Expectations far exceeded!

Australia | May 20 - Jun 1, 2024

I'm not usually the “book through a tour” type but this was my first time traveling to the other side of the world and I didn’t want to leave things to my planning chances. It was a gamble and I am so glad I took it! From the initial planning phases everything was a breeze. Vicky mapped everything out according to our budget and preferences and tweaked everything we wanted to fully customize the trip to our desire. She was fully available during the trip providing updates on your changes and even making changes we requested during the trip.

Our tours were all exceptional and we experienced so much more by utilizing this service than I could’ve dreamed of planning myself! Each tour guide was unique and offered so much information and knowledge on the different days. We were the lone hikers in Sydney which was a nice break and allowed us to take in the scenes quietly. Queenstown was breathtaking and the LOTR tour was actually a way more fun experience than expected (and was a good mix of film stuff and non film stuff for those of us who aren’t die hards). Who knew I’d like NZ wines so much too? Cairns was a different vibe and completely different climate but it was nice to be tropical! And I’m so glad I worked with Vicky on the ordering of that piece of the tour for that reason!

I only wish I could’ve stayed another week to see even more. Wouldn’t change a thing. Thank you Vicky & the Kimkim team.

Hotel Review

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort

Cairns

The Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort was fine but not my favorite. The hotel felt a bit rundown, possibly because we had just come from a really nice place in New Zealand. However, the bed was comfortable, the staff was great, and the breakfast was wonderful. The comparison with our previous hotel might have affected my impression, but overall, it was an okay stay.

Activity Reviews

Seastar Luxury Outer Great Barrier Reef Island and Reef Tour from Cairns

Cairns

The reef excursion was incredible! We first took a boat ride for about an hour and a half to our snorkeling site. We had two hours to explore the first reef, followed by lunch, and then another two hours at a different location. The snorkeling was fantastic; we saw a variety of fish and coral, including clownfish, which reminded me of Finding Nemo. The instructors were helpful and pointed out interesting marine life. It was a memorable and breathtaking experience.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Lord of Rings Full-Day Tour around Queenstown Lakes by 4WD

Queenstown (NZ)

The Lord of the Rings tour was a highlight, even though we aren't huge fans of the movies. The morning was just my husband and me with the driver, focusing more on sightseeing than just the film locations. It was great to see the beautiful scenery. In the afternoon, we joined others for some exciting off-roading, driving through rivers and off the beaten path. It was a fascinating experience and enjoyable even for those who aren't die-hard fans of the series.