Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 18,669 ratings
Read 18,669 verified reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim. You can also read reviews about kimkim on 3rd party sites including Google, TrustPilot and Yelp.

Thailand Experience
Thailand | Nov 26 - Dec 5, 2025

Isaiah
Isaiah C.
Phoenix, AZ | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2025
This Thailand trip was truly an excellent experience. Everything from the culture to the food was amazing. Our first tour guide Betty did a great job showing us the Mosque and China Town. We enjoyed him so much and he was very informative. I liked how well Kim Kim put the trip together also. We always felt like VIPs because of the private guides and shuttles, even the signage at the airport upon arrival was nice. We made a stop by Perfect Tailor and I would like to personally thank SK for... Read more

This Thailand trip was truly an excellent experience. Everything from the culture to the food was amazing. Our first tour guide Betty did a great job showing us the Mosque and China Town. We enjoyed him so much and he was very informative. I liked how well Kim Kim put the trip together also. We always felt like VIPs because of the private guides and shuttles, even the signage at the airport upon arrival was nice. We made a stop by Perfect Tailor and I would like to personally thank SK for the experience. Everything was perfect and I’m so happy we booked with Kim Kim! I will definitely book another international trip with Kim Kim after this.

Hotel Reviews
Panwaburi Beach Front Resort
Phuket

This hotel is Instagram perfect! We booked this hotel based on social media reviews and photos. It was truly worth it!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Shan Villas Sukhumvit
Bangkok

The customer service was amazing. Everyone was so friendly. The spot was very relaxing and clean. The only thing was that the roof top dining area was closed for renovations, but they made up for it was a great breakfast and lunch provided. We booked massages as well, and I would highly recommend booking one.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Quite private area but still walking distance to food and stores
Staff
All staff were friendly and very helpful. I felt like I had a personal concierge!
Cleanliness & Comfort
The rooms were clean and comfortable
Local specialist: Tina Oo

Go to Japan with Angel!: Part 2
Japan | Nov 10 - Dec 2, 2025

Emily
Emily G.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
Part 2 from Emily G: A few highlights and recommendations from this trip: Hakone - spend at least two nights and days in Hakone - hot springs area. A great place to wind down at the end of the trip. Lovely. Go to the Open Air Museum! Leisurely enjoy the baths. Ride the gondola (ropeway) and take walks. Loved MIyajima Island (after a sobering and important day in Hiroshima). Had only one night and wished we had 2. Much to explore and at a slower pace. Loved Takayama - much more than Kanazawa.... Read more

Part 2 from Emily G: A few highlights and recommendations from this trip: Hakone - spend at least two nights and days in Hakone - hot springs area. A great place to wind down at the end of the trip. Lovely. Go to the Open Air Museum! Leisurely enjoy the baths. Ride the gondola (ropeway) and take walks. Loved MIyajima Island (after a sobering and important day in Hiroshima). Had only one night and wished we had 2. Much to explore and at a slower pace. Loved Takayama - much more than Kanazawa. 3 nights there is good. Bike ride outside of town with Tomo! Dinner at Alba! (tiny place, make a rez, tell Juske you learned about it from the women from San Francisco, etc). Two days walking on the Nakasendo Trail. So beautiful to be out walking in nature most of the day and not too hard at all - but i would add a 3rd day if you have time. All of our hotels were comfortable EXCEPT don't stay at ACAI in Kyoto. Too "hip", tiny rooms, you can do better. Of course you will visit the many shrines, temples and castles and I enjoyed them much more than I expected - and you will go to Tokyo (explore the neighborhoods), Osaka, Kyoto (go to the Philosophers Walk) if this is your first visit; and we heard of SO many other places to explore. One more thing - among the many benefits of working with KimKim are the many guided excursions and day trips/city tours that they plan. Every guide was Excellent! and went above and beyond in many ways, Ask for Yumi in Tokyo; Sumi in Kyoto; Fumi in Kanazawa. Ernesto in Nara; Mayumi in Nara and Hiroshima. Arigato! BTW, this trip went so well that we are already planning a second KimKim trip in February in New Zealand and impressed with the help of our specialist, Michelle!

Local specialist: Angel Tang

This was an amazing trip especially for only ...
Thailand | Nov 30 - Dec 7, 2025

Matthew
Matthew P.
Phoenix, AZ | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
This was an amazing trip especially for only being there one week. All of the guides were great! Wish I had more time. Read more

This was an amazing trip especially for only being there one week. All of the guides were great! Wish I had more time.

Hotel Reviews
De Lanna Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Night Hotel Bangkok - Sukhumvit 15
Bangkok
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Elephant Day Care at Patara Elephant Farm
Elephant Day Care at Patara Elephant Farm
Chiang Mai
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Tuk Tuk Tour (Private)
Half Day Tuk Tuk Tour (Private)
Bangkok
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Doi Inthanon National Park Trekking
Doi Inthanon National Park Trekking
Chiang Mai
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Chiang Mai Sunset Point, Wat Pha Lat, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Umong
Chiang Mai Sunset Point, Wat Pha Lat, Wat Doi Suthep, Wat Umong
Chiang Mai
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ayutthaya Day Tour with Lunch
Ayutthaya Day Tour with Lunch
Bangkok
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jeab Kwanchanok
Jeab
Jeab Kwanchanok
Local specialist in Thailand | Replied on Dec 12, 2025

Thank you so much for your review, Matthew! I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed your short break with us. We hope to welcome you back to Thailand again soon - there are still so many beautiful places waiting for you to explore!

Our experience was 10/10
Thailand | Nov 23 - Dec 4, 2025

C
Cristin J.
Houston, TX | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
Our experience with Hien and KimKim Travel was nothing short of exceptional. Hien curated an incredible itinerary and thoughtfully walked us through each day in advance, making the entire trip feel seamless and stress-free. She remained readily available throughout our travels for questions or last-minute adjustments, which gave us complete peace of mind. The hotel accommodations she selected were flawless—beautiful, spotless, and perfectly located. Every tour and experience was tailored... Read more

Our experience with Hien and KimKim Travel was nothing short of exceptional. Hien curated an incredible itinerary and thoughtfully walked us through each day in advance, making the entire trip feel seamless and stress-free. She remained readily available throughout our travels for questions or last-minute adjustments, which gave us complete peace of mind.

The hotel accommodations she selected were flawless—beautiful, spotless, and perfectly located. Every tour and experience was tailored to our personal preferences, making the trip feel truly custom.

We cannot wait to book our next adventure with KimKim, and we recommend Hien without hesitation—110% all the way.

Hotel Review
Rayavadee
Authenticity & Character
Location
Beautiful beaches, food, clean, amazing staff
Staff
10/10 so helpful and nice
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean, super comfy
Activity Review
Half Day at The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi
Half Day at The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi
Krabi

Incredible!! Friendly staff, one in a lifetime experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Hien Do

Japan: A Trip That Exceeded Every Expectation
Japan | Nov 27 - Dec 4, 2025

K
Kathy S.
Phoenix, AZ | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
We worked with Adeline at Kim Kim to plan our first trip to Japan, and the experience exceeded every expectation. She handled all hotels, transportation and created a recommended daily itinerary with lots of travel tips. While not totally stress free as Japan is intimidating with its size, language barriers and cultural nuances, everything went smoothly and logically. Our hotels in Tokyo, Hiroshima and Kyoto were close to train stations, clean and quiet. Only change I would have made... Read more

We worked with Adeline at Kim Kim to plan our first trip to Japan, and the experience exceeded every expectation. She handled all hotels, transportation and created a recommended daily itinerary with lots of travel tips. While not totally stress free as Japan is intimidating with its size, language barriers and cultural nuances, everything went smoothly and logically.

Our hotels in Tokyo, Hiroshima and Kyoto were close to train stations, clean and quiet. Only change I would have made is location of hotel in Kyoto. Since our time there was short it, we would have preferred to stay in the heart of the tourist area. However it did have a public bathing pool which was awesome at the end of a ten-mile walking day.

This was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken. Kim Kim delivered exactly what they promised and will absolutely use them again.

Hotel Reviews
The Blossom Kyoto
Kyoto

Room was smaller and no view. Loved shower, bathing pool and snack area. Location was not ideal for what we ended up doing but that was our fault as we changed our itinerary.

Sheraton Grand Hiroshima Hotel
Hiroshima

Beautiful hotel and location to train station. Wonderful food buffet and staff. Hotel was so quiet and fast elevators considering how large it is.

Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyobashi / Tokyo Station

Excellent location and breakfast. Would have upgraded to a larger room if one was available.

Activity Review
Half Day Private Guide in Tsukishima
Half Day Private Guide in Tsukishima
Tokyo

Carol was a fantastic guide. It was our first morning in Japan and we ended up not going to Tsukishima but to Asakusa and Shibuya and Meiji Jingu followed by a wonderful lunch off the beaten path. She showed us so much and gave us tips and places to explore on our own. Wish we had more time with her.

Local specialist: Adeline Kuroki
Adeline
Adeline Kuroki
Local specialist in Denver, CO & Fukuoka, JP | Replied on Dec 12, 2025

Thanks so much for your thoughts and feedback Kathy! I'm sorry to hear you didn't love the location of the Blossom in Kyoto, but I'm glad you enjoyed the public bath.

Japan 2025
Japan | Oct 23 - Nov 3, 2025

Jessie
Jessie D.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
My trip to Japan was an incredible experience from start to finish. Planning everything through Kimkim was smooth and stress-free, and Eleanor made sure every detail was taken care of. I had three guides throughout my journey — each one was warm, knowledgeable, and made me feel welcome everywhere I went. We explored Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and each city offered something unique — from Tokyo’s energy and food to Kyoto’s temples and history, to Osaka’s lively street culture. The most... Read more

My trip to Japan was an incredible experience from start to finish. Planning everything through Kimkim was smooth and stress-free, and Eleanor made sure every detail was taken care of. I had three guides throughout my journey — each one was warm, knowledgeable, and made me feel welcome everywhere I went.

We explored Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, and each city offered something unique — from Tokyo’s energy and food to Kyoto’s temples and history, to Osaka’s lively street culture. The most memorable part of the trip was visiting Hakone — the views, the peaceful atmosphere, and the onsen experience were truly unforgettable.

Overall, this trip exceeded my expectations. Everything ran seamlessly, and I can’t thank Eleanor and the Kimkim team enough for helping make it such a meaningful adventure. Highly recommend!

Local specialist: Eleanor Chen

The guides we had in Japan were amazing..
Japan | Nov 23 - Dec 5, 2025

Elaine
Elaine C.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
The guides we had in Japan were amazing and they provided excellent experiences. Our hotels were great. We loved our trip.
Our contact at KimKim was not resident in Japan. It seems like he was working off a menu as opposed to experience. Some experiences were given as 4 hours long but in reality less than 2. Excursions were changed between days after we agreed on a specific day. It is important to pay close attention while planning.
Read more

The guides we had in Japan were amazing and they provided excellent experiences. Our hotels were great. We loved our trip.
Our contact at KimKim was not resident in Japan. It seems like he was working off a menu as opposed to experience. Some experiences were given as 4 hours long but in reality less than 2. Excursions were changed between days after we agreed on a specific day. It is important to pay close attention while planning.

Hotel Reviews
Yufuin Baien Garden Resort
Yufu

We selected this hotel on recommendation s from a friend and it did not disappoint. The rooms were spacious and clean the private outdoor and indoor bathing areas were wonderful and made for a special experience.

Authenticity & Character
A truly Japanese experience
Location
A private setting a short walk into the village
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Royal Park Hotel Iconic Tokyo Shiodome
Tokyo

Great hotel with comfortable rooms. The breakfast buffet is excellent with western as well as Japanese food available. All fresh. On a clear morning we could even see Mt Fuji from our table. It is an easy walk to catch a local train or the subway

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Kyoto hidden Gardens walking tour
Kyoto hidden Gardens walking tour
Kyoto

The gardens are beautiful especially with the fall colors.

Half Day Arakurayama Sengen Park and Mt.Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
Half Day Arakurayama Sengen Park and Mt.Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
Fujikawaguchiko

As Mt Fuji was covered in clouds, our guide for the two days suggested we wait until the next day do the Ropeway and boat cruise the next day and we were rewarded with beautiful sunny skies. Instead the guide took use to the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum and it was amazing

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nikko - Day trip
Nikko - Day trip
Tokyo

This was not part of KimKim’s original plan but they provided a driver and a great guide which made it extra special

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
It is a bit of a drive from Tokyo but it gave use a chance to chat with the guide
Local specialist: Bastien Desonneville

Perfect Trip, Can’t Wait to Return
Iceland | Nov 29 - Dec 7, 2025

Kyle
Kyle P.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025
Everyone we interacted with was friendly and helpful, so first of all GREAT job by Emanuela, our local specialist. Our tour guide Mica, who led our 2 day tour to the Snaeffelsness Peninsula, was really charismatic and knowledgeable, and did a great job setting expectations about drive time, meals and accommodations. Seeing the northern lights from Sky Lagoon and climbing on the glacier/in the ice cave with Anna from Troll Tours were highlights. We also really enjoyed whale watching,... Read more

Everyone we interacted with was friendly and helpful, so first of all GREAT job by Emanuela, our local specialist.

Our tour guide Mica, who led our 2 day tour to the Snaeffelsness Peninsula, was really charismatic and knowledgeable, and did a great job setting expectations about drive time, meals and accommodations.

Seeing the northern lights from Sky Lagoon and climbing on the glacier/in the ice cave with Anna from Troll Tours were highlights.

We also really enjoyed whale watching, eating bread cooked in the vents at the horse farm, the tomato soup at Fridheimer green house, and alllll the waterfalls.

Our favorite spots in Reykjavík were Kabarett (where we saw a terrific poetry reading), the Phallological Museum, Fish Mrkt and Mat Bar. Seeing everything lit up for Christmas was so lovely, and we loved strolling around the city center and looking at all the art.

I also want to thank the staff of the Storm Hotel, who were so welcoming to us each of the three times we checked in. The breakfast there was lovely, as well. It was a great way to start each day.

Oh and the Blue Lagoon and Silica Hotel were just as advertised. What a perfectly otherworldly gateway to the rest of our adventure. I’d recommend everyone start there if they can.

Hotel Review
Silica Hotel
Grindavík

The floors are warmed by the volcano, and the hot pool has a swim-in entrance. Great breakfast, too.

Authenticity & Character
Location
At the edge of a fairly fresh lava field. With a sprinkling of snow it feels like you’re on the moon.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Snaefellsnes Peninsula on small group tour- Day 2
Snaefellsnes Peninsula on small group tour- Day 2
Reykjavík

Jaw-droppingly beautiful at every turn. Also: seals!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lava Cave Explorer Tour
Lava Cave Explorer Tour
Iceland

Hugo, our guide, was really funny and fun. He knew a lot and really packed in lots of information.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
West Iceland and Lava Cave on small group tours - Day 1
West Iceland and Lava Cave on small group tours - Day 1
Borgarnes

Mica was our favorite guide of the whole trip. Borgarnes was really cute, too.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Comfortable mini bus with working WiFi, usb chargers, seatbelts and speakers
A Day at the Blue Lagoon
A Day at the Blue Lagoon
Grindavík

The pictures you’ve probably seen of this place are unbelievable, and yet somehow they don’t come close to doing it justice.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Emanuela Grieco

Amazing trip to Spain
Spain | Nov 20 - Nov 29, 2025

A
Anoo R.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2025
Alejandra and coraima did an excellent job planning and coordinating this trip and the logistics. Read more

Alejandra and coraima did an excellent job planning and coordinating this trip and the logistics.

Hotel Reviews
H10 Madison Hotel
Barcelona
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hospes Palacio de los Patos
Granada

Hotel provided a very noisy room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel provided a very noisy room.
Hotel Gravina 51
Sevilla

Excellent hotel in a location accessible to all key sights.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Córdoba Day Trip from Seville
Córdoba Day Trip from Seville
Seville

Excellent guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Coraima Yañez

Great trip to Costa Rica, our first time. Fir...
Costa Rica | Dec 1 - Dec 10, 2025

Susan
Susan w.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2025
Great trip to Costa Rica, our first time. First guide from San Jose to la fortuna was our favorite. Appreciated drivers with snacks and drinks in the car. Sloth adventure was great! As was the tour with Socio in Manuel Antonio. The catamaran tour was okay….good food and drinks, BUT no visability for snorkeling apparently anytime around rainy season and they made like it was possible. The places we stayed at were wonderful. Wildlife around and incredible views! We were surprised by... Read more

Great trip to Costa Rica, our first time. First guide from San Jose to la fortuna was our favorite. Appreciated drivers with snacks and drinks in the car. Sloth adventure was great! As was the tour with Socio in Manuel Antonio. The catamaran tour was okay….good food and drinks, BUT no visability for snorkeling apparently anytime around rainy season and they made like it was possible. The places we stayed at were wonderful. Wildlife around and incredible views! We were surprised by how much food costs here compared to Mexico and Guatemala. That would be the only reason I may not recommend it to friends.

Hotel Reviews
Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton
San José
Authenticity & Character
Breakfast food was below average of previous hotels. Not as much ethnic food and no fresh egg section until later.
Location
Right next to opera house
Staff
Friendliness at desk
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great room service menu
Hotel La Mariposa
Manuel Antonio

Best views of any hotel I have stayed at. From the garden and pools to the sea, mountains, to the jungle. Several varieties of monkeys come by, and they had a mother sloth and baby in their huge garden.

Authenticity & Character
Garden, animals, flowers. Some ethnic food at breakfast
Location
Sunrise to sunset views
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
So many windows for them to clean…some streaks….forgot to supply filters in coffee.
Arenal Springs Resort
La Fortuna

Great pools with natural springs wandering around. Many iguanas on trees and rocks around pools. Restaurant not our fav because of all the Italian food. Pool food offered some choices including sushi. Expensive dinners. Would have liked more ethnic choices. Great breakfast choices. Excellent view of Arenal. Cabins are duplexes and lively

Authenticity & Character
Iguanas. Some ethnic breakfast food was great
Location
View
Staff
Very punctual, friendly, lovely
Cleanliness & Comfort
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen
San José

Great pool!!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Fairly near airport—nothing else around except industrial area
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Catamaran Tour with Meal
Catamaran Tour with Meal
Costa Rica

No snorkeling anytime near rainy season. Visibility only 3 feet. Many jellyfish and people getting stung. They had a mix to spray on the blisters. Good food and drinks and sunset lovely. Dolphins around and seabirds

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Private Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Hike
Costa Rica

Excellent guide. Found way more creatures that we could imagine. Got excellent pictures from our guide

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Sloth Observation - Day or Night Walk
Private Sloth Observation - Day or Night Walk
Arenal/La Fortuna

Excellent and came back with great pictures thanks to the guides telephoto lenses. Then after finding the sloths and birds, monkeys, etc..,you come back and they have some great local food! Excellent

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Safari Float on the Peñas Blancas River
Safari Float on the Peñas Blancas River
Arenal/La Fortuna

At the end they had some local food and drinks and chocolate demonstration. That was a lovely touch

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk
Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Elena Mora
Elena
Elena Mora
Local specialist in Cartago, Turrialba | Replied on Dec 12, 2025
Hola Susan, Thank you so much for sharing your feedback, and I’m truly delighted to hear that you had a great first trip to Costa Rica. It’s wonderful to know that your guide from San José to La Fortuna was your favorite, and that you enjoyed the sloth adventure, the tour with Socio in Manuel Antonio, and the beautiful accommodations with their incredible wildlife and views. I also appreciate your comments regarding the catamaran tour. You are absolutely right — visibility for snorkeling is... Read more

Hola Susan,

Thank you so much for sharing your feedback, and I’m truly delighted to hear that you had a great first trip to Costa Rica. It’s wonderful to know that your guide from San José to La Fortuna was your favorite, and that you enjoyed the sloth adventure, the tour with Socio in Manuel Antonio, and the beautiful accommodations with their incredible wildlife and views.

I also appreciate your comments regarding the catamaran tour. You are absolutely right — visibility for snorkeling is often limited during the rainy season, and it should have been clearly communicated. Your feedback is very valuable, and I will share it with our operations team to ensure this is addressed moving forward.

Regarding food prices, Costa Rica is indeed more expensive than many other destinations in Central America due to local regulations, wages, and sustainability practices. I completely understand how this can impact the overall experience, and your perspective is very helpful for setting expectations with future travelers.

Thank you again for choosing us to help plan your adventure. If you ever decide to return, I would love to assist you again and make your next visit even smoother.

Thank you so much, Pura Vida!

Elena Mora
Serendipity Adventures, Costa Rica

Very nice trip to New Zealand
New Zealand | Nov 18 - Dec 3, 2025

Zvonko
Zvonko D.
Slovenia | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2025
Our trip to New Zealand was a great success and this is the most important, far more than some difficulties during preparation phase. Good things first:
- Complete timing was good; we followed the schedule, attended all planned activities and we even added some additional ones.
- Hotels were all appropriate, the Lake Ohau Lodge was very different and somehow unique with their group dinner, but we enjoyed this one also
- All organized transportations were correct and timely
- Both...
Read more

Our trip to New Zealand was a great success and this is the most important, far more than some difficulties during preparation phase.

Good things first:
- Complete timing was good; we followed the schedule, attended all planned activities and we even added some additional ones.
- Hotels were all appropriate, the Lake Ohau Lodge was very different and somehow unique with their group dinner, but we enjoyed this one also
- All organized transportations were correct and timely
- Both rentacars were good and spacious; the roads on both islands are good without too much traffic, so I did not have problems driving on the left side
- Both organized walking tours were good, guides very professional and knowledgeable
- I like to specially mention Wine tour in Wellington, which was exceptional. We had great fun and we learned much more then just pure facts about wine and the region
- All included activities were good; our highlight activities were Tasman glacier cruise and Te Puia geysers in Rotorua.

In preparation phase we had to invest much more of our time as in any other of our previous Kimkim trips. Kathrin was always eager to help, but there were various reasons we had more problems than usual
- At very beginning we proposed to base our trip on one already prepared trip published on Kimkim but we ended up with fairly different final plan.
- This caused a lot of communication and modifications, and 12 hours’ time difference was the main reason that preparation took much longer than expected
- Some unfortunate mistakes happened during the preparation phase too, but as I said previously the important point is that we had very nice trip to New Zealand.

Best regards

Zvonko

Local specialist: Kathrin Gerstel
Kathrin
Kathrin Gerstel
Local specialist in New Zealand | Replied on Dec 12, 2025
Thank you very much for sharing your thoughtful review, Zvonko. I’m delighted to hear that your trip to New Zealand was such a success and that the itinerary, activities, accommodations, and logistics all came together so well. It’s wonderful to know how much you enjoyed the guided tours, the Wellington wine experience, and highlights like the Tasman Glacier cruise and Te Puia. I also appreciate you acknowledging the challenges during the planning phase. We didn’t have a long time to prepare... Read more

Thank you very much for sharing your thoughtful review, Zvonko. I’m delighted to hear that your trip to New Zealand was such a success and that the itinerary, activities, accommodations, and logistics all came together so well. It’s wonderful to know how much you enjoyed the guided tours, the Wellington wine experience, and highlights like the Tasman Glacier cruise and Te Puia.

I also appreciate you acknowledging the challenges during the planning phase. We didn’t have a long time to prepare for your trip, and I recognize that the time difference with you being in Europe, along with the adjustments needed to refine the itinerary, made the process more demanding than it should have been. I’m very glad that despite this, the final trip delivered the experience you hoped for and left you with great memories of New Zealand.

Perfect Guides
Japan | Nov 22 - Nov 29, 2025

D
Debbie C.
Walhalla, SC | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2025

Peter was our guide in Tokyo, and Hiroshi was our guide in Kyoto. Both men were wonderful!!! Very knowledgeable, polite, and blended into our family.

Local specialist: Ben Tanaka

Fabulous Brazil Trip
Brazil | Nov 30 - Dec 10, 2025

Kristy
Kristy M.
Canada | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2025
We had a very good experience working with Rachel (Brazil specialist located in São Paulo) from the Kimkim team. She worked with us to tailor our trip and patiently answered my many questions throughout the process. All the drivers we had were punctual, professional and very nice. Our English speaking local guides were all outstanding: Reginia in São Paulo, sat down with us before we began to get to know our preferences and customized our day tour to suit our style. Marcos in Foz do Iguacu... Read more

We had a very good experience working with Rachel (Brazil specialist located in São Paulo) from the Kimkim team. She worked with us to tailor our trip and patiently answered my many questions throughout the process. All the drivers we had were punctual, professional and very nice. Our English speaking local guides were all outstanding: Reginia in São Paulo, sat down with us before we began to get to know our preferences and customized our day tour to suit our style. Marcos in Foz do Iguacu was excellent, making sure we never felt rushed, knew the best spots to take photos, ensured we started early enough to avoid the biggest crowds and the heat of the afternoon. He was equally friendly and professional. In Rio we enjoyed our driver and guide Alessandro (Alex). He showed us as much of Rio as one can see in two days. He is a knowledgeable and fun guide. Finally our guide in Jericoacoara, Jonathan was a very nice fellow who enjoys his job. We were never rushed. The vibe was definitely chill and fun and we had a blast. We really found the Meu Agente app to be helpful (it’s not perfect) but we referred to it frequently. WhatsApp was available to us to contact Rachel or her colleagues while we were travelling. I would recommend downloading the Latham and Gol apps prior to your travels to help get informed of last minute gate or schedule changes in real time. This is our first trip to Brazil and booking through the Kimkim team was a real pleasure and really made our trip stress free.

Hotel Review
Casalô Hotel
Jericoacoara

This is a sweet place to stay. The rooms and property are lovely with a very relaxing atmosphere. The breakfasts here were the best we had during our trip. The best thing about this hotel is the staff. They are friendly and kind. We only spoke single word Portuguese but the staff helped us whatever we needed from restaurant suggestions to laundry.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Rachel Vita

Lots to see and do!
Belize | Dec 1 - Dec 7, 2025

P
Patti W.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2025
We had a wonderful time in Belize. Our lodging, Azure del Mar, (https://www.azuredelmar.com/), provided a peaceful and lovely setting to relax before and after our many activities. The food at the beachfront hotel's restaurant was quite good, with an expansive menu and delightful wait staff. Sunrises were stunning, and we enjoyed hearing the parrots as they swooped through the trees near our room. When not at the lodge, we snorkeled, rode horses through the jungle, visited a Mayan ruin,... Read more

We had a wonderful time in Belize. Our lodging, Azure del Mar, (https://www.azuredelmar.com/), provided a peaceful and lovely setting to relax before and after our many activities. The food at the beachfront hotel's restaurant was quite good, with an expansive menu and delightful wait staff. Sunrises were stunning, and we enjoyed hearing the parrots as they swooped through the trees near our room. When not at the lodge, we snorkeled, rode horses through the jungle, visited a Mayan ruin, sampled local chocolate, and tubed down a not too lazy river at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. We truly appreciated the guides . They were all attentive and provided lots of local information about each area we visited.
We had a few minor issues regarding one of our outings, (mostly our fault), but KimKIm was quick to jump in and make sure we had what we needed to make the outing a success!

Hotel Review
Azure Del Mar
Placencia

Lovely hotel with attentive staff. Great food, expansive menu. Getting to the village area of Placencia isn't walkable; golf carts or bicycles are available, but neither appealed to us. But there was plenty to do at the hotel for those few hours that we weren't away on an adventure!

Authenticity & Character
The staff was so warm and engaging; we were treated like very special family members.
Location
Very nice beach and easy walk to the lagoon to see the sunset.
Staff
Maria and all the wait staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very comfy beds!
Activity Reviews
Lubaantun & Chocolate Farm
Lubaantun & Chocolate Farm
Placencia

Our guide was more than enthusiastic about his farm and his organic farming methods. I was much more interested in the chocolate, which was out of this world! Delicious!!! Lunch after the tour was terrific- rice, beans, veggies and tortillas.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our driver was great- after heavy rainfall, he navigated the mud and very rough roads calmly and got us out and back without any problems.
Transport
See above
Jungle Ride and Swim Adventure
Jungle Ride and Swim Adventure
Placencia

The setting for this outing was awesome. Although we were there to ride horses, I was delighted at the setting--pea hens, toucans, egrets galore, and farm animals were everywhere. The ride itself was lovely, though muddy. Our guide was a pro and the horses were great. We stopped for a rest at the river, but didn't see a waterfall. Afterward, we went to lunch at a local diner, which was great.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Snorkel at Silk Cayes
Snorkel at Silk Cayes
Belize

Can't even begin to say how great this outing was. So many fish-from small brightly colored, to parrot fish, rays, and nurse sharks. We saw several types of coral, including brain and fan and more. We were thrilled to see a giant see turtle as well! Our guide made a point of making sure we saw everything we could on this outing.

Quality of Experience
The easy-going vibe on the boat as we made our way to the snorkeling site. After being dropped off for snorkeling, divers went to their own spot and we all regrouped later.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The camaraderie of the several staff on the boat. And the lunch that was provided was delicious!
Transport
Our driver was a gem. Just chatty enough to keep us interested, but quiet enough that we could take it all in.
Local specialist: Catherina Tittaferrante

Leny was fantastic prepping for the trip. Aft...
Japan | Oct 25 - Nov 10, 2025

Kevin
Kevin M.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 10, 2025

Leny was fantastic prepping for the trip. After numerous live calls we adjusted our itinerary to our needs and timing. Leny was patient and made all the necessary adjustments. The trip was fantastic and every day we had a text outlining our day and travel. Just an awesome experience and Leny was the best

Local specialist: Leny Vergara
Leny
Leny Vergara
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Dec 11, 2025

Hi Kevin,

I hope you’re settling in nicely. Thank you so much for your kind words. It was a pleasure helping you shape the trip and fine-tune the itinerary, and it was great working with you throughout the planning process. I’m really glad the daily updates and arrangements made everything smooth and enjoyable. I appreciate your trust, and I’m happy to hear you had such a wonderful experience. I look forward to helping you with your future Japan trip.

Warm regards,

Leny

Our second trip with KimKim
Spain | Dec 2 - Dec 9, 2025

Joan
Joan B.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 10, 2025
This is the second trip we have used with Kim Kim. I really appreciated how well everything was organized. We contacted you with a change and it was handled quickly. We really loved the app. It made keeping track of the details so easy. The route feature was wonderful as we were driving and it made getting directions very simple. Love how you planned the trip with all the details we had requested. Thanks so much! We will use you again Joan & Don Read more

This is the second trip we have used with Kim Kim. I really appreciated how well everything was organized. We contacted you with a change and it was handled quickly. We really loved the app. It made keeping track of the details so easy. The route feature was wonderful as we were driving and it made getting directions very simple. Love how you planned the trip with all the details we had requested. Thanks so much! We will use you again

Joan & Don

Hotel Reviews
Parador de Cardona
Cardona

We loved the experience of staying in the hotel. I do think one night would have been enough since there was not much to do unless you drove.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Beautiful and unique. Staying in a castle was incredible
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Loved the restaurant
H10 Imperial Tarraco
Tarragona

Loved this hotel. The location was perfect. The lobby was beautiful and we loved the roof top bar.

Authenticity & Character
Location
We could walk to everything. Food- shopping and sightseeing. We could see the ocean from our room
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
H10 Racó del Pi
Barcelona

No lobby or place to sit and relax but our room was clean and comfortable

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Excursion to Montserrat Monastery & Scenic Mountain Hike
Excursion to Montserrat Monastery & Scenic Mountain Hike
Barcelona

Loved this hike and learning about the Monastery. I wish this excursian was longer. There was a lot to see and wonderful hiking

Quality of Experience
I loved the hiking. Wish it had been longer
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide was very informative. He made the trip very enjoyable
Transport
Van was comfortable
Local specialist: Giorgia Torre

Amazing trip!
Japan | Nov 23 - Dec 5, 2025

L
Louise W.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Dec 10, 2025
Bastien was wonderful and very cooperative. He is not a local specialist to the level that I would expect - but I am a very experienced traveler who is looking for very specific experiences. Once we arrived in Japan, the guides he had arranged were excellent and were the kind of local specialist we needed as part of the planning. My suggestion is to introduce the traveler to the in-country guides earlier in the process - it would have avoided some confusion on our end and un-necessary back... Read more

Bastien was wonderful and very cooperative. He is not a local specialist to the level that I would expect - but I am a very experienced traveler who is looking for very specific experiences. Once we arrived in Japan, the guides he had arranged were excellent and were the kind of local specialist we needed as part of the planning. My suggestion is to introduce the traveler to the in-country guides earlier in the process - it would have avoided some confusion on our end and un-necessary back and forth in the planning.

Having said all of that - we had an amazing trip. Bastien and Kim Kim saved us an enormous amount of time and the in-country guides and resources were excellent.

Kind regards,
Louise

Local specialist: Bastien Desonneville

Our Portugal Adventure!
Portugal | Nov 22 - Nov 30, 2025

D
Diane S.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Dec 10, 2025

Our trip was filled with truly unique experiences! We were lucky to have Pedro help plan our itinerary—he took the time to understand our interests and priorities, and crafted a week packed with amazing tours, cooking classes, cultural performances, and meaningful family time. Every part of our Portugal adventure was wonderful. Thank you, Pedro!

Local specialist: Pedro Luis
Pedro
Pedro Luis
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Dec 10, 2025

Dear Diane,
Thank you so much for your kind words!
It was truly a pleasure helping plan your Portugal adventure and getting to know what mattered most to your family. I am so glad the experiences - from the tours to the cooking classes and cultural moments - made your trip special.
Wishing you many more wonderful travels ahead.
Your friend in Portugal - Pedro

Our trip was excellent - we travelled with tw...
Costa Rica | Nov 28 - Dec 6, 2025

J
Jocelyn W.
Canada | Reviewed on Dec 10, 2025
Our trip was excellent - we travelled with two children, 8 and 11, and everything was perfectly curated for them. The hotels were spectacular and the activities were really fun! Having activities in the morning left the afternoon free for lounging by the pool and relaxing in hot springs. Suggestions of what to bring and wear were very helpful. My only recommendation would be more details on where to drop the car off - we thought as per the instructions it was AT the airport but it was about... Read more

Our trip was excellent - we travelled with two children, 8 and 11, and everything was perfectly curated for them. The hotels were spectacular and the activities were really fun! Having activities in the morning left the afternoon free for lounging by the pool and relaxing in hot springs. Suggestions of what to bring and wear were very helpful. My only recommendation would be more details on where to drop the car off - we thought as per the instructions it was AT the airport but it was about 10 minutes away and required a shuttle back. This could have been a problem if we were short on time. Would definitely recommend this trip.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel La Mariposa
Manuel Antonio
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
we had an issue with our first room and the staff accommodated us quickly by moving to another room that was perfect
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
Monteverde
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa
La Fortuna
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Olman Romero

Great experience and best of Africa is Morocco
Morocco | Nov 28 - Dec 7, 2025

Keith
Keith J.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Dec 10, 2025
Trip was amazing. We loved it. Some of our hotel reservations were messed up and that should not happen. It happened twice on this trip. Our Guide Ilyace was absolutely incredilbe and we had tons of fun with him. Very knowledgable about his country. Read more

Trip was amazing. We loved it. Some of our hotel reservations were messed up and that should not happen. It happened twice on this trip. Our Guide Ilyace was absolutely incredilbe and we had tons of fun with him. Very knowledgable about his country.

Hotel Reviews
Riad Kalaa
Rabat
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Braya
FesfE

Riad is open and you can hear everyone coming and going.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen

Heated pool was great and massages top notch. Just a beautiful hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Top notch
Location
On a hill in the blue city with an amazing view.
Staff
Everyone treated us great and very helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room was perfect. Shower massive.
Tiziri Luxury Camp
Merzouga

Spectacular setting. Glorified glamping with even heating blankets. Music was fantastic at night and everyone should try this once in a lifetime.

Authenticity & Character
Top notch
Location
2 hour camel ride and loved it.
Staff
Everyone was amazing
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sleeping arrangements were perfect and beds comfortable.
Riad Ksar Ighnda
Ait Benhaddou

Our favorite hotel of the trip. Pure luxury and setting was amazing. Food top notch, views amazing, fabulous pool and service fantastic. They even had a small gym which was rare in Morocco.

Authenticity & Character
Everything is authentic and very clean
Location
Staff
Top Notch
Cleanliness & Comfort
Perfect
Riad Diamond of Marrakech
Marrakech

Small room but good hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided Tour of Fez Medina
Guided Tour of Fez Medina
Fes
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hammam & Spa Experience at Les Bains D'Orient Marrakech
Hammam & Spa Experience at Les Bains D'Orient Marrakech
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech
Half-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech
Marrakesh
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Drive from Merzouga to Aït Benhaddou via Ouarzazate
Drive from Merzouga to Aït Benhaddou via Ouarzazate
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Chefchaoeun to Fez via Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes
Chefchaoeun to Fez via Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Transfer from Fez to Merzouga Desert
Private Transfer from Fez to Merzouga Desert
Morocco

Ilyace our driver was awesome.

Quality of Experience
Food
Lamb chops we purchased from a butcher than grilled over charcoal. Delicious
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dine with a Local Family
Dine with a Local Family
Morocco

So much fun learning about the culture and getting to eat with a family that lived in the medina.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Aït Benhaddou to Marrakech via Tizi n'Tichka Pass & the High Atlas Mountains
Aït Benhaddou to Marrakech via Tizi n'Tichka Pass & the High Atlas Mountains
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ilyace top notch
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in Marrakech
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in Marrakech
Marrakesh

Best air ballon ride in the world. Magical.

Quality of Experience
Watching a sunset come up over the mountains in a hot air balloon is something you will never forget.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ali Moujane
Ali
Ali Moujane
Local specialist in Atlas Mountains | Replied on Dec 10, 2025
Hi Keith, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback. I’m really happy to hear that you had an amazing trip overall and that you enjoyed your time with Ilyace, he truly is fantastic, and I’ll make sure your kind words reach him. I’m also very sorry to hear about the hotel reservation issues. I truly appreciate you bringing this to my attention. I’ve already flagged it with our team so we can review what went wrong and make sure it doesn’t happen again in the future. Thank... Read more

Hi Keith,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback. I’m really happy to hear that you had an amazing trip overall and that you enjoyed your time with Ilyace, he truly is fantastic, and I’ll make sure your kind words reach him.

I’m also very sorry to hear about the hotel reservation issues. I truly appreciate you bringing this to my attention. I’ve already flagged it with our team so we can review what went wrong and make sure it doesn’t happen again in the future.

Thank you again for traveling with us and for taking the time to leave this review. We hope to welcome you back to Morocco someday for an even smoother experience!

Warm regards,
Ali

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
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Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.