Liz Chreist
My favorite definition is-
Travel (travel-ǝl)-noun- The only thing you buy that makes you richer.
I have had the privilege of traveling to numerous countries. Traveling close to the earth has provided me a window into different walks of life. I crave interacting with locals and experiencing all a region offers. I always take the time to stroll through remote villages or big cities to get a feel for what the environment offers. I love to explore historical castles, reach the peak of the tallest mountains, and let the ocean lap against my feet.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"France offers a diverse topography and rich history; it's full of culture, culinary delights, and adventure. France is all things to all people. I can help you create an itinerary so you, your family, or your group can see the beautiful scenery everywhere, from amazing cityscapes to wineries, coastlines, and mountain ranges. You will also have the opportunity to visit all the top destinations in Paris that travelers come back to see time and time again. "
How did you get involved in travel?
"I became hooked on travel at a very young age. Road trips around the USA were my first taste of exploration, and that was the gateway to wanting to see more of the world. I moved to New Zealand and drove on every road on the South Island. From there, Europe's topography drew me in, and it's history, culture, and architecture provided ways to connect with the location and people. I didn't realize that feeling in my heart would become necessary and even addictive throughout my life. "
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"I will never forget the first time I visited Paris. It was so important to me to see the city lights at night and the city's vast expanse during the day. The city kept pulling us in directions we couldn't resist going. By the end of the first day, we had walked 17 miles exploring all we could, and there was still so much more to see. It's the city that just keeps giving. Packing hint- bring 2 pairs of walking shoes so you can alternate them to give your feet a rest day after day. "
Liz's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
As "The City of Love," Paris is known for its romantic charm, impeccable cuisine, and vibrant history, which is why it's always topping the list of the most popular tourist...
With 10 days in France, you can journey through the country's iconic cities, dazzling coastlines, and serene countrysides on a highlights tour or spend time in Normandy and the...
Hit all the essential sites and explore some lesser-known gems on this epic, three-week loop tour around France. Start in Paris for art, cuisine, and shopping. Eat your way...
Family itineraries
With 10 days in France and family in tow, you can explore up to three cities. For those wanting to venture to the charming countryside of Burgundy or Provence, begin with three...
Find your own French charm with a stay somewhere beyond just your standard hotel. From floating villages to former castles, these stays will give your trip that little extra je...
There's no need to choose between French cities, mountains, or culinary attractions—this 10-day family-focused itinerary covers everything. Starting in Paris, you'll enjoy a...
Luxury itineraries
Known for its wine and imposing chateaus, France's Loire Valley gives you those quintessential French vibes and experiences, with rolling hills dotted with fairytale-like...
As "The City of Love," Paris is known for its romantic charm, impeccable cuisine, and vibrant history, which is why it's always topping the list of the most popular tourist...
This luxury tour takes you from the bright lights of Paris to the Provençal countryside, showcasing France's food, wine, and culture along the way. Start among the capital's...
Road trip itineraries
Discover all the things that fairy tales are made of on this comprehensive, three-week tour of France. Start in Normandy, where you'll explore the rugged coastline and massive...
For a family road trip that leads you through the diversity of French culture and history, look no further than this week-long itinerary. Start in Paris to savor its highlights...
Spend a full week savoring the food and wine of France on this itinerary. Sit in the sidewalk cafés and stroll the markets of Paris before you catch the train to Bordeaux,...
Honeymoon itineraries
Thirteen days may be unlucky, but there's nothing unlucky about this thirteen-day honeymoon itinerary to France's main regions. Spend some time in Paris, where a day trip to the...
There's no need to choose between French cities, mountains, or culinary attractions—this 10-day family-focused itinerary covers everything. Starting in Paris, you'll enjoy a...
France is an active traveler's dream, with sandy beaches in the north, the towering Alps in the southeast, several river valleys across its heartland, and a rocky southern...
Favorite experiences
Tour the D-Day Sites of Normandy
Normandy is well-known for its important war sites from WWII. Spend an emotional day touring some of the most important areas, discovering the powerful legacy of D-Day on Normandy's landscape, as well as its effect on the world. A local specialist will lead you across Normandy's coast, and as an...
Visit Mont-Saint-Michel
Spend the day exploring Mont-Saint-Michel. The iconic abbey sits on an island in the middle of a huge bay, where Europe's biggest tides create a natural moat. Mont-Saint-Michel has roots from 708 CE, when the Archangel St. Michel ordered Aubert, the bishop of Avranches, to build a sanctuary on...
Climb the Arc de Triomphe in Paris
Enjoy an unforgettable panoramic view from the top of the Arc de Triomphe. This intricately sculpted arc sits at the center of the Étoile (star) roundabout in unison with a magnificent view of the 12 Parisian avenues radiating out of the city's center. At 164 feet tall (50 m), the view is bound...
Loire Valley: Châteaus de Chambord & Chenonceau
Visit two of the Loire Valley's most popular chateaus, starting with Chambord, whose French-Renaissance construction dates back to the early 16th century. Thanks to its stately facade and sprawling grounds, this extravagant chateau is one of France's most famous and recognizable. Take the grand...
Hike to Lac Blanc in the French Alps
Enjoy a full day trekking in beautiful Chamonix, hiking to the one-and-only Lac Blanc (Lake Blanc) set at 7760 feet (over 2300 m). This route is set in the Chamonix Valley, offering panoramic views of Mont Blanc, the most famous peak in the French Alps. You can start in the village of Les Praz,...
Treasures of Provence: Arles, Les Baux, Saint Rémy, & Alpilles
Enjoy a full tour of Provence, discovering its treasures, culture, and heritage. Start with a walking tour in Arles, a city known for its Roman heritage and art. You'll visit its famous Roman amphitheater and other preserved ancient sites. You'll also see the places depicted by Van Gogh in his...
Recent trip reviews for Liz
Unforgettable Moments in France
France
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Nov 30 - Dec 10, 2025
The entire trip was wonderful. I fell in love with France!
France
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Nov 30 - Dec 10, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing such a detailed and heartfelt review of your trip. We’re delighted to hear that the overall experience was wonderful and that you were able to see so much of France in a short time while still enjoying the unique charm of each lodging option. We’re thrilled that Bastide de Bellegarde stood out as a highlight. Your description of the spacious rooms, beautiful grounds, and Brian’s warm hospitality truly captures the spirit of the property. It’s... Read more
Magnifique trip to Paris!
France
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Nov 22 - Nov 28, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that our transport drivers made such a positive impression by going the extra mile to ensure your comfort and safety. It’s great to know their helpful tips and thoughtful follow-up added value to your trip. We’re equally thrilled that our tour guides’ professionalism and knowledge enhanced your experience, and that Kimkim’s communication helped smooth out the little hiccups along the way. It sounds... Read more
It was absolutely wonderful. We learned so m...
France
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Nov 22 - Nov 28, 2025
It was absolutely wonderful. We learned so much and got to experience a bit of the culture as well. I think we would have preferred to have a little more down time to explore and shop. We never did get to see the Christmas market which would have been fun. The apartment was perfect. Food amazing. It was an incredible experience; one that we will all reflect on for our entire lives.
Thank you so much for sharing your kind words. We’re thrilled to hear that your experience was absolutely wonderful and that you were able to learn, immerse yourself in the culture, and enjoy the amazing food and perfect apartment. It’s wonderful to know the trip left such lasting memories for you and your group. We appreciate your feedback about wanting a bit more downtime to explore and shop, and we’ll keep that in mind for future planning. The Christmas market is such a special... Read more
The whole KimKim team was fantastic. They res...
France
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Nov 10 - Nov 17, 2025
Dear Erin,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I enjoyed planning this trip for you and your mom. We’re thrilled to hear that you had a wonderful and well-organized trip, and that our team’s communication and quick handling of changes helped make the experience smooth and enjoyable.
It means a lot to know you would recommend us and are already thinking about future travels with KimKim. We look forward to helping you plan your next adventure and creating more memorable experiences together!
We look forward to helping you with your next trip.
Liz, Dili, Kate and the rest of the Kimkim team
Team Liz and Team Joan
France
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Oct 25 - Oct 30, 2025
Joan Carson and I wrote the review together that Joan submitted. I joined the planning late when Joan had much of it organized. We made a few changes together after I signed on- fine tuning actually not substantive. I can tell you that I fully share the points made in our full response. We were fine with the arrangements you suggested, lined up and that were so sensitive to our wishes. You informed us promptly about items that needed to be adjusted because of the... Read more
Thank you both for taking the time to share such a detailed and thoughtful review. We’re so pleased to hear that the planning process felt smooth and collaborative, and that the arrangements aligned well with your wishes. It means a lot to us that you appreciated our responsiveness when adjustments were needed, and that you felt supported throughout your journey. We’re delighted that the Mercure Lyon Centre Saxe Lafayette provided comfort and convenience, and that the... Read more
Memorable "First" to France
France
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Sep 25 - Oct 4, 2025
Thank you so much for your incredibly detailed and thoughtful review — it was a true pleasure to help craft your first journey through France! I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed such a diverse and enriching itinerary, from the elegance of Champagne country to the history of Normandy and the charm of southern France. It was a joy collaborating with you through each iteration of the trip, and I’m glad the personal touches — from the goodies to the handwritten card — helped make the... Read more
Don't put it off--France awaits!
France
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Oct 25 - Oct 30, 2025
• Saturday - Walking/eating tour. Nathan was very personable, knowledgeable, with good sense of humor, coped well with our request to speak in French and we enjoyed the tour. Good introduction to the city. Food stops were great. Just two other people with us on... Read more
Thank you so much for sharing such a thoughtful and comprehensive review of your time in Lyon. I enjoyed planning this trip with you, and I am happy Pat joined to enjoy this adventure. We’re delighted to hear that the arrangements met your expectations and that the hotel location worked well for your style of travel. Your reflections on each tour are invaluable. We’re glad Nathan’s humor and flexibility made the walking and eating tour a fun introduction to the city, and that... Read more
Paris and Southeast France - You Gotta Go
France
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Sep 23 - Oct 10, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your incredible 17-day journey through France! It’s wonderful to hear that your itinerary—from the elegance of Paris to the charm of Aix-en-Provence and Avignon—offered such memorable experiences. We’re thrilled that our private drivers and guides helped make your trip smooth and stress-free, and we appreciate your kind words about their punctuality and professionalism. Your feedback on accommodations and location is truly valuable. It’s all part of... Read more
7 Days in France (Nice and Paris)
France
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Oct 16 - Oct 22, 2025