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Katie Acheson-Gray

I'm passionate about outdoor adventures and authentic travel experiences, and I love to share that with others visiting Norway.

After two years of living in Norway's most northern and remote region, I soon realised the importance of respecting local culture and encouraging slow travel.

I am originally from the UK, but I have been working and travelling across Norway for over 5 years now.

How did you get involved in travel?

"I have always enjoyed travelling and experiencing new places and cultures. Soon after coming to Norway, I fell in love with the incredible landscapes and slow-paced lifestyle, and decided to make northern Norway my home at the start of 2020. Since then I have gained several years experience working in the travel industry, working across different hotels, lodges and resorts. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Whilst out cross-country skiing in Finnmark (northern Norway), I came across not one, but ten moose! It's very rare you see moose in big groups, so to see this in the wild felt very special. They ran off as soon as they caught sight of us, but it was certainly a memorable experience!

"

Katie is part of the following groups: Norway Travel Agents, Norway Family Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Katie

Best Trip Ever
Norway | Jul 24 - Aug 6, 2025

P
Pam W.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Aug 30, 2025
My husband and I felt this was the best trip we've ever taken! Norway is incredible. We enjoyed traveling through the many different areas of the country , the Flam Railway and the Havila cruise were great travel modes and everything ran smoothly. The Store Ringheim Hotel was a wonderful place to start our trip. The owner was very friendly and inspiring.
We spent two weeks in Norway and I'm so glad we spent that amount of time here. I would definitely consider coming back!
Read more

My husband and I felt this was the best trip we've ever taken! Norway is incredible. We enjoyed traveling through the many different areas of the country , the Flam Railway and the Havila cruise were great travel modes and everything ran smoothly. The Store Ringheim Hotel was a wonderful place to start our trip. The owner was very friendly and inspiring.
We spent two weeks in Norway and I'm so glad we spent that amount of time here. I would definitely consider coming back!

Hotel Reviews
Scandic Ishavshotel
Tromsø

This hotel was very convenient for walking around Tromso.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Union
Geiranger

This hotel was easy to find with beautiful views and walking paths.

Hotel Brosundet
Ålesund

I loved the yellow outside color of this building and the fact that it sits on a waterway.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Store Ringheim Hotel
Voss

The hotel setting couldn't be more beautiful!! The owner was very inspiring!

Authenticity & Character
The buildings looked well taken care of and had the character of older Norway construction.
Location
The site sits above the surrounding area and the views were beautiful. It was a nice walk going into town from the hotel.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was clean and our room was very comfortable.
Activity Reviews
Geirangerfjord  Guided Kayaking Tour
Geirangerfjord Guided Kayaking Tour
Geiranger

I liked getting out on the water, the kayaking was easy and provided another way to see the fjord and waterfalls up close.

Fjordcruise on UNESCO Nærøyfjord
Fjordcruise on UNESCO Nærøyfjord
Norway

This was a great way to see the fjord up close.

Rafting in Voss
Rafting in Voss
Voss

Everyone in our group loved this activity! I had never been white water rafting so I was very nervous, but the guides were excellent and told us exactly what to do. I would go again.

Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray

Tour of the Norwegian fjords
Norway | Jul 10 - Jul 29, 2025

David
David K.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Aug 01, 2025
Katie did a fantastic job of organizing and coordinating our trip -if we could give more than a 5 star rating, we would! In the past we have planned trips on our own -Australia (trips to Tasmania and to the main island), New Zealand, Canada, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and England, but we could never have managed as complex of an literary as this in a non-English speaking country without Katie's expertise, guidance, and attention to detail. She listened, she heard us, and planned... Read more

Katie did a fantastic job of organizing and coordinating our trip -if we could give more than a 5 star rating, we would! In the past we have planned trips on our own -Australia (trips to Tasmania and to the main island), New Zealand, Canada, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and England, but we could never have managed as complex of an literary as this in a non-English speaking country without Katie's expertise, guidance, and attention to detail. She listened, she heard us, and planned accordingly and created a custom experience we will never forget.

Every new place we visited seemed to be our favorite, but we think Geiranger will be the place we remember most fondly for its amazing beauty, raging waterfalls, fine dining, and views of the fjord.

If we ever return, we would choose Katie again. She has our lasting gratitude for a wonderful trip and for taking such good care of us!

Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on Aug 11, 2025

Hi Dave & Kristine,

Thank you so much for the lovely review! I'm so glad you both enjoyed your time here in Norway, and yes Geiranger is particularly special :)

It really was a pleasure putting this itinerary together for you, and I really hope we can welcome you both back another time!

All the best,
Katie

Amazing trip to western Norway! Beautiful scenery and towns!
Norway | Jul 21 - Jul 31, 2025

Jeremy
Jeremy M.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Aug 01, 2025
We had a wonderful vacation! Our daughter commented several times that this was her favorite trip. All of the accommodations that were reserved for us were great and in ideal locations where we were able to easily walk to everything we wanted to see and do. All of our transportation connections between our different stops were seamless and the instructions and maps provided made it easy to make those connections. Katie’s communication and assistance along the way was awesome and very helpful.... Read more

We had a wonderful vacation! Our daughter commented several times that this was her favorite trip. All of the accommodations that were reserved for us were great and in ideal locations where we were able to easily walk to everything we wanted to see and do. All of our transportation connections between our different stops were seamless and the instructions and maps provided made it easy to make those connections. Katie’s communication and assistance along the way was awesome and very helpful. We would definitely recommend Katie to others as a travel specialist to use when planning trips. Thank you for everything!

Hotel Reviews
Ålesund City Apartments
Ålesund

Self service apartment. Nice to have a place to do laundry at the end of our trip. Ideal location in city center with easy walks to restaurants and shops. Comfortable and private accommodations.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ms Havila Pollux
Fosnavåg

Large interior cabin was very comfortable. On board lounges were quiet and the fjord views on board were amazing. Wonderful meals at the restaurant.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri
Aurland

Amazing waterfront fisherman cabins with awesome fjord views all around. Comfortable and private accommodations. Full breakfast buffet with stay. On site restaurant was wonderful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Balestrand Hotel
Balestrand

Comfortable hotel with amazing view of fjord. Young staff was very helpful and friendly. Access to private fjord waterfront. Short walk to town center restaurants.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Zander K Hotel
Bergen

Located right next to the train station and other major transportation options. Easy walk to city center restaurants and sights. Delicious full buffet breakfast included with stay. Coffee machines will excellent coffee available 24/7.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on Aug 11, 2025

Hi Jeremy,

Thank you very much for your kind review and detailed feedback on all your hotels. It's greatly appreciated, and I'm so pleased to hear you all enjoyed your time here. It was a pleasure putting this itinerary together for you, and hopefully we can welcome you back another time!

All the best,
Katie

Norway!! From Oslo to Arctic circle .
Norway | Jul 6 - Jul 19, 2025

suzanne
suzanne s.
Canada | Reviewed on Jul 26, 2025
Family adventure Norway!! From Oslo to 20+miles above the Arctic circle in Lofoten islands . Katie at Kim Kim took our research and worked out a fantastic game plan. We needed help - never been to Norway. It was amazing !! Katie had great recommendations for hotels and sightseeing. We were rarely in one spot for more than 1 night and she booked trains , overnight boat etc. From oslo to Flåm/ Bergen/alesund to fijords, pristine Arctic beaches & jaw dropping waterfalls . And the food!!!... Read more

Family adventure Norway!! From Oslo to 20+miles above the Arctic circle in Lofoten islands . Katie at Kim Kim took our research and worked out a fantastic game plan. We needed help - never been to Norway. It was amazing !! Katie had great recommendations for hotels and sightseeing. We were rarely in one spot for more than 1 night and she booked trains , overnight boat etc. From oslo to Flåm/ Bergen/alesund to fijords, pristine Arctic beaches & jaw dropping waterfalls . And the food!!! Norways amazing! Explord with KimKim help !

Hotel Reviews
Thon Hotel Opera
Oslo

Great central location, sorry we didn’t have a second night there to take full advantage.

Authenticity & Character
Cool decor, quiet
Location
Easy to get to food within walking distance. Close to train cool decor
Staff
Very nice front desk when jet lagged Easy check-in/out
Cleanliness & Comfort
Comfortable bed
Hotel Aurlandsfjord
Aurland

Loved the older charm of the place, great spot away from crowds. Authentic food . Only negative is 2 floors and no elevator if have mobility issues

Authenticity & Character
Small intimate and comfortable
Location
Gorgeous tiny town and real character with wood building.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Hotel Terminus
Bergen

Loved being so central to trains but without downtown noises if window open .

Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Comfy bed zero noise at night
MS Havila Polaris
Fosnavåg

Had inside cabins with bunk beds .. rooms were well thought out even though very small . Dinner was excellent We only stayed on overnight so didn’t get full experience. Hot tub was nice but only 1 of 2 working when onboard.

Authenticity & Character
Nice seating areas
Location
Donate when arrive by cab could be better
Staff
Helpful for minor in room issues
Cleanliness & Comfort
Quality Hotel Ålesund
Ålesund

One of top 2 hotel/accommodation of the 2 week trip !! Go stay here!!!!!! Gorgeous hotel, loved it . Right beside water. Central to shops and via ferrata

Authenticity & Character
Loved the style and location on water and easy for shops
Location
Easy walk from where overnight ferry dropped us beautiful outdoor deck and tables/seats
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bed so nice. I room Fridge in 2 rooms not working
Reine Rorbuer
Reine

It was a dream come true ! Had the 3 bedroom cabin right on the water. Incredible views of midnight sun lighting over harbour and jagged cliffs . Didn’t want to leave. Bring your own shampoo/soap etc it’s like glamping with the best view on the planet! People speak enough English to get by.. easy if self driving

Authenticity & Character
Just like in photo but better!!
Location
Incredible views. Comfy beds, cafe onsite
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very comfortable beds good black out curtains
Hotell Bondeheimen
Oslo

Most comfortable bed, great central location, no air conditioning if there in July it was Hot(30). If open windows loud motor cycles zooming past . Apart from that outstanding

Authenticity & Character
Historic hotel.
Location
Very short walk to paradox museum and other shops cafe etc
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Visit Stegastein Viewpoint
Visit Stegastein Viewpoint
Norway

So easy to get to and simply stunning views. Our 18-20 yr old kids loved it too.

Quality of Experience
We had a clear day and views of fijords breathtaking. I have a bad knee and was able to manage easily
Guides, Drivers and Staff
On time good safe driver
Transport
Pu from 5 min walk from our little hotel
Full Day Geiranger Fjord Cruise
Full Day Geiranger Fjord Cruise
Ålesund

Do Not miss this. Well worth every penny. Incredible day out on the water so many waterfalls. Great views all Ali g not just 7 sisters falls.

Quality of Experience
Just stunning huge cliffs coming right into water. Mountains in distance .
Guides, Drivers and Staff
M
Transport
Lots of seating windows if inside
Flåm Railway: Flåm - Myrdal
Flåm Railway: Flåm - Myrdal
Norway

Gorgeous train route . Valleys/waterfalls rushing streams

Quality of Experience
So pretty
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Train leaves on time! Great relaxed way to travel
Flåm Zipline
Flåm Zipline
Norway

My Husband, 18 and 20 yr old did it and loved it. Zipline is fast but you are in a seated harness - fun going over the valley. Did bike down after

Quality of Experience
Unique beautiful bike down approx 2 hrs biking
Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on Jul 28, 2025

Hi Sue,

Thank you so much for the kind review and detailed feedback on your hotels and activities. It's really appreciated, and I'm so pleased to hear you and your family had a great time here in Norway. It was a pleasure putting this trip together for you, and I hope we can tempt you back for another visit in the future!

All the best,
Katie

Norway trip
Norway | Jun 27 - Jul 5, 2025

Eleanor
Eleanor S.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 09, 2025
I loved Katie’s local knowledge which helped to go beyond the beaten path and helped to find unique and hidden gems which made our vacation truly special! We loved the smaller boutique hotels that were tucked in quieter places surrounded by Norways beauty. Will definitely go thru KimKim again! Read more

I loved Katie’s local knowledge which helped to go beyond the beaten path and helped to find unique and hidden gems which made our vacation truly special! We loved the smaller boutique hotels that were tucked in quieter places surrounded by Norways beauty. Will definitely go thru KimKim again!

Hotel Reviews
Det Hanseatiske Hotel
Bergen

Right in the heart of Bryggen however because of this it was noisy at night

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
No AC and it got hot
Husum Hotel
Borgund

Quiet boutique hotel with beautiful touches and in a picturesque place. Staff was very friendly and accommodating!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on Jul 12, 2025

Hi Eleanor,

So glad to hear you enjoyed your time here, and thank you very much for the kind review! Your feedback is really appreciated, so we will definitely take your comments on board with Hanseatiske hotel going forwards.

It was a pleasure putting this trip together for you, and hope we can welcome you back another time!

Best regards,
Katie

Family Trip to Norway was perfect with the help of Katie and her team
Norway | Jun 7 - Jun 14, 2025

Aaron
Aaron E.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jun 23, 2025
What a great trip, Katie was beyond helpful from where to go, lunch spots, plus what is special in each of our locations. Overall, KimKim and Katie made our family trip to Norway one that we will remember forever. Read more

What a great trip, Katie was beyond helpful from where to go, lunch spots, plus what is special in each of our locations. Overall, KimKim and Katie made our family trip to Norway one that we will remember forever.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Aurlandsfjord
Aurland

Super cute hotel in Aurland, a bit of work to get bags to rooms, plus the set dinner menu that was included could have been better. Great location in the heart of town, walk to most things.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Skostredet Hotel
Bergen

Great location, restaurant and staff were top notch. Right in the heart of Bergen, walk to everything. Outdoor eating and cocktail area was special as well.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on Aug 07, 2025

Hi Aaron,

Thank you very much for your kind review, and detailed feedback on the hotels. It's greatly appreciated, and I'm so pleased to hear you had a lovely time here in Norway. It's been a pleasure putting this trip together for you and your family, and hope we can welcome you back another time!

All the best,
Katie

We loved the entire country of Norway.
Norway | May 8 - May 18, 2025

Jean
Jean B.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 05, 2025
We loved the entire country of Norway. It was a pleasure to have secured our hotels, train tickets, ferry tickets and two events (a dinner cruise and a kayaking expedition) . Kimkim provided excellent service and went out of their way to help me retrieve a wind jacket that I inadvertently left on a train; they were able to get it to the train station in my subsequent city. Amazing. They were very responsive to any questions we had and resolved everything quickly. We loved the three... Read more

We loved the entire country of Norway. It was a pleasure to have secured our hotels, train tickets, ferry tickets and two events (a dinner cruise and a kayaking expedition) . Kimkim provided excellent service and went out of their way to help me retrieve a wind jacket that I inadvertently left on a train; they were able to get it to the train station in my subsequent city. Amazing. They were very responsive to any questions we had and resolved everything quickly.

We loved the three cities: Oslo, Balestrand and Bergen. The train(s) and ferry ride to Balestrand were simply amazing scenery including going through some pretty deep snow (on the train). We truly fell in love with the peacefulness in Balestrand and hated to leave it. We even enjoyed a sauna and plunge into the fjord.

Bergen: I would not recommend the dinner cruise we took from Bergen; the boat ride through the fjord was beautiful, but the meal seemed interminable (4+ hours) and I felt the food was a letdown. The kayak trip was not through fjords but was no less beautiful; the guides made it fun and educational.

Hotel Reviews
Balestrand Hotel
Balestrand

This hotel was cozy and inviting. The walk to a nearby hotel for breakfast was no problem and the breakfast buffet was extensive. The view from our rooms was breathtaking as we could watch the moon rise over the snowcapped mountains and shining into the fjord all the while sitting comfortably on our balcony.

Authenticity & Character
It was not pretentious.
Location
It was easy to walk everywhere. It was high enough to have a magnificent view of the fjord.
Staff
They were all extremely friendly and sincere. None of them were Norwegian but all loved Norway and had great enthusiasm (and great English) for the area.
Cleanliness & Comfort
There is a lot of art work to admire on the walls, It is not super luxurious but we had not requested luxury. We would stay there again.
Grand Hotel Terminus
Bergen

3 stars from its website. Recently renovated. Amazing breakfast buffet and very helpful front desk staff. No AC but we didn't need it once we opened windows. Location is excellent.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Thon Hotel Opera
Oslo

Great location for walking everywhere. Our stay overlapped constitution day and it was a great place to be. Very convenient to the train station.

Authenticity & Character
Add more "Norway"
Location
Proximity to train station and many other sites
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Thon Hotel Cecil
Oslo

Good location to the waterfront and Opera House, plus the Eye of Oslo and restaurants.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided kayak tour
Guided kayak tour
Bergen

The guides made this a wonderful experience. The day was beautiful and everyone on the trip enjoyed paddling around the islands.

Quality of Experience
Food
We were SO hungry when we got back! Everything tasted wonderful!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fjord Cruise & Seafood Dining Experience
Fjord Cruise & Seafood Dining Experience
Bergen

We had no trouble locating the starting off place and enjoyed the cruise part very much. Personally, I would not recommend this experience because the meal seemed interminable. The food was interesting and was freshly prepared for each course, but it took 4 hours as we waited a long time between courses. It wasn't made clear that the welcome sparkling wine was not included. Selecting the wine flight that accompanied each course was an extra 100 USD just for 4 glasses of wine.

Quality of Experience
Food
Timing. Better explanation of each course.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on Jun 06, 2025

Hi Jean,

Thank you very much your positive review, and detailed feedback on all your hotels and activities. This is really helpful for us, and we'll certainly take your comments on board, especially in regards to the fjord cruise and seafood experience.

Glad to hear you enjoyed your time here in Norway, and hopefully we can welcome you back another time!

Best regards,
Katie

Katie was excellent in recommending where to ...
Norway | May 23 - May 28, 2025

K
Kajal S.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on May 31, 2025
Katie was excellent in recommending where to go - we enjoyed the locations and the hotel picks and would recommend working with her. Read more

Katie was excellent in recommending where to go - we enjoyed the locations and the hotel picks and would recommend working with her.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Aurlandsfjord
Aurland

Excellent room and food and the staff were so attentive with our baby. Would love to return.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Hotel Terminus
Bergen
Activity Review
Nærøyfjord Cruise & Viking Valley Tour
Nærøyfjord Cruise & Viking Valley Tour
Norway
Quality of Experience
Transport
Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on Jun 02, 2025

Hi Kajal,

Thank you very much for the kind review! Very pleased to hear you enjoyed your time in Norway, and that you were happy with the hotels and locations you stayed in. Hope we can welcome you back another time!

Best regards,
Katie

Memorable family vacation to Oslo, Balestrand, Bergen!
Norway | May 8 - May 18, 2025

CJ
CJ N.
Kansas City, MO | Reviewed on May 21, 2025
Kimkim enabled a memorable and family vacation to Oslo, Balestrand, and Bergen! Read more

Kimkim enabled a memorable and family vacation to Oslo, Balestrand, and Bergen!

Hotel Reviews
Thon Hotel Cecil
Oslo

Excellent breakfast, very well located, expansive room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Balestrand Hotel
Balestrand

Absolutely charming and authentic hotel, just a short walk from the 'center' of the town. Beautiful views from the fjord side of the hotel. Quirky and helpful staff who were warm and friendly, made us feel at home.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Well positioned near the center of the town and also to hiking trail heads.
Staff
We loved the staff! They were so warm and friendly, very thoughtful and kind.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Grand Hotel Terminus
Bergen

Older hotel which was comfortable and well positioned near the train station.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Some staff was wonderful (front desk especially), others were quite rushed/hurried in their service approach (restaurant/bar, morning meal, etc.) - a bit impersonal.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean and expansive rooms, just might need to be updated.
Thon Hotel Opera
Oslo

Lovely hotel with nice and expansive rooms. Some street noise with proximity to train station and busy streets.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Front desk staff were excellent - very helpful. Bar staff could learn a lot regarding customer service, especially for a hotel of this caliber. The bar staff appeared busy, didn't bring what was ordered, and made excuses.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided kayak tour
Guided kayak tour
Bergen

Highly recommended! Excellent guides, and it was the appropriate amount of time for being on the water.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fjord Cruise & Seafood Dining Experience
Fjord Cruise & Seafood Dining Experience
Bergen

Incredible experience, would highly recommend for lovers of fine dining!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on May 22, 2025

Hi CJ,

Thank you for the positive review, and detailed feedback on your hotels and activities. This is very appreciated, and we'll definitely take your comments on board when planning future trips. Otherwise, great to hear you and your family enjoyed your trip, and hopefully we can welcome you all back another time.

Best regards,
Katie

Amazing trip to Norway!!We have traveled all over tusing var...
Norway | May 6 - May 17, 2025

E
Elise L.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on May 18, 2025

We have traveled all over the world using various travel companies, and this was by far one of the best! Katie was wonderful in helping us plan a trip that fit our needs and continued to “be at our side” during the trip as well., She was professional, accessible and passionate about getting everything perfect- from the itinerary, to the hotels and even fabulous restaurant suggestions. All our connections from air to sea to rail went off without a glitch. I would not hesitate to use Kim Kim again to book our next trip!

Local specialist: Katie Acheson-Gray
Katie
Katie Acheson-Gray
Local specialist in Sørreisa | Replied on May 19, 2025

Hi Elise,

Thank you so much for your kind review! So great to hear you both had a wonderful time here. It really was my pleasure organising this trip 😊

All the best,
Katie