Rutopía

Kimkim Travel Planning Service arranged our personalized trip with a local travel group called Rutopia. This well curated trip of Puebla and Mexico City for 7 days is titled "Flavors, Art & Heritage: A Mother-Daughter Journey Through Mexico." And we did just that! It was seamless with well communicated daily agenda that had fun, educational experiences and extraordinarily delicious tastings included. Just let them know what you want to see, do and experience and they deliver them very nicely! We highly recommend them!

Ana Sofia faced-time with us to get a sense of what type of experience we wanted, give us a chance to convey our goals. Of course, throughout the time of planning, we came up with more requests and ideas, and so did Ana, who made the necessary adjustments. Ana was very responsive to our needs. And so were Luz and Maria who were the local agents. The drivers and tour guides made us feel very safe and cared for. We sensed their pride for their culture which made it more enjoyable for us.

Highlights: A. Museum of Anthropology, Museo Soumaya, Frida Kahlo's Red House, Anahuacalli Museum, Frida Kahlo & Diego Rivera's Houses and Work studios. Puebla City/Cholula is a must for its charm and slow pace. The beautiful cathedrals, hearing the histories, their differences in beauty.
B. Street Food Tour in Puebla - It's the only way to taste and experience what the locals do, so fun and delicious!
C. The Milli Restaurant, Corn Kitchen in Cholula - excellent food, demonstration with audience participation in this nationally award-winning cooperative of farmers promoting ancient, original corn.
D. Wonderful Tastings menu and experience of a Milpa Dinner at Tezontle restaurant in the Casa de la Luz Hotel.
E. The hotels that were centrally located, catering to our needs of having a pool for relaxation between the activity-filled days.
F. Sonora Grill Reforma - One of the recommendations when we were on our own. Just the type of break we needed . It had a lively atmosphere and very delicious steaks!!
G. The door to door private ride service and tours: Worry free car rides and tours that started from our hotel.

You may skip the boat ride of the canals of Xochimilco. A one-time experience is more than enough. We happen to have asked for it and didn't know aside from the write-ups. Although, it was nice to drive through the very long garden/flower market. Unless you want to have an hour-long party drinking, eating, singing with a Mariachi band while riding the vey colorful boats, it's not our groove. We found it too commercialized and the river jam packed with boats and cacophony of different Mariachi bands singing side by side. One boat even had music playing loudly amongst the other live bands. I could imagine how it must have been a long time ago when the boats were decorated with fresh flowers and steered along the shallow river by the boatman using his long pole.

Suggested improvement: Having the drivers (and their cars) and tour guides refrain from wearing strong scents. I happen to be very sensitive to it and Luz listened to my needs and responded quite well by making the necessary adjustments, after a couple of tries. The driver replacement did not wear perfume but his car, although it was very clean, was heavily scented. The issue was eventually resolved.

All our guides were excellent. They were knowledgeable and really brought Mexican culture alive - walking Tours in CDMX, SAN Miguel de Allende and tours to vineyards, tequila distillery and Whale watching - all were top notch!

Hotel Reviews

Zócalo Central

Mexico City

Clean, wonderful location and the extra amenities were exceptional.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Half a block from the zocala

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

La Morada Hotel

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

The room was large and the bathroom huge and Liberia’s but there were no windows that could open. Additionally, the listing said there was a pool and a roof deck with a hot tub. There was none of this

Authenticity & Character

Location

Right next to the cathedral

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

No windows. The existing windows were frosted and did not open.

San Trópico Boutique Hotel & Peaceful Escape

Puerto Vallarta

We loved this space!!! The room was large, 2 sides opened up to enjoy all the amazing weather of Puerto Vallarta. The bathroom was outside and incredibly spacious.

Authenticity & Character

Location

In the marina district

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Walking tour through the historical center

San Miguel de Allende

We enjoyed our walking tour in St-Miguel. The guide, (whose name I do not remember), was thoughtful, interesting and attentive.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The guides’ effort to educate us.

Transport

The tours

Welcome to Mexico City

Mexico City

The guide was remarkably knowledgeable and approachable

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Mexico City: Xochimilco, Casa Azul Museum & Museo Casa de León Trotsky

Mexico City

The variety of the 3 activities and the timing were exceptional.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Free time in Mexico City and Ballet in Bellas Artes

Mexico City

Bellas rates and ballet florique was magical and really provided a rich exploration of Mexico culture

Quality of Experience

Tour of historic Mexico City with street food tasting

Mexico City

The variet of the food was exceptional and our guide Mar’ knowledge of all things related to CDMX was extraordinary.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Wine tasting at San Lucas Vineyard

San Miguel de Allende

We learned so much from the vineyard host, including Mexican wine and all wine in general. The wine pairing was exceptional.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

City tour & Tequila Tasting

Puerto Vallarta

The tequila tasting and tour were great. We are the the on site restaurant which was really excellent,

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Humpback whales’ season in Bahía de Banderas, Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta

The activity began with an educational overview of humpback Whales which we thought set a nice Tone For The 3 h boat tour of the bay. Awesome!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Thank you!

Puerto Vallarta

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our trip to Mexico City and Puebla planned through Kimkim was absolutely fantastic. Every detail was thoughtfully arranged, from the smooth private transfers to the knowledgeable guides and unique cultural experiences. The itinerary struck the perfect balance between structured tours and free time to explore, and we especially loved the food tour in Puebla and the visits to the museums in Mexico City. The accommodations were well-located, making it easy to enjoy each destination. Communication with the Kimkim team was seamless throughout the process, Luz with Rutopia was especially helpful. It was a memorable, stress-free trip, and we would happily use Kimkim again for future travels.

We had an absolutely fantastic experience working with Kimkim travel. I had never heard of this company, which made me rather hesitant. I was immediately put at ease by their direct communication and responsiveness from start to finish. Hugo Romero, our incredible travel agent, listened very carefully to our interests and responded quickly as our plans evolved. His accessibility via email and video call made the process tangible, reassuring and exciting. Ibis, our “travel companion”, was truly amazing. Before our trip we had a wonderful phone call to iron out details of the itinerary. She made it clear that she was available to us for any questions or concerns. She was in contact with us every day, making sure that each transition was seamless and that our every concern was addressed. Our drivers and guides were all very professional, knowledgeable and reliable.

Hugo created an amazing experience that allowed us to appreciate the stunning beauty and rich culture of the Yucatan Peninsula. The specific experiences were all beyond our expectations. Our amazing tour of Rio Lagartos Biosphere Reserve was filled with incredible wildlife encounters and was followed by a delicious meal in the home of our captain. His wonderful family welcomed us with such kindness that it felt like an all-to-short home stay. Our guide at Chichén Itza was a lovely elderly Mayan gentleman who shared his deep passion and knowledge. Our time in the Mayan community of Yaxunah was phenomenal. It was a privilege to be in this beautiful setting, learning of the history and traditions surrounding the preparation of delicious Cochinita Pib. Meters away was the Lol Ha cenote, where we were the only ones swimming in this peaceful, magical place.

Our trip coincided with an unfortunate moment of unrest following the death of a cartel leader. While we never felt any personal risk, we decided to end our trip early as there were shelter-in-place orders along the Mayan Riviera, which was to be our next destination. Ibis and Hugo were both reassuring of our safety and understanding of our decision. They supported us completely as we revised our travel plans. Due to their great effort and the generosity of the tour operators, we were reimbursed for all our missed activities. While we were saddened to miss out on the experiences, it was beyond reassuring to feel that this travel company was looking out for our best interests and responsive to our every need. I can say with great confidence that we look forward to working with them in the future as we are eager to return to Mexico.

I would like to give a Big Thank You to Luz, our local contact. It was like she was right behind us all the time making sure we had a memorable and safe experience. We was very reachable and responsive. A great problem solver and a pleasure to work with.

All the drivers were prompt and most were friendly. Our driver guide for the trip to the butterflies was Pablo and we spent a wonderful 11 hours with him. All the other local guides were very knowledgeable and some had interesting backgrounds.

Our trip was very well organized, with drivers and guides on time and completely knowledgeable. Our guides in Izamal, Chichen Itza and Meridad were outstanding! The drivers were excellent as well! The Hacienda Merida was a gem of a hotel, located in the heart of the Historic District. The rooms were very spacious and colonial style, with a delicious breakfast. El Meson del Marques in Valladolid was lacking. The location is excellent, but rooms are tiny, with no amenities at all! Not even a bathroom hook! Kind of disappointing, although their restaurant is outstanding! Much, much better than the two recommendations we got for Museo de la Gastronomica in Merida and El Atrio del Mayab in Valladolid. Our excursion to Rio Largartos was special, as was Ek Balam! A special shout-out to Luz Ma, who helped me greatly all during the trip, with questions and concerns I had. She went out of her way to be in touch with me immediately and make everything right. I would definitely recommend Kimkim for anyone looking to go to Mexico. Thank you for all of your help in making my trip so special.

Hotel Reviews

Hacienda Merida

Mérida

Beautiful, colonial style mansion, in the heart of the Historic District. The rooms were spacious and comfortable, the staff friendly and accommodating and the breakfast was fresh and delicious! Would definitely stay here again!

Authenticity & Character

Character, beauty, details.

Location

The best location in the heart of the Historic District.

Staff

Friendly and accommodating.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Beds were very comfortable, bathroom was large and stocked, all perfect.

El Mesón del Marqués

Valladolid

This hotel gets three stars because of its location. The hotel is nice looking, with lots of trees and plants all around, but the rooms are sorely lacking in everything! Uncomfortable beds and pillows, no hooks in the bathroom, tiny rooms, etc. I requested and paid for a "balcony" room, and got a "Juliet" balcony room. No room for a chair to sit! Was disappointed. The restaurant is outstanding and wished I had eaten there for dinner, instead of the recommendation we got.

Authenticity & Character

Lots of things!

Location

Heart of the city.

Staff

The front desk reception was lacking in knowledge and not helpful.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Bad beds/pillows.

Activity Reviews

Dining recommendations in Mérida

Mérida

Unfortunately, we did not like the two dining recommendations we were given: Museo del Gastronomica and El Atrio del Mayab. Very mediocre food. Do not understand why so many people are there.

Quality of Experience

All activities and drivers were where they were supposed to be.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

All very knowledgeable, spoke very good English, friendly and helpful.

Transport

Clean, friendly, knowledgeable, on time.

Explore Yellow Izamal: the City of Hills

Mexico

A very cool experience, small town, great guide, nice ruin you can climb for a view. Definitely worthwhile!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

City Tour of Merida: The White City

Mérida

Excellent tour guide with tons of knowledge and information! Showed us the biggest local market, explained everything we were looking at, walked up to monuments, museums, etc. Highly recommend!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

A pink-ish day at Río Lagartos & Las Coloradas

Mexico

It takes a while to get there, 2 1/2 hours, but worth it! You take a small boat far into the bay to see all kinds of birds, crocodiles, etc. Had lunch in the Captains house, locally done. Interesting.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Ek Balam Archaeological Site & swim in a cenote

Mexico

Mayan ruin in the jungle! Again, try to get here as early as possible, as it gets very hot in there! Climbed and walked around and then to the cenote and lunch, which is on the same premises. Lunch was EXCELLENT and the cenote is huge and beautiful!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit Chichén Itzá, Wonder of the Maya World

Mexico

What can you say about this?! Outstanding! Be there at 8am when the gates open. It takes about 2 1/2 hours to really see the place, which is bigger than you think. All kinds of vendors waiting to get in at 8am as well. Lots of bathroom facilities around too. EXCELLENT guide here! We really had a great time here. The total Mayan experience.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our entire trip was wonderful and went smoothly. Our contact Luz Ma was attentive and checked in daily. Our excursions were perfectly curated and a special shout out to our driver Victor when we were in Merida. Our accommodations were exceptional.

Hotel Reviews

Hacienda Merida

Mérida

Spacious rooms, attentive staff and great location. Wonderful breakfast. Shout out to Armond

Authenticity & Character

High ceilings- “seperate houses” with dedicated pools

Location

East to get to the plaza and trendy 43-47 street

Staff

Always kind and attentive

Cleanliness & Comfort

Overall nice

Hotel Can Cocal eco boutique

El Cuyo

Felt like being with family

Authenticity & Character

So small and eco friendly

Location

At then end of town and short walk to the beach

Staff

Every single person provided great service, Aretzia (maybe spelling wrong) was the perfect initial contact person. She was very helpful with letting us know about the hotel etc… she is so kind and thoughtful. LUIS! Well he made our day everyday. His enthusiasm and joy was contagious. Jose was always interested in talking to us and made us feel like friends. All the staff are exceptional.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Very comfortable bed

Hotel Posada San Juan

Valladolid

This was like coming home every day

Authenticity & Character

Gorgeous rooms and sitting area for breakfast

Location

Not far from the plaza

Staff

Kind and attentive

Cleanliness & Comfort

Loved the sitting area outside the room. Bed comfortable. Quiet

Activity Reviews

Street Food Tour in Merida

Mexico

Laura was the perfect guide. She thoughtfully picked out great places to eat. Her interactions were genuine.

Quality of Experience

Aww

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Víctor from Ricalde was outstanding

Transport

On time and Comfortanle

Uxmal, a city with Puuc style

Mexico

Our guide was so knowledgeable and interesting.

Quality of Experience

Perfect amount of time

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Again…Victor

Transport

Visit to Lol Ha cenote in Yaxunah

Mexico

Not crowded cenote… what a treat!

Quality of Experience

Our guide was so thorough and educational

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guide was wonderfil

Transport

Cooking Cochinita Pib with locals at Yaxunáh

Mexico

Def a highlight of the trip. The education and then able to help with the meal was special.

Food

Cochinita pibil!

Welcome to El Cuyo

El Cuyo

El Cuyo is a gem

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The taxi was in poor shape- ripped seats and dirty.

Beach days in El Cuyo

El Cuyo

Just what we hoped for

Chicken Itza and Siam Ka’an were fantastic experiences made eve better by our guides. Ana Sophia did an outstanding job planning the trip and itinerary. Once there, our local specialist Luz arranged for pickup and all the on-the-ground coordination as well as informing us the night before what the next day’s activities will be.

Hotel Review

Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel

Playa del Carmen

A nice hotel, but maybe getting a bit long in the tooth. Helpful staff. The pool is nothing special and the beach is just okay. It was all inclusive so food and drinks are part of the package. Be sure to bring ample cash and make sure to tip, and tip often. Three large projects are being developed right next to it which may be a bit overwhelming in the future. I’d give the Blue Diamond a solid four stars…but definitely doesn’t approach a five-star property.

Authenticity & Character

Nice gardens.

Location

It’s going to get pretty crowded in that neighborhood in the next couple of years.

Staff

Very helpful staff…be sure to show your appreciation by tipping.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The rooms are nice and spacious

Activity Reviews

"Playa del Carmen Authentic Local Experience"

Playa del Carmen

Great guide on our food tour. Went to a number of “hole-in-the wall” spots that most tourists would miss.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Had to arrange for our own transportation for this trip

Cooking Class in the Mayan Community Nuevo Durango: A local feast!

Mexico

A good authentic experience with a Mayan family. We ground corn, made masa, and made the tortillas. A lovely guide helped with translation and explanation to enhance our experience.

Quality of Experience

Food

Helping to make the meal

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The Ancient Canal Experience in Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve with transportation from Playa del Carmen (afternoon)

Playa del Carmen

Beautiful area. Lots of wildlife. Great boating experience.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Fantastic guide and boat driver. They spotted a lot of wildlife

Transport

Thank you!

Mexico

All of our arrangements were done well. We enjoyed both the provided tours and exploring on our own. Our guides were very knowledgeable and great people to talk with as well. The drivers for our transfers were also wonderful. I think one thing that will always stay with me is the feeling I got as I climbed the steps at Monte Alban, knowing that those same steps were once walked upon by the Zapotec people very long ago.

Hotel Reviews

Casa González

Mexico City

We have stayed at this hotel twice now, it is always clean, the gardens are beautiful and a pleasure to sit and relax in after a day of exploring. The breakfast they offer is as good as you will find in any of the restaurants nearby.

Authenticity & Character

Like the city itself, it is a mix of newer amenities but, with that old world look and charm.

Location

It is located in an area that is very walkable to many sites in Mexico City.

Staff

The staff is warm and friendly, as well as always being ready to help, rather you need something in your room or a recommendation.

Cleanliness & Comfort

This is. Very clean hotel, they also offer laundry service for a reasonable fee.

Majagua

Oaxaca

It felt like some of the staff was exhausted and overworked. The bar was supposed to be a restaurant too but all we saw was a rudimentary breakfast. Most of the staff were pleasant and helpful, but others, not so much. The facility was quite pleasant looking and most things worked well.

Authenticity & Character

New and modern but I prefer traditional.

Location

Adjacent to a great park with lots going on and one of the best Italian restaurants I’ve been to - Arte Italia.

Staff

Mostly fine.

Cleanliness & Comfort

El Sueño Hotel & Spa

Puebla

The room was clean and nice, but we noticed that the lamps by the bed kept flickering and upon inspection the wiring for them was scary. The restaurant was kind of spendy with a limited offering. The breakfast that came with the room was okay at best, and also very limited.

Authenticity & Character

A bit too much spa like for our taste.

Location

The location was good, near most of what you will want to see in Puebla.

Staff

The staff were wonderful.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Our room was clean and comfortable.

Activity Reviews

Puebla City Tour & Talavera Workshop

Puebla

Bottom line - I’d do it again.

Explore the history and crafts of Oaxaca through Monte Alban, Arrazola, Cuilapam and Coyotepec.

Oaxaca

Fabulous!