. Furthermore, as it is on the hill it is much quieter than other hotels in the area would be. The steps lead down to the historical area and waterfront, where there are many good restaurants. The hotel provides a very nice breakfast buffet. It also offers same-day laundry service at a reasonable price, which is very helpful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very good location for exploring Nafplio, but steep staircases to get into the central area and back.
Staff
Very friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Herodion Hotel
Acropolis, Athens

Very nice hotel in a great location at the foot of the Acropolis on a quiet street. There is a rooftop restaurant and bar with a great view of the Parthenon. The Acropolis museum is a block away as is the Plaka neighborhood. Would definitely recommend it and stay there again. Delicious and extensive breakfast buffet.

Authenticity & Character
Nicely updated. In addition to the rooftop view of the Parthenon, it has a beautiful bar and restaurant area in an atrium on the ground floor.
Location
At the foot of the Acropolis with an amazing view of the Parthenon from the rooftop restaurant and bar. One block to the Acropolis museum and the Plaka neighborhood. On a quiet street, so not a lot of noise.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Miramare
Galaxidi

We stayed at this hotel for 2 nights and loved it. It is a small hotel in Galaxidi, a block from the harbor and restaurants. The staff are friendly and they serve a wonderful breakfast in the courtyard of the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Charming, great staff, wonderful breakfast in the courtyard.
Location
Central location a block from the harbor and restaurants.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Cooking Class in Nafplio
Private Cooking Class in Nafplio
Nafplio

This private class was one of the highlights of our trip! Costas and his wife were welcoming and warm. We prepared 4 dishes with everyone participating and Costas provided pointers on food prep that we will continue to benefit from. One of our party is gluten-free and Costas had adjusted the menu accordingly and also provided them with gluten-free bread. Two of our party never cook or do food prep, but he made them comfortable with slicing and dicing as well as braising and making a delicate lemon sauce. They discovered how enjoyable cooking can be. The food was absolutely delicious, and possibly the best meal we had in Greece. We made stuffed zucchini with lemon sauce as an appetizer, a lamb dish (with the lamb falling-off-the-bone tender), a Greek salad, and a frozen yoghurt desert. My husband does not like lamb but loved this dish, making him re-think his approach to lamb. Costas had us prepare a special take on a Greek salad that included a cool cucumber and basil soup, and it was fabulous. We had 4 Greek wines paired with each of the four dishes, and Costas explained to us how and why each wine was appropriate for that dish.

Quality of Experience
A fabulous experience with the best meal we had in Greece!
Food
Fabulous food with a great wine pairing.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Costas and his wife are warm and great teachers. He is a professional chef so he really knows what he is doing and shares tricks of the trade.
Half-Day Nafplio Sailing Tour
Half-Day Nafplio Sailing Tour
Nafplio

This was a semi-private outing for 5 hours. The 4 of us were joined by 3 others. They picked us up at the port very near by our hotel. There was ample room on the boat. We sailed out from Nafplio around the coast to Tolo and back, stopping in several places to allow for swimming, though it was too cold for most to get in. Teodoro and Mario were wonderful crew and made us all at home. They served fruit, snacks, and lunch with wine or beer. It was a beautiful day to be out on the water. We motored for 3/4 of the trip and went on sail power for the balance. Overall it was a great way to spend a day in Nafplio. Highly recommend.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lunch with Olive Grove View
Lunch with Olive Grove View
Greece

We did not know what to expect from this activity and were pleasantly surprised. One of the owners sat with us to talk us through the history of the family olive farm. He explained to us differences in olives based on when and how they are harvested and talked about differences in olive oils. He provided samples of olives and of the oil to taste so we could appreciate the differences, along with a nice lunch that included olive preparations and wine. The lunch was in a beautiful location overlooking a valley of olive trees and, out over the water to Galaxidi. We were on a shaded veranda, which provided a nice break from the sun.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Acropolis Hill & Museum Tour
Private Acropolis Hill & Museum Tour
Athens

Our tour guide Tina met us at our hotel and walked with us the short distance to the Acropolis. We were scheduled to be with her for 4 hours to tour the Acropolis hill and the museum, but she stayed with us for over 5 hours. Tina is very knowledgeable and gave us a detailed explanation of everything we were seeing, putting it all in a historical context. She pointed out places of interest in the city that could be seen from the Acropolis Hill and patiently fielded many questions from our group of 4. She was the best of the 4 tour guides we had during our trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Tina was excellent.
Local specialist: Irene Lappa
Irene
Irene Lappa
Local specialist in Athens, Greece | Replied on Nov 13, 2024

Dearest Agnes,
I am so happy you had a fabulous time on your trip to Greece!!
Thank you so much for your warm message and detailed feedback! It was a pleasure e-meeting you and working with you to create a plan based on your interests, and I appreciate your kindness throughout the process.
I will be happy to connect again soon and work on a trip to another part of Greece or to Italy!
I wish you all the best and safe travels!
Irene

A wonderful plan, well executed!
Italy | Oct 3 - Oct 12, 2024

A
Alice W.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Oct 23, 2024
The three of us couldn't have been more pleased with the experience of working with kimkim! From the beginning, our agent, Irene, crafted a trip that encompassed our wildest dreams. Her quick, knowledgeable answers to our questions, and her expertise in kimkim's services, as well as travel in general, were endlessly helpful and reassuring. The plan she created was excellent in every respect–from transports, ticketing and trains, to hotel locations and staff, tours and guides, restaurants and... Read more

The three of us couldn't have been more pleased with the experience of working with kimkim! From the beginning, our agent, Irene, crafted a trip that encompassed our wildest dreams. Her quick, knowledgeable answers to our questions, and her expertise in kimkim's services, as well as travel in general, were endlessly helpful and reassuring. The plan she created was excellent in every respect–from transports, ticketing and trains, to hotel locations and staff, tours and guides, restaurants and suggested activities. Our trip would have been far more limited and less successful on our own. We will definitely be using kimkim again in the future!

Local specialist: Irene Lappa

Lovely trip
Italy | Oct 3 - Oct 12, 2024

Melissa
Melissa U.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Oct 20, 2024
Everything was well planned and seamlessly easy. We came across many people who were lost and couldn’t find their tour groups, but Irene’s detailed instructions got us where we needed to be on time. The hotels, drivers, tours, and tour guides were all phenomenal. The only misinformation we received was regarding the Florence highlights tour, where we saw the Duomo and the Galleria dell’Accademia. We were told we’d end the tour in the gallery and be able to spend additional time there after... Read more

Everything was well planned and seamlessly easy. We came across many people who were lost and couldn’t find their tour groups, but Irene’s detailed instructions got us where we needed to be on time. The hotels, drivers, tours, and tour guides were all phenomenal. The only misinformation we received was regarding the Florence highlights tour, where we saw the Duomo and the Galleria dell’Accademia. We were told we’d end the tour in the gallery and be able to spend additional time there after the tour, but we actually toured the gallery first, then the duomo, and ended by the Vecchio bridge. However, we had more than enough time in the gallery. We would definitely book with Irene and KimKim again.

Hotel Reviews
Abruzzi Hotel Rome
Rome

Pantheon view was amazing! Shower was sizable and lovely.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Lived being right next to the pantheon
Staff
Happy to help get bags up and down stairs, direct to requested locations using maps or gps, happy to take us to the cafe serving breakfast, happy to help game plan and address scheduling concerns. We needed breakfast before the cafe opened one morning and they arranged to get us bagged breakfasts the night before.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel della Signoria
Florence

Very centrally located and very helpful staff. Beautiful panoramic view at breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
5 minute walk from most attractions
Staff
Always greeted us with a smile when coming and going
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and organized
La Fenice et des Artistes
Venice

Very helpful staff and lovely rooms. We did run into a hot water issue when trying to shower in the morning, but overall a fantastic experience.

Authenticity & Character
Adorable rooms really make you feel like you’re in Italy
Location
Very centrally located and fun the hear opera music nearby
Staff
Helpful in every capacity. Helped us game plan finding a pharmacy on a Sunday, helpful coordinating with the water taxi picking us up for the train. Quick to give additional blankets.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and organized
Activity Reviews
Vatican Guided Tour
Vatican Guided Tour
Rome

Very thorough and informative

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Fresh Pasta Making & Tiramisu Cooking Class
Fresh Pasta Making & Tiramisu Cooking Class
Rome

The chef was so personable and helpful and fun

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Rome

So much fun to be some of the first people in the colosseum for the day. Beautiful to be there around sunrise.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Morning Florence Highlights Walking Tour
Morning Florence Highlights Walking Tour
Florence

Beautiful and informative. It would have been nice to have fewer people. We had a group of about 10 and then 4 more were added because they messed up with their meeting place/time and missed their originally scheduled tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Tuscany Day Trip from Florence with Chianti, Siena & San Gimignano
Tuscany Day Trip from Florence with Chianti, Siena & San Gimignano
Florence

Well organized and highly informative. Good balance of walking and riding in a car.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Market & Cicchetti Food Tour
Market & Cicchetti Food Tour
Venice

Lots of yummy food and fun to see more of the city. Very helpful and personable guide. My mom was knocked into and dropped her gelato, and Carlotta went back and got her more. It would have been nice to have time to purchase food from the outdoor markets.

Quality of Experience
Food
They offered alcohol free options and tried to accommodate food sensitivities
Guides, Drivers and Staff
My mom was knocked into and dropped her gelato, and Carlotta went back and got her more.
Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica Tour
Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica Tour
Venice

Lovely personable guide. Entertaining and great information.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Venice Highlights Walking Tour
Venice Highlights Walking Tour
Venice

Lovely guide and personalized tour. Very helpful and happy to answer any questions and customize tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Irene Lappa

Perfect trip in every way
Italy | Oct 6 - Oct 19, 2024

Dana
Dana W.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Oct 20, 2024
I expect something to go wrong on any overseas trip; it seems impossible that with so much ground to cover that something would fall through or go sideways. Amazingly, nothing went wrong on this trip. Every detail was covered and Irene answered every possible question before it came up. We met every driver at the exact time they were scheduled to be there and every guide was excellent. The only thing we would have changed is having a driver meet us in Florence and drive us to the hotel, since... Read more

I expect something to go wrong on any overseas trip; it seems impossible that with so much ground to cover that something would fall through or go sideways. Amazingly, nothing went wrong on this trip. Every detail was covered and Irene answered every possible question before it came up. We met every driver at the exact time they were scheduled to be there and every guide was excellent. The only thing we would have changed is having a driver meet us in Florence and drive us to the hotel, since the hotel was literally across the street from the station. It would have been easier to walk to the hotel; there was no need for a driver. We loved the itinerary in every city. Our cooking class in Florence was one of the highlights of our trip. The instructor provided excellent directions and advice on how to make and cook the dishes and she was quite funny as well, which added to the fun. The sights, smells, and tastes of each destination made for an unforgettable experience. I would recommend kimkim to anyone--especially our planner, Irene. Thank you!!!

Hotel Reviews
Tritone Best Western Hotel Mestre
Mestre

This was the largest hotel we stayed in while we were in Italy, and it is lovely. The rooms are comfortable, and there is a little more room to move around than in some other hotels. The train station is across the street, making it very convenient to travel to Venice. As with our other hotels, the breakfast buffet was remarkable--many delicious options to get the day started.

Hotel Palazzo Vecchio
Firenze

This hotel is directly across from the train station, which is nice. However, it was quite dark and cramped, and the shower had barely any water or water pressure, so it was not our favorite hotel by any means. One of the lights in the room was out, and it took over a day to get it replaced, so the room was even darker than normal. The breakfast buffet, however, was delicious.

Hotel Modigliani
Roma

This hotel is quiet, centrally located, and comfortable. The rooms are small but adequate, and the breakfast buffet had a lot of variety and many delicious options.

Oasi Boutique Hotel Cinque Terre by Best Western
Levanto

This is a quirky, fun, and very comfortable hotel in Levanto. They provide a whole panoply of extras that add to the appeal: a delicious and unique breakfast bar, an assortment of bikes to borrow for free, Netflix (in case of a rainy evening that you want to spend in rather than going out), a few jars of cookies available at any time, a piano and guitar in the reception area for anyone to play, and very friendly and helpful staff. A great place to hang out!

Authenticity & Character
Lovely, comfortable rooms with balconies.
Location
Quiet neighborhood
Staff
Helpful and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Morning Florence Highlights Walking Tour
Morning Florence Highlights Walking Tour
Florence

One of the best tours we took! The tourists hung out at the Duomo, which was spectacular, but our guide took us to the less-crowded, but historically significant places in Florence, including smaller churches, streets full of the most fashionable brands, and palaces that were not full of tourists.

Early Morning Vatican Tour
Early Morning Vatican Tour
Rome

As with our other tours, we had a fabulous guide to the Vatican. It was stunning to see the many treasures that the Vatican museums hold--statues, paintings, and of course, the majesty of the Sistine Chapel. Given the massive collection of masterpieces that the Vatican Museums hold, it would take months to fully explore the galleries, so we only saw a tiny fraction. The only downside was that there was no place to rest after hours on our feet, and the huge numbers of other tourists sharing the experience with us. Our guide, Alex, explained everything beautifully and was a great photographer to boot--offering to take our picture with impressive backgrounds around every corner. St Peter's Basilica is enormous, vast, immense--it's hard to process how big the space is; the piazza outside the cathedral is also gigantic. What an amazing place!

Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour
Rome

As with any of the large tourist attractions in Italy, the guide is the key to full enjoyment. All of our guides were exceptional, and Matteo was no different. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and obviously knew all the ins and outs of the Colosseum, Palatine Hill, and the Roman Forum. Rome is a large, modern city, so it's a bit shocking to have the Colosseum and other Roman ruins pop up in the middle of all the accoutrements of modern life. The ruins are very crowded, so we had to adjust our expectations a bit, but although we were shoulder to shoulder with several thousand other tourists, it was fascinating to learn the history of ancient Rome.

Pasta and Gelato Making Class in Florence
Pasta and Gelato Making Class in Florence
Florence

Super fun! Our instructor was excellent! We got to eat the food we made, and it was one of the best meals we had during out whole trip.

Venice Highlights Walking Tour
Venice Highlights Walking Tour
Venice

Venice is an incredible place, but if you stick to St Mark's square, you have no idea of what Venice is all about. We had a guide who was from Venice and knew her way around the tiny streets and quiet piazzas, as well as informing us about the history of Venice and how it came to be built (on a swamp!) and what is happening now with the city and its inhabitants. The real Venice is outside of the heavily-trafficked tourist areas, and it is beautiful and quiet and utterly amazing.

Private Pompeii Tour & Mount Vesuvius visit with light lunch
Private Pompeii Tour & Mount Vesuvius visit with light lunch
Pompeii

Mount Vesuvius provides some incredible views of Napoli and the surrounding countryside. Pompeii is much bigger than I could imagine and our guide was so knowledgable about the history of the place and people who once inhabited the city. It's a stunning site that should not be missed, but the one thing that made it such a fantastic adventure was our guide. He added so much value to our experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We had a private guide that was an expert in the history of the people who had lived in Pompeii, and he really made it all some to life for us.
Local transfer in Amalfi Coast
Italy

The Amalfi Coast, due to its popularity, is now bumper to bumper traffic, so the best way (in my opinion) to see it is on foot, hiking the Path of the Gods. It is utterly gorgeous scenery the whole way, and the trip is accompanied musically by grazing brown goats adorned with bells that echo throughout the mountains. The path is not difficult, although it is often rocky and alternates from climbing to descents the whole way. At the end, there are somewhere between 1500 to 1700 steps to get down to the road that leads to the incredible town of Positano. Once you get to Positano, the climbing is not done--you have to go down to get to the beach, and up to get anywhere else. I'm convinced that anyone who lives in Positano has remarkable glutes and quads.

Local specialist: Irene Lappa