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active 12 hours ago

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 is part of the following groups: France Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries
Honeymoon itineraries

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 | Nov 30 - Dec 10, 2025

Liz
Liz C.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
As a kimkim employee, I recently traveled through France with Kimkim’s guidance, visiting Paris, Strasbourg, Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille. From start to finish, the trip was seamless, thoughtfully planned, and full of memorable experiences. The accommodations were comfortable and well-located, making it easy to explore each city. The guides provided excellent insights, and the self-guided information from Kimkim ensured we didn’t miss hidden gems along the way. Their... Read more

As a kimkim employee, I recently traveled through France with Kimkim’s guidance, visiting Paris, Strasbourg, Avignon, Arles, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille. From start to finish, the trip was seamless, thoughtfully planned, and full of memorable experiences.

The accommodations were comfortable and well-located, making it easy to explore each city. The guides provided excellent insights, and the self-guided information from Kimkim ensured we didn’t miss hidden gems along the way. Their recommendations for key stops enriched our journey and gave us a deeper appreciation of the regions we visited.

Transportation was flawless. Train travel was smooth, with transfers to and from stations handled seamlessly. For exploring at our own pace, the rental car was perfect. Following Kimkim’s advice to choose a small car proved invaluable—it made navigating narrow streets, parking in tight spots, and enjoying efficient gas mileage effortless.

The olive oil, wine, and cheese tastings were unforgettable, offering an authentic taste of French culture. Stopping at ruins along the way broke up longer drives into enjoyable segments. At the same time, hikes and outdoor explorations gave us the freedom to connect with nature and stumble upon unexpected treasures.

The flow of the trip was exceptionally well planned, maximizing our time without feeling rushed. The balance of guided experiences and self-guided flexibility allowed us to make the journey truly our own. Every detail—from logistics to local tips—was handled with care, making this trip both enriching and stress-free.
Thank you, Kimkim, for expanding our knowledge of France and helping us discover all that it has to offer travelers. This was a trip we’ll cherish for years to come.

Hotel Reviews
Hôtel Adèle & Jules Paris
Paris

This hotel is very centrally located. It's on a quiet side street on the right bank. We enjoyed Montmartre, the Opera district, and could ride bikes down to the Seine and to the Arc de Triomphe. The room was spacious and had great character. The bathroom was spacious, featuring a bathtub and a walk-in shower, with plenty of room for toiletries. We had a couch and room for our luggage. There was a small elevator that helped to transport the luggage. The specific room we had was located on the top floor, featuring a slanted ceiling and unique windows. When you look at buildings in Paris, you wonder what the top floors look like with the smaller windows, and this hotel allowed us to stay in the city and experience all the characteristics of France.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Arok
Strasbourg

This hotel was a surprise. I loved it. The location was perfect. We walked from the train station, left our luggage, and went to the Christmas markets. In December, the city center is closed to traffic, which means taxis can not get as close to the hotels as they do at other times of the year. This made the convenience of the Arok all the more impressive. It was clean, spacious, and the breakfast was authentic. The Christmas decorations were carefully selected with a touch of fun. The hotel offers luggage storage for those exploring other areas of the Alsace region, using Strasbourg as a base. The Le Dix restaurant at 20 Place de La Gare, next to the hotel, serves great food that reflects the French-German region.

Authenticity & Character
The room is basic but offers all that is needed.
Location
Staff
The staff helped us organize luggage storage and went out of their way when someone was trying to get in touch with us.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hôtel & Spa Régent Petite France
Strasbourg

This hotel was located right on the outskirts of the city center, perfectly situated for the Christmas markets. We had limited luggage, so it was easy to walk to the hotel. If we had more luggage, it would have been ok as there were not very many cobblestone streets between the drop-off location and the hotel. The hotel has a spa that has a suna, steam room, hot tub over lokking the river. The breakfast in the morning was delivered to the room and excellent. The rooms were spacious with a walk in shower. Getting to the spa you can walk by the pump room where the old pumps are on display. The building was originally a 17th-century mill that housed the Glacières de Strasbourg, an ice factory. The pump room is where the original, historic ice-making machinery, including gigantic cast-iron wheels and transmissions, has been preserved.

Authenticity & Character
The pump room was cool to see
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hôtel d’Europe
Avignon

The hotel is situated right inside the city wall. It is in proximity to the Pope's Palace. The staff was very friendly and accommodating. The hotel had a classic feel with an inner courtyard.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bastide de Bellegarde
Avignon

This was our favorite hotel of the trip. It was so personalized. The dinner and breakfast were unmatched. The character of the Bastide comes through in every detail. The comfort of the different sitting rooms makes this location perfect for family gatherings or group events. It's also ideal for a romantic getaway. Brian had bikes on site for people to ride around the island or into Avignon. The beds were the most comfortable of the trip, and the bathroom had a walk-in shower and bathtub. This night will stay with me for years to come. I hope to go back sometime.

Authenticity & Character
There are numerous trinkets and pieces of artwork to admire. We needed more time to enjoy all this Bastide had to offer.
Location
An opportunity to be a little bit outside of the city but close enough to visit and enjoy all it has to offer.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Maison Volver
13200

This hotel is just inside the hotel and in walking distance of a store if you need to buy anything from the French version of "Target." The breakfast we enjoyable and can be a brunch on Sundays. If you are taking the train this is a great option.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Aquabella Hotel & Spa
Aix en Provence

This hotel offers excellent amenities for the warmer weather in the summer. The pool looks very inviting. The spa has a large hot tub, heated lounge chairs, and a steam room. The rooms were spacious, there was an elevator, and the staff went out of their way to provide us with a box to help us take things home instead of buying more luggage. The breakfast was extensive and delicious.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Maisons du Monde Hôtel Marseille Vieux Port
Marseille

This hotel is ideally located right on the Old Port. It was quiet, parking was close, and the staff was very kind. The rooms were very nicely decorated and clean. The beds were comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel La Muette
Arles

This hotel is inside the city walls. It's within walking distance of the theater and coliseum. The only access upstairs is to use the stairs. The room was comfortable, but the space was limited for luggage. The shower was nice, but the space for toiletries was limited—good value for the money. Parking is available nearby, but it needs to be reserved in advance.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Photoshoot in the Heart of Paris - Eiffel Tower
Photoshoot in the Heart of Paris - Eiffel Tower
Paris

We were not sure about doing this activity, but the photographer put us at ease and made it very fun. We now have pictures to remind us of our time in France. I would strongly recommend this to any travelers who want a nice photo of their time in France.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The photographer did a great job putting us at ease
Transport
There was not any transfers included
Iconic Paris Views from Galeries Lafayette Terrace
Iconic Paris Views from Galeries Lafayette Terrace
Paris

Highly recommend taking time to enjoy the view and the store.

Quality of Experience
Private Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Visit
Private Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Visit
Paris

We learned a great deal from the guide. The buildings are truly amazing, and the history behind them adds significant meaning to the experience of visiting them.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
we walked to the Notre Dame and met our guide
Self-guided Cathedral Viewing Platform Climb
Self-guided Cathedral Viewing Platform Climb
Strasbourg

This provides a beautiful view of the city. You ascend quickly and have the opportunity to get above the buttresses.

Quality of Experience
Self-guided Historic Wine Cellars Exploration
Self-guided Historic Wine Cellars Exploration
Strasbourg
Private Guided City Centre History & Architecture Walk
Private Guided City Centre History & Architecture Walk
Strasbourg

Our guide, Gabriel, did a great job painting the picture of the relationship between the Germans and the French over time. The architecture of the city reflects this intertwined past.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Full-Day Christmas Markets Experience in Colmar and other Alsacian towns
Private Full-Day Christmas Markets Experience in Colmar and other Alsacian towns
Strasbourg

Laurence did a great job combining the Christmas Markets with wine tours. His knowledge was evident, and she did a great job balancing free time to explore and providing key information to help us better understand the history of the towns we visited.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Well kept and in good condition vechiles
Painted Paths: The Van Gogh Trail
Painted Paths: The Van Gogh Trail
France

Worth the stop.

Quality of Experience
Free time in Saint Rémy de Provence and its surroundings
Free time in Saint Rémy de Provence and its surroundings
France

Fun to drive through and stumble upon random Roman Ruins.

Quality of Experience
Self-Guided Discover the Secrets of Ancient Provence: Glanum & Montmajour Abbey
Self-Guided Discover the Secrets of Ancient Provence: Glanum & Montmajour Abbey
France

This is a prominent example of an Abby surrounded by the rolling hills and agricultural fields of Provence.

Quality of Experience
Self-guided Exploration of Arles
Self-guided Exploration of Arles
France

The Roman Ruins in this city are well preserved. The market is fun to walk through. This is a good base for the Camague, Pont du Duct, and other cities in Southern France.

Quality of Experience
Self-guided day to Cassis and Calanques National Park
Self-guided day to Cassis and Calanques National Park
France

Beautiful views, opportunity to walk on the trails, and enjoy nature.

Quality of Experience
You will have the opportunity to enjoy over looks, time on the water, or exploring the Fjords.
Marseille at Dusk: Eat Like a Local
Marseille at Dusk: Eat Like a Local
Marseille

This tour provided us with the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the city's cultures and the diverse offerings of ethnic foods. While exploring the local establishments, we gained a deeper understanding of the graffiti and appreciated the murals.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Self-guided Art & History Tour in Marseille
Self-guided Art & History Tour in Marseille
Marseille

Visiting the Old Port, Notre Dame, and Longchamp Place provided a variety of experiences that helped shape our perspectives on the city and its culture. The art museum and natural history museum at the Longcamp Palace offer a great way to experience some traditional art if you don't have time to visit Paris. The Longcamp fountain is massive and impressive to see.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Liz Chreist

The entire trip was wonderful. I fell in love with France!
France | Nov 30 - Dec 10, 2025

Ryan
Ryan C.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
The entire trip was wonderful. We were able to see so many things and cover lots of territory in a fairly short amount of time. I really appreciated the lodging options. Each was unique and special. There were a couple that stood out from the rest. At the top of the list was the Bastide de Bellegarde outside of Avignon. AMAZING! The chateau was wonderful. The rooms were spacious and the grounds were beautiful. The owner was lovely and went above and beyond to make us feel at home. ... Read more

The entire trip was wonderful. We were able to see so many things and cover lots of territory in a fairly short amount of time. I really appreciated the lodging options. Each was unique and special. There were a couple that stood out from the rest. At the top of the list was the Bastide de Bellegarde outside of Avignon. AMAZING! The chateau was wonderful. The rooms were spacious and the grounds were beautiful. The owner was lovely and went above and beyond to make us feel at home. We had dinner at the chateau and the food was spectacular. Both dinners were some of the best meals we had the entire trip. The owner gave us a private wine and cheese pairing, which we had done before at other places, but this was the best! So worth the stop! I loved the Christmas markets in Strasbourg and the tour was good as well. Having a rental car was well worth it. It allowed us to see so many unique and interesting sights like the Pont du Gard, wine tasting at Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and visits to Roman ruins in various spots around southern France. Driving was not too difficult. You have to pay attention to the GPS and watch for constant speed limit changes but the freedom a car provides is a nice addition to the trip. I fell in love with France on this trip, thanks to the wonderful planning and special touches KimKim included on the trip. Thanks for everything!

Hotel Reviews
Bastide de Bellegarde
Avignon

AMAZING! This is one of the best hotels I have ever stayed in and I have stayed in a lot of places around the world. The chateau itself is very well appointed. The decor is fun and interesting but very classy at the same time. The rooms are large and well appointed. Heated towel racks!!! Love them! The owner, Brian, is the best! So welcoming and friendly. He went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and welcomed. The small touches he ensured were included were so appreciated! One of the best parts was the food!!!! WOW! That is all I can say! Dinner was spectacular. Everything was delicious. Definitely one of the best meals we had on our entire trip. I would stay here again in heart beat! Love this place!

Authenticity & Character
The history of the Chateau and the island it is on is very interesting. The decorations inside the chateau highlight its history.
Location
It was very close to Avignon (you could bike to the center of town) but you are out in the country so you have space to stretch out and take a deep breath. It is so quiet!
Staff
Brian was amazing! So welcoming and kind. He made sure our stay was second to none and he succeeded!
Cleanliness & Comfort
very well appointed rooms and facility. Very nice beds and the bathrooms are very nice.
Maisons du Monde Hôtel Marseille Vieux Port
Marseille

Great location right in the heart of the old port. Nice rooms that are fairly good sized. Very nice staff. Safe.

Authenticity & Character
Nice and clean with good amenities.
Location
In the old port across from the port itself. Easily accessed by car, bus, or taxi. Can walk to many things in the area from the hotel.
Staff
Everyone was very kind and welcoming.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very nice rooms with all the amenities you need.
Hôtel Adèle & Jules Paris
Paris

This was a wonderful hotel. Hidden but quiet and off the main streets. In a very fun area of Paris. Small lobby but the rooms were well appointed and nice size.

Authenticity & Character
It was European in feel but not tiny.
Location
Great location in Paris that is easily accessible. The fact it is off a side courtyard off a not busy street keeps it very quiet.
Staff
Everyone was very welcoming.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very nice rooms. Stairs or elevator to the rooms. Only a few rooms per floor. Very quiet.
Hotel Arok
Strasbourg

This hotel was a pleasant surprise. It is very close to the train station so we were not expecting much. However, it was a great hotel! The room was huge and well appointed. The lobby was clean and festive. Everything was well decorated for the holidays at the hotel. It was nice to not have to drag our bags very far from the train station. Everyone was very nice and helpful. They even have a very nice baggage storage room for those that are staying at the hotel that allow you to keep your bags there while you explore town after you check out.

Authenticity & Character
Nice hotel
Location
Very close to train but easy walk into the old town area and Christmas markets.
Staff
Everyone was very nice.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable.
Hôtel & Spa Régent Petite France
Strasbourg

Very nice hotel and spa. The location is nice because it is in the old walled city but toward the edge so you don't have to walk very far with your bags. The hotel is beautiful. Very nicely remodeled with well appointed rooms and a very large comfortable lobby. There are interesting things around the hotel as well as it is built on or next to the dam. You can see the water pipes and there is water all around it. There are a couple Christmas markets right outside of the hotel which is convenient and festive. The spa is very nice. Well appointed and they require reservations so it is not crowded.

Authenticity & Character
very nice hotel that is clean and has modern touches in an old building.
Location
In the old walled city but near the edge.
Staff
Very attentive and nice
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms were large and very comfortable. Great beds
Activity Review
Photoshoot in the Heart of Paris - Eiffel Tower
Photoshoot in the Heart of Paris - Eiffel Tower
Paris

The photographer was great. We had a beautiful day and although it was busy near the tower he was able to take wonderful pictures that highlighted one of the most icon landmarks in Paris. The pictures we ended up with were very well done. A great memory!

Quality of Experience
unique and fun
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide was really good and very personable. Fun to be with.
Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Dec 17, 2025
Dear Ryan-
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

Dear Ryan-
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 wonderful to know that the dinners and private wine and cheese pairing were among the best meals of your journey—those special touches are exactly what we hope to provide.

We’re also glad you enjoyed the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, the freedom of having a rental car, and the chance to explore sights like Pont du Gard, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and Roman ruins. It sounds like you embraced both the culture and history of France, and we’re so pleased the planning and details helped make it all seamless.

Your kind words mean a great deal to us, and we’ll be sure to share your feedback with our partners and hosts. We’re honored to have played a part in helping you fall in love with France, and we look forward to planning more unforgettable adventures with you in the future.

Liz, Dili, Kate, and the France team

Magnifique trip to Paris!
France | Nov 22 - Nov 28, 2025

Jennifer
Jennifer J.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2025
I wanted to specifically mention our transport drivers to and from the airport. On the ride to our hotel, our driver took the time to give us helpful hints for the week, later he messaged us links to places we might want to see and when we arrived at the hotel, he did not leave us until he knew we were safely inside the building. Our driver to the airport was also very helpful and concerned in making sure we knew exactly where to go. I thought they went above and beyond. Our tour guides... Read more

I wanted to specifically mention our transport drivers to and from the airport. On the ride to our hotel, our driver took the time to give us helpful hints for the week, later he messaged us links to places we might want to see and when we arrived at the hotel, he did not leave us until he knew we were safely inside the building. Our driver to the airport was also very helpful and concerned in making sure we knew exactly where to go. I thought they went above and beyond. Our tour guides were all very professional and extremely knowledgeable. Kimkim was wonderful by communicating with us regularly before and during the trip, especially since we had a few hiccups with our arrivals to Paris and one hiccup at the Eiffel Tower looking for the tour guide. We really enjoyed our time in the city of lights. The pastry making and perfume making was such a unique experience! Loved that and loved the river cruise!

Hotel Review
Aparthotel Quartier Libre Saint Georges
Paris

Very clean and comfy. Terrific shower. Great location!! Only complaint was that there usually wasn’t anyone in the lobby working. Had to call a number if needed assistance.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Having someone working onsite during stated hours
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private French Pastry Class
Private French Pastry Class
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Unlock the Secrets of Perfume-Making!
Unlock the Secrets of Perfume-Making!
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Seine River Cruise
Private Seine River Cruise
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Louvre Museum Visit
Private Louvre Museum Visit
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Dec 15, 2025
Jennifer-
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

Jennifer-
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 like you truly embraced the spirit of Paris—from the pastry and perfume workshops to the river cruise—and we’re so glad these unique experiences became highlights of your journey.

We are glad we could accommodate the changes due to the girls' schedule adjustments. Your kind words mean a lot to our team, and we’ll be sure to share them with everyone involved. We look forward to welcoming you back for more memorable adventures!

Thank you, we look forward to the next kimkim adventure we can help you with.
Happy Holidays
Liz, Dili, Kate, and the rest of the France Kimkim team.

It was absolutely wonderful. We learned so m...
France | Nov 22 - Nov 28, 2025

J
Jodi K.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Nov 30, 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.

Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Dec 15, 2025
Dear Jodi,
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

Dear Jodi,
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 experience, and we hope you’ll have the chance to enjoy it on your next visit.

It was truly our pleasure to support your journey, and we’re delighted it will be one you reflect on for years to come. We look forward to helping you create more unforgettable adventures in the future!
Happy Holidays from the Kimkim team!
Liz, Dili, Kate and the rest of the France team

The whole KimKim team was fantastic. They res...
France | Nov 10 - Nov 17, 2025

E
Erin W.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2025
The whole KimKim team was fantastic. They responded to messages promptly throughout the entire experience and handled a minor cancellation beyond their control extremely quickly. We had a wonderful, well-organized, fabulous trip! We highly recommend using them and will plan to use them in the future. Read more

The whole KimKim team was fantastic. They responded to messages promptly throughout the entire experience and handled a minor cancellation beyond their control extremely quickly. We had a wonderful, well-organized, fabulous trip! We highly recommend using them and will plan to use them in the future.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Le Negresco
Nice

Loved everything about this hotel!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Le Pigonnet
Aix-en-Provence
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice
Nice
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Dec 15, 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 | Oct 25 - Oct 30, 2025

Pat
Pat D.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 13, 2025
Hello Liz and team mates,
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

Hello Liz and team mates,
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 tour company and we found an alternative that worked out fine. Had we needed more support during the trip, you were right there for us. Thanks so much,
Pat

Hotel Review
Mercure Lyon Centre Saxe Lafayette
Lyon

The pool is lovely and fine for relaxing with the jet massage or short swims. Its not for someone who needs to do laps.

Authenticity & Character
Not sure what you mean by this question. The hotel was definitely a 4 star. We did love the smiling lion at the entrance.
Location
We walked into town across the beautiful bridges. I would not call it a short walk but a short taxi ride if one is not looking for a walk.
Staff
Coped well with our intermediate French skill. Very helpful with information, reservations and suggestions. Staff in the restaurant also great. Fantastic breakfast buffet and all else we ate there. Its great to have a good restaurant and bar option on site at the end of a long day of walking, using the metro and absorbing the culture.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lovely
Activity Reviews
City Excursion by E-Bike with Food Tasting
City Excursion by E-Bike with Food Tasting
Lyon

As we said in our full review, starting off in city traffic means you need to be quite comfortable on an ebike. But alll in all, I enjoyed it- particularly the park and river paths.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bruno was very good.
Farmer's Market Day in Lyon - Croix-Rousse
Farmer's Market Day in Lyon - Croix-Rousse
Lyon

the day was rainy and we walked a long way to find the market. Take the metro or taxi. On the positive side, we had made reservations at a great restaurant for that night, and we were definitely ready for that.

Culinary Walk in Lyon Old Town
Culinary Walk in Lyon Old Town
Lyon

Wonderful way to be introduced to Lyon.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Beaujolais & Burgundy Wine Route Experience
Private Beaujolais & Burgundy Wine Route Experience
Lyon

You may recall I had some trepidation about Beaujolais area but that first stop (small, family vineyard with intro duction by the young owner) wonderful. Then the chateau with all its history and beauty and charm, the varied wines etc as we edged up toward Bugundy- lovely. Lunch in Macon where we chose a very small new place with local residents and fine dejeurner. And the final more modern looking, large enterprise when the owner's daughter did such a great job of talking about the many chardonnay varieties which were fabulous, ending with a Premier Cru. It was a wonderfull day, a full day and beyond my expectations. I would love to see the areas further north into burgundy but it was about right with the amount of time in the car- more driving would have been difficult.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private War History & Traboules Walk
Private War History & Traboules Walk
Lyon

Wonderful, don't miss

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Francois gets 5 stars, he is wonderul
Transport
We walked many steps that day but thoroughly enjoyed. See full report for details.
Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Dec 15, 2025
Dear Pat and Joan,
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

Dear Pat and Joan,
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 staff made you feel welcome with their helpfulness and great dining options. Your descriptions of the Beaujolais and Burgundy wine route experience are wonderful—we’re thrilled it exceeded expectations and gave you such memorable moments, from the family vineyard to the Premier Cru finale.

It’s also fantastic to hear how much you enjoyed the variety of activities in Lyon, from the War History & Traboules Walk with François to the culinary experiences and even the e-bike excursion. Your reflections on each activity are invaluable, and we’re glad they gave you such a rich sense of the city’s culture and character.

We truly appreciate your kind words and the trust you placed in us to help shape this trip. It was a pleasure to support you, and we hope to welcome you on another adventure in the future!
Warm regards,
Liz , Dili, Kate and the rest of the Kimkim France Team

Memorable "First" to France
France | Sep 25 - Oct 4, 2025

Susan
Susan W.
Hanover, MA | Reviewed on Nov 10, 2025
Liz and the KimKim team did a fabulous job planning our first trip to France. Liz worked with me through several iterations and connected my phone to ensure she was providing the experience we were looking for. She helped develop a very diverse 10-day trip throughout France, ensuring the places we wanted to hit - Nice, Paris, Normandy - where included and then some! Liz was always so responsive - even after our return when I had a question! She even sent some goodies - stickers and a water... Read more

Liz and the KimKim team did a fabulous job planning our first trip to France. Liz worked with me through several iterations and connected my phone to ensure she was providing the experience we were looking for. She helped develop a very diverse 10-day trip throughout France, ensuring the places we wanted to hit - Nice, Paris, Normandy - where included and then some! Liz was always so responsive - even after our return when I had a question! She even sent some goodies - stickers and a water bottle, after I booked as the trip was a gift. She even sent a hand written thank you card upon our return, such a nice touch especially when things feel so automated or less personalized.
The trip was wonderful. We especially enjoyed Champagne country, Giverny and seeing Monet's breathtaking gardens, paying our respect and learning more about history on the Normandy trip/tour, and really enjoyed the dinner cruise on the Seine. Southern France was great and so different than the north and Paris. We especially enjoyed the private tour guide we had with Lucy to see Antibes, Cannes and more. We're glad one of our day excursions also included Monaco - although that day felt more rushed and more checking in quickly to Ez, Monaco, etc - it was very brief in each area - 1 hour is all. The hotel in Nice as nice as well as Paris; however in hindsight, given where our meeting locations were in Paris for the various excursions, we wish we had a hotel that was closer to the meeting locations - especially when several days called for 6:30/6:45 am meet ups. With our hotel not being near the metro and such early times, we ended up using cabs and probably added another $250 to our trip in all the cab rides - including from the Paris hotel to the airport , which wasn't included in our other transportation. The cost for the Versailles and Giverny excursion was very expensive and wouldn't do it again, but glad we got to see the area. Our favorite excursions was the Champagne country, Normandy, private tour guide in Nice, Antibes and Cannes and the Seine dinner cruise. We were disappointed in the Notre Dame tour - the tour guide was lovely and we learned a lot, but for the money and time, all we did was walk around the exterior....it noted a tour and we were so happy given that Notre Dame had just reopened , then to find out that if we wanted to go inside we'd have to get in line which was wrapping around and a few miles long.
We enjoyed France and found everyone very kind and welcoming. Thank you for helping to create such a memorable experience!

Activity Reviews
Champagne Region Day Trip with Tastings
Champagne Region Day Trip with Tastings
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Louvre Murders & Mysteries Experience
Louvre Murders & Mysteries Experience
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jet lagged and new to Paris, would have been preferred to have a cab or transport lined up for ease and to reduce some stress - the hotel staff was helpful and helped us secure a cab
Private Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Visit
Private Notre-Dame & Sainte-Chapelle Visit
Paris

Expected a bit more - travel guide was wonderful and enjoyed Sainte Chapelle, but Notre Dame was underwhelming and disapointing to not see anything but the outside (not a lot of value as we could have just walked there and saw it on our own and saved hundreds of dollars, frankly).

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
None and had to navigate on our own, not horrible
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Paris
Quality of Experience
Transport
Really a neat experience!
Giverny & Palace of Versailles: Art, Royalty & Gardens
Giverny & Palace of Versailles: Art, Royalty & Gardens
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was more of a driver and didn't go into too much until we got to Versailles
Transport
Private French Riviera Sunset Electric Cruise (with private transfer)
Nice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full-Day Tour from Paris: D-Day Beaches Exploration
Full-Day Tour from Paris: D-Day Beaches Exploration
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Grand Riviera Journey: Eze, Monaco, Antibes & Cannes Excursion
Grand Riviera Journey: Eze, Monaco, Antibes & Cannes Excursion
Nice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Exploration of Antibes, St-Paul-de-Vence and Cannes
Full Day Exploration of Antibes, St-Paul-de-Vence and Cannes
Nice
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lucy was great!!!
Transport
loved having a private excursion - able to customize and really learn more about the area
Self-Guided Beach Day
Self-Guided Beach Day
Nice

we needed a "free day" :)

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 10, 2025
Susan-
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

Susan-
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 experience feel special. Your feedback about the excursions and logistics is invaluable. I truly appreciate your insights on the timing in Monaco and the hotel location in Paris; these are exactly the kinds of details that help us refine future trips for you and others.

I’m especially happy to hear that your favorite moments included the private tour with Lucy, the Seine dinner cruise, and the moving experience in Normandy. Your reflections on Giverny and Monet’s gardens are beautiful — it’s such a magical place, and I’m glad it resonated with you.

Thank you again for trusting me and the KimKim team with your travel dreams. It means the world to us to know we helped create lasting memories. I’d love to help you plan your next adventure whenever you’re ready — France still has so much more to offer, and beyond that, the world is waiting!

Warmest regards,
Liz Travel Specialist, and the rest of the KimKim team

Don't put it off--France awaits!
France | Oct 25 - Oct 30, 2025

J
Joan C.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Nov 05, 2025
Overall, the arrangements were excellent. The hotel was lovely and as long as folks are walkers like us, it’s well located. Otherwise, folks would be taking taxi or Metro which is fine too if they are comfortable with that. Tours:
• 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...
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Overall, the arrangements were excellent. The hotel was lovely and as long as folks are walkers like us, it’s well located. Otherwise, folks would be taking taxi or Metro which is fine too if they are comfortable with that.

Tours:
• 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 that tour, a local French couple who don’t come into the big city too often and were delightful company.

• Sunday- we were on our own and walked and walked trying to find the market which turned out to be a long, uphill walk. The market was colorful and full of fresh veggies/fruits mostly. There was a large portion of the area that was dedicated to carnival rides, attractions and fair food. Because it was Sunday the area was full of young families enjoying the day. It was interesting, we saw a lot of the city but we probably needed to do more research to focus our day.

• Monday- E-bike, 4-hour tour. Bruno, our guide, was wonderful. He does need to know when to stop talking about politics but otherwise, sensitive to our needs, knowledgeable about the city and its history, architecture and best views. Despite the separate bike and pedestrian paths, construction and vehicle barriers and city traffic made navigating on an unfamiliar bike challenging. We would say that one needs more than a passing level of skill with an E-bike. The beautiful park Tete D’Or with bike avenues was much easier. The choices were either 2- or 4-hr tours and only 3 of us chose the 4-hour tour. We did the food stop, warmed up (it was cold and rainy); then Bruno suggested we take the funicular to the Basilica due to rain (ponchos included with the bike) and the steep climb; the rest of the tour was on foot. Bruno showed us the gorgeous church upstairs and down providing lots of details about the history. Our tour ended up being a total of six hours. Though we loved the tour, we were flagging by the end and had to walk the whole way down because the funicular was closed for repairs.

Our guide Francois
One common denominator of our last two tours, both of which were private, was the outstanding skill of our guide, Francois. He bore up so well under our fledgling efforts to speak French, he shared his passion of the subject(s) and he shared immense amounts of history, culture, architecture as well as knowledge and appreciation for French local wines. Those last two days in Lyon were so valuable and enjoyable because of his gentlemanly manner and broad knowledge.

• Tuesday - French Resistance Tour 4-hour private tour.(it was reported in our itinerary to be a 3-hour tour though we were happy to spend four hours on the subject) This is a “don’t miss” tour because the history of the war years, the valor of the French citizens who sought to defy their occupiers and the cause of the French republic is a Lyon story that we all should know.

• Wednesday - Beaujolais and Burgundy wine tour. Previously we did not have a good impression of Beaujolais wine, perhaps because of drinking only Beaujolais Nouveau in the past. We’ll look for Beaujolais now that we’ve tasted wonderful examples. As we drove further north, the wines were more interesting to us, Chateau Pierreclos was fabulous, for the chateau itself and, of course, the wines. Our last stop was Burgundy white wines that were fabulous. The variety of wineries- small, family run with the tasting led by the owner, the chateau with its wonderful buildings and welcoming staff (red and white wines) and the more modern looking Nadine Ferrand -Le vin au feminin, with the tasting led by the owner’s daughter and ending with its Premier Cru white wine - was excellent and a totally enjoyable day.

Hotel Review
Mercure Lyon Centre Saxe Lafayette
Lyon
Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Dec 15, 2025
Dear Joan,
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

Dear Joan,
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 Bruno’s e-bike tour—despite the rain and challenges—still gave you memorable views and experiences. We appreciate your candid feedback about the level of skill needed for the e-bike, which will be helpful for future travelers.
François deserves special recognition, and we’re thrilled his passion, knowledge, and gentlemanly manner enriched your private tours. It’s wonderful to know the French Resistance walk left such a strong impression, and that the Beaujolais and Burgundy wine route exceeded expectations, changing your perspective on Beaujolais wines and offering such variety and depth.

We truly value the time you took to share these details, and we’re so pleased your journey combined history, culture, food, and wine in such a meaningful way. It was our pleasure to support you, and we look forward to helping you plan more memorable adventures in the future.
Warm regards,
Liz , Dili, Kate and The France Team

Paris and Southeast France - You Gotta Go
France | Sep 23 - Oct 10, 2025

J
James H.
Middleton, WI | Reviewed on Oct 31, 2025
We had a wonderful 17 days in France - Paris 4 days, Aix-en-Provence 4 days, Avignon 3 Days and back to Paris for another 6 days. Still may have wanted another day in Paris! Mostly met our expectations for the budget we provided. Private drivers and tour guides were all VERY timely (and if going to be even a minute late - they called to let us know.) Accommodations were mostly good - certainly clean and functional - but locations could have been better. But these are things one... Read more

We had a wonderful 17 days in France - Paris 4 days, Aix-en-Provence 4 days, Avignon 3 Days and back to Paris for another 6 days. Still may have wanted another day in Paris! Mostly met our expectations for the budget we provided. Private drivers and tour guides were all VERY timely (and if going to be even a minute late - they called to let us know.) Accommodations were mostly good - certainly clean and functional - but locations could have been better. But these are things one learns from going to these new places. After this trip we know the arrondissements to stay in next time.
Our best tour with A la Francaise (Aix and Avignon) was the e-bike adventure through the Luberon Valley - highly recommend. Don't miss seeing Pont du Gard, and the Calanques (from Cassis). We also left the south of France with a much better appreciation of Rhone valley wines.
Our best tour guide was Stefane from our Food and Culture tour in Paris - ask for Stefane, he is a fountain of information and a fun guy. We had this tour on the fourth day in Paris - really wanted it on the first day - that much useful infomation! The Seine River Dinner Cruise was a little campy but really well done, and the sights at night - beautiful.
Paris still has much in store for us . The entire city is basically an art museum - with a great subway system to get you around (only sane way to go). Traditional French cooking is amazing and have duck as often as you can (even had a duck burger!)

Hotel Reviews
Aparthotel Adagio Paris Montmartre
Paris
Authenticity & Character
Modern decor - no real charm
Location
Montmartre is great to visit - but staying there has it's drawbacks.
Staff
Helped us when needed
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hôtel de l’Horloge
Avignon
Authenticity & Character
Upon asking we discovered a quaint "living room" where we were able to dine in with our good from the La Halles !
Location
Definitely in the heart of the city - lots going on around us.
Staff
Throughout France we find that staff doesn't tell us much about what is available in the hotel. Of course if we spoke French we would probably get more information.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Aparthotel Adagio
Aix-en-Provence
Authenticity & Character
It's new construction -
Location
Near the edge of old city - just felt too far away
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Laundry available which was requested
Hôtel A La Villa des Artistes
Paris
Authenticity & Character
Nice hotel tucked into a side street in a busy area.
Location
Lots going on - good Metro access.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Split living - stairs up to the bedroom and tub access could be an issue for some people.
Activity Reviews
Moulin Rouge Evening Performance
Moulin Rouge Evening Performance
Paris

It was a production - Las Vegas show I cannot understand. We thought it would be a more retro show - but I guess they have to compete with everybody else and offer something spectacular. Hundred costume changes - good feats of strength (contortionist freaked us out!)

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
We walked there
Self Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles (Tickets are not included)
Self Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles (Tickets are not included)
Paris

Did not do this - but went to Musee des Artes et Metiers instead. Very cool museum dedicated to vintage science and technology - as only the French can do it. Beautiful housing and displays.

Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Paris

As I said in the summary review - campy and touristy - but you should do it. The the lit bridges and buildings were beautiful from the water. Also getting a peek at the party and private boats along the water - seeing how the Monied party in Paris. Singer was great, food very good, service passable. But you do this for the sightseeing at night.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Les Puces - Flea Market in Paris
Les Puces - Flea Market in Paris
Paris

Wasn't worth the effort to get there. Lots of transient vendors selling the same old junk - not sure anybody was buying. Found the brick and mortar antique shops in the area - nice stuff - but no deals.

At leisure: The Covered Passages of Paris
At leisure: The Covered Passages of Paris
Paris

Interesting area and shops. Also an amazing restaurant (again with the duck burger.)

The Richelieu Library at Your Own Pace
The Richelieu Library at Your Own Pace
Paris

Beautiful facility and museum. Museum has great explanations of how they acquired the holdings - some of which are extremely rare. A quite way to spend an few hours before lunch.

Camargue Day Tour
Camargue Day Tour
Avignon

Our guide from Avignon - Emile - was very pleasant, and the bird sanctuary was very interesting - but there was a lot of driving involved. The jeep tour from Aigues-Mortes was OK - but it is primarily ag land - we see a lot of that at home! The city (Aigues-Mortes) is completely walled and in good shape. Neat town.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jeep was rough - for what we saw, not quite worth the effort.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape Afternoon Wine Tour
Châteauneuf-du-Pape Afternoon Wine Tour
Avignon

We did learn much about wine in the Rhone river valley - ChatduPape being the star. Both houses different approach to the same product. Interesting

Montmartre
Montmartre
Paris

Sunday afternoon - cra cra. People everywhere. Monday morning - pleasant walk about till around 11:00 when the buses started arriving.

Afternoon Saint-Rémy, Les Baux & Pont du Gard Experience
Afternoon Saint-Rémy, Les Baux & Pont du Gard Experience
Avignon

Pont du Gard - amazing. Saint Remy - meh Les Baux - had a nice Aperol spritz -

Luberon E-Bike Adventure: Hilltop Villages
Luberon E-Bike Adventure: Hilltop Villages
Aix-en-Provence

A beautiful and vibrant valley in rural France - with may hilltop villages. E-bikes were the way to go.

Quality of Experience
Getting into rural France - biking is such a great way to experience the scenery and see these small towns.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Thomas was very nice - I do wish we could have gone a bit slower though. With everyone on E-bikes, if I stopped to look at something I might have lost the group.
Transport
Bikes operated very well, Thomas' driving very calm
Cassis Day Trip with Calanques Boat Cruise (Ticket not included)
Cassis Day Trip with Calanques Boat Cruise (Ticket not included)
Aix-en-Provence

Mostly a drive to a seaside village - but the boat trip is a must if you go.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Saint Germain Gourmet Food Walk
Saint Germain Gourmet Food Walk
Paris

This was our favorite guide - Stephane. Really provided us a great introduction to Paris and French food and French culture. Well thought out organization of the tour, and we were taken to some seriously legit food purveyors (candies, pastries, bread, cheese, and meats.) Additionally - we've been on food tours before where the guide promises to send all the information on where we went and what we ate - Stefane followed through and actually did it.

Quality of Experience
The guides unending knowledge about food and cuture.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
His enthusiasm, excellent English, and love of French food.
Transport
We were walking - Guide was on time to the meeting location.
Champagne Region Day Trip with Tastings
Champagne Region Day Trip with Tastings
Paris

Good tour - lots of time in the car driving to Reims and back to Paris. But tour guide did take us to two distinctly different champagne houses in the area: one producing 15000 bottles/year - and one 10000 bottle a DAY. If you like champagne both places are worth seeing. Our guide Enzo shared his Paris dining guide (Google Map) and this is how I found out about duck burgers!

Quality of Experience
We love champagne - do seeing
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Really nice guy. Drove like a maniac, but he had to - just to keep up with the rest of Paris drivers.
Transport
Didn't like the traffic jam! But outside the city, it was great.
Musée de l'Orangerie: Entrance tickets & Audioguides
Musée de l'Orangerie: Entrance tickets & Audioguides
Paris

Really a lovely museum with some really impressive works of art. But be ready for a hundred Instagram posers looking for that perfect shot in front of the Monet. It gets annoying - try to find a really really slow day to go!

Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Nov 04, 2025
Hi James-
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

Hi James-
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 the learning curve when exploring new places, and we’re glad you now have a clearer idea of where you’d like to stay next time. That kind of insight is exactly what makes future travels even better.

We’re especially delighted that the e-bike adventure through the Luberon Valley stood out—it’s one of our favorites too! And thank you for highlighting Stefane; we’ll be sure to pass along your praise. He’ll be thrilled to know he made such a lasting impression.

Your tips—from Pont du Gard and the Calanques to Rhone Valley wines and duck burgers—are spot on and will surely inspire other travelers. Paris truly is a living art museum, and we’re so glad it still holds more for you to discover.

We hope to welcome you back soon for another adventure—perhaps with that extra day in Paris next time!

Thanks
Liz, Dili, Kate, and the rest of the France team!

7 Days in France (Nice and Paris)
France | Oct 16 - Oct 22, 2025

D
David F.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Oct 27, 2025
My Wife and I spent 7 days in France with the help of Liz, our Travel Specialist, and the Operations Team. We were very happy with KimKim and our trip. Liz had several great ideas on how to organize and improve our agenda. The contractors hired by KimKim to transport us and guide us were top-notch. In the south, we spent a day with a guide visiting Eze and Monaco as well as the Rothschild Ville. Theo, our Guide, was excellent in his knowledge, affability, and well-connected to get us... Read more

My Wife and I spent 7 days in France with the help of Liz, our Travel Specialist, and the Operations Team. We were very happy with KimKim and our trip. Liz had several great ideas on how to organize and improve our agenda. The contractors hired by KimKim to transport us and guide us were top-notch. In the south, we spent a day with a guide visiting Eze and Monaco as well as the Rothschild Ville. Theo, our Guide, was excellent in his knowledge, affability, and well-connected to get us in places and reservations for lunch, etc.. His knowledge of the area was excellent, and he was very patient with our questions.

Later, we traveled without hick-up to Paris on the TGV trains. Once again pick-up service was flawless, and we started the Paris portion of our trip with a dinner cruise on the Seine River. We had KimKim hire guides for a tour of Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle. We were again extremely pleased with the guide and his knowledge. These guides are worth every penny as they make the experience so much richer. No way we could have had half the experience without their local knowledge and historical context.

My only minor correction or suggestion was the seating assignments on the river cruise. The seats were a little tight and would have preffered a better spot on the boat.

Thanks again to Liz and the Ops Team for taking such good care of us.

The App we used, as well as the personalized Tips Video of our Trip, and all the care and attention during our trip were spot on. Not over or underdone.

Best Regards,
David Faber

Local specialist: Liz Chreist
Liz
Liz Chreist
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Oct 29, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your experience — we’re thrilled to hear that your 7-day journey through France was memorable! It’s wonderful to know that I was able to help craft an itinerary that truly resonated with you and that our trusted guides and drivers delivered top-notch service throughout. We’re especially happy to hear that Theo made your day in the South of France so special — his deep knowledge and thoughtful connections are exactly what we hope to offer through every local... Read more

Thank you so much for sharing your experience — we’re thrilled to hear that your 7-day journey through France was memorable! It’s wonderful to know that I was able to help craft an itinerary that truly resonated with you and that our trusted guides and drivers delivered top-notch service throughout.

We’re especially happy to hear that Theo made your day in the South of France so special — his deep knowledge and thoughtful connections are exactly what we hope to offer through every local expert. And we couldn’t agree more: having passionate, well-informed guides can transform a trip from great to unforgettable. Your appreciation for the Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle tours in Paris means a lot to us.

Thank you also for your thoughtful feedback regarding the river cruise seating — we’ll be sure to pass that along to our partners to help improve future experiences.

Lastly, we’re glad the app and personalized Tips Video I created for you added value to your trip without being overwhelming. We strive for that balance, and it’s great to hear it hit the mark.

We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to help you plan another adventure soon!

Warm regards,
Liz and the KimKim Team