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Price gouging for a vacation
Scotland | May 6 - May 15, 2024

N
Nina A.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on May 20, 2024

Although we had a great time in Scotland, I can't get over the lack of transparency of the trip cost from this company. After we booked, I noticed how high the overall price was and compared it against the hotels that were booked, car rental, and activities and the total price of those did not even come close to the total we paid Kimkim. I reached out to Stephen and he said that his manager stated they were unable to provide a breakdown of cost. A hotel and the car rental company provided us with the invoices, and we were able to see the prices for each activity when we got to the location and nothing added up except that the fee to book with Kimkim was beyond astronomical and nothing short of highway robbery. Super unfortunate.

Local specialist: Stephen Molloy
Stephen
Stephen Molloy
Local specialist in Dorset and Lyon | Replied on May 24, 2024
Dear Nina & Colten, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We are, actually, delighted to hear that you had a great time exploring Scotland, and thank you for saying that in your feedback review. It truly is a beautiful and captivating country, and we're glad we could be a part of your journey. Obviously, though you are disappointed about the price paid, not the experience. Scotland is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, but it is also... Read more

Dear Nina & Colten,

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We are, actually, delighted to hear that you had a great time exploring Scotland, and thank you for saying that in your feedback review. It truly is a beautiful and captivating country, and we're glad we could be a part of your journey.

Obviously, though you are disappointed about the price paid, not the experience. Scotland is known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, but it is also recognized as one of the more expensive travel destinations on the planet. According to recent statistics, the UK was ranked sixth in the world. Your trip was to Scotland, which is known to have even higher prices.

We understand your concerns about the overall cost of the trip. We strive to provide a seamless travel experience, which includes not only accommodations, car rentals, and activities but also personalized service, expert planning, and support throughout your trip. We aim to ensure that you have a stress-free and memorable vacation, which often involves behind-the-scenes efforts and resources that may not be immediately visible.

Many of our travelers appreciate the added value and peace of mind that our services provide. While we recognize that the breakdown of costs might not have met your expectations, we assure you that our pricing reflects the comprehensive service and expertise that we offer. Most of our clients have found great value in our services and have enjoyed their trips thoroughly. The fee that Kimkim uses for marketing and support is completely normal, when compared across the whole industry.

I do think it is important to provide a breakdown of what our team in the UK & France have spent on the trip:

• Trip crafting and feedback: 1.5 days
• Payment of suppliers and booking: 0.5 days
• Confirmation & communication with suppliers: 0.5 days
• Roadbook crafting: 1.5 days
• Assistance on site 24/7 included, via our on-call staff

We regret any frustration this lack of an initial breakdown may have caused and appreciate your feedback as it helps us improve. WE REALLY DO LISTEN, AND IT PROVOKES A HEALTHY DEBATE IN OUR OFFICE ENVIRONMENT. If there’s anything further we can assist you with or if you have more specific feedback, please feel free to reach out to us directly.

Thank you once again for choosing Kimkim, and we hope to have the opportunity to serve you again in the future.

Best regards,
Stephen

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