NORD DMC

Mar created a fabulous trip for us. We were interested in the Fjords and the Lofotons. Mar reserved excellent hotels and excursions. We had a fabulous time. There were several glitches that we created and team member Fenne answered middle of the night calls to fix everything. What could go wrong you ask? Well, I got to the airport with the passport that outdated 6 weeks later, not the new one. We were refused admittance on the international flight from the US. So I frantically worked... read more

Mar created a fabulous trip for us. We were interested in the Fjords and the Lofotons. Mar reserved excellent hotels and excursions. We had a fabulous time. There were several glitches that we created and team member Fenne answered middle of the night calls to fix everything. What could go wrong you ask? Well, I got to the airport with the passport that outdated 6 weeks later, not the new one. We were refused admittance on the international flight from the US. So I frantically worked with the airlines to get tickets for the next day and Fenne managed the hotel and excursions that were missed. What about checking out of a hotel whose computer was down and we couldn't verify whether I had charged dinner to the room or to my credit card. Called Fenne and she managed the problem so I could go on without worry about that detail. What about cancelled flight to Oslo and delayed arrival? Called Fenne while riding in taxi to another airport and she notified the hotel. Life happens while traveling especially at night and on weekends and having a responsive understanding agent was a huge contributor to my wonderful trip. Thank you Mar, thank you Fenne!!!!

We have just completed our 15-day Scandinavia adventure! We found the trip planning and excursions that were suggested by Julia to fit our tastes and also provide enough time for wandering around on our own. In Copenhagen we especially appreciated the personal tours of Kronoberg and Christiansborg castles. In Norway the wonderful stop in Balestrand with the rib boat tour and fjord tours were amazing, along with the accommodations. Having all the trains and boats planned for us was great to... read more

We have just completed our 15-day Scandinavia adventure! We found the trip planning and excursions that were suggested by Julia to fit our tastes and also provide enough time for wandering around on our own. In Copenhagen we especially appreciated the personal tours of Kronoberg and Christiansborg castles. In Norway the wonderful stop in Balestrand with the rib boat tour and fjord tours were amazing, along with the accommodations. Having all the trains and boats planned for us was great to allow us to focus more on the locations and less on planning that aspect of travel which was welcomed. The information provided to us prior to the trip was accurate and we only had a few times where things were not as clear but this was likely not KimKim but the specific train company itself. We greatly enjoyed our time and felt we were able to see and do the things we wanted with some guidance but also allowing time for us to discover on our own. I would certainly use KimKim in the future to assist in planning!

Unfortunately Kristina and I never got on the same page. Her idea of a good day was to start early and be busy all day seeing the sights, we are a bit more relaxed in our travel ventures. read more

Unfortunately Kristina and I never got on the same page. Her idea of a good day was to start early and be busy all day seeing the sights, we are a bit more relaxed in our travel ventures.

Hotel Reviews

Flåmsbrygga Hotel

Flåm

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Bergen

Bergen

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotell Bondeheimen

Oslo

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Britannia

Trondheim

We did not go to Trondheim

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Scandic Göteborg Central

Göteborg

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Dinner Cruise in the Oslofjord

Oslo

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Summer Adventure day in Flåm with Zipline and Bicycle trip

Flåm

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Very kind and helpful

Transport

Fjordcruise to Hardanger

Bergen

To spend all day on this trip was a total waste of our time

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Mar and her team made things so easy! I’m usually one who plans her own trips, but between work and managing a home renovation, it was just too much. Mar was so great to work with and so responsive. Our Norway trip was a dream.

We were able to have a very comprehensive driving holiday thorough Norway. Our intent was to travel as many of the historic roads as possible over mountains and down to fjords. The views were impressive and the routes did not disappoint. In planning we got good advice on the travel distances (and time it would take) and were told when we were being too ambitious in what we wanted to do in one day. We were booked into some really great accommodation that met our style of travel and we... read more

We were able to have a very comprehensive driving holiday thorough Norway. Our intent was to travel as many of the historic roads as possible over mountains and down to fjords. The views were impressive and the routes did not disappoint. In planning we got good advice on the travel distances (and time it would take) and were told when we were being too ambitious in what we wanted to do in one day. We were booked into some really great accommodation that met our style of travel and we appreciated having someone to phone for their thoughts when small travel troubles came up. Norway is an impressive country and Kim Kim helped made our trip very memorable.

I was very happy with all aspects of our trip. All the excursions were great, I especially enjoyed the private day trip with Kronborg & Frederiksborg Castle, the RIB boat tour and the Orchard Tour & Cider Tasting! All the accommodations were good, but the Zander K Hotel in Bergen was a bit small for three people. All the transportation went well, but I would have liked a little more information, especially with regards to how the trains worked, we got a little confused a couple of times. ... read more

I was very happy with all aspects of our trip. All the excursions were great, I especially enjoyed the private day trip with Kronborg & Frederiksborg Castle, the RIB boat tour and the Orchard Tour & Cider Tasting! All the accommodations were good, but the Zander K Hotel in Bergen was a bit small for three people. All the transportation went well, but I would have liked a little more information, especially with regards to how the trains worked, we got a little confused a couple of times. But, we never missed any connections, so it all worked out. In general, I had a great time and so glad I went. I will definitely recommend you guys to family & friends!
Thank you!
Debbie

Mar and her team were awesome! She really listened to our specific needs and adjusted our itinerary to make sure we were to do all the things while working within our specifications (traveling with a baby, specific days in certain cities, etc.). She made the entire process so easy and all of her picks and recommendations were wonderful. It was a delight to work with her and her team! We had a spectacular trip in Norway thanks to her! read more

Mar and her team were awesome! She really listened to our specific needs and adjusted our itinerary to make sure we were to do all the things while working within our specifications (traveling with a baby, specific days in certain cities, etc.). She made the entire process so easy and all of her picks and recommendations were wonderful. It was a delight to work with her and her team! We had a spectacular trip in Norway thanks to her!

Hotel Reviews

Gudvangen Fjordtell & Apartments

Gudvangen

Incredible view of the fjords and mountains. Beautiful location! Rooms were lovely!

Authenticity & Character

I

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Clarion Hotel The Hub

Oslo

Hotel had great location! Staff was super friendly and accommodating. Rooms were spacious and comfortable. Would definitely recommend

Authenticity & Character

Hi

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Vøringfoss Hotel

Eidfjord

Location was incredible! Woke up to a wonderful view. Had a magical stay

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Scandic Torget

Bergen

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Gudvangen to Flåm fjord cruise

Gudvangen

Ethel pulled together a fantastic trip in a short time—spot on first draft for our week there. Easy and responsive from start to finish. Julia was booking and on the ground support. We are mightily impressed s d will use them again!

I was very happy with how things worked out with the entire Kim Kim team. Willing to work with me and make adjustments as needed and asked. They were very responsive to questions and requests that were made.

If I can make a suggestion, perhaps offering some options to choose from would be helpful. For example, options for hotels in a given location that might affect the price overall. Or for the hike to Kjeragbolt, going over the various hike options (all in one day, overnight, etc). And... read more

I was very happy with how things worked out with the entire Kim Kim team. Willing to work with me and make adjustments as needed and asked. They were very responsive to questions and requests that were made.

If I can make a suggestion, perhaps offering some options to choose from would be helpful. For example, options for hotels in a given location that might affect the price overall. Or for the hike to Kjeragbolt, going over the various hike options (all in one day, overnight, etc). And my least favorite thing was the Bergen to Flam to Bergen because of how long it took. I admit this was my fault for not looking at the details in advance but other options might have been helpful. One other suggestion would be greater assistance with traveling to the various locations.

Please understand, the trip was fabulous and the help that you all provided was outstanding. The above are just suggestions to make things even better.

Again, thank you for all of your help and support!
Joel Chesler

Activity Review

Bergen to Flam "The King of Fjords" Round-Trip Cruise

Bergen

While scenic, this was very long trip. It was around 12 hours of which 10 hours were on board the ship

This is my 3rd time using KimKim. Maria, Julia and Fenne helped plan a 7 day trip to Bergen, Flam and Oslo. They were fantastic to work with and suggested / booked really top notch and different excursions for us. Our hotel in Bergen and the kayaking outside of Bergen was super awesome (great guide, super location). Our train to Flam was the best time for good viewing and a good time to arrive in Flam. Lovely accommodations in Flam. They made excellent suggestions for things to do/see in Oslo... read more

This is my 3rd time using KimKim. Maria, Julia and Fenne helped plan a 7 day trip to Bergen, Flam and Oslo. They were fantastic to work with and suggested / booked really top notch and different excursions for us. Our hotel in Bergen and the kayaking outside of Bergen was super awesome (great guide, super location). Our train to Flam was the best time for good viewing and a good time to arrive in Flam. Lovely accommodations in Flam. They made excellent suggestions for things to do/see in Oslo as well. Would highly recommend this organization. They continue to impress.

Hotel Reviews

Zander K Hotel

Bergen

Great location, quiet, super and friendly staff, comfy beds. A newer hotel with a very good vibe that was full of guests from every part of the world.

Authenticity & Character

Great vibe

Location

Directly across from the main train station - super convenient!

Staff

Thomas was so helpful and friendly.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Fretheim Hotel

Flåm

A very pretty property. Beautiful grounds. Most rooms, including ours, had a lovely Mountain View. The staff in the restaurant were very lovely - front desk was ok. The property was a short 5 min walk to the Norwegian sauna we experienced. Awesome.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Guided Kayaktour Bergen

Bergen

Our guide picked us up in downtown Bergen. We were a group of 6. The location was spectacular and the equipment was clean and in excellent condition. We enjoyed a delicious and simple lunch on a tiny island and just had a great time exploring nature. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the area, nature, weather and more.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Fjord Sauna experience

Norway

So fun! A very short walk from our hotel. The sauna was super private and just gorgeous. Practically brand new! The views were to die for when comparing to other saunas in more populated areas. A must do.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Oslofjord Sightseeing Cruise

Oslo

Nice ship and relaxing experience. This provided a good way to enjoy the scenes of Oslo from a very different perspective.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Good accommodations - excellent connections with variety of transportation, all reachable within walking distances - quality guide in select location. Norway , Stockholm and Helsinki masterfully combined in a fun and unforgettable tour. read more

Good accommodations - excellent connections with variety of transportation, all reachable within walking distances - quality guide in select location. Norway , Stockholm and Helsinki masterfully combined in a fun and unforgettable tour.

Hotel Reviews

GLO Hotel Art

Helsinki

Great service and breakfast. Wonderful sauna.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Overnight Boat

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Nordic Light Hotel

Stockholm

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotell Bondeheimen

Oslo

Authenticity & Character

Location

central location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Brakanes Hotel

Ulvik

Authenticity & Character

Location

Superb view of the fjord - close to boat terminal.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Scandic Torget

Bergen

Authenticity & Character

Location

central location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Scandic Voss

Voss

Fantastic sauna.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Gudvangen Fjordtell & Apartments

Gudvangen

Authenticity & Character

Location

In the heart of a fjord , UNESCO heritage.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Visit Löyly Sauna

Helsinki

Great full , authentic sauna experience.

Quality of Experience

Stockholm Private Panoramic Tour

Stockholm

Great and fun guide.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private tour to Royal Palace & Drottningholm Palace

Stockholm

Knowledgeable guide for very enjoyable tour.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We really enjoyed Balestrand and the cider house and the hotel we were at. Beautiful! Also really enjoyed the train from Flam to Myrdal, despite the rain. Kayaking was amazing in Flam. We weren’t especially impressed with the 5 course dinner at Cornelius, took too long and we were tired, just too much seafood for us ( others seemed to really enjoy it though) overall, a great trip read more

We really enjoyed Balestrand and the cider house and the hotel we were at. Beautiful! Also really enjoyed the train from Flam to Myrdal, despite the rain. Kayaking was amazing in Flam. We weren’t especially impressed with the 5 course dinner at Cornelius, took too long and we were tired, just too much seafood for us ( others seemed to really enjoy it though) overall, a great trip

Hotel Reviews

Kviknes Hotel

Balestrand

Loved this hotel with the amazing views and beautiful artwork

Authenticity & Character

Location

The views of the fjord from our room

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Flåm Marina

Flåm

Beautiful views, great restaurant

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Boat Trip and Dinner at Cornelius Seafood Restaurant

Bergen

This seemed to be enjoyed by others, but for us, it was just too long between courses and a little too much seafood

Orchard Tour & Cider Tasting

Balestrand

Loved this! The lunch and cider was amazing and , since I love to garden and grow things, I found the tour really informative

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Bike Rental Balestrand

Balestrand

We somehow missed this. Our schedule said to get there at 5:45, but we found it was closed. Not a big deal, since we hadn’t prepaid

Quality of Experience

Summer Kayaking Tour

Flåm

Loved this. Great guide, fun experience

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Oslo Pass

Oslo

Never got this. We walked everywhere and since we did not prepay, it was totally fine. This was our choice, we love walking in cities

Ezdi followed our directions for a 5 day Bergen and Norway in a Nutshell trip for two 80 year ladies. Although arduous at times it was a trip of a lifetime. After nine days with family and friends in Stavanger we took the ferry to Bergen, which is a lovely trip. The cable ride, Hardangerfjord trips were wonderful. Our hotels were very adequate with sumptuous breakfasts each morning. Since this was the tourist season it was no surprise that there were not enough buses in Voss to take us to... read more

Ezdi followed our directions for a 5 day Bergen and Norway in a Nutshell trip for two 80 year ladies. Although arduous at times it was a trip of a lifetime. After nine days with family and friends in Stavanger we took the ferry to Bergen, which is a lovely trip. The cable ride, Hardangerfjord trips were wonderful. Our hotels were very adequate with sumptuous breakfasts each morning. Since this was the tourist season it was no surprise that there were not enough buses in Voss to take us to Gudvangen. We were lucky to get the last two seats that two men vacated for us. The scenery on our fjord boat trip took our breaths away. And, the Flam train trip took us through some of the most majestic scenery I have ever seen. Moving our luggage on this train was difficult but we had help from other passengers. Unless travelers are interested in souvenir shops, we found the 3+ hour layover in Flam too long. All in all, KimKim put together a trip that covered a lot of territory and wonderful scenery. Thank you, KimKim and Ezdi.

Kimkim did an excellent job advising us of places to stay in Norway and booking the accomodations. We were very happy with the hotels they booked us at. Krista and Fenne were also helpful on transportation tips, ferry schedules and getting around. We really enjoyed our trip and recommend Kimkim to other Norway visitors.

We had some challenges during our trip due to the flooding and train cancellations. The backup support by Julia was fabulous. So responsive and helpful. Otherwise everything was smooth and well organized. Thank you. read more

We had some challenges during our trip due to the flooding and train cancellations. The backup support by Julia was fabulous. So responsive and helpful. Otherwise everything was smooth and well organized. Thank you.

From the start, Ethel and Fenne did a great job working out the details of our trip, translating our wishlist of activities into a great itinerary; it was easy to work with them and make revisions during the planning process. Before we committed by making a deposit we did some comparative pricing of other packages and felt we were getting good value for the cost of the trip. Plus, this was a trip customized to what we wanted to do, and when we wanted to do it. Just before the trip, Meree... read more

From the start, Ethel and Fenne did a great job working out the details of our trip, translating our wishlist of activities into a great itinerary; it was easy to work with them and make revisions during the planning process. Before we committed by making a deposit we did some comparative pricing of other packages and felt we were getting good value for the cost of the trip. Plus, this was a trip customized to what we wanted to do, and when we wanted to do it. Just before the trip, Meree joined the team and sent us all of our confirmations and instructions.

It was easy to work with them by email, and we did have one zoom call with Ethel early on to review the plan for the trip before we put a deposit on it.

We spent 3 nights in Oslo, 1 in Ballestrand, 2 in Bergen, 2 on Hurtigruten, and 2 in Trondheim. We had a great time, seeing and experiencing much in our 11 or so days. The hotels the Kim Kim team chose were perfect for us logistically, located near what we wanted to see and experience, and well located for making connections to get to our next stop. There is much more to see and do in Norway than time permitted and perhaps some day we will enlist Kim Kim to help us return to Norway. But as a result of this trip we will not hesitate to consider Kim Kim for future trips.

Hotel Reviews

Scandic Byporten

Oslo

Clean. Small but usable shower. Friendly staff. Room was too warm.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Kviknes Hotel

Balestrand

Charming hotel in a fjord village. Clean. Small but usable shower. Friendly staff. Room was too warm.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Scandic Bergen city

Bergen

Clean. Small but usable shower. Friendly staff. Room was too warm.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Thon hotel Nidaros

Trondheim

Clean. Small but usable shower. Friendly staff. Room was too warm. Good location for getting from Trondheim to airport. Of all the hotels we stayed at - probably the best breakfast.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hurtigruten

Bergen

Not a hotel, but a small cruise ship. Clean. Staff VERY friendly and helpful. Small but usable shower. Cabin was generally too warm. The two single beds were VERY uncomfortable however. One bed had a railing for safety(?) which was VERY inconvenient. Hurtigruten needs to have more cabins configured for queen sized beds.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Bergen: A Walk Through Past and Present

Bergen

Nice walking tour; good guide.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Oslofjord Sightseeing Cruise

Oslo

Good overview of Oslo.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Kayaking in Sognefjord

Balestrand

Lots of prep for this activity. In the end it was worth it.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Mountain Bike at Mount Fløyen - Bergen

Bergen

If you are an experienced mountain biker, this would likely be fun. However, the gravel trails were rather steep and crowded with families walking around, enjoying the scenery. This made it impossible to safely bike the trails, and somewhat dangerous. The person who was staffing the mountain biking concession thought we might not want to do it. Fortunately, we were able to get a refund. Again, if you like mountain biking, steep gravel trails, etc., this is an activity for you.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

I planned this trip VERY last minute, and Maria was very responsive and helpful with a nice itinerary that took into account somewhat limited availability due to high-season. The final itinerary was terrific. But, alas, the day before we arrived there were torrential rains and flooding that knocked our bridges and highways, so our journey to Bergen on the railroad was cancelled. Flights were already fully booked, but Maria offered the option of renting a car, or staying in Oslo for a longer... read more

I planned this trip VERY last minute, and Maria was very responsive and helpful with a nice itinerary that took into account somewhat limited availability due to high-season. The final itinerary was terrific. But, alas, the day before we arrived there were torrential rains and flooding that knocked our bridges and highways, so our journey to Bergen on the railroad was cancelled. Flights were already fully booked, but Maria offered the option of renting a car, or staying in Oslo for a longer period. As a Californian, driving was not appealing, so we opted to stay in Oslo for a full week. What a great choice! We had an absolutely wonderful time, and while we hope to come back to see Bergen and points north, this really couldn't have been a more splendid trip. While in-country Fenne and Meree provided amazing on the ground support, responding almost instantly to our questions and helping us roll with the punches. Also, having missed the Bergen portion of our trip, Meree was able to refund us the costs associated with that component. Above and beyond!

Overall the trip was great, and good activity suggestions from our KimKim specialist. Going to, and staying in Odda was a highlight. The one thing I would change was the itinerary for Bergen: there were 2 cable car / funicular rides up the mountains above the town with activities suggested for the top. I believe it should have been 1 such activity, and let us choose during the trip design phase. One was a bike ride at the top (Floibanen), the other would have been hikes/ walks at the top... read more

Overall the trip was great, and good activity suggestions from our KimKim specialist. Going to, and staying in Odda was a highlight. The one thing I would change was the itinerary for Bergen: there were 2 cable car / funicular rides up the mountains above the town with activities suggested for the top. I believe it should have been 1 such activity, and let us choose during the trip design phase. One was a bike ride at the top (Floibanen), the other would have been hikes/ walks at the top (Ulriken).

Hotel Reviews

Scandic Kristiansand Bystranda

Kristiansand

Nice room and great breakfast

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Scandic Stavanger Park

Stavanger

Good location and good breakfast. Our room itself was nice but was on the 3rd floor which had a pedestrian walkway just outside so window curtains had to be closed most of the time. Also, room temperature was a little too warm.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Trolltunga Hotel

Odda

Good hotel, great location.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Scandic Torget

Bergen

Great location, very busy in the lobby but it was peak tourist season.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Room was a little small, but comfortable.

Activity Reviews

Fjord cruise Lysefjorden and Preikestolen - from Stavanger

Stavanger

Great hike, fantastic views at the top. Very crowded. We went at around 2 pm and I think that was one of the best times to go from a crowd standpoint.

Quality of Experience

Glacier Kayaking Excursion

Norway

Good guide and experience. The 1 hour of self driving up the mountain to get to the kayaking was long and unexpected.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Have the tour company provide transport. We had to drive up th mountain ourselves.

Mountain Bike at Mount Fløyen - Bergen

Bergen

Could have been good but it rained so we did not bike.

Quality of Experience

Transport

Ride the Ulriken Cable Car

Bergen

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We had a wonderful time in Norway and it all worked as planned! Thanks to Eliise that managed to plan a child friendly trip for us and our 3 years old daughter!!

We had a great trip. Saw lots of beautiful scenery and enjoyed the planned activities, the fjord sauna in Flom being a highlight for our family - jumping off the sauna into the fjord and warming up again in our private sauna was a real treat. Kirsta did a great job planning this and she and her team were helpful and very responsive with questions along the way.

My one complaint was the way KimKim addresses the pricing of the trip. There was no itemization, so it was hard to figure out how... read more

We had a great trip. Saw lots of beautiful scenery and enjoyed the planned activities, the fjord sauna in Flom being a highlight for our family - jumping off the sauna into the fjord and warming up again in our private sauna was a real treat. Kirsta did a great job planning this and she and her team were helpful and very responsive with questions along the way.

My one complaint was the way KimKim addresses the pricing of the trip. There was no itemization, so it was hard to figure out how much the trip cost vs. the added cost of the service provided by KimKim. It was a very expensive trip, and I think if I had been able to plan it myself, I could have saved about half the cost (though, again, it is difficult to confirm that since I did not receive any itemization).