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Melanie Rapuano

My name is Melanie and I'm a Travel Specialist based here in Italy! I'm half Italian and half British and I come from a city just off the Amalfi Coast!
I've always loved creating travel plans for myself and for family and friends, even for places I'd never been to.
When arranging a trip I love mixing sightseeing with local experiences, experiences which really talk about the country, the people, the tastes, the smells and which you can take back home with you not only in a photo, but as a feeling too!

As a mum of 2 small children I also try my best to help with family trips, because we all know the saying happy children, happy parents, especially on holiday!!

I like to think of myself as your friend in Italy, the one who helps you plan your trips from a local point of view, just as if you were asking a friend about her beautiful country!

I've traveled ever since I can remember and I've always loved calling a place a ''home'' even if just for a few days and this is what I hope I can share with you about my part of the world!

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in the whole of Italy, there isn't a corner we haven't discovered!
Our experiences vary from sightseeing private and group tours to limoncello making in a local lemon grove, to a cooking class in a Tuscan farm to private boat trips on the Amalfi Coast!Truffle hunting in Piemonte or a jeep experience on Mt Etna? We have it all covered with English speaking, professionals who can't wait to share their unique stories with you!
And if you are travelling with children, we make sure it's completely child friendly with a glass of wine for the grown ups!"

How did you get involved in travel?

"I guess I've always been involved in travel! Being half British I've always helped friends and family come to Italy and enjoy our everyday life! By the time I was 12 I think I'd been to Pompeii 15 times already not to mention the fact the Amalfi Coast is on my doorstep which made everyone want to come and visit me even more!
It's in my DNA!"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"When travelling around Norway I stopped off to take some pictures in what seemed the middle of nowhere and I naturally took out my bottle of water and a snack. I was stopped by a Norwegian lady on a bike, she asked me why I was drinking bottled water. She told me Norwegians don't believe in buying water and went on about giving me some ''storytelling'' about how Norwegians lived. It was a random moment but it was so special, she took her time to talk to me about her beautiful country and share with me parts of everyday life which I would have never known!"

Melanie is part of the following groups: Italy Travel Agents, Italy Luxury Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Italian Art, Landscapes & Food: Rome, Amalfi Coast, Florence & Venice - 11 Days
Art, food, and beauty are celebrated and cherished in Italy, and this 11-day itinerary leans into that good life. This moderately-paced trip begins in Rome, the capital, where...
Venice, Florence, Amalfi Coast & Rome - 9 Days
This 9-day itinerary is perfect for adventurous travelers who are short on time. Start in the floating city of Venice to explore city canals and tour ornate palaces, then...
Florence, Cinque Terre, Rome, & Amalfi Coast - 12 Days
This 12-day trip perfectly combines the cultural and historic aspects of Italy's most notable cities with laidback relaxation on the Mediterranean sea. Admire the stunning Duomo...
Family itineraries
10 Days in Italy - 4 Family-Friendly Itineraries
With thousands of years of cultural and culinary history, Italy offers plenty to take in. In 10 days, you can choose to go deep on a particular region or hop between the high...
1 Week in Italy - 4 Family-Friendly Itineraries
Bring your whole brood abroad to experience Italy's delicious food, ancient history, and glittering coastlines with these week-long itineraries. The country has something for...
Leisurely Italy With Small Children: Rome, Sorrento & Naples - 10 Days
Parents who want to travel with small children without disrupting their fellow explorers can turn to this 10-day itinerary. You'll explore Rome's archaeological and religious...
Luxury itineraries
2 Weeks in Italy - 4 Luxury Itinerary Ideas
With two weeks in Italy, you can experience Venice, Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast on a luxurious highlights tour, or take a more leisurely approach by sticking to one or...
Luxury Italian Highlights: Venice, Florence, Amalfi Coast & Rome - 10 Days
If spending a week and a half exploring the best that Italy has to offer sounds like your dream vacation, this luxury-infused itinerary is your perfect match. Start in Venice,...
Road trip itineraries
Road Trip Around the Scenic Sicilian Coast - 15 Days
An island as beautiful and historically rich as Sicily deserves to be experienced at a leisurely pace. This 15-day itinerary features beaches and cathedrals, fishing villages...
Tuscany Self-Drive Tour - 7 Days
Spend a week exploring the best of Tuscany on this weeklong road trip! You'll begin in Florence, touring the city's historic center with an expert guide before picking up your...
Discover Venice, Tuscany & Rome - 14 Days
Travelers with two weeks to spare will love this Italy tour, which offers a mix of guided excursions and free time. The adventure starts in Venice, where you'll glide through...

Favorite experiences

Pizza Cooking Class in Naples
Pizza Cooking Class in Naples

Learn what makes authentic Neapolitan pizza the best pizza in the world with a family-friendly cooking class. Uncover all the secrets of this great Italian wonder in the exclusive company of a pizza chef. To start, your guide will lead you to the restaurant of one of the oldest families of...

Toddler-Friendly Family Walking Tour in Venice
Toddler-Friendly Family Walking Tour in Venice

Get your bearings and enjoy a fun, family-friendly orientation walking tour of beautiful Venice. Designed specifically for younger kids (toddlers and preschoolers), you’ll enjoy an exciting scavenger hunt filled with games and coloring.Oh no, kids! Poor Marco, the lion, is so worried—his friends...

Family Food Tour & Cooking in Rome
Family Food Tour & Cooking in Rome

In this family-friendly tour of Rome’s food culture, you’ll first enjoy the city’s markets and then learn how to make traditional pizza on your own. Kids and families love this experience, as it offers lifetime memories and teaches new skills. You’ll visit Rome's most beautiful and ancient...

The perfect glass of Chianti
Chianti Wine Tasting & Farm Lunch

Absorb Chianti’s scenic countryside with a driving and winetasting tour. You’ll twist and turn along panoramic roads, tour wine cellars, learn about the history of growing Chianti grapes, and savor a traditional lunch of local products on a family farm. As you set off for Chianti, enjoy the...

Cinque Terre Sea Kayaking Tour
Cinque Terre Sea Kayaking Tour

Enjoy Cinque Terre from a different perspective with a morning or sunset sea kayak tour. You’ll paddle from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, discovering cliffs and caves and swimming in the crystalline water. Kayaking allows you to explore otherwise inaccessible coastlines. Enjoy this special...

Cinque Terre
Sunset e-Bike Wine Tour in Cinque Terre

Discover the picturesque vineyards of Ca’du Ferrà on an exciting e-bike tour. Starting in Levanto, you’ll pedal up into the hill and reach the scenic vineyards, which stand at over 1,000 feet (350 m) above sea level. Stop here to visit a vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting in the cellar with some...

Recent trip reviews for Melanie

Our trip to Italy
Italy | Oct 1 - Oct 10, 2025

Kevin
Kevin R.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Oct 13, 2025
Our trip to Italy was absolutely amazing thanks to the KimKim team! Every detail — from the hotels and excursions to the seamless communication throughout the journey — was handled flawlessly.
A special shout-out to Melanie and Fabrizio for their outstanding support, attention to detail, and genuine care in making sure everything went perfectly. Their recommendations and responsiveness made all the difference.
We couldn’t have asked for a smoother or more memorable experience — we’ll... Read more

Our trip to Italy was absolutely amazing thanks to the KimKim team! Every detail — from the hotels and excursions to the seamless communication throughout the journey — was handled flawlessly.
A special shout-out to Melanie and Fabrizio for their outstanding support, attention to detail, and genuine care in making sure everything went perfectly. Their recommendations and responsiveness made all the difference.
We couldn’t have asked for a smoother or more memorable experience — we’ll definitely be using KimKim again for our next adventure!

Hotel Reviews
Central Wellness Hotel Sorrento
Sorrento

Very nice hotel. Updated and very clean. Staff is wonderful. Good location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Le Clarisse al Pantheon
Rome

Very nice hotel, Clean. The service here was top notch.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Centrally located
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Luna Convento
Amalfi

This is an amazing hotel. Centrally located (4 minutes from town) The staff is wonderful and kind. Very clean.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Oct 13, 2025

Hi Kevin,

thank you so much for your review and for booking your special trip with me.
Me and the team are so happy you had a wonderful stay and everything went smoothly, and you definitely had the best weather for it too.

Thanks again and I look forward to helping you plan your next trip.

A presto,
Melanie

Read all Italy reviews

30th Anniversary Southern Italy Trip
Italy | Sep 10 - Sep 22, 2025

Glenn
Glenn Z.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025
My wife, Lindsay, and I had a fantastic 30th anniversary trip -- BIG THANKS to KimKim as well as our travel planner Melanie Rapuano! We also had nice help from Giovanna, with Italy Charme (partnered with KimKim). This was a special vacation not just because of our anniversary, but also because I wanted to go to the town where my Italian side of my family is from. The challenge? It's a VERY small town in a relatively remote area of the Basilicata region. Melanie and the KimKim team made... Read more

My wife, Lindsay, and I had a fantastic 30th anniversary trip -- BIG THANKS to KimKim as well as our travel planner Melanie Rapuano! We also had nice help from Giovanna, with Italy Charme (partnered with KimKim). This was a special vacation not just because of our anniversary, but also because I wanted to go to the town where my Italian side of my family is from. The challenge? It's a VERY small town in a relatively remote area of the Basilicata region.

Melanie and the KimKim team made everything easy. Yes, I could have booked most of the trip on my own. But it would have been SO much more time consuming...which company should I rent a car from? Which hotels are the best for our needs? Where should we go first, second, etc...? All of these kinds of questions are where Melanie was a tremendous help. She was ALWAYS available...before and during the trip. She listened to what we wanted, asked a number of questions at the beginning of the process, and then NAILED IT with every aspect of the trip -- from the hotels she chose for us, to the fast answers to every question, every detail was taken care of.

Here's where we went:
* Flew into Naples from Atlanta (USA)
* Spent two nights in Salerno, with a day-trip to Positano / Amalfi coast.
* Picked up a rental car and drove to the Basilicata region...stayed two nights at Aura Glamping (HIGHLY recommend!) and visited my family's hometown of Accettura, as well as two incredibly beautiful nearby towns (Pietrapertosa and Castlemezzano)...did the zipline between both towns, billed as one of the longest and highest in Europe.
* Drove to Matera and stayed one night (incredible town!)
* Drove to Tropea, in Calabria, and stayed 5 nights. Melanie helped arrange for a private snorkling trip as well as a cooking class in the countryside -- both were PERFECT and very memorable.
* Drove back up to Naples and spent two nights there, including a walking food tour of the town, before flying back home.

I would highly recommend KimKim. And if you're traveling to Italy, request to work with Melanie -- she's the BEST!

Glenn

Hotel Reviews
Napoli Tree - Lungomare
Naples

Fantastic B&B very close to the waterfront.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rocca della Sena
Tropea

We will be back. That should say enough! It's a great hotel, with friendly staff and a to-die-for view, perched right above the beach.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Excellent location with easy access to the beach and many lidos (we enjoyed Lido Charley for food, and Lido Costa Degli Dei for it's great position on a sandy part of the beach).
Staff
Big thanks to Georgia at the front desk (such a nice person!) and to Francesco, behind the bar (appreciate the grappa and also the fact that he knew how to make a great Old Fashioned!).
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and super comfortable!
Aura Glamping Experience
Accettura

This is owned by my 3rd cousin, Giuliano. So, yes, I'm a little biased. But I would say this even if he wasn't my cousin -- Aura Glamping is AMAZING! If you want a relaxed place to stay, off the beaten track, and have plans to be in the Basilicata region...you need to consider Aura Glamping!

Authenticity & Character
Location
The views of Accettura and the surrounding countryside are amazing!
Staff
Giuliano is a gracious host, and he brings a morning breakfast in a beautiful picnic basket...complete with everything you could want!
Cleanliness & Comfort
The "yurt" was spotlessly clean, and has a very nice bathroom with toilet, sink, shower, bidet -- a true luxury in a camp setting (the reason for calling this "Glamping!"
Hotel Montestella
Salerno

A very nice hotel, close to the waterfront and ferries that take you to the Amalfi coast. Great shopping and restaurants within walking distance from the hotel. They have an awesome breakfast as well! The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that we arrived a little early and our room wasn't ready. We waited for nearly two hours in the lobby...the person at the front desk never told us when our room was ready (despite walking by us several times, and seeing my wife asleep in the lobby). Checkin was supposed to be 2:00. We still hadn't been told the room was ready, and had to go to the front desk and ask if it was ready yet. The response? "Your papers?" AGAIN -- this was annoying but we were early, so I kind of understand. Otherwise, the hotel was fantastic!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The lobby, breakfast area, and rooms were spotless. The only downside was that the paint was peeling from above our terrace and dropping in large pieces onto the table outside of our room.
Activity Reviews
Naples walking food and historical tour
Naples walking food and historical tour
Italy

Very nice walking tour of Naples. I wish there was more food involved, but we learned a lot!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Cooking Class in the Tropea Countryside
Private Cooking Class in the Tropea Countryside
Tropea

Excellent class -- highly recommend!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Costa degli Dei - Tropea Capo Vaticano in a Dinghy!
Costa degli Dei - Tropea Capo Vaticano in a Dinghy!
Tropea

Melanie made this extra special by booking a private snorkling tour, rather than this larger group that we had initially planned to be with. So, I can't really provide a review of this trip "by dinghy." Instead, we were on a bow-rider outboard engine boat, skippered by a guy named Lorenzo. He was an incredible host and knew all the best spots to snorkel. Lorenzo also has a vast knowledge of the local history -- we not only had a great time snorkling, but also learned a ton!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
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Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Sep 29, 2025
Hi Glenn and Lindsay, what can I say, this kind of trip, where it's not just a holiday but it's actually getting to know the country, these reviews and of course planning for people like you is what reminds me everyday why I love my job.
I'm so pleased you had such a memorable trip, and I will be telling the story of how we found your counsin, without looking, for a very long time. I always say I don't plan a trip, WE PLAN a trip together. I just do all the hard work to make the trip... Read more

Hi Glenn and Lindsay,

what can I say, this kind of trip, where it's not just a holiday but it's actually getting to know the country, these reviews and of course planning for people like you is what reminds me everyday why I love my job.
I'm so pleased you had such a memorable trip, and I will be telling the story of how we found your counsin, without looking, for a very long time.

I always say I don't plan a trip, WE PLAN a trip together. I just do all the hard work to make the trip exactly how you want it, so I think it was a success.

Sorry about the Montestella hotel, I wish you had informed us , we would have kept on top of things for you.

Thanks again for everything, I look forward to booking your next trip to Italy, we might find another counsin somewhere!

Melanie went above and beyond to make sure ou...
Italy | Jun 22 - Jul 5, 2025

Peggy
Peggy S.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jul 12, 2025
Melanie went above and beyond to make sure our crew was well taken care of. Everything was planned nicely. Read more

Melanie went above and beyond to make sure our crew was well taken care of. Everything was planned nicely.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Villa Pinciana
Rome
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hilton Sorrento Palace
Sorrento
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 14, 2025

Hi Peggy,
thank you so much for your review and I'm so pleased you got to enjoy this special family trip!
I look forward to your next trip to Italy!

Thanks again,
Melanie

Read all Italy reviews

We have no complaints about any part of our t...
Italy | Jun 20 - Jul 1, 2025

S
scott v.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jul 08, 2025

We have no complaints about any part of our trip. The communication and coordination was seamless, it definitely allowed us to focus on having fun. Our guides were excellent (Marta, Michael (boat) and the guide in Pompeii), extremely knowledgeable and accommodating. The drivers were all outstanding as well, again very communicative. Melanie and her team did a great job coordinating and making timely suggestions. They were able to adapt quickly and stayed engaged the entire trip. Job well done, thank you.

Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
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Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 09, 2025

Hi Scott,
thank you so much for your review!

I'm so pleased it all worked out even if we had to make some last minute changes due to your work and then the train strikes in Venice!! It all went smoothly and I'm so pleased as a family you were able to relax, enjoy and visit Italy!

Thanks again for booking with me and the team here at ItalyCharme and Kimkim and we look forward to your next Italian trip!

A presto,
Melanie

Read all Italy reviews

Service beyond compare…
Italy | Jun 22 - Jul 5, 2025

Dyann
Dyann J.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 08, 2025

While every single city had a fabulous tour guide that was extremely knowledgeable about the city and landmarks and culture; what stood out the most was the personal service anytime we had questions or needed help during traveling. Le Dani and Melanie were never out of reach and were able to connect us to the best experience I have ever had while traveling. Our trip to Italy was beyond any experience I’ve ever had. This is only due to their service.

Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
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Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 20, 2025

Hi Dyann,
on behalf of myself, Daniela and the rest of the team, a big warm thank you!
I know I keep saying it but it really means the world to me to have been able to help just make some of those memories you have all shared here in Italy, and it was truly a pleasure.

Thanks again and I look forward to your next trip to Italy!!

All the best from us,
Melanie, Daniela and the team at ItalyCharme and kimkim!

Melanie is absolutely amazing. She presents a...
Italy | Jun 22 - Jul 5, 2025

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Nate T.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 08, 2025

Melanie is absolutely amazing. She presents a deep level of care and attentiveness so we never felt like we were left hanging. This coupled with her thorough planning and exceptional knowledge resulted in a once in a lifetime experience we will never forget. There are truly no words for the experience she was able to curate for us.

Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 08, 2025

Hi Nate,
thank you so much for your review! I actually felt I was with you all from time to time, maybe next time I'll come and join you for a prosecco on the terrace!

A big GRAZIE from me and the whole team!
A presto,
Melanie

Read all Italy reviews

Once in a Lifetime Trip
Italy | Jun 22 - Jul 5, 2025

Paul & Mary Ann
Paul & Mary Ann S.
Nicetown-Tioga, PA | Reviewed on Jul 06, 2025
Melanie made this family trip a once in a lifetime trip. We started planning over 20 months ahead and she led me through all the necessary details once I laid out things we wanted to see and places we wanted to visit. She set up a couple of unbelievable events that made the trip beyond description. I had 13 of my family the first week and 11 continued onto week 2. She made all the arrangements for our visit from hotels and tour guides; all of which were the best! I even asked her to make... Read more

Melanie made this family trip a once in a lifetime trip. We started planning over 20 months ahead and she led me through all the necessary details once I laid out things we wanted to see and places we wanted to visit. She set up a couple of unbelievable events that made the trip beyond description. I had 13 of my family the first week and 11 continued onto week 2. She made all the arrangements for our visit from hotels and tour guides; all of which were the best! I even asked her to make some dinner reservations away from tourists and they were all great restaurants reserved! The suggestion of the private boat tour out to Capri was worth the entire trip - it was fabulous! My daughter and granddaughters called her throughout the trip to locate the tour guides or see verify the plans for the day and she was always available to us. In fact, there were times when I called from the states and it was late at night, when she was homes with her kids but still answered the phone and handled all my questions. She and her team were the greatest! I would never do an Italy tour without them!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Pendini
Florence

The Hotel Pendini in Florence had some challenges. The room I ended up in was very small, which made it difficult to move around, especially considering my wife's wheelchair. The air conditioning was not up to par, which is a common thing in European hotels, but made our stay a bit uncomfortable.

Hilton Sorrento Palace
Sorrento

The Hilton Sorrento Palace was our favorite accommodation on the trip. It was really nice, with great pools and excellent air conditioning. It provided a comfortable and enjoyable stay for everyone, including the kids who loved it.

Activity Review
The Ruins of Pompeii & Winery on the Vesuvius
The Ruins of Pompeii & Winery on the Vesuvius
Italy

The Ruins of Pompeii & Winery on the Vesuvius tour was outstanding. The guide was amazing and very considerate, especially with us having a wheelchair. He expertly maneuvered through the tricky terrain, always ensuring we were comfortable, and even made sure that we were always standing in the shad. It exceeded all our expectations.

Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jul 08, 2025
Hi Paul, it took me a few days to reply to your review and even now I am smiling with tears (happy ones) in my eyes. I can't really descibe what a pleasure it has been; from day one, when we had no idea about dates, number of people, not really sure where you wanted to go, all I remember you saying was ''I want this to be the best holiday for my whole family'' and I immediately knew I had to make it as special as I could! And yes, we had a few calls with my screaming babies and even then you... Read more

Hi Paul,

it took me a few days to reply to your review and even now I am smiling with tears (happy ones) in my eyes. I can't really descibe what a pleasure it has been; from day one, when we had no idea about dates, number of people, not really sure where you wanted to go, all I remember you saying was ''I want this to be the best holiday for my whole family'' and I immediately knew I had to make it as special as I could! And yes, we had a few calls with my screaming babies and even then you would say, just enjoy the madness.

So thank you once again for trusting me completely with your special holiday and I wish you all the best, you have a great family and I feel honoured to have had you as my guests.

My best wished to Mary Ann, take care Paul and GRAZIE!

Melanie

We just returned from our 13-day family adventure to Italy with six different stops and it was outstanding. Kimkim and Melanie in Italy are the best.
Italy | Jun 17 - Jun 28, 2025

Janine
Janine Z.
San Carlos, CA | Reviewed on Jun 29, 2025
We just returned from our 13-day adventure to Italy that we coordinated via our local specialist Melanie. It was superb. This was our second kimkim trip (the first was to the Galapagos) and I can't imagine planning a trip any other way. It is such a treat to have someone knowledgeable and thoughtful like Melanie to talk through the itinerary, make adjustments, handle all the hotel reservations and transfers and activities and guides and then to be able to focus on enjoying each stop. And when... Read more

We just returned from our 13-day adventure to Italy that we coordinated via our local specialist Melanie. It was superb. This was our second kimkim trip (the first was to the Galapagos) and I can't imagine planning a trip any other way. It is such a treat to have someone knowledgeable and thoughtful like Melanie to talk through the itinerary, make adjustments, handle all the hotel reservations and transfers and activities and guides and then to be able to focus on enjoying each stop. And when small things occur, to have someone just a WhatsApp text away, who responds immediately with support and guidance. Giovanna's texts each evening with the next-day plans were terrific. So much more to say about their attention to detail, etc. But basically the headline is don't hesitate to book an Italy trip through kimkim and Melanie.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Gardena Venezia
Venice

Lobby is a bit underwhelming with torn couch upon entry and ugly old furniture to the side. But rooms are clean and comfortable and the courtyard for breakfast is lovely.

Location
Staff
Woman at front desk was a bit intense. Not a warm welcome but we worked it out.
Cleanliness & Comfort
C-hotels Club
Firenze

Adequate hotel.

Central Wellness Hotel Sorrento
Sorrento

Two-room family room was new and fresh and great. Pool was nice. A bit of noisy tree-cutting or something adjacent during our stay but probably not a long-term issue. Would recommend.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It's far from the action which is a plus and a minus depending on your preference.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
new rooms.
Relais Le Clarisse Rome
Rome

This hotel was wonderful except for one person at checkin. GREAT location. Love Trastevere. Loved the courtyard. The rooms had enormous charm. Having to use phones to get in rooms was not awesome.

Authenticity & Character
Stunning converted convent or something.
Location
Trastevere!
Staff
All good except one guy who was working when we arrived.
Cleanliness & Comfort
very clean and quiet.
Activity Reviews
The Accademia Gallery tour - skip the line
The Accademia Gallery tour - skip the line
Florence

Our guide here was very friendly. We loved seeing the David and some of the other art. But again, as was typical for some of the guides, it was like she was reciting a memorized script and could not adapt to younger kids or husband who was just not that interested in all the detail.

Small group Uffizi smart tour
Small group Uffizi smart tour
Florence

Our guide arrived harried. She had just completed another tour. This was somewhat typical for some of the guides. Too overworked in the summer. Still, we learned a lot.

Venice Walking Tour with St. Marks Basilica and Gondola Ride
Venice Walking Tour with St. Marks Basilica and Gondola Ride
Italy

We liked Giovanni a lot. We did not go into St. Marks because of long line and heat. But enjoyed the explanation of the square, etc.

Boat tour along the Amalfi Coast
Boat tour along the Amalfi Coast
Sorrento

Outstanding. Friendliest boat crew. A great day but be prepared for crowds in Positano and Amalfi. Loved swimming off the boat.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Pompeii Walking Tour
Explore Pompeii Walking Tour
Italy

Pompeii is amazing. But our tour guide Daniel was extremely gruff. Too overworked like some of the others. He did not like to be interrupted with questions. Nevertheless, enjoyed.

Golf Cart Tour Experience & Jewish Quarter with Colosseum Tour
Golf Cart Tour Experience & Jewish Quarter with Colosseum Tour
Rome

Both great. Our favorite guide of the tour was Santos for our golf cart tour. Didn't see much of the Jewish Quarter but got a feel for Trastevere and Rome in general. Colosseum was a delight to see. And we asked the guide to take us to the Arch of Titus as well, which I had wanted to see.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jun 30, 2025
Hi Janine,
thank you so much for leaving your review! Of course thanks to whatsapp we were in touch daily. I'm sorry about the guides and if they seemed overworked, as you can imagine the summer, the heat, the crowds (especially this year with the Jubilee) is really taking a toll on them, but in no way is this an excuse, so thank you for acknowledging that and understanding. I'm pleased you enjoyed the Hotels, Le Clarisse is definitely a favourite of ours too, being in such a large busy... Read more

Hi Janine,
thank you so much for leaving your review! Of course thanks to whatsapp we were in touch daily.

I'm sorry about the guides and if they seemed overworked, as you can imagine the summer, the heat, the crowds (especially this year with the Jubilee) is really taking a toll on them, but in no way is this an excuse, so thank you for acknowledging that and understanding.

I'm pleased you enjoyed the Hotels, Le Clarisse is definitely a favourite of ours too, being in such a large busy city and then enjoying the calmness and charm, really helps recharge!

The Central Wellness was picked because it's not right in the center but not too far away, being in the center of Sorrento, especially when on such a busy schedule and with kids, can really take it's toll as young tourists are often in the streets until 3am (I'm sure they think it's Ibiza) so being a little tucked away, really helps on the sleep factor!

I know Isernia was a success too, of which me and Givoanna are so happy about, fate after all!

I tried to add the hotel in Ischia for you but as it's not yet in the kimkim's DB we didn't make it in time for the review, but I know how much you liked that too.

Thanks again Janine and your family for booking with me, I'm so happy you all enjoyed your holiday and we all look forward to your next trip to Italia!

Melanie, Giovanna and the rest of the team at ItalyCharme and Kimkim!

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Melanie was fantastic, a dream to work with. ...
Italy | Jun 3 - Jun 18, 2025

Heather
Heather M.
Lakeside, CA | Reviewed on Jun 26, 2025
Melanie was fantastic, a dream to work with. I am looking forward to planning a trip with her again. As with any normal trip, there were some bumps and bruises with a couple of the excursions, due to the tour/guide themselves, not Melanie or KimKim, but overall it was a phenomenal trip and we had a truly fantastic time. I can't thank Melanie enough. Read more

Melanie was fantastic, a dream to work with. I am looking forward to planning a trip with her again. As with any normal trip, there were some bumps and bruises with a couple of the excursions, due to the tour/guide themselves, not Melanie or KimKim, but overall it was a phenomenal trip and we had a truly fantastic time. I can't thank Melanie enough.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Gardena Venezia
Venice
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Doria Palace Boutique Hotel
Rome
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
They were truly wonderful, friendly, and helpful. Took great care of us!
Cleanliness & Comfort
If you like AC control you need to tell the front desk. A lot of stairs, only one person can fit in the elevator.
La Residenza Fiorentina
Firenze
Authenticity & Character
Location
Across the street from the train station so the front view is not beautiful, but the location in terms of getting everywhere is pretty fantastic.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Issue with the AC not working in one of the rooms due to construction.
Central Wellness Hotel Sorrento
Sorrento
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
The Accademia Gallery tour - skip the line
The Accademia Gallery tour - skip the line
Florence
Rome Food Tour
Rome Food Tour
Rome
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Pompeii Walking Tour with driver half day
Private Pompeii Walking Tour with driver half day
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Andrew was fantastic!
Transport
Historical Rome walking tour and Colosseum guided Tour
Historical Rome walking tour and Colosseum guided Tour
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Venice Walking and Gondola Tour
Private Venice Walking and Gondola Tour
Venice

Giovanni was fantastic!!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Florence cooking class and market tour - private tour
Florence cooking class and market tour - private tour
Florence

One of our favorite parts of the trip.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boat tour: Fishing and lunch on board
Boat tour: Fishing and lunch on board
Sorrento

Angela and Luigi are a truly beautiful people, we had the best day with them. They customized the experience for us, interacted with us, cooked amazing food for us, we all felt like old friends when we left them at the end of the day. It was an extraordinary experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walking tour to discover the local artisans workshop experience
Walking tour to discover the local artisans workshop experience
Florence
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour
Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Photo taken by Heather M
Photo taken by Heather M
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jun 27, 2025
Hi Heather,
thank you so much for taking the time to leave your lovely review.
Helping you plan your family trip was fun from the first email, it felt like we were always on the same track and we definitely worked on this together. I'm so pleased it worked out and you all had a fantastic holiday!
Regarding the Florence artisan tour our guide informed us that there weren't any real artisans open during the tour and instead of going to the ''fake ones'' which are just tourist traps, she... Read more

Hi Heather,
thank you so much for taking the time to leave your lovely review.
Helping you plan your family trip was fun from the first email, it felt like we were always on the same track and we definitely worked on this together. I'm so pleased it worked out and you all had a fantastic holiday!
Regarding the Florence artisan tour our guide informed us that there weren't any real artisans open during the tour and instead of going to the ''fake ones'' which are just tourist traps, she prefered to go to a pottery artisan as at least he was a genuine local artisan. Again, I'm sorry this wasn't the tour you expected and next time we will just stick to the local activities; I'm sure Angela and Luigi would love to have you all back!

I can't wait to plan your next trip to Italy Heather and thanks again for booking this trip with me.

A presto,
Melanie

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We used Melanie for our family with 2 teenage...
Italy | Jun 6 - Jun 18, 2025

J
janet k.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 19, 2025
We used Melanie for our family with 2 teenagers. When planning for Italy, we tried to plan on our own at first but it was quite overwhelming especially coming from the US and for 13days. It was worth using Melanie's planning services especially with our limited time to travel as a family and to make the best use of our time! Our two teens kept saying the following " the way she planned this makes complete sense! and the tour guides were so nice and tailored the tours and conversations to... Read more

We used Melanie for our family with 2 teenagers. When planning for Italy, we tried to plan on our own at first but it was quite overwhelming especially coming from the US and for 13days. It was worth using Melanie's planning services especially with our limited time to travel as a family and to make the best use of our time! Our two teens kept saying the following " the way she planned this makes complete sense! and the tour guides were so nice and tailored the tours and conversations to their interests! that they loved the tours and felt it was well paced " Things that would have stressed us out, like navigating pickups, arranging tours to, how to navigate the train systems, Melanie planned every detail out. We were so relaxed with very little to worry about, and she had people everyday make sure that we were good with our day schedule. She planned it so that the kids and parents got to do the "right amount" of tours, down time, exploring on our own. It's so funny , it's hard to imagine these things can be stressful on a trip, but when you are working with Melanie, and once you are in the trip, we all started saying, that makes sense to arrange this on this date, and this place first... at one point the trains needed to be switched and she took care of it seamlessly. All the stuff I would read online on Italy travel planning before caused a bit of anxiety when they were planning their own trips, but with Melanie, we didn't have to worry about it, because her itinerary and services just worked. Additionally, when my girl and I got sick, she followed up with us on how to best get care. It felt very comfortable, like you had family helping navigate you through Italy. We will for sure use her again when we come back to explore other parts of Italy. Communication was very prompt, and drivers were kind and courteous, and Melanie and Agoda were fabulous in taking care of each step. Highly recommended !

Hotel Reviews
VENICE TIME HOTEL
Venice

perfect place, beautiful, great breakfast, people were so kind and welcoming Beautiful courtyard. Close to everything yet quiet and feels like a secret getaway from all the bustle to relax at night. Even had gluten free breakfast!

Authenticity & Character
Location
little alley , safe but literally close to the main areas
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
So' Lifestyle Hotel Sorrento
Sorrento

The best hotel for Sorrento, when the beachclubs can only offer so much, like more tanning than anything, this hotel had a wonderful beautiful pool to refresh. Highly recommended! even had gluten free breakfast! Kind staff and very clean and modern

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Della Conciliazione
Rome

perfect spot! close to vatican and yet only 20min walk to main shopping and sites. Didn't realize this hotel was right in front of the most charming brick laden street , quiet little souvenir shops, 3 gelatos all within the same street, outside restaurants patio dining, but yet quiet and right amount of bustle to make you feel part of something. Lovely beautiful hotel. Great breakfast. Lovely staff. Highly recommend. clean !

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice

Amazing gondola ride, our tour guide we didn't realize was so famous! He even sang for us! Our teen girls loved this.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private boat tour on the Amalfi Coast
Private boat tour on the Amalfi Coast
Italy

Must do! Our teens loved the private boat, had a bathroom, very clean, sunbathed on the desk, and skipper was so kind and flexible. Spent the whole day stopping and shopping and swimming in the sea. Clean nice boat

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day trip from Sorrento to Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius
Day trip from Sorrento to Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius
Italy

OUR TEENS LOVED THIS! They way that Melanie our Kim Kim Agent timed the tour was perfect so that it wasn't too terribly hot. They really had a good experience with the tour guide, he was fantastic, he was so enthusiastic and our family could really get a first hand look at how they lived. He was a great storyteller,and could not have been with a better tour guide for Pompeii! Mt Vesuvius was fantastic also! Both timed just perfectly.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Colosseo and Roman forums adventure
Colosseo and Roman forums adventure
Rome

Our family loved this, great tour and guide, highly recommend private tour, get a lot more information!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Appian Way by E-bike: Tour with Catacombs, Aqueducts, and Food
Appian Way by E-bike: Tour with Catacombs, Aqueducts, and Food
Rome

family loved this experience! Tour guide that Melanie picked was great, tailored the tour to the kids interests, so kind, and the. biking and catacombs was truly an experience for them. HIGHLY recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour
Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour
Rome

The tour guide Melanie chose was fantastic! He was so knowledgeable and knew how to weave through the crowd! There were crowds of people, but Melanie's arrangement allowed use to bypass all the lines and just get in, the guide showed us all the key pieces and you could see all the correlation with the other. Fantastic and quite amazing tour!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Melanie Rapuano
Melanie
Melanie Rapuano
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Jun 20, 2025
Hi Janet,
thank you so much for your lovely review.
As I mentioned in our messages, it was a real pleasure to have you as guests. It really did feel as though it was family visiting!
It's so important to get a better understanding of those travelling simply because it allows me to really customise the trip, just as if it were family. So you mentioning that same thing, is the best compliment ever, as I'm fullfilling my job and designing YOUR trips; not standard trips, not catalogue trips,... Read more

Hi Janet,
thank you so much for your lovely review.
As I mentioned in our messages, it was a real pleasure to have you as guests. It really did feel as though it was family visiting!
It's so important to get a better understanding of those travelling simply because it allows me to really customise the trip, just as if it were family. So you mentioning that same thing, is the best compliment ever, as I'm fullfilling my job and designing YOUR trips; not standard trips, not catalogue trips, but your special trip exactly how you wanted it, without really knowing what it is you wanted! So thank you!

I can't wait to plan your next trip Janet.
Take care and keep in touch,
Melanie

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