Profile photo for Ruth Grau
16294 messages
active 11 hours ago

Ruth Grau

I grew up in small outback towns in South Australia before starting in the travel industry in Adelaide. After working many years in Sales & Marketing with tour companies, wholesalers and airlines, I headed off to the United States in 1994 for a ‘brief stint’. I started the US operation of an Australian tour company, and was Vice President of a South Pacific wholesaler for 7 years. I am married to and working with co-owner Warren Grau, a mother of 2 and am both a US and Australian citizen. We started Springboard Vacations in 2001.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in creating customized itineraries throughout the South Pacific for singles, couples, families and small groups. I like to find unique and interesting ways for travelers to get to know our destinations. So instead of a coach city sights tour, I like to offer a guided bike riding tour, or a walk with an indigenous guide, a pub crawl through historic pubs, a progressive dinner to the hottest new restaurants or a surfing lesson with a local. We like to include romantic moments, family bonding experiences, a chance to meet locals in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, Vanuatu, the Cook Islands, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and New Caledonia. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"I was an exchange student in Germany when I was 15 years old. It changed my life and set me on a path to travel the world. When I started working as a professional photographer, I traveled as often as I could. By age 22 I had moved into the travel industry and started exploring the globe seriously. As the song says... no matter how far I roam, I still call Australia home! I am passionate and excited about discovering new and interesting experiences within the South Pacific and creating unique and authentic experiences for my clients."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I was in New Zealand traveling through the north east of the country. It had been a long day and I had not eaten much so I was hungry and in a pretty bad mood. I just wanted to eat and go to bed but I had committed to doing a night kayaking trip. As I get kitted out and organized with my co-kayaker I was not in a good place and the thought of paddling upstream in the growing dark was not improving my mood. We struggled to coordinate our paddling and wound up in frustrating circles. Eventually we got it together and headed up stream. It has hard work and the night grew dark. Then it came time to paddle into a cave grotto. It was pitch dark and you could not see your hand in front of your face. Our group of kayakers were all silently entered the small cave and sat in the pitch dark. The guide then turned on a red right which caused thousands and thousands of glow worms to... well glow! It was magical! It felt like we were inside Christmas! It was truly awesome to sit in the blackness and be surrounded by the sparkle of these tiny creatures. Mother Nature is so awesome and unpredictable. It was so incredibly captivating and unexpected. No-one uttered a sound but it was an emotional and spiritual experience. As we left the cave some time later to head back, the moon had risen and cast an ethereal silver light across the water as we floated downstream and back home. In the silence we absorbed the display that nature had provided. It was truly an amazing and humbling experience, in a little known area of New Zealand that almost no-one visits. I will never forget it.
Its these life changing moments that I love to find for my clients. "

Ruth is part of the following groups: New Zealand Travel Agents, Fiji Travel Agents, Australia Travel Agents, Papua New Guinea Travel Agents, French Polynesia Travel Agents, Australia Family Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
The Best of Brisbane & the Gold Coast - 6 Days
Experience the best of Australia's less-visited yet beautiful East Coast. This includes highlights of Queensland, like the eclectic metropolis of Brisbane and the endless...
Sydney, Uluru & Cairns - 8 Days
Get to know four of Australia's most iconic travel destinations on this eight-day itinerary. Begin your trip in Sydney—where you'll walk historic cobblestoned streets, explore...
Sydney, Great Barrier Reef, Adelaide & Kangaroo Island - 12 Days
Experience some of Australia's best wildlife tours and incredible natural wonders on this 12-day outdoor adventure. It begins with city fun on a bicycle tour of Sydney's...
Family itineraries
Australia East Coast Family Adventure - 13 Days
Featuring an energetic mix of wildlife excursions and fun outdoor adventures, this 13-day itinerary is a great introduction to Australia for the whole family. Take a selfie...
10 Days in Australia - 3 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
Ten days gives your family plenty of time to visit some of Australia's best-known destinations on a classic highlights tour that covers Sydney, Uluru, and the rainforests and...
Luxury itineraries
New Zealand's South Island: Luxury Self-Drive Tour - 15 Days
Experience the wilderness and wildlife of New Zealand's South Island on this 15-day self-drive itinerary. By day, you'll drive through breathtaking landscapes and embark on...
Road trip itineraries
The Best of Brisbane & the Gold Coast - 6 Days
Experience the best of Australia's less-visited yet beautiful East Coast. This includes highlights of Queensland, like the eclectic metropolis of Brisbane and the endless...
Melbourne & the Great Ocean Road Self-Drive Adventure - 8 Days
Embark on an eight-day adventure down Australia's marvelous southeastern coast. Begin with city tours of Melbourne, an eclectic coastal capital quickly emerging as a tourism...
Australia's East Coast Road Trip & Great Barrier Reef Tour - 11 Days
This tour of Australia's east coast is ideal for travelers drawn to the sun and sea. You'll start with a few days in Sydney cruising around the harbor and tasting wines in the...

Recent trip reviews for Ruth

Australia - Worth the Journey
Australia | Feb 28 - Mar 10, 2026

D
Doreen A.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Mar 17, 2026

Ruth did a great job planning our trip, meeting all our expectations of excursions, hotels, tours etc. Byron Bay was an eco friendly special place to enjoy the beach, surfers, and the downtown area and the penguin excursion was definitely a favorite. Great job Ruth, thank you again!!!

Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Mar 17, 2026

My pleasure Doreen! I really enjoyed workingw ith you to put your trip together!

Ruth

Read all Australia reviews

Ruth was great answering our questions about ...
Australia | Jan 18 - Jan 30, 2026

Dinesh
Dinesh A.
Fort Wayne, IN, USA | Reviewed on Mar 09, 2026
Ruth was great answering our questions about the trip and helped us prepare well for the trip.
Your company did a great job planning the trip and we were generally pleased with the accommodations and travel arrangements. However, our accommodation in Sydney was not as good as the rest of the trip.Also, no travel arrangements were made from the hotel to our activities while in Sydney, either. It could have been better if our hotel had a better location or close to Sydney harbor. Read more

Ruth was great answering our questions about the trip and helped us prepare well for the trip.
Your company did a great job planning the trip and we were generally pleased with the accommodations and travel arrangements.

However, our accommodation in Sydney was not as good as the rest of the trip.Also, no travel arrangements were made from the hotel to our activities while in Sydney, either. It could have been better if our hotel had a better location or close to Sydney harbor.

Hotel Reviews
Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne on Queen
Melbourne

Great location. Close to lot of activities, shopping areas etc.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Proximity to Center of the city.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Newer hotel, clean and comfortable
Oaks Sydney Goldsbrough Suites
Pyrmont

Nice but older property, not close to the harbor or where most activities were.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Not close to Sydney harbor, center of the city or other prominent areas of the city.
Staff
Check in staff not helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms and bathroom were old and not well kept.
Freestyle Resort Port Douglas
Port Douglas
Authenticity & Character
Location
Walkable distance, close to amenities.
Staff
Very helpful staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean rooms with adequate supplies.
Adina Apartment Hotel Brisbane
Brisbane

Great location, beautiful city views.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to market, shopping areas,great views
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Brisbane Private Transfer Airport to Gold Coast Hotel
Brisbane Private Transfer Airport to Gold Coast Hotel
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Clean comfortable car and courteous drivers.
Brisbane Private Transfer Gold Coast Hotel to Airport
Brisbane Private Transfer Gold Coast Hotel to Airport
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Melbourne Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Melbourne Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Summit by Day, Bridgeclimb
Summit by Day, Bridgeclimb
Sydney

Great experience, must do activity in Sydney.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
No transport provided.
Full Day Mossman Gorge Adventure Day
Full Day Mossman Gorge Adventure Day
Australia
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon Lanes and Arcades Tour
Afternoon Lanes and Arcades Tour
Melbourne

Our guide was amazing,very informed about the city and local cuisine. She made some great recommendations.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Full Day Phillip Island Tour with "Penguins Plus" Viewing
Full Day Phillip Island Tour with "Penguins Plus" Viewing
Melbourne

Unique experience, must do activity when visiting Melbourne. Wish Great ocean road was also part of the experience while visiting Melbourne. At least it should be offered as a possible suggestion.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great guide and driver. Very courteous and explained things very well.
Transport
Timely explanations and commentary.
Full Day Yarra Valley Wine & Sparkling Wine
Full Day Yarra Valley Wine & Sparkling Wine
Melbourne

Include fewer wineries so that we have a little bit more time at each location.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Melbourne Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Melbourne Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
Afternoon Sydney Harbour Sightseeing Cruise
Sydney
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sydney Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Sydney Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Botanic Gardens Indigenous Bush Tucker Walk
Botanic Gardens Indigenous Bush Tucker Walk
Sydney
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Sydney Classic Tour - E-Bike
Half Day Sydney Classic Tour - E-Bike
Sydney
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Brisbane Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Brisbane Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Brisbane
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sydney Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Sydney Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Port Douglas
Welcome to Port Douglas
Port Douglas
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Port Douglas Private Transfer Airport to Port Douglas Hotel
Port Douglas Private Transfer Airport to Port Douglas Hotel
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay (from Port Douglas Hotel)
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay (from Port Douglas Hotel)
Port Douglas
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Brisbane
Welcome to Brisbane
Brisbane
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Port Douglas Private Transfer Port Douglas Hotel to Airport
Port Douglas Private Transfer Port Douglas Hotel to Airport
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning or Afternoon Best of Brisbane Walking Tour - Private
Morning or Afternoon Best of Brisbane Walking Tour - Private
Brisbane
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Brisbane Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Brisbane Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
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Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Mar 11, 2026

Hi Dinesh
I am so glad you enjoyed your trip. Its wonderful to get this feedback! I'm afraid we don't have a lot of apartment choices in this level of accommodations or I would have presented you with more options to choose between. Attractions such as the Bridgeclimb in Sydney do not include transfers as they are not tours and of course are right in the heart of the city. It's great to see you all in the photos! Thanks for posting them!
Ruth

Read all Australia reviews

New Zealand Adventure of a Lifetime.
New Zealand | Jan 30 - Feb 25, 2026

I
Iain W.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Mar 04, 2026
Our four week trip to NZ was customized after an iterative process of inquiry and response, including by phone with Ruth. She listened well and offered incredibly helpful insights. We followed her advice in most cases, and she offered various options for us to consider by way of guided tours, etc., as electives beyond the basis itinerary. We selected some of those to be included. The entire trip from arrival to departure including hotels, car rental and ferry booking was organized and... Read more

Our four week trip to NZ was customized after an iterative process of inquiry and response, including by phone with Ruth. She listened well and offered incredibly helpful insights. We followed her advice in most cases, and she offered various options for us to consider by way of guided tours, etc., as electives beyond the basis itinerary. We selected some of those to be included. The entire trip from arrival to departure including hotels, car rental and ferry booking was organized and communicated really well. All worked out perfectly. It turned out that a medical emergency intruded in the final week of our trip and the local agents were wonderfully supportive to manage and adjust the itinerary and give a sense of local expertise in the local time zone. My wife and I cannot speak more highly of our experience and plan to use kim kim again in our future travel plans.

Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Mar 08, 2026

Iain and Liz were wonderful to work with. They had been planning and looking forward to visiting New Zealand for some time so I was delighted to assist them in designing the trip they always wanted. I am so sorry they got to experience the New Zealand medical system but was glad we could assist with getting things back on track once they were ready! Life has a way of taking us on interesting detours!

Read all New Zealand reviews

Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queen...
New Zealand | Dec 7 - Dec 13, 2025

Lorin
Lorin W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queenstown Trip We had an unforgettable trip from start to finish - we kicked things off in Picton, where we did a combo tour of the Marlborough wine region and seafood cruise in the Marlborough Sounds. Both expereinces saw a great balance of stunning views, calm waters (on the cruise), and nonstop photo opportunities. Christchurch surprised us with its charm, walkability, and mix of historic and modern vibes. We did a self-guided walk of the... Read more

Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queenstown Trip

We had an unforgettable trip from start to finish - we kicked things off in Picton, where we did a combo tour of the Marlborough wine region and seafood cruise in the Marlborough Sounds. Both expereinces saw a great balance of stunning views, calm waters (on the cruise), and nonstop photo opportunities.

Christchurch surprised us with its charm, walkability, and mix of historic and modern vibes. We did a self-guided walk of the town, including a stop at The Church Pub for food and drinks.. It made a great transition point before driving deeper into the South Islands natural beauty.

Lake Tekapo featured unreal turquoise water, open skies, and peaceful atmosphere. It may have been one of the most photogeneic places we visited on this leg of the trip.

Wanaka was a wonderful lake town, where it featured one of the most photographed trees in the world. I wish we could have spent another day here to experience the town more.

we wrapped up our trip in Queenstown, where you could easily spend a week there and not do everything. While there though we did get a chance to do a number of excursions, including a plane ride, horse-back ride, jet-boat ride, and river funyak excurions, where we were able to see the snow-capped mountain ranges known famously in many Hollywood blockbusters, including Lord of the Rings, Narnia, and Misson Impossible!

Between the scenery, activities, and unforgettable moments captured, our NZ trip exceeded expectations, it is purely a magical country, and the itinerary provided by KimKim was the perfect way to experience it.

Hotel Reviews
Escape to Picton
Picton
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Mayfair
Christchurch
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Edgewater Wanaka
Lake Wānaka
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Browns Boutique Hotel
Queenstown
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Dec 16, 2025

Hi Lorin
How wonderful to hear your feedback! Thanks so much for taking the time and I am so glad you loved New Zealand!
Ruth

Read all New Zealand reviews

Everything was first class except the very la...
New Zealand | Nov 17 - Nov 26, 2025

Ron
Ron Z.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 03, 2025
Everything was first class except the very last night. I know John Mattarella was a little kind in his words, but I won’t mix the words that was way beneath what you guys should’ve gave us. Everything was excellent until that moment it was like going to a hostile quite honestly is bullshit but everything else was great except exceptionally great except that last moment, which then the last moment is what you remember I hope for your future guests you get rid of that location cause that was a... Read more

Everything was first class except the very last night. I know John Mattarella was a little kind in his words, but I won’t mix the words that was way beneath what you guys should’ve gave us. Everything was excellent until that moment it was like going to a hostile quite honestly is bullshit but everything else was great except exceptionally great except that last moment, which then the last moment is what you remember I hope for your future guests you get rid of that location cause that was a joke again thank you for everything with a great time John my wife, Yvonne, and Heather did all the coordinating with you. I was a silent partner and like said it was great fantastic over the top until last night. Quite honest I think we should get a refund for that night, but that’s beside the point please do better for your next guest on that port otherwise spot on thank you Ron Zielinski

Hotel Review
Oaks Auckland Hotel (Prev. Nesuto Stadium Auckland)
Auckland

This felt like a hostile nothing on the walls, pure white twin size beds after having a first rate first class top-notch experience of first place places we’ve been to and then we go to this hostile looking place. It was clean and nice, but it wasn’t the first class experience that we had through Kim Kim and should’ve stayed throughout the trip.

Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Dec 03, 2025

Hi Ron

Many thanks for your feedback on the airport hotel that you had for the last night. I will certainly advise all our staff and take it off our selling list. I am glad you enjoyed all your trip to that point. We usually use the Novotel or Pullman so I am not sure why Jannie chose this hotel unless availability was tight. I really appreciate your feedback.

Kind regards
Ruth

Read all New Zealand reviews

Two weeks in New Zealand
New Zealand | Oct 21 - Nov 2, 2025

K
Karen C.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Nov 15, 2025
I connected with Kim Kim and Ruth only a mere month and a half before our scheduled trip to New Zealand. Despite the late notice Ruth stepped up, got some preliminary information on our interests, and curated an amazing two week self guided tour of the North and South islands. Every single event, from group tours to picking up our rental cars with driving directions in tow, went off without a single hitch. We had so many amazing experiences along the way it’s hard to choose the best, but... Read more

I connected with Kim Kim and Ruth only a mere month and a half before our scheduled trip to New Zealand. Despite the late notice Ruth stepped up, got some preliminary information on our interests, and curated an amazing two week self guided tour of the North and South islands. Every single event, from group tours to picking up our rental cars with driving directions in tow, went off without a single hitch. We had so many amazing experiences along the way it’s hard to choose the best, but I will say if you get the chance to kayak at night in the glow worm caves in Rotorua: DO IT! Amazing. Even in the rain. Thank you so much Ruth for the attention to detail, the quick availability and the amazing organization. We will definitely be in touch for our next adventure.

Activity Reviews
Auckland Private Transfer International Airport to Hotel
Auckland Private Transfer International Airport to Hotel
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
I
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Rotorua
Welcome to Rotorua
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Introducing Te Papa Tour and Museum visit
Introducing Te Papa Tour and Museum visit
Wellington
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Wellington Private Transfer Hotel to Ferry Terminal
Wellington Private Transfer Hotel to Ferry Terminal
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon/Evening Twilight Wine and Craft Beer Tour
Afternoon/Evening Twilight Wine and Craft Beer Tour
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Twilight Glow Worm Kayak Experience - 3 hour guided
Twilight Glow Worm Kayak Experience - 3 hour guided
Rotorua

The guides were absolutely amazing. Clearly very excited to share information and the beauty of these amazing creatures and their amazing habitat.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hobbiton - Shared Tour
Hobbiton - Shared Tour
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Queenstown Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Queenstown Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Waimangu Valley Nature Walk & Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise
Waimangu Valley Nature Walk & Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mitai Cultural Experience & Dinner
Mitai Cultural Experience & Dinner
Rotorua

The host of the evening was absolutely amazing. Sharing his culture and knowledge was truly a passion for him and it translated into an amazing evening.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Zealandia by Night Tour
Zealandia by Night Tour
Wellington
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Interislander Ferry - Wellington to Picton
Interislander Ferry - Wellington to Picton
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private transfer - Christchurch Railway Station to City Hotel
Private transfer - Christchurch Railway Station to City Hotel
Christchurch
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Glacier Boat Trip -
Glacier Boat Trip -
Aoraki / Mount Cook Village
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Skyline Gondola Ride
Skyline Gondola Ride
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Everyone should take the time for this beautiful part of the world.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Nov 18, 2025

Thanks Karen! It was a real pleasure working with you and planning your trip. I am so thrilled that you enjoyed your vacation in New Zealand! I hope I can work with you again!
Ruth

Read all New Zealand reviews

Amazing Trip
Seychelles | Oct 31 - Nov 7, 2025

Dania
Dania K.
Italy | Reviewed on Nov 08, 2025
It was an amazing trip thanks to Ruth.
Her questions were on point & helped her discover what I really wanted.
The local agent at Seychelles, Humming Bird, was also helpful & punctual. Read more

It was an amazing trip thanks to Ruth.
Her questions were on point & helped her discover what I really wanted.
The local agent at Seychelles, Humming Bird, was also helpful & punctual.

Hotel Review
Constance Ephelia

Very attentive staff. Huge resort. Excellent spa services. Excellent food. The only negative thing was that the sunbeds on the shore needed to be cleaner!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Excellent & courteous staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
VICTORIA & BOTANICAL
VICTORIA & BOTANICAL
Mahe
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I’m
Transport
Transfer Airport to Hotel
Transfer Airport to Hotel
Mahe

Very punctual

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer Hotel to Airport
Transfer Hotel to Airport
Mahe

Thank you to the driver & the lady who helped us with the bags & the fast track check in.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
PRASLIN TOUR WITH VALLEE DE MAI & ANSE LAZIO
PRASLIN TOUR WITH VALLEE DE MAI & ANSE LAZIO
Mahe

We loved Elvis our guide & the driver who was with us in Mahe.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Nov 08, 2025

Oh I am so happy to read this! I am so glad you had a wonderful trip to this stunning part of the world!

Ruth

My daughter and I had an amazing trip across Australia
Australia | Jul 12 - Jul 25, 2025

Cari
Cari T.
Nashua, NH | Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025
Working with Ruth was great. She was very patient with me as I had lots of questions and I kept making adjustments and tweaks to the itinerary as there was so much to see and do. Her follow up is excellent and I definitely had an amazing trip. All of the hotels were perfect and we were able to relax and have the exact vacation we had hoped for. I have done several other trips to other countries through other travel companies and I’d say my only critic of KimKim is that their payment... Read more

Working with Ruth was great. She was very patient with me as I had lots of questions and I kept making adjustments and tweaks to the itinerary as there was so much to see and do. Her follow up is excellent and I definitely had an amazing trip. All of the hotels were perfect and we were able to relax and have the exact vacation we had hoped for.

I have done several other trips to other countries through other travel companies and I’d say my only critic of KimKim is that their payment platform doesn’t seem as easy as the other companies I’ve used and that part was clunky when I needed to add a night on to the end of my trip after I had already paid. Also, the prices for the domestic flights quoted were crazy high so with Ruth’s advice I booked those on my own to save a lot of $$. So that would be the reason I’m giving KimKim booking 4 stars. Ruth was a definitely 5 stars and I recommend her.

Hotel Reviews
Crystalbrook Byron
Suffolk Park

The portions at the restaurant were so small and so pricy. Plus the food selection was much too fancy for us so we did uber eats the second day for lunch and dinner and that was perfect.

Authenticity & Character
The rooms were amazing!!!
Location
The walk to the beach was very far and the stairs down to it were washed out so it was tough to get down. Also pretty far from downtown.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel
Mascot, Sydney, NSW
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Perfect hotel airport. The gym was amazing, multiple dinner options and an easy stroll across the street to the international terminal
Villa San Michele
Port Douglas
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The women at reception were so incredibly friendly and free laundry was amazing! And being so central was exactly what we were looking for. So easy to pop out and hit restaurants and shops.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Oaks Brisbane Aurora Suites
Brisbane

The view of the river from the 50th floor was amazing!! I didn’t want to leave!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
It was very hard to figure out how to get into the lobby. Thankfully someone walking by could tell we were lost and helped us.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
River Drift Experience
River Drift Experience
Port Douglas

The guides were great. Wish we had more time to sit and swim at the end though. Most of our tour group was staying in the water as long as possible and we were ushered out to pack up and go. I get they had to keep us moving with lots of groups going at once but wish we had more time in the water.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
I enjoyed the commentary on the area during the drive.
Port Douglas Private Transfer Port Douglas Hotel to Airport
Port Douglas Private Transfer Port Douglas Hotel to Airport
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay
Port Douglas
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Port Douglas Private Transfer Airport to Port Douglas Hotel
Port Douglas Private Transfer Airport to Port Douglas Hotel
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Climb the Harbor Bridge
Climb the Harbor Bridge
Sydney
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sydney Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Sydney Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Photo taken by Cari T
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Jul 27, 2025

Hi Cari

I am so happy you loved Australia! You went to some of my favorite places like Byron Bay! It was fun working with you on your trip!

Ruth

We had the most amazing trip to New Zealand.
New Zealand | Jul 20 - Jul 26, 2025

Elizabeth
Elizabeth L.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025
We had the most amazing trip to New Zealand. Our travel specialist, Ruth, planned an amazing trip for our family of 5 (3 teenagers). Everyday we had a new adventure and each one was more fun than the last. All 3 of our kids were able to do something that they liked. If I had planned the trip without Ruth’s help the kids would have complained constantly. The horse trekking with Hannah from Real Kiwi Horse trekking was a blast (although the mountain climbs were scary & beautiful). We all had a... Read more

We had the most amazing trip to New Zealand. Our travel specialist, Ruth, planned an amazing trip for our family of 5 (3 teenagers). Everyday we had a new adventure and each one was more fun than the last. All 3 of our kids were able to do something that they liked. If I had planned the trip without Ruth’s help the kids would have complained constantly. The horse trekking with Hannah from Real Kiwi Horse trekking was a blast (although the mountain climbs were scary & beautiful). We all had a great time snow tubing & soaking in the hot pools at Lake Tekapo Springs. I recommend that just for the hot pools. And in Queenstown the biking with Around the Basin was amazing, even with snow on the ground. We all went bungy jumping with AJ Hackett company. While I probably wouldn’t jump again the gorge was beautiful and everyone working there was so friendly & professional. I would definitely use KimKim Travel again to plan a trip!

Hotel Reviews
Blue Peaks Lodge
Queenstown

We stayed in their newer apartments. It offered plenty of room for a family of 5. The kitchen made it easy to have breakfast in the unit before heading out for activities. It was close to a lot of restaurants and a short 10min walk to the waterfront. My only complaint is their tiny garage under the apartments. It was VERY difficult to maneuver a minivan into the parking spot especially when more cars were there.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to restaurants and shops. Just a small hill to walk up and down to the shops.
Staff
We didn’t really interact with anyone after we checked in.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The unit was very clean when we checked in. Not sure how often the rooms are cleaned because we stayed for 3 days and the rooms weren’t cleaned. It wasn’t a big deal for us because the unit was very clean and there were cleaning supplies for the dishes & washing machine.
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo

In a great location that’s convenient to activities and food. Very comfortable for a family of 5. The kitchen and living room made the unit very spacious. Our room had a washer/dryer combo that was nice except the dryer didn’t really work. The hotel did offer 2 washers & dryers on the grounds for free which was helpful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to everything we wanted to do in the Lake Tekapo region.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Distinction Christchurch Hotel & Conference Centre
Christchurch

Nice hotel. Rooms were clean and modern looking. We were able to fit a family of 5 in 2 rooms with beds for everyone. It was in a convenient location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Convenient to activities, cafes, & our rental pickup.
Staff
Super helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Walter Peak Farm and Gourmet Barbecue Dinner
Walter Peak Farm and Gourmet Barbecue Dinner
Queenstown (NZ)

The boat ride was nice across the lake. The dinner was delicious and there was plenty of food. Even the kids found food to enjoy and eat. The show was very entertaining. It was a nice break from high energy activities.

Quality of Experience
Food
A large variety of food and it was all delicious.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
It was hard to understand the captain when he was talking.
Kawarau Bungy Jump
Kawarau Bungy Jump
Queenstown (NZ)

Absolutely scary but absolutely breathtaking at the same time. The staff were all friendly and supportive.

Quality of Experience
Everyone seemed to be having a blast and supportive.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff were very supportive and friendly.
Half Day Supported Arrow River Trail Tour (Bike the Bridges)
Half Day Supported Arrow River Trail Tour (Bike the Bridges)
Queenstown (NZ)

We did the Arrowtown trail. We weren’t sure what to expect but the trail was very easy to follow. The path was a little muddy but that’s to be expected with the weather. We used E-bikes but the trail we did would have been easily done with a regular trail bike. I would love to return and do more rides. It was great that there was a dedicated bike trail and we were only on (quiet) local roads for a short time.

Quality of Experience
The trails were better than expected and the bikes were in great condition.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Crater Experience (Cowan's Observatory)
Crater Experience (Cowan's Observatory)
New Zealand

Amazing. We saw the Milky Way and numerous constellations. Our younger teens were bored but my husband and I loved it. It’s something I would do again. It was a cold night when we did it and the staff at the observatory had extra jackets for everyone to wear.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Super Winter Combo - Ice Skating & Hot Pools + 1 Hour Tubing
Super Winter Combo - Ice Skating & Hot Pools + 1 Hour Tubing
Lake Tekapo

My kids loved this place. The tubing was a lot of fun. A school trip was there on the day we visited but the staff changed our tubing time to avoid the big group. The staff on the ice rink were very helpful. The staff at the tubing hill gave us different suggestions for tubing to make it more fun. And the hot pools were so nice after skating and tubing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Real Kiwi Horse Trekking
Real Kiwi Horse Trekking
Christchurch

We did the 3 hour trek. Hannah was a great guide and the horses were very well trained. The scenery was amazing. For someone who has never been on a horse the 1 hour river trek would have been more than enough. We also went up into the mountains and while the views were amazing I was petrified! One of my kids panicked and Hannah was very patient and helped lead her horse until her husband could pick my daughter up. One of my daughters, who is a horse lover, was in heaven with the trek.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hannah was very friendly and super patient.
Tramway Restaurant
Tramway Restaurant
Christchurch

The food was really good and was a unique activity. It was dark when we did the tour so it might be something better to do in the spring and summer so you can get a better feel for Christchurch. Our kids were a little bored and not a huge fan of the food but my husband and I enjoyed it.

Food
Transport
Was a unique way to eat dinner and see a little bit of the city.
Christchurch Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Christchurch Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
New Zealand

Our ride was clean and just what we needed. Our original flight had been cancelled but when I called and let the travel company know we were assured our driver would still meet us. James was there with a sign and was very helpful with history of Christchurch and things we should see.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Photo taken by Elizabeth L
Show 4 more photos
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Jul 27, 2025

Hi Liz

It was so much planning a trip for your family! I am so glad you all had a great time!

Ruth

Fabulous tours
Australia | Jun 12 - Jul 1, 2025

S
Sallie C.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jul 04, 2025
Ruth helped us with our trip. I already had some things organized and wanted to include my son who is on vacation work visa. It was not easy to cobble around all of that. But she was patient and it all worked out brilliantly. Every tour we went on was a unique experience and we enjoyed them all tremendously. The bike tour of Sydney was fantastic, the nightime glow worm adventure in Byron bay was amazing and so was kayaking with dolphins. Another fabulous experience was the river float on... Read more

Ruth helped us with our trip. I already had some things organized and wanted to include my son who is on vacation work visa. It was not easy to cobble around all of that. But she was patient and it all worked out brilliantly. Every tour we went on was a unique experience and we enjoyed them all tremendously. The bike tour of Sydney was fantastic, the nightime glow worm adventure in Byron bay was amazing and so was kayaking with dolphins. Another fabulous experience was the river float on Mossman river up by Port Douglas. I never thought I would enjoy tours so much.
Cheers to Ruth! Thank you for making that all possible. We would have missed so much without your guidance.

Hotel Review
Own Accommodations Arranged

The Four Seasons in Sydney is amazing. Great service and as an American, rather reasonable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Jul 08, 2025

Thank you so much Sallie. It was wonderful working with you and I am so glad that you enjoyed everything so much! I am delighted! Makes my job a joy!
Ruth