Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 17,449 ratings
Read 17,449 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.

Forever Customer!!!
Australia | Dec 15 - Jan 3, 2025

Roanne
Roanne A.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
I can’t recommend KimKim enough! From the very start, they made the entire planning process so easy. I had no idea where to start or what to do for my family, but their team put together an amazing itinerary that fit our needs perfectly. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing—it was exactly the trip we wanted without even knowing it. Every hotel was booked correctly without a single issue, our tours were the right balance of fun and relaxation, and traveling between destinations was a... Read more

I can’t recommend KimKim enough! From the very start, they made the entire planning process so easy. I had no idea where to start or what to do for my family, but their team put together an amazing itinerary that fit our needs perfectly. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing—it was exactly the trip we wanted without even knowing it.

Every hotel was booked correctly without a single issue, our tours were the right balance of fun and relaxation, and traveling between destinations was a breeze. It was so nice to just enjoy the experience without stressing over logistics.

I’m so glad we used KimKim, and I’ll absolutely book with them again for future trips. If you're looking for a stress-free way to plan an unforgettable vacation, this is the way to go!

Major props to our coordinator, Vicky, who was incredibly responsive and made my family and me feel well taken care of.

Local specialist: Vicky Steinhardt
Vicky
Vicky Steinhardt
Local specialist in Noosa, Australia | Replied on Jan 08, 2025

Hi Roanne,

Thank you so much for your kind words! It was an absolute pleasure helping you plan this trip for your family. I’m so happy to hear that the itinerary was exactly what you needed and that everything went smoothly, from the hotels to the tours and transfers.

I loved working with you to create a vacation that balanced fun and relaxation, and I’m thrilled that it turned out to be just what you were hoping for

Thank you again for trusting me with your trip and for sharing your amazing feedback! 😊

This was amazing. Such a thoughtful itinerary...
Patagonia | Dec 30 - Jan 5, 2025

J
Jahon H.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
This was amazing. Such a thoughtful itinerary with nothing but great guides, hotels, and experiences all throughout. I highly recommend for a trip like this. Read more

This was amazing. Such a thoughtful itinerary with nothing but great guides, hotels, and experiences all throughout. I highly recommend for a trip like this.

Hotel Review
Hotel Ilaia
Punta Arenas

Perfect! Wonderful place with a great breakfast. Great staff. Perfect!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Erin Wiley
Erin
Erin Wiley
Local specialist in Puerto Natales & Pucon, Chile | Replied on Jan 09, 2025

Jahon,

We are so happy that you had such a wonderful trip - we really enjoyed hosting you here and received nothing but positive feedback from your guides as well! I'm glad that you enjoyed Hotel Ilaia, I also love their staff, they are just lovely people who create such a warm environment in a somewhat cold destination haha.

Wishing you and your family the best, come back anytime!

Stress Free Vacation
Colombia | Dec 24 - Jan 1, 2025

S
Stefanie B.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
Columbia is just an amazing country and we are so glad we had the help in planning.
Most of our guides were FANTASTIC- so friendly, intelligent and interesting! We had one guide that was good, I have nothing bad to say but I do not think we needed a guide for the activity and truth be told, it was too touristy. I would not have selected Guatape but went with the suggestion anyway.
I did most of the other planning and KimKim did the rest (booking guides, drivers, internal airfare) but I...
Read more

Columbia is just an amazing country and we are so glad we had the help in planning.
Most of our guides were FANTASTIC- so friendly, intelligent and interesting! We had one guide that was good, I have nothing bad to say but I do not think we needed a guide for the activity and truth be told, it was too touristy. I would not have selected Guatape but went with the suggestion anyway.
I did most of the other planning and KimKim did the rest (booking guides, drivers, internal airfare) but I could have really let KIMKIM select the hotels as they know the area better than I did.
We loved the hiking and the remote villages and of course the tour of the Stilt Village was awesome.
It was truly a carefree trip and while using KIMKIM is certainly more expensive than doing it on your own, it takes all of the stress and organization off your hands and to me, that is worth it to me!

Hotel Reviews
OZ Hotel
Cartagena

We checked out, it was dirty and the staff were not very nice.

Location
Staff
It could be the language barrier and that is my fault for not speaking Spanish but it seemed they were annoyed with me even in terms of showing me my room.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Had bugs, cracks in the walls and the hallways smelled.
Hotel Boutique Casa Carolina
Santa Marta

The hotel is beautiful and the staff were amazing but the location did not feel safe. We stayed in the hotel and did not venture out once we were in for the day. It is also very noisy from the streets around.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Landmark Hotel Medellín
Medellín

Perfect room, location with a lovely gym and healthy food! Decor was amazing and it was very clean. We appreciated having free laundry!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Walking tour in Cartagena's Historic Center
Walking tour in Cartagena's Historic Center
Cartagena

The guide did not provide much to the trip, we learned very little. We could have just walked around the city ourselves. She was nice and tried to help get us a dinner reservation but we did not do anything that required a guide and she just did not teach us much. The other guides were full of knowledge and stories.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
We had clean cars and transport the entire time never a problem with drivers!
Market Visit & Cooking Class
Market Visit & Cooking Class
Cartagena

While the market is quite the adventure, is is not for the faint of heart- it is truly dirty but very cool place to be! I would not have felt safe being there without all of the support staff we had.

Quality of Experience
We could have done more cooking- we have done cooking classes in other countries and did a lot more.
Food
I think for foreigners you must cook the food and not serve raw.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They were fine but we did not interact much
Transport
Nueva Venecia and the stilt villages of the Ciénaga Grande (On the Way to Cartagena)
Nueva Venecia and the stilt villages of the Ciénaga Grande (On the Way to Cartagena)
Colombia

Our guide was awesome and this was one of the highlights of our trip- definetly worth stopping!!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hiking in Cerro Kennedy
Hiking in Cerro Kennedy
El Dorado Nature Reserve

Loved it!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hike Tayrona National Park
Hike Tayrona National Park
Colombia

You do not need a guide for the first part of the hike and I think that was all that was scheduled for us but we decided we wanted to do more bc we actually like to hike and be in remote areas. Once we got past the crowd it was awesome. You do not really need a guide for this trip but it is nice to have and he was lovely.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Medellín Transformation Tour
Medellín Transformation Tour
Medellín
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Natural Reserve: "Cerro Bravo"
Natural Reserve: "Cerro Bravo"
Medellín

We love hiking and while this was the scariest hike I ever did, we loved it. What made it challenging was there is no real trail and what is there is very slippery. Going up was fine, hard but good but I was really worried about going down.

Quality of Experience
Food
Wherever you picked the food up from it was amazing!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I forget our guides name Froi, I think and he is AWESOME
Transport
Peñol Boulder & Guatapé Boat Trip
Peñol Boulder & Guatapé Boat Trip
Medellín

We did not like this part of the trip as it was too touristy and there was not much to do. We would have preferred to do some activity there other than sit and climb the rock

Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Michael Gold
Michael
Michael Gold
Local specialist in San Agustín, Huila, Colombia | Replied on Jan 08, 2025
Dear Stefanie,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback! We’re so glad you had a stress-free and memorable trip to Colombia and that you enjoyed the stunning hikes, the visit to Nueva Venecia, and the remote areas you explored.
Your kind words about the guides and logistics mean a lot to us, and we’re happy that the coordination made your trip easier. We also really appreciate your constructive feedback - especially regarding Guatapé, the walking tour in Cartagena, and the...
Read more

Dear Stefanie,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback! We’re so glad you had a stress-free and memorable trip to Colombia and that you enjoyed the stunning hikes, the visit to Nueva Venecia, and the remote areas you explored.
Your kind words about the guides and logistics mean a lot to us, and we’re happy that the coordination made your trip easier. We also really appreciate your constructive feedback - especially regarding Guatapé, the walking tour in Cartagena, and the cooking class. We’ll be sure to use this to refine future experiences and make them even more aligned with traveler preferences.

Thank you again for traveling with us and sharing your thoughts. It was a pleasure to help you plan your trip, and we’d love to welcome you back in Colombia for another adventure in the future!

Warm regards,
Michael

Outstanding first visit to Vietnam
Vietnam | Dec 28 - Jan 6, 2025

Garth
Garth R.
Frederick, MD | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
First visit to Vietnam but I have used Kimkim many times for other vacations.
Our planned Minh did a very nice job communicating with us and guiding us to an excellent 9 day long trip Hanoi to Saigon, including Minh Binh and Halong Bay.
The local tour company guides were excellent and the communication on the ground was great, no lapses or misunderstandings.
Overall, as usual, kimkim did a wonderful job.
Read more

First visit to Vietnam but I have used Kimkim many times for other vacations.
Our planned Minh did a very nice job communicating with us and guiding us to an excellent 9 day long trip Hanoi to Saigon, including Minh Binh and Halong Bay.
The local tour company guides were excellent and the communication on the ground was great, no lapses or misunderstandings.
Overall, as usual, kimkim did a wonderful job.

Hotel Reviews
Au Lac Charner Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
immediate neighborhood was not as appealing as others we passed by. Would have enjoyed staying in the Opera House with better dining options close by and a better walking environment.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Renea Cruises Halong
Hon Gai, Ha Long

Outstanding service, rooms so well prepared and comfortable given this is a rather small ship. Chef prepared amazing meals in a confined space. So tasty, good portions and variety. He was easily able to accommodate diets that were fish only or meat only. This overnight was probably the highlight of the trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms were perfect, ship spotless
Ninh Binh Hidden Charm
Ninh Binh

Well kept hotel, very nice grounds, very closed to town (quite walkable). We were there New Years Eve and the gala buffet dinner left a lot to be desired. I cannot comment on the non-holiday food options or quality but I was definitely unimpressed with the kitchen on the Eve and New Years Day. Food rather tasteless and not kept very warm. Breakfasts also did not have the variety of fresh fruit I expected from a hotel in the fruit producing country.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hanoi Pearl Hotel
Hanoi

Great location. Comfortable room, staff very polite, accommodating. Breakfasts typical Asian but a few Western options. Disappointed variety of fresh fruit options given Vietnam produces so much.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Ninh Binh - Halong Port – Bai Tu Long Bay - Cong Do– Cap La island (Renea Cruise)
Ninh Binh - Halong Port – Bai Tu Long Bay - Cong Do– Cap La island (Renea Cruise)
Vietnam

Fortunately weather was very cooperative. The overall experience was outstanding and a highlight of the trip.

Quality of Experience
Awesome ship and guide. Chef top notch
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A day trip to the fertile Mekong delta, Ben Tre
A day trip to the fertile Mekong delta, Ben Tre
Ho Chi Minh City

Loved the authentic experience, scenery and cultural interactions excellent.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cuc Phuong National Park
Cuc Phuong National Park
Ninh Binh

Primate rescue was worthwhile but the Cave could have easily been skipped. It didn't offer anything and was generally a waste of time.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hanoi - Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu - Trang An Grottoes
Hanoi - Ninh Binh: Hoa Lu - Trang An Grottoes
Vietnam
Local specialist: Minh Nguyen

Wonderful Vacation
Chile | Dec 24 - Jan 1, 2025

M
Murali K.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025

The trip was well organized by Angel and fully met our expectations. The trips to Atacama Geysers, Lagoons and Night Sky View were too good and memorable. I felt Bolivia is a lot more scenic and the ride through the vast deserts and points of interests was exhilarating. The highlight of the trip was of course Uyuni Salt Flats!!!!!! Can't describe!!!

Though all our guides were very knowledgeable and helpful, our Bolivian guide Orlando stood out - super good and truly Amazing!!!

Local specialist: Angel Gutierrez
Angel
Angel Gutierrez
Local specialist in Santiago | Replied on Jan 08, 2025

Hi Murali!
Thanks for your review, this is very helpful for us.
I'm glad to hear that you liked everything including your Guide in Bolivia! Mr Orlando will be happy to read this. I hope you will come back soon!

Best,
Angel.

It’s been several months since I returned. Th...
South Africa | Aug 10 - Aug 15, 2024

K
Kelly W.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
It’s been several months since I returned. This trip goes down in memory as one of the best…and easiest! Kim Kim made super easy for my friend and I to travel to South Africa. They worked with us to customize a trip suited for our interest. Nadia was incredible - checking in on us all the time and helping make quick decisions if travel changed due to weather or other things. The guides they recommended were incredible- some we still keep in contact with. I’m planning my next two trips with... Read more

It’s been several months since I returned. This trip goes down in memory as one of the best…and easiest! Kim Kim made super easy for my friend and I to travel to South Africa. They worked with us to customize a trip suited for our interest. Nadia was incredible - checking in on us all the time and helping make quick decisions if travel changed due to weather or other things. The guides they recommended were incredible- some we still keep in contact with. I’m planning my next two trips with Kim Kim because this experience was so special.

Activity Review
Full day penguin safari - Cape Peninsula
Full day penguin safari - Cape Peninsula
South Africa
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Nadia A Albertus
Nadia A
Nadia A Albertus
Local specialist in Cape Town | Replied on Feb 03, 2025
Hi Kelly, I'm so thrilled to hear that your trip to South Africa was one of the best and that everything felt smooth and easy for you. It was an absolute pleasure working with you and Mikayla to create a journey that matched both your interests. I'm especially happy to hear that you had such a great experience with the guides and that you're still in touch with some of them—that's what travel is all about! Thank you for your kind words, and I hope to help you plan your next adventures... Read more

Hi Kelly,

I'm so thrilled to hear that your trip to South Africa was one of the best and that everything felt smooth and easy for you. It was an absolute pleasure working with you and Mikayla to create a journey that matched both your interests.

I'm especially happy to hear that you had such a great experience with the guides and that you're still in touch with some of them—that's what travel is all about! Thank you for your kind words, and I hope to help you plan your next adventures to Southern Africa with Kim Kim.

Looking forward to creating more unforgettable memories for you!

Best regards,
Nadia

India - Family Trip
India | Dec 26 - Jan 4, 2025

Filipe
Filipe M.
Portugal | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025

We visited India in Dec/Jan 25 as a family and it was amazing!
Active India team were great, especially Aditya.
Everything was exceptionally organized.
We visited Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Ranthambore and Varanasi and we had the most amazing time.
Would definitely recommend Active India to everyone

Local specialist: Ravi Tickoo
Ravi
Ravi Tickoo
Local specialist in New Delhi | Replied on Jan 10, 2025
Dear Filipe,
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback with us. We are thrilled to hear that you and your family had an amazing time during your visit to India, and we are particularly delighted that Aditya and the Active India team were able to enhance your experience.
It’s great to know that everything was exceptionally organized and that you had the opportunity to explore some of India’s most iconic destinations. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we truly appreciate... Read more

Dear Filipe,
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful feedback with us. We are thrilled to hear that you and your family had an amazing time during your visit to India, and we are particularly delighted that Aditya and the Active India team were able to enhance your experience.

It’s great to know that everything was exceptionally organized and that you had the opportunity to explore some of India’s most iconic destinations. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we truly appreciate your kind words.

We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back for another memorable journey in the future.

Warm regards,

Ravi Tickoo & Team Active India

Tour operator in Vietnam & Cambodia created a...
Vietnam | Dec 23 - Jan 5, 2025

C
Caroline B.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
Tour operator in Vietnam & Cambodia created a well planned itinerary that matched our travel style & interests. They gave quick responses to our questions before our trip & during our trip & chose excellent guides & drivers with nice cars. Tracked our movements during the trip to make sure all was going well. Good hotels. Excellent platform for planning & communication. Highlight was meeting a family of a tour guide where they shared roasted sweet potatoes & corn. And another guide took... Read more

Tour operator in Vietnam & Cambodia created a well planned itinerary that matched our travel style & interests. They gave quick responses to our questions before our trip & during our trip & chose excellent guides & drivers with nice cars. Tracked our movements during the trip to make sure all was going well. Good hotels. Excellent platform for planning & communication. Highlight was meeting a family of a tour guide where they shared roasted sweet potatoes & corn. And another guide took us to his favorite off the beaten track eating places & taught us how to eat native fruits in the market. A memorable experience besides experiencing the best food!

Hotel Reviews
Angkor Village Hotel

Good location in Siem Reap, beautiful grounds & rooms. This was our favorite hotel of our trip. We didn’t want to leave. The rooms were fabulous. With the first walk-in, beautiful spa/meditation music playing from the room’s music system. Pure Nirvana.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful tropical grounds with huge Cambodia inspired decorated rooms.
Location
Walking distance to good restaurants & night market (Pub Street).
Staff
Very courteous.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Perfect
Thanh Lich Royal Boutique Hotel

Had a room under the restaurant & was noisy. They did change my room the next day which was quieter but heard rats in the ceiling during the night.

Authenticity & Character
An Asian style but so poorly maintained didn’t work.
Location
Close to the promenade.
Staff
Courteous.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Was clean at least.
Hoi An Delicacy Hotel & Spa
Hoi An

Great little hotel in Vietnamese decor. Good location walking distance to Hoi An old town.

Authenticity & Character
Vietnamese decor & peacock theme throughout.
Location
Walking distance to Hoi An ancient town
Staff
Always helpful. All of the staff remembered our names, where we came from & when we were checking out. Truely amazing.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Spotless.
Emeralda Tam Coc Resort

Luxury resort but not too pretentious. Great location.

Authenticity & Character
Vietnamese decor with beautiful tropical grounds & pool.
Location
In Tam Coc a quieter location than Ninh Binh city center but still near restaurants & shops.
Staff
Always helpful & courteous.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Spotless.
Victory Star Cruise
Hanoi

Advertised as a replica junk with sails but there were no sails. It was poorly maintained. Needed painting, wall paper peeling, picture frames broken & the anchor system so rusted I thought it could break at any moment. Towels like sand o Paper & faded. Outside furniture faded. The staff was courteous & helpful & food quite good. Just the boat was poorly maintained. And the false advertising of having sails. Not good at all.

Authenticity & Character
Maintain the boat as noted above. Don’t advertise as having sails.
Location
Ha Long Bay too touristy. Over tourism at its worse.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were hard as rocks. Was clean though.
Palago Boutique Hanoi Hotel
Hanoi

Just as pictured & noted.

Authenticity & Character
Felt like we were in Vietnam with the decor. Not a huge hotel which felt more authentic.
Location
In a good part of town & close to the places we wanted to go.
Staff
Yes. So nice & helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Yes even the beds were comfy.
Activity Reviews
Siem Reap: Explore Angkor Complex Temples
Siem Reap: Explore Angkor Complex Temples
Siem Reap

Temples amazing.

Quality of Experience
Remotes uniqueness
Food
Local restaurants with excellent local food.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide always informative & helpful.
Transport
Buffet Dinner with Apsara dance show
Buffet Dinner with Apsara dance show
Siem Reap

Show was just ok but too many tourists. Going through the buffet with that many people was a bit disgusting. Too touristy.

Quality of Experience
Food
Just average. Too many people to serve excellent food.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was the best.
Transport
Our driver was there for us immediately after the show because we wanted to get out of there fast to beat the hundreds of people that would be leaving at the same time.
Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Overnight on boat
Hanoi - Halong Bay Cruise - Overnight on boat
Ha Long Bay

Too touristy. Would skip or just take a day tour. Too many boats & tourists.

Quality of Experience
Limit number of boats to at least half allowed in Ha Long Bay
Food
The buffet was excellent & serving staff professional.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Huyen Nghiem

Amazing trip to Vietnam and Cambodia
Vietnam | Dec 27 - Jan 7, 2025

Erich
Erich A.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
Cambodia is a great country to visit Read more

Cambodia is a great country to visit

Hotel Review
Jaya House River Park
Siem Reap

Amazing hotel and service. Will be back

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful decor
Location
In Siem Reap, can walk around the town and close to many temples and sight seeing
Staff
So attentive to all your needs
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything
Local specialist: Ha Dinh

New Years in the Philippines
Philippines | Dec 27 - Jan 4, 2025

Anisha
Anisha L.
Mead Valley, CA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
We used KimKim for two parts of our Philippines trip - canyoneering in Cebu and a city tour in Manila. The canyoneering tour was great. The driver was fine. He did a good job driving but didn’t interact with us or tell us much about the country. The drive itself was intense - few street signs or lights, lots of people and animals in the road, people driving in the wrong lanes - it was not for the weak of heart. The canyoneering tour guides were incredible. We had 5 guides for our group of... Read more

We used KimKim for two parts of our Philippines trip - canyoneering in Cebu and a city tour in Manila.

The canyoneering tour was great. The driver was fine. He did a good job driving but didn’t interact with us or tell us much about the country. The drive itself was intense - few street signs or lights, lots of people and animals in the road, people driving in the wrong lanes - it was not for the weak of heart.

The canyoneering tour guides were incredible. We had 5 guides for our group of nine. It seemed like a lot in the beginning until we got in the canyon and needed every one of them to help lead us through. They did an excellent job navigating us through and taking so many awesome pictures. They’re clearly professionals because they knew all the good spots for pictures! That tour was a highlight.

The city tour of old Manila wasn’t great. Ana was very nice and accommodating. She took us to the hotel to drop off our bags and then drove us to a local restaurant to get lunch. She was very helpful in helping us order at the restaurant and making recommendations. But when it came to the actual tour of the old city I don’t think it hit the mark. She essentially just walked us through the different locations. They was very little sharing of the story of the country or the importance of the buildings and what they meant to the country or to the people. We had to ask her questions to get an understanding of what we were seeing and the resemblance. Ana was in a difficult situation because our group consisted of different age groups though and varying levels of interest. So she may not have known how to read our group and the appropriate way to guide us.

Overall our trip was amazing and would definitely recommend KimKim for the planning to others.

Hotel Reviews
Shangri-La Mactan

Beautiful hotel, slightly dated though.

Authenticity & Character
Loved the charm and decor.
Location
Awesome location, on the beach, lots of chairs at the pool and beach
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
A/C was clutch!
Paolyn Houseboats
Coron

The house boat is spectacular. The accommodations were better than I expected and the service was as good as any 5 star resort. The location can’t be beat though. Truly a memorable experience that defined our trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
In the middle of a beautiful lagoon with clear waters
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Our boat was the best and it felt pristine inside. Everything was perfect.
Conrad Manila
Pasay City

I wouldn’t stay here again. Although the service and rooms were incredible, they were very strict about their Hilton Honors rules which are different from other Hiltons. I’m a Diamond member and typically get free breakfast for the guests in the rooms that I reserve but here they only allow two people the free breakfast, regardless of paying for two rooms. It was disappointing that their rules were so different because I would have stayed somewhere else if I knew.

Authenticity & Character
Very charming and well decorated for the holidays.
Location
Conveniently located next to the Mall of Asia. Not too far from the airport.
Staff
Superb service, everyone is very friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Manila Day Tour
Manila Day Tour
Philippines

The city tour of old Manila wasn’t great. Ana was very nice and accommodating. She took us to the hotel to drop off our bags and then drove us to a local restaurant to get lunch. She was very helpful in helping us order at the restaurant and making recommendations. But when it came to the actual tour of the old city I don’t think it hit the mark. She essentially just walked us through the different locations. They was very little sharing of the story of the country or the importance of the buildings and what they meant to the country or to the people. We had to ask her questions to get an understanding of what we were seeing and the resemblance. Ana was in a difficult situation because our group consisted of different age groups though and varying levels of interest. So she may not have known how to read our group and the appropriate way to guide us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
More engagement, ability to share the history and culture of the country.
Transport
Great driver!
Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls
Canyoneering in Kawasan Falls
Philippines

The canyoneering tour was great. The driver was fine. He did a good job driving but didn’t interact with us or tell us much about the country. The drive itself was intense - few street signs or lights, lots of people and animals in the road, people driving in the wrong lanes - it was not for the weak of heart. The canyoneering tour guides were incredible. We had 5 guides for our group of nine. It seemed like a lot in the beginning until we got in the canyon and needed every one of them to help lead us through. They did an excellent job navigating us through and taking so many awesome pictures. They’re clearly professionals because they knew all the good spots for pictures! This tour was a highlight.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kept us safe, expert at navigating those roads!
Local specialist: Cami Sarmiento
Cami
Cami Sarmiento
Local specialist in Las Vegas, NV | Replied on Jan 20, 2025

Thank you for your review Anisha! I’m very happy to hear you had an amazing time in Kawasan Falls.
Thank you also for your feedback about your tour in Manila. We will go through it and make improvements for our future guests.
Thank you for choosing to travel with us. It was a pleasure to organize your day tours and I look forward to organizing another trip for you in the future!
Cami

Mother and daughter winter holidays!
United Kingdom | Dec 19 - Jan 3, 2025

Fernanda
Fernanda M.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
This mother-daughter trip was organized by the awesome Aleksandra, who helped us in every step of the way with hotels, activities, tours, and everything we needed to have a great trip. We visited London, Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow and Dublin.
I will write as much as possible for each city.
- London: The hotel in London was comfortable, although the beds were very small, everything else was good, especially the room cleaning service. The breakfast was excellent. Our private Royal tour...
Read more

This mother-daughter trip was organized by the awesome Aleksandra, who helped us in every step of the way with hotels, activities, tours, and everything we needed to have a great trip. We visited London, Edinburgh, Inverness, Glasgow and Dublin.
I will write as much as possible for each city.
- London: The hotel in London was comfortable, although the beds were very small, everything else was good, especially the room cleaning service. The breakfast was excellent. Our private Royal tour with Diana in Spanish was very good, the walking pace was calm and she explained in a detailed way the places we visited. The Shakespeare's Stratford and Cotswolds tour was nice, however, the time in each place was short and the group was very large which made it difficult for us to follow the guide. The Afternoon tea at Fortum & Mason was amazing, we had a great time and the manager explained every single detail about this tradition to us.
- Edinburgh: The hotel in Edinburgh was nice, the room was comfortable, large, and clean. The breakfast was good but limited in the dishes that they offered. We asked for a decaf coffee and they reluctantly gave us a press full of coffee, it wasn't until we spoke to the manager that they brought a cup and apologized. The hotel's location is excellent, you only need to take a bus to get to the center and the hotel's area is calm. Please, warn others NOT to take the tram, it is too far from the hotel. The Old Town private tour was rushed, full of relevant information and interesting historical facts. Gains, our guide, is an amazing guide, and patient, he allowed me to translate to my mom the information he was sharing with us. Possibly not fully appreciated because we visited the old town at night. The St Andrews & Kingdom of Fife tour was very nice, our guide shared great information, and he gave us the correct amount of time for each stop without rushing. Many places, especially the cathedrals like St Giles and St Andrews were closed during the whole time we were there.
- Inverness: The Ness Walk Hotel is the best hotel we've ever visited. It is a gem of Scotland. Inverness is a really small town but the hotel has a great location. Everything about the hotel was amazing, from the customer service to the hotel room, simply wonderful. The Ultimate Isle of Skye Tour was great, Emma showed us relevant sites during the tour. The bus was full and it was kind of uncomfortable but everything we visited was amazing.
- Glasgow: The Adress Hotel has very basic and small rooms. The bathroom is too small, especially the shower. Service upon arrival was slow and the hotel keys were disabled when we wanted to go up to the room. Absolutely NO ONE helped us with our bags, we were just told “There is an elevator”. I recommend this hotel for a few days for its good location but everything else is bad, to be honest. We booked a free tour online in Spanish with "Somos Escocia", highly recommended.
- Dublin: We honestly didn't have enough time in Dublin. This city is amazing, the people are warm and nice, and the city is lively and fun. The Cliffs of Moher was a great tour, the weather was amazing that day but the description said "small group" and it was a big group! like 40 people in a big bus. The tour was not bad at all but it wasn't a small group tour.

Hotel Review
Ness Walk
Inverness

I had an unforgettable stay here! The service was impeccable, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure my comfort. From the moment I arrived, I felt like a VIP. The attention to detail and hospitality were exceptional. The facilities were top-notch, and the room was not only comfortable but beautifully designed. I could feel the quality in every corner. Your staff is incredible. They were friendly, attentive, and always ready to assist. It's rare to see such excellent customer service.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Walking distance to Inverness downtown
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Aleksandra Shebaltseva
Aleksandra
Aleksandra Shebaltseva
Local specialist in England | Replied on Jan 09, 2025
Dear Fernanda, Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful and detailed feedback on the trip! I truly appreciate your honest comments about the group tours and hotels—they’re incredibly valuable and will certainly help me refine future trips. I truly hope that, even though not everything went perfectly, you and your mother still carry warm and cherished memories from this journey. It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I’d love the opportunity to plan another amazing adventure... Read more

Dear Fernanda,

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughtful and detailed feedback on the trip! I truly appreciate your honest comments about the group tours and hotels—they’re incredibly valuable and will certainly help me refine future trips.

I truly hope that, even though not everything went perfectly, you and your mother still carry warm and cherished memories from this journey. It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I’d love the opportunity to plan another amazing adventure for you in the future!

Wishing you many exciting discoveries and joyful moments ahead.

Warmly,
Aleksandra

Sandy and Japan Were Terrific. KimKim Converts.
Japan | Dec 25 - Jan 7, 2025

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Eric B.
Herndon, VA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
This was our first KimKim experience. We were initially hesitant but in hindsight our concerns will unwarranted. We had a terrific nearly flawless 14-day trip to Japan, and Sandy was absolutely fantastic! The iterative process of developing an itinerary was effective and efficient. The organization and accessibility of the information, itinerary, travel, details, and logistical material was terrific. Sandy was respectful of our preferences and budget. We balanced a few private tours with... Read more

This was our first KimKim experience. We were initially hesitant but in hindsight our concerns will unwarranted. We had a terrific nearly flawless 14-day trip to Japan, and Sandy was absolutely fantastic! The iterative process of developing an itinerary was effective and efficient. The organization and accessibility of the information, itinerary, travel, details, and logistical material was terrific. Sandy was respectful of our preferences and budget. We balanced a few private tours with other days that were self guided on a couple of occasions where there was need for intervention with a hotel to straighten out something unexpected, Sandy was swift and effective. We typically plan trips ourselves, but hesitated to do so for this trip. Yes, there is a premium paid to get this type of assistance, but there was value in the additional cost and we would absolutely consider KimKim again for any travel that was beyond our comfort zone in self planning.

Activity Reviews
Shirakawago Day Trip from Kanazawa (With Hida Takayama)
Shirakawago Day Trip from Kanazawa (With Hida Takayama)
Kanazawa
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Samurai Sword Experience for Adults in Kyoto
Samurai Sword Experience for Adults in Kyoto
Kyoto

Kitschy and not at the same level as other activities. Samurai instructor was great but museum and tour were subpar.

Quality of Experience
Ikebana, Flower Arrangement Workshop in YANAKA, Tokyo
Ikebana, Flower Arrangement Workshop in YANAKA, Tokyo
Tokyo

Terrific experience. Educational and fun! Great neighborhood for exploring as well.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Sandy Ren
Sandy
Sandy Ren
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jan 13, 2025
Dear Eric, Hope you are doing great.Thank you so much for your kind words and detailed feedback. We’re thrilled to hear that your first KimKim experience was so positive. It's great to know that the iterative planning process worked well for you, and that the balance of private tours and self-guided days met your needs. I also appreciate you recognizing my quick and effective assistance with any unexpected situations. We’re delighted that you found value in the service, and we’d love to... Read more

Dear Eric,

Hope you are doing great.Thank you so much for your kind words and detailed feedback. We’re thrilled to hear that your first KimKim experience was so positive. It's great to know that the iterative planning process worked well for you, and that the balance of private tours and self-guided days met your needs. I also appreciate you recognizing my quick and effective assistance with any unexpected situations.

We’re delighted that you found value in the service, and we’d love to assist you again for any future travels beyond your comfort zone.

Thanks again for choosing KimKim, and we look forward to helping with your next adventure.

Best regards,
Sandy

The tour guides and drivers were fantastic. L...
Japan | Dec 30 - Jan 6, 2025

Ramy
Ramy M.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
The tour guides and drivers were fantastic. Loved the hotels and all the excursions. Read more

The tour guides and drivers were fantastic. Loved the hotels and all the excursions.

Hotel Reviews
Candeo Hotels Osaka The Tower
Osaka
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku
Tokyo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cross Hotel Kyoto
Kyoto

Great location and staff. Highly recommend.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day City Tour: Tokyo Skytree, TeamLab, Shibuya Crossing
Full Day City Tour: Tokyo Skytree, TeamLab, Shibuya Crossing
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Hi
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
 Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya
Kyoto

Best part of the trip by far. Very authentic and memorable experience

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Shona Zhang
Shona
Shona Zhang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jan 09, 2025

Hi Ramy,
Thank you sincerely for choosing KK to plan this trip and for your support and trust in our work throughout your journey. We look forward to assisting you again on your next trip!

Antonis planned an amazing trip for our famil...
Greece | Jun 2 - Jun 13, 2023

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Krista P.
Martinez, CA | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
Antonis planned an amazing trip for our family. I'm writing this review a little late, but even 2 years later we all talk about how this was hands down our best vacation EVER. It was truly special. We would of never known about these fabulous, boutique style hotels. We did not have to think about a single thing as Antonis planned all the details. There was a transfer planned at every location, which made it so easy for a family of 5. We aren't usually the type of people that plans things... Read more

Antonis planned an amazing trip for our family. I'm writing this review a little late, but even 2 years later we all talk about how this was hands down our best vacation EVER. It was truly special. We would of never known about these fabulous, boutique style hotels. We did not have to think about a single thing as Antonis planned all the details. There was a transfer planned at every location, which made it so easy for a family of 5. We aren't usually the type of people that plans things ahead or use a travel agent, this was the first and definitely won't be our last. Pairing people with local specialist is such a great idea, because these specialists know the ins and outs as they are locals and can truly give you a unique experience. Thank you, Antonis!!

Hotel Review
Acrogiali Beach Hotel
Mykonos

Beach front, family friendly and the BEST breakfast. Not to mention it sat on this lagoon that had everything!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Antonis Alexandrou

Excellent trip to Thailand
Thailand | Dec 26 - Jan 1, 2025

Priya
Priya D.
Houston, TX | Reviewed on Jan 08, 2025
Tina helped plan an excellent trip. She took care of every detail.
In Bangkok, the private temple and Chinatown tours with Leena were fantastic.
Our stay in Phuket was also great. Loved the elephant sanctuary and kayaking adventure.
Will be happy to use Kimkim again in the future.
Read more

Tina helped plan an excellent trip. She took care of every detail.
In Bangkok, the private temple and Chinatown tours with Leena were fantastic.
Our stay in Phuket was also great. Loved the elephant sanctuary and kayaking adventure.
Will be happy to use Kimkim again in the future.

Hotel Review
The Sukosol Hotel, Bangkok
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Tina Oo
Tina
Tina Oo
Local specialist in Thailand | Replied on Jan 08, 2025

Hi Priya,

I'm so glad to hear that you had a wonderful time here in Thailand! Thank you for taking the time to share your kind feedback. We truly appreciate it and hope to welcome you again in the future!

Best regards,
Tina

We had a wonderful trip and Paula did a great...
New Zealand | Dec 9 - Dec 22, 2024

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Sylvia F.
Durham, NC | Reviewed on Jan 07, 2025
We had a wonderful trip and Paula did a great job pulling together such a fun trip given how logistically challenging it was with the IM 70.3 race being in Taupo. The hop on hop off ferry/bus ride to Waiheke Island was perfect for our first day, easy to access the ferry, take our time visiting little shops, do some archery and wine tasting. We loved the MSocial hotel in Auckland with super helpful staff, clean comfortable rooms, perfect views and great location. The rental truck worked... Read more

We had a wonderful trip and Paula did a great job pulling together such a fun trip given how logistically challenging it was with the IM 70.3 race being in Taupo. The hop on hop off ferry/bus ride to Waiheke Island was perfect for our first day, easy to access the ferry, take our time visiting little shops, do some archery and wine tasting. We loved the MSocial hotel in Auckland with super helpful staff, clean comfortable rooms, perfect views and great location. The rental truck worked perfect for all of our luggage and bike case. It would have been helpful to have more detailed instructions about how to navigate the rental return as there are two terminals at Auckland and two rental returns.
Raglan was my daughter's favorite place and we could not get enough of the bakeries and huge black sand beaches. The Coromandel area is absolutely beautiful. On our drive there we stopped at a Lavender Farm to pick blueberries and have some lavender/blueberry icecream. Although Whitianga is a lovely town, we would have preferred to stay in a town either on Hot Water Beach or closer to Cathedral Cove since that is where we spent most of our time and the driving is quite challenging on the very hilly curvy roads there. Also our stay at the Sovereign Pier was not as we hoped since it really was not a 4 star (more just a poorly supplied rental place) and was on a marina not near the beach at all so the description of this place was misleading.
Other than that we had an amazing trip and thankful for KimKim scheduling all our tours which were fantastic.
Thank you so much.

Hotel Reviews
Raglan Sunset Motel
Raglan
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
M Social
Auckland
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sovereign Pier on the Waterways
Whitianga

Not as described and would not recommend. Poorly stocked, bottom floor, difficult to access, not walking distance to beach or town. Just a bad weird rental place. Not a hotel at all.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Paula Adams
Paula
Paula Adams
Local specialist in California and Australia | Replied on Jan 08, 2025
G'day Sylvia, Firstly, congratulations on your Ironman. What an amazing accomplishment.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your vacation overall. Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us, as it helps us improve and provide even better experiences for future clients. I will make note of the Auckland car rental terminals and let our New Zealand contact know about Sovereign Pier on the Waterways.
It was a pleasure working with you... Read more

G'day Sylvia,

Firstly, congratulations on your Ironman. What an amazing accomplishment.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review. I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your vacation overall. Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us, as it helps us improve and provide even better experiences for future clients. I will make note of the Auckland car rental terminals and let our New Zealand contact know about Sovereign Pier on the Waterways.

It was a pleasure working with you to create your trip. Please don't hesitate to contact me if you plan on traveling in any location in the South Pacific.

Cheers,
Paula

Our 9-Day Morocco Trip with KimKim Travel an...
Morocco | Dec 21 - Dec 29, 2024

Rebecca
Rebecca D.
Canada | Reviewed on Jan 07, 2025
Our 9-Day Morocco Trip with KimKim Travel and MOBT Global My husband and I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a fantastic 9-day trip to Morocco, organized by KimKim Travel and MOBT Global. The entire journey was thoughtfully planned, smooth, and packed with unforgettable experiences. From start to finish, we couldn’t have asked for a better way to explore this stunning country. Trip Planning with Yassine (KimKim Travel)
The planning phase of the trip was exceptional. Yassine,...
Read more

Our 9-Day Morocco Trip with KimKim Travel and MOBT Global

My husband and I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a fantastic 9-day trip to Morocco, organized by KimKim Travel and MOBT Global. The entire journey was thoughtfully planned, smooth, and packed with unforgettable experiences. From start to finish, we couldn’t have asked for a better way to explore this stunning country.

Trip Planning with Yassine (KimKim Travel)
The planning phase of the trip was exceptional. Yassine, our travel specialist at KimKim, was incredibly helpful in tailoring our itinerary to match our interests. He was responsive, offered great advice on what to see and do, and ensured we had the right balance of cultural exploration, relaxation, and adventure. From the bustling streets of Marrakesh to the serene blue of Chefchaouen, every destination was carefully chosen to give us a well-rounded experience of Morocco. The biggest highlight was spending Christmas Eve riding camels and camping in the Sahara Desert—WOW, what an experience! Our only wish is that we had more time to fully soak it all in.

Our Driver: Souifiane
A huge highlight of our trip was our driver, Souifiane. For 9 days, he was with us every step of the way, making sure we were comfortable, informed, and safe as we traveled across Morocco. Souifiane was not just a driver, but a guide in his own right—his knowledge of Morocco’s culture, history, and hidden gems made the trip even more enriching. Whether we were navigating the winding streets of Fes or cruising through the desert, he was always punctual, friendly, and willing to go the extra mile to make our experience better. This included his recommendation for a Hammam spa—an unforgettable experience that will never be repeated.

The Destinations
• Marrakesh: The vibrant heart of Morocco, Marrakesh was the perfect start to our trip. From the souks of the Medina to the majestic Jardin Majorelle, we explored the city's lively markets, historical palaces, and stunning gardens. The energy of this city is electric, and we loved every moment of it.
• Ouarzazate: Known as the "Gateway to the Sahara," Ouarzazate offered a glimpse into Morocco's cinematic history. The Atlas Film Studios were a highlight, and the nearby Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a spectacular stop—straight out of a film set.
• Merzouga: No trip to Morocco would be complete without visiting the Sahara Desert. Riding camels into the dunes of Merzouga at sunset was an unforgettable experience. We spent the night in a desert camp under the stars, which was absolutely magical. The silence and beauty of the desert were unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.
• Fes: Fes was an intriguing mix of old and new. The labyrinthine Medina was a maze of ancient history, with vibrant artisan workshops, centuries-old mosques, and the famous tanneries. It was a fascinating place to dive deep into Morocco’s cultural heritage.
• Chefchaouen: The "Blue City" was a highlight of the trip. Walking through its narrow streets lined with blue-washed buildings felt like stepping into a dream. The tranquility of the town, combined with its picturesque setting in the Rif Mountains, made it a perfect place to relax and explore.
• Casablanca: Our final stop, Casablanca, offered a contrast to the other cities—modern, cosmopolitan, and bustling. The Hassan II Mosque, perched on the edge of the Atlantic, was an awe-inspiring sight and a perfect way to cap off our trip.

Overall, this trip to Morocco exceeded all my expectations. The seamless coordination with Yassine and the excellent service provided by Souifiane made everything easy and stress-free. The country itself is mesmerizing, with a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and incredibly warm people. I highly recommend KimKim Travel for anyone looking to explore Morocco in a truly personalized and immersive way.
Thank you, Yassine and Souifiane, for making this journey so unforgettable. We will definitely be back for more adventures in this beautiful country!

Local specialist: Yassine Echcherki
Yassine
Yassine Echcherki
Local specialist in Morocco, New York, Spain | Replied on Jan 13, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your detailed and thoughtful review of your trip! I’m truly delighted to hear that you and your husband had such an unforgettable experience in Morocco. It was a pleasure working with you to plan your journey and tailor the itinerary to match your interests. I’m so glad you enjoyed the balance of cultural exploration, adventure, and relaxation. The highlight of spending Christmas Eve in the Sahara Desert sounds magical—what a special memory to take home! Your... Read more

Thank you so much for sharing your detailed and thoughtful review of your trip! I’m truly delighted to hear that you and your husband had such an unforgettable experience in Morocco. It was a pleasure working with you to plan your journey and tailor the itinerary to match your interests.

I’m so glad you enjoyed the balance of cultural exploration, adventure, and relaxation. The highlight of spending Christmas Eve in the Sahara Desert sounds magical—what a special memory to take home!

Your kind words about Soufiane are greatly appreciated. He’s such an asset to our team, and I’ll be sure to share your feedback with him. It’s wonderful to hear that his knowledge and dedication enhanced your journey and made everything stress-free and enjoyable.

Reading your reflections on each destination—from the vibrant energy of Marrakesh to the tranquility of Chefchaouen—brought a big smile to my face. Morocco truly has so much to offer, and I’m thrilled you got to experience such a diverse range of its beauty and culture.

Thank you again for trusting KimKim Travel and MOBT Global to organize your trip. It was an honor to be part of your adventure, and I’d love to help you plan another visit whenever you’re ready to explore more!

Warm regards,
Yassine

Wow so much to say......Excursions in Rovaniemi
Finland | Jan 1 - Jan 6, 2025

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JAMES Z.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jan 07, 2025
Wow so much to say...........
I travel to Jerusalem, my tour guide is in Jerusalem. I will be traveling to Istanbul, my guide is in Istanbul. I vacation to Lapland and my guide is in Detroit/Estonia?? Emerson was too far away to be very helpful.
The hotel, Arctic Light Hotel, was very nice. The breakfast buffet wonderful. The front desk people very professional and nice. But was this hotel **** hell no! The room size was the size of my walk in closet in Texas. Amazing to say, there were no...
Read more

Wow so much to say...........
I travel to Jerusalem, my tour guide is in Jerusalem. I will be traveling to Istanbul, my guide is in Istanbul. I vacation to Lapland and my guide is in Detroit/Estonia?? Emerson was too far away to be very helpful.
The hotel, Arctic Light Hotel, was very nice. The breakfast buffet wonderful. The front desk people very professional and nice. But was this hotel **** hell no! The room size was the size of my walk in closet in Texas. Amazing to say, there were no dresser draws or night stand tables with draws. So there was no where to unpack your suite cases. So we had one suite case on the coffee table, one on the chair and two on the floor. I went to the front desk and stated you have no dressers!! The attendant said I "went on line and saw the photo of the room, yes you do!" Went on line........ ?? Later I complained to the 'manager', we have no dressers. He walked up to the room and explained that the shelves on top of the closet were the draws for the cloths. If we were from Finland, six foot six, that explanation would still be laughable. But being Italian/Hispanic at 5 feet and five feet six, we needed a chair to put anything on those shelves.

I learned with the tremendous influx of tourists, that these tourist locations needed to hire workers from other countries. So as stated, the front desk people were all class, but some of the workers had little knowledge of their location. So for an excursion to say meet at the 'wild about Lapland' office location, and the hotel front desk is Googling where the office is, and our guide chilling in Estonia has no clue either, it added to the stress. To be honest, my old age did not help. Siri and hard to pronounce street names did not help 'maps'. Plus the I-phone was under six layers of cloths. With the 8 year old and the -25 C weather conditions, the fear of wondering around the city was petrifying. As you know, all the tours stated best be on time or will happily leave without you. Since 99.9% of the travelers are taking excursions, the hotel staff needs to know blindly where ALL these meeting locations are. Don't give me an address. Tell me walk out of the hotel, first left, walk up the street with the Christmas trees, pass Burger King .........

More fun things.........the driver from the airport. was nice until he got to the hotel. Then he happily put all the suite cases in the snow outside the hotel and asked if we needed help. Nah, just leave the f-ing suite cases in the snow. So he brings a couple into the hotel ten feet from the van, and starts to 'sing and dance' for a tip. Not tip given and stormed back into the street. On the way home, the driver, without asking, brought the suite case into the airport and was tipped. He was thrilled!

The 'Snow Hotel' and dinner probably the best of the trip. Unfortunately, mental blunder by the tour guide in Estonia. We were all finished with dinner at 21:30, and the bus to bring us back to the hotel was not to come until 23:00. So while Emerson was keeping warm, we were trying to avoid frost bite waiting for one and half hours in the ice cold lounge with the -25C temp.

The snow mobile excursion was great. But please don't mention a class to teach you how to drive one. Press the button to start, press here to go is not a class to manage the vehicle. I'll mention this here. We dressed and had cold winter cloths. We did not have to wear those unsightly winter jump suites over all our cloths. I imagine it's a legal issue. "We recommend that you wear our cloths and boots over your cloths so that you look like meat balls" The last two trips I refused. I was dressed plenty warm. This was the worst part of the trip for the wife. She being short, these outfits made her look so bad. Dressing the eight year old was difficult, and then putting the jump suites on ourselves was not fun. Plus on all the tours, they were yelling HURRY UP the tour was getting ready to leave!! We should have gotten to all the tours 1/2 hour earlier. But your excursions companies wish to jam as many tours into the day to generate as much cash as possible.

Emerson from Estonia, you can't book tours on the weekends at 8 am when the dinning facilities at the hotel don't open until 8. Or tell me where to get something to eat for the grand-daughter in the snow? Or how to eat with two pairs of mittens on?

But I saved the best for last. Where did you get this clown from? JOHKA 358-40-544-53854
The first 'Northern Lights' tour was cancelled. I was the one who e-mailed you when at 12:30 two days later I had heard nothing about a new tour. I got an email from you and notification from the front dest to be ready in the hotel lobby at 19:00. This Johka arrives 15 minutes late and then yells at me because the lights were better hours ago and he was unable contact me. Then he states he is driving to Sweden! So I said yeah, but the 8 year old and I are going to pee again before leaving.
By the way the wife was vomiting; food poisoning, the last two days of the trip and did not go on any excursions. Yes I know no refunds, since your company is so cheap, but not one of your people even said "I'm sorry she is not well" or "I hope she feels better". Not one! Very sad. Back to this clown.......We get into the van with a 7 and 10 year old girl and a wealthy mother. We drive into a snow bank, and this guy says to you want to take a portrait? I am thinking a portrait? With the grand-daughter totally covered up and only her eyes showing, and me looking like a balloon? No. I am thinking he will take a picture, go on line, google images Northern Lights Finland and photo shop. The only thing we had seen was mist'. He never explained what he was doing. Or his plan. This is when I would tell any of your clients get female tour guides. Females have brains, and men are dumb as dirt.

This Johka was a perfect example, dumb as dirt. The tour description stated Northern Lights 7 PM. Lasting 4-6 Hours
Ladies, imagine going on a eight (8) hour excursion and the driving never saying does anyone have to pee? Or are any of you children 7,8 and 10 year old girls hungry? WTF (For Emerson in Estonia this means What The F--k) It was only the children's mother who told me she requested that he found a bath room. So dumb as dirt says there is a 7 Eleven and gas station one hour away...........What??

We were given a box of cookies and juice. The children ate close to two hundred cookies. They were starving.
After driving around half the arctic, I asked him when we were heading home. He told me we were still in Sweden. It was 01:30. He told me we were another one and 1/2 hours from the hotel. Losing it, I told him he was getting 7, 8 and 10 year old children home at 3:00 in the morning? The girls didn't enjoy anything concerning the Northern Lights. The best part of the trip was eating ice cream at 7 Eleven. When we got back to hotel I told my baby let's get you into bed......it was 3 am. Your driver, I hope he wasn't expecting a tip, yelled out next time make sure you review the excursion details......I did later, tour time 4-6 hours. Not 8 hours. He wasn't the one to wake up the baby in four hours to the Zoo tour scheduled for the next day.
If I wasn't with my grand-daughter, I would have kicked his Finnish Ass right out side the hotel. The zoo tour guide the next day, a woman sweet like sugar, said I hope. it wasn't her company. They have an 'family friendly' tour a 7-11 tour and a longer Northern Lights tour. Emerson, just had a mental error booking us on the wrong tour. But none of the tours was listed as eight hours. If my wife, remember who was back at the hotel vomiting that no one cared about, would have choked his ass right in the snow bank.

Hotel Review
Arctic Light Hotel
Rovaniemi

I forgot.......when you travel to Europe the hotel rooms are the sizes of walk in closets. Our room had no dresser draws. It had no night stands/tables. There was no where to unpack or put your cloths. The front desk was highly professional and helpful. The hotel lobby very pretty and classy. The breakfast buffet just great. The breakfast buffet can't open at eight, if people have excursions that start at eight. The hotel is too expensive to have breakfast included in the price, and opens too late to capitalize on it. The location is perfect but some of the seasonal workers were unfamiliar with their surroundings

Authenticity & Character
just nice
Location
Right near main street with all the Christmas trees.
Staff
All class!!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Flexible Northern Lights Hunting
Flexible Northern Lights Hunting
Rovaniemi

I guess I should have known that with the naked eye you see nothing special in the Northern Lights. Only with a special camera and filters or computer enhancement do you appreciate the bright colors that you see on postcards or mugs. Oddly enough, taking photos of white haze and mist with my cell phone actually some color showed up. Our guide Johka avoid. He was an absolute jerk. He forgot he had three young girls on our tour. He never asked them if they had to pee or if they were hungry. He seemed to be more interested in their mother when she said that her husband was vacationing in Florida alone. They talked for hours while I was totally ignored. The trip should have lasted 4-6 hours. Our tour returned at 3 am, eight hours later, with all the children having non-refundable excursions in the morning. How pathetic. Then this ass outside the hotel when I tell my grand-daughter let's get you in bed, his response, "Next time read the excursion description". This clown had no common sense. He had no idea whom his passengers would be. He made no adjustments now knowing the ages of the children. I just hope this rich American womana from CA tipped him well.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Get a female tour guide who has some. motherly instincts and common sense.
Transport
Don't put young children in a van for eight hours
Ranua Wildlife Park Visit
Ranua Wildlife Park Visit
Finland

In Texas at the zoo the animals look half dead it is so hot. Here the animals were half hibernating or under ground due to the cold. The eight year old still had a blast

Quality of Experience
Food
Is the only food in Finland mashed potatoes and meat balls?
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide....sorry for forgetting her name (tall skinny white girl) was sweet like sugar and my grand-daughter just loved her,
Transport
Reindeer Safari in the Nature of Lapland
Reindeer Safari in the Nature of Lapland
Rovaniemi

Great for kids Should have been given two sleds Two adults and an eight year old too tight and squished in one sled.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The owner of the Reindeer farm really did not have command of the English language. Hard to understand
Transport
SnowHotel & Ice Dinner Experience
SnowHotel & Ice Dinner Experience
Rovaniemi

very cool (cold) place. Grand-daughter enjoyed the hotel the best

Quality of Experience
Food
Dessert in ice dish very cool. It is just impossible to enjoy a hot meal when the temperature is -25C
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The experience and the dinner ended at 21:30. The return driver showed up at 23:00. What were we suppose to do for the other one and 1/2 hours??
Family Husky Safari
Family Husky Safari
Rovaniemi

very cool and lots of fun feeding the dogs great for kids with the price of the excursion, I think we had to pay for the food to feed the dogs. Kind of cheap

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I got yelled at for taking out my cell phone to take pictures.........I. understand the reasoning but kind of sad
Transport
Snowmobile Safari to Santa Claus Village
Snowmobile Safari to Santa Claus Village
Finland

Nice Excursion Needed to spend more time teaching how to drive a snow mobile. No snow in south Texas. The above would have decreased some of the anxiety level.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
All people want to take photos of their trip. Bad enough the I-phone is hidden in 6 layers of clothing, don't yell at people for taking out their cell phones to take pictures.
Transport
Local specialist: Emerson Siimer
Emerson
Emerson Siimer
Local specialist in Estonia | Replied on Jan 09, 2025
Hello James Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. I’m truly sorry to hear that certain parts of your trip didn’t meet your expectations, and I appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns. As your travel agent, my role is to design a detailed trip plan, coordinate all arrangements, and provide support remotely throughout your travels. While I am not physically present, I have traveled extensively in the region and am very familiar with these destinations. My... Read more

Hello James

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. I’m truly sorry to hear that certain parts of your trip didn’t meet your expectations, and I appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns.

As your travel agent, my role is to design a detailed trip plan, coordinate all arrangements, and provide support remotely throughout your travels. While I am not physically present, I have traveled extensively in the region and am very familiar with these destinations. My expertise allows me to craft a well-thought-out itinerary and ensure you have all the information needed to enjoy your trip. Although I do not accompany clients, I provide clear instructions and guidance to help navigate the itinerary smoothly and address any potential concerns. Following the provided plan is key to making the most of the experience.

Regarding the Northern Lights tour, I explained in detail back in May how the tour operates, including its flexible nature and the potential for longer durations depending on conditions. I also mentioned that the tour may involve long drives, even crossing into Sweden, to maximize the chances of seeing the aurora. This flexibility is what sets the tour apart and helps travelers have the best possible experience. I wish you had shared your concerns with me at that time, as it would have allowed us to address any misunderstandings or make adjustments in advance.

For navigation, I recommended having a functional phone and a local SIM card to ensure smooth communication and navigation. Without a working phone, I understand that finding your way in unfamiliar locations, especially in challenging weather conditions, was stressful. While I provided detailed instructions for all meeting points, I regret that this became a source of frustration for you.

Regarding winter clothing, I understand that the overalls provided during activities were not ideal in terms of aesthetics or comfort. However, these garments are standard for Arctic tours, as they are essential for protecting travelers from the extreme cold. While I understand your concerns, the priority is always your safety and comfort in such harsh conditions.

For the Arctic Light Hotel, I understand that the room size and storage options did not meet your expectations. European boutique hotels, including this one, often have smaller rooms compared to accommodations in other parts of the world. While this is standard, I regret that it wasn’t what you were accustomed to.

I was unaware of your wife’s illness during the trip, as it was not communicated to me. Had I known, I would have done everything possible to assist and ensure her comfort.

I want to emphasize that I made every effort to support you during your trip. I was in contact with you almost every day or tried to be whenever possible. For example, when I received your message about the Northern Lights tour, I responded immediately, contacted the hotel, and ensured the information was passed on to you. While I deeply regret any miscommunication or challenges you faced, my goal was to ensure your trip went as smoothly as possible.

Thank you again for your feedback. I value it greatly and will use it to improve my services. While there were difficulties, I hope there were moments of joy and wonder during your journey. If you’d like to discuss this further or need additional assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,
Emerson

Mar and the entire Kim Kim team made our trip...
Norway | Dec 24 - Jan 1, 2025

Lisa
Lisa V.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jan 07, 2025
Mar and the entire Kim Kim team made our trip fantastic. We really appreciated the real time help when we had travel hiccups to help us find solutions (or reservations). The plan she set out for us made logical sense and we also got to maximize our time and see the best of Norway in the winter. LOVED the Flam train ride and all the activities in Flam. Mar and her team were very approachable with any and all questions and also very responsive. The only complaint would be that sometimes our... Read more

Mar and the entire Kim Kim team made our trip fantastic. We really appreciated the real time help when we had travel hiccups to help us find solutions (or reservations). The plan she set out for us made logical sense and we also got to maximize our time and see the best of Norway in the winter. LOVED the Flam train ride and all the activities in Flam. Mar and her team were very approachable with any and all questions and also very responsive. The only complaint would be that sometimes our taxi's did not accommodate our travel party and luggage, but we were able to work around this. I want to go back!

Local specialist: Mar Quiñones

Family Trip to Costa Rica
Costa Rica | Dec 28 - Jan 4, 2025

Lynn
Lynn N.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Jan 07, 2025
All of the transfers worked out seamlessly. We loved all of our guided tours and excursions with only one exception, which is impressive. Kim Kim was great to work with and had good ideas for things to do. We had only 8 days for our trip, but we were able to do so much and the planning made that possible. Would highly recommend working with Kim Kim! Read more

All of the transfers worked out seamlessly. We loved all of our guided tours and excursions with only one exception, which is impressive. Kim Kim was great to work with and had good ideas for things to do. We had only 8 days for our trip, but we were able to do so much and the planning made that possible. Would highly recommend working with Kim Kim!

Hotel Review
Hotel Eco Arenal
Fortuna

Affordable hotel with very nice breakfast and very comfortable beds. Beautiful grounds. Restaurant within walking distance. Easy to get to town via car/Uber/taxi. Friendly and helpful hotel staff. Cleanliness was average. The toilet are was not closed off from the room, only had a 3/4 door, making privacy a challenge. Showers were fine.

Authenticity & Character
Location
away from the bustle of town in a beautiful setting by a river, lots of wildlife
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
cleaner walls and bathrooms. install full doors to give toilet area more privacy.
Activity Reviews
TreeTram, Hanging Bridges & Zipline Adventure
TreeTram, Hanging Bridges & Zipline Adventure
Monteverde

Everything about this experience was incredible.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arenal Volcano Hike & EcoTermales Hot Springs Visit with Meal
Arenal Volcano Hike & EcoTermales Hot Springs Visit with Meal
Arenal/La Fortuna

This was difficult to execute well because it was 2 very different activities merged into one. We were unable to complete the volcano hike because of extreme rain and lightning. We started the hike, but only proceeded to get drenched and muddy before turning around to go back to the bus. The rain made it impossible to even see anything beyond the path below our feet. The guide told the agency we canceled the tour, although the elements (lightening) made it unsafe to continue the hike. The guide was not proactive about guiding for this trip - he was basically an escort. We then sat in traffic in our wet clothes on the bus before arriving at the hot springs resort, only to learn that we couldn't enter the facility until our previously scheduled arrival time. We waited in the lobby there for 30 minutes. Would not recommend these 2 tours together. I'm sure the volcano hike is amazing though! The hot springs were incredible. Highly recommend those to everyone. Food buffet was great there too.

Quality of Experience
Amazing hot springs resort. Less amazing hike experience.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Self-Guided Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall
Self-Guided Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal/La Fortuna

incredible swim in the waterfall. did not matter that there were many people present - it was still so magical.

Quality of Experience
Semi-Private Surf Lessons at Tamarindo Beach
Semi-Private Surf Lessons at Tamarindo Beach
Tamarindo

The guides were so nice and we had a great time. The surf shop was excellent. Highly recommend them.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
our guides and all the staff - so friendly and helpful
Río Peñas Blancas Safari Rafting Experience
Río Peñas Blancas Safari Rafting Experience
Arenal/La Fortuna

Guide and trip were stellar. Would highly recommend this activity to anyone.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Adam Gomez
Adam
Adam Gomez
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jan 14, 2025
Thank you, Lynn, for the review! 🙌 I loved reading through all the details and it gives future travelers some insight into what to expect! Working with you on this perfect itinerary was fun, and I am glad you had the best adventure! Yes, the surf guides are amazing! They are so friendly and helpful. I have taken a few surfing lessons with them! Sorry to hear about the torrential rainfall during your Arenal Volcano hike; hopefully, you could see the volcano from afar on other days. Have... Read more

Thank you, Lynn, for the review! 🙌 I loved reading through all the details and it gives future travelers some insight into what to expect!

Working with you on this perfect itinerary was fun, and I am glad you had the best adventure!

Yes, the surf guides are amazing! They are so friendly and helpful. I have taken a few surfing lessons with them! Sorry to hear about the torrential rainfall during your Arenal Volcano hike; hopefully, you could see the volcano from afar on other days.

Have the best year and I also plan trips for Spain and Portugal and will be happy to plan another adventure for you! 🌞

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

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.