Kimkim Trip Reviews

I've had a bit of time to think about the Egypt trip and I do have a few comments. First of all, providing the WiFi unit was an enormous plus for us. It was often stronger than the hotels where we were staying. Secondly, the greeters at the various airports were very helpful and professional. The drivers were all amazing and skilled at maneuvering the triffic in the cities and in the countryside! Our guides in Cairo and from Aswan to Luxor were both excellent and knowledgeable. Heragy was especially good at being helpful and at interacting with my 12 year old granddaughter, Ginger. I highly commend them both. Also, Ginger was given a lovely silver necklace with her name in hieroglyphs. Very thoughtful. The content of the tours is something I regret not being more involved with. I absolutely love the ancient monuments and Ginger had been studying the mythology and heiroglyphs of Egypt. All were presented to us very professionally. On my previous trip to Cairo and Luxor, however, we were taken to several very interesting mosques and Coptic sites and to several places that were culturally interesting - a carpet factory, papyrus demonstration to name a couple. I regret that some of these were not on the schedule to relieve the visits to ancient sites.
One item that really caught me by surprise was the amount of tipping necessary for the plethora of people involved in the trip. Some realistic guidellines of who and how much would have been VERY helpful before we arrived. I did not bring sufficient US $$ to even begin to cover the necessary tips. ATM's were available but I had to make numerous withdrawals to cover expenses. Also, perhaps I should have known that there would be at least 3-4. people requiring tips on each journey (airport greeter, driver, guide, porter etc....)
Another downside, the days in Huarghada were difficult. The choice of hotel was not provided to me so I had no idea where we were going once our dirver arrived in the area. I naturally expected to have a nice hotel on the Red Sea with the beach an easy view and walk. Not only was the waterslide resort (that we called Disneyland) not AT ALL what I would have chosen, but the assigned guide, who tried to be helpful, really did not have enough English to be working with us. He was about an hour late meeting us with the driver and assistant at the hotel, but just trying to plan the days was very iffy. Except for the bit of snorkeling that Ginger was able to do, the rest was unexpectly difficult. He did indeed try to provide us with good service, but had it not been for his use of a translation app with Whatsapp, we would have had a very difficult time indeed. On the last day our check-out time was noon and the plane departure was 7PM and there was apparently no pre-planning for the intervening hours. As it turned out, Mohamud made a good plan for us and the time was interesting.
I've never made such a lengthly reiview of a trip so I hope this might help you with other customers. I have previously used KimKim for granddaughter trips to Greece and to Paris and these were exceptionally delightful.

Activity Reviews

Meet and Greet + Transport to Hotel

Cairo Int. Airport (CAI)

The greeter was excellent. I was not prepared with Visas for Egypt and he handled this with good grace.

Quality of Experience

We did see a lot of wonderful ancient sites, would have liked to have had some exposure to Coptic and Moslem sites.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Drivers, especially, amazed me. Very tricky driving!

Transport

Giza Pyramids and the Sphinx

Egypt

Camel ride was good but expensive. Nice lunch at the 9 Pyramid lunch place.

Food

Loved the lady making the delightful bread at the lunch place.

Sakkara - Memphis

Cairo

Visit to Khan Al Khalili

Cairo

Disembarkation Day

Egypt

The ship was very comfortable and the staff extremely courteous. There were very few passengers and yet every detail was carried out with perfection, from the dining experience to the several onboard activities.

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Lunch at 9 Pyramids Lounge

Cairo

Nice lady making bread

Snorkelling/Diving trip

Hurghada

The National Museum of Egyptian Civilization

Cairo

Don't miss it.

Egyptian Museum

Cairo

Surprised that our guide needed to stand in line for tickets.

The unfinished Obelisk and Philae Temple visit

Egypt

Don't miss it.

Aswan high dam

Aswan

Very interesting site.

Tina and all of my guides in Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket were AMAZING! Nothing was too much for them and considering this was my first solo travelling experience, I felt so safe and cared for which was really important for me. Everyone was so informative and if I ever asked any questions they would be answered straight away with no issues so it really put my mind at rest. Thank you so much!

Hotel Reviews

The Quarter Hua Lamphong by UHG

Bangkok

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

De Charme Hotel

Amphoe Muang, Si Phum, Chiang Mai

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The Charm Resort Phuket

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Exploring Bangkok by local transfers and walking tour

Bangkok

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai-Half Day

Chiang Mai

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Welcome to Chiang Mai!

Chiang Mai

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Temple and Hill tribes in Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Phi Phi island, Khai island, Pi Leh lagoon & Maya bay by speed boat

Phuket

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Welcome to Bangkok!

Bangkok

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Enjoy Food Tasting in Chinatown!

Bangkok

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

From the moment we embarked on our Moroccan adventure, Mouad stood out as an exceptional tour guide whose dedication and passion for his country truly enhanced our travel experience. Despite the logistical challenges that traveling in a foreign country can present, Mouad ensured that every aspect of our trip was seamless, worry-free, and filled with memorable experiences that we'll treasure forever.

What really set Mouad apart was his willingness to go above and beyond for his guests. A perfect example of his exceptional service was when he came to pick us up from a distant ferry terminal in Tangier MED, a gesture not included in our initial travel plan. This act of kindness and flexibility was a testament to his commitment to providing the best possible experience for us. It saved us from potential stress and confusion, allowing us to start our journey in Morocco on a high note.

Throughout our trip, Mouad was not only a guide but also a helpful and considerate companion. He shared insightful stories that enriched our understanding of Moroccan culture, history, and its people. His recommendations for places to visit, and shop were spot on, ensuring that we experienced the authentic essence of Morocco.

Our trip to Morocco was smooth, enjoyable, and full of discovery, thanks to Mouad's meticulous planning and thoughtful guidance. For anyone looking to explore Morocco, having Mouad as your guide will guarantee an unforgettable journey filled with the warmth and hospitality that Morocco is known for.

We cannot thank Mouad enough for making our trip to Morocco such a delightful and hassle-free experience. His professionalism, kindness, and genuine care for his guests are what make him stand out as a truly exceptional tour guide.

Hotel Review

Dar Laman

Chefchaouen

Our stay at Dar Laman in Chefchaouen was unforgettable, thanks to its exceptional staff, prime location, and the stunning rooftop view. Every staff member was incredibly welcoming, offering personalized recommendations that enriched our visit. Situated perfectly for exploring Chefchaouen’s vibrant streets and historical sites, Dar Laman served as a peaceful haven amidst the city’s buzz. The rooftop was the jewel of our stay, offering panoramic views of the city against the backdrop of mountains. It was the ideal spot for relaxing and soaking in the beauty of Chefchaouen. Dar Laman is more than a Riad; it’s a heartwarming introduction to Moroccan hospitality and the magic of Chefchaouen.

Authenticity & Character

you feel like you are at home

Location

walking distance from must-see locations in the city.

Staff

personalized recommendations of restaurants, landmarks and great mood overall

Cleanliness & Comfort

The room was impeccably clean and the bed so comfortable, it felt like sleeping on a cloud, making our stay exceptionally pleasant.

Activity Reviews

Fes: Exploring the Imperial City

Fes

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat

Rabat

Our guided tour of Rabat was an extraordinary journey through history, culture, and beauty, showcasing the best of Morocco’s capital. From the outset, our knowledgeable guide led us with enthusiasm, diving deep into the stories and significance behind each site we visited. Wandering through the Kasbah of the Udayas, we were captivated by the blue and white painted walls, feeling as though we had stepped into a living postcard. The views of the Atlantic Ocean from this historic fortress were simply breathtaking, offering a serene moment amidst our day of exploration. We also visited the Hassan Tower, whose towering presence and intricate details were just hipnotizing. As we explored the nearby Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the respect and admiration for Morocco’s history were palpable, with the stunning architecture leaving us in awe.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Perito Moreno Glacier Mini-trekking And Hike to the Base of Paine Massif were really amazing. Guide Mauricio Carrasco was fantastic: Knowledgeable, helpful/care, Definitely one of the best at tour guide ever had. Everyone was very impressed and pleased.

It was a wonderful trip and suited us perfectly. Just one negative was on arrival at the airport of Tortugero no one was there to pick us up. The air officer phoned the hotel, they sent someone over, but on arrival they said they had no booking for us. After I gave them the confirmation number they found the booking. There was no apology, which was disappointing. Although the rest of the stay was fabulous and couldn't fault the hotel.
La Fortuna was excellent, the guided tours were informative, well paced and we would highly recommend them. Thank you gor a brilliant holiday.

Hotel Reviews

Park Inn San José by Radisson

San José

Comfy beds and good breakfast

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Tortuga Lodge & Gardens

Tortuguero

A stunning hotel with excellent good, service and tours.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Paradise Hot Springs Thermal Water Resort

La Fortuna

Loved the hot springs

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Service was slow

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Guided Night Hike

Tortuguero

Informative guide and well paced

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Tortuguero Canal Boat Tour

Tortuguero

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Very knowledge guide

Transport

Private: Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall

Arenal/La Fortuna

Outstanding guide, swimming in waterfall was great

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guide was interesting and informative

Transport

Private: Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk

Arenal/La Fortuna

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Nick made the entire trip, so incredible and completely stress-free. Wherever we went, there was someone to meet us and show us where to go or take us there personally. I absolutely love this company because they allow you to cater your trip to whatever you want it to be, you can choose what type of hotel, what type of trip you want to make it. Also, we have a daughter that has celiac disease, and no matter where we went, they knew that she had to be gluten-free. Nick was always available throughout our trip for us to ask any questions and he quickly responded and I have had the same experience using this company in other countries, and it makes such a difference in making travel stress-free. I highly highly highly recommend.

Hotel Reviews

Ikala Quito Hotel

Quito

we loved this hotel, because each room had such a special theme. Our kids room was almost like being in a museum.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Ikala Galapagos Hotel

Puerto Ayora

Very friendly staff, great location and clean.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Albemarle

Puerto Villamil

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Wyndham Quito Airport

Quito

It is literally across the street from the airport. The staff is beyond five star. The restaurant had great food options.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Morning Adventure to Teleferico Cablecar

Quito

it was very cloudy, and our guide decided to offer us a trip to a very beautiful church, and then we did use the Teleferico even though it was still very cloudy. I recommend going no matter what the weather is because it is such an incredible experience, even if you cannot see the other mountains/volcanoes.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hotsprings in Termas de Papallacta

Galapagos Islands

Do not miss! It is so beautiful and serene. A completely different world of relaxation.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)

Galapagos Islands

this was an unbelievable experience, even though it rained at the beginning. It was our first snorkeling experience in the Galapagos, and it did not disappoint. We saw blue, footed, boobies, penguins, octopus, sea lions, swam beneath us, we saw sea cucumbers the list goes on and on.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Kayaking Adventure in Tortuga Bay

Puerto Ayora

The beach will take your breath away. The walk to get there is worth it but just know that it feels like a very long way in the heat and humidity.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We used KimKim to help us plan a second trip, first one was to England/Scotland. This trip was to Costa Rica and everything was great. We started with a local specialist but part way through Jessica seemed to take over. She was very responsive and helped with finalizing things, answering questions etc. We first went to La Fortuna/Arenal. We stayed at Tifikara Boutique Hotel and it was LOVELY! The small hotel setting was so beautiful and the staff was so warm and accommodating. My husband had a passport issue (when he exchanged $ at the airport the person did not return it and he did not realized until we checked in). The staff was so kind and really did all they could to help him. While in La Fortuna we went to Tabacon Hotsprings (very lovely), did the ziplining/Hanging bridge tour at Sky Adventures which was fabulous. We did canyoning in the Lost Canyon with Desafio Adventure Company (my girls LOVED this) and did a sloth tour which was fun and our guide/spotter found at least 7 of them! We had Costa Rica Rides for all our transfers (to/from airport and to Manuel Antonio and they were so friendly with clean, spacious vehicles. At Manuel Antonio we stayed at Shana by the Sea. It was lovely. Having a private path to one of the best beaches in that area (Biesanz beach) was amazing! Walking to the beach we could see spots, anteaters, toucans, parrots, monkeys etc. We did a Catamaran tour with Tucanes Tours and it was so fun and relaxing. We were able to snorkel and it was a fun 1/2 day. We toured Manuel Antonio National Park with a guide from Paddle 9. The guide was very passionate and tried to spot many animals, reptiles etc and educate us. It was great to stop and swim in the ocean before heading back because it was HOT and HUMID! All of the places we stayed were clean, comfortable and friendly. We had a great time and all of our hotel stays, events/transfers worked out perfectly. Thank you KimKim travel for making this trip fun, adventurous, relaxing and so much easier because we did not have to worry about logistics!

Our guide in Valparaiso Chile, Lautaro, was very informed and helpful. We asked him to take us to an empanada place and the waiters and empanadas were the best. He and our guide in Santiago, Hernan, his father, gave us such valuable educated and experienced information besides the sites we visited. They so enriched our experience and knowledge of Chilean culture and history.
Our guide for the mountain trek, Sebastian, also enriched our experience and knowledge of the nature and eco system. His training as an eco tourist guide really gave us a depth of knowledge and appreciation. He was also very helpful with managing our group trek with our physical abilities. We appreciated his love and care with the delicious sandwich bag, which he made and the lovely little picnic at the end with native fruits. and wine to celebrate.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Boutique Acontraluz

Valparaíso

Stunningly beautiful location and rooms, delicious breakfast and very helpful and friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character

beautiful old building and architecture

Location

In artistic neighborhood, close to art murals, restaurants, shops. Stunning View of Valparaiso from rooms.

Staff

very friendly, helpful

Cleanliness & Comfort

very clean and comforatable

Hotel Director Vitacura

Santiago, Vitacura, Región Metropolitana

Authenticity & Character

This was a new area as opposed to old Santiago. However, the restaurant was superb .

Location

We wished to be close to old Santiago, but realize it was probably a safer location and close to shops and parks.

Staff

Once the staff warmed up, they were very friendly and helpful. We enjoyed interacting with the waiters and a desk person.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Transfer from San Antonio Dock to Valparaíso

Chile

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

San José Volcano & Andes Mountains

Santiago

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Santiago City Tour - Private

Santiago

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We recently returned from a trip to Australia. I did a lot of research in anticipation, but at a certain point the logistics were becoming unmanageable so I reached out to Kim Kim. Paula our agent did a bang up job of translating our travel style and desired locations into two weeks of amazing sightseeing tours. Our accommodations were all solid picks and it was was a relief to have our flights and transfers all taken care of.

It's hard to pick a highlight because each was special in its own way. In Melbourne we explored back alleys on a foodie walking tour, the perimeter by bike, and the Great Ocean Road with a small group in a coach. Near Adelaide we spotted all sorts of wildlife with a 2-day trip to Kangaroo Island, getting amazingly close to koalas, seals, and birds of all kinds. In Cairns our excursion to the Great Barrier Reef accommodated the various abilities of our family to dive and snorkel among the spectacular fish. While the Daintree are is still recovering from a devastating cyclone, we were still able to visit the ancient rainforest and encounter crocs and cassowaries.

Overall a rewarding experience - would recommend KimKim for any extended trip.

Hotel Reviews

Adabco Boutique Hotel

Adelaide

Our family of three stayed three nights at the Adabco. It's less of a "boutique" hotel than a small conference centre created out of a former boys boarding school. The rooms are on the small side and the decor a wee bit tired, though quite clean. On the other hand, each floor has a full kitchen and eating area, while the ground floor has several large meeting rooms. The staff was amazing, esp around early and late arrivals/departures. Location is just outside the main downtown area, but still withing walking distance of the Central Market food court, the Botanic Gardens, and shopping / dining.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Mercure Melbourne Southbank

Southbank

My family of three stayed five nights at this highrise hotel south of the river. Mercure is a reliable brand - the rooms were impeccable; the hotel coffee bar made breakfast simple adn easy. The location is handy to many great restaurants and the arts district. Just across the river you can catch several free CBD trams to get around the downtown.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Bay Village Tropical Retreat & Apartments

Cairns, QLD

Our family of three stayed for five nights. We were upgraded to one of their apartment units, which really helped for our longer stay (and young adult daughter's privacy!). Somewhat modest, but well equipped and perfect for our needs - bonus was a small apartment complex pool, which helped on the hot humid summer days. Location was a couple of blocks from the waterfront boardwalk, just outside the main downtown area, and about a 15-minute walk to the harbour. Although we didn't take it, the bus route to the beaches north of the city runs right past it. Also a short walk to convenience stores and cafes. One bonus was the authentic Balinese restaurant on site, which produced a memorable rijstafel for us. Staff was lovely and accommodating.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Afternoon City Bike Trip

Melbourne

We joined a group of ten to explore the perimeter of the CBD. As we made our way from the port to the Botanic Gardens, the sports complexes, the inner suburbs, and the State Library, among other sites, our enthusiastic guide stopped to give us bits of Australian and Melbourne history. We had two snack stops along the way. The tour went at a good pace for the varying abilities of the group and the intense heat of the February summer day. The bikes were n excellent condition and easy to ride. Our guide made sure we were all safe as we navigated traffic. A great way to explore beyond what you could reach on foot in the same amount of time.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Full-Day Great Ocean Road Trip

Melbourne

We joined a small coach tour with Oceania Tours for a long but rewarding day. Trying to cover the Great Ocean Road in one day is going to be a whirlwind no matter what, as well as a race to get ahead of the many full size coaches all going to the same stops at the same time. Luckily we had a nimble van driven by our amazing guide who was not only able to stay a step ahead, but also take us off the beaten path to where the larger coaches can't reach. We first wound past incredible views of the "surf" beaches, stopping to catch a glimpse of koalas in their tree habitats. We had lunch in Apollo Bay, with a short visit to put our toes in the ocean. We finished with a somewhat crowded stop at the Twelve Apostles rock formation and a short exploration of neighbouring formations, all the while getting lots of great stories about the unfortunate folks who had washed up on these inhospitable shores centuries ago. In between was my favourite part - a visit to the ancient rainforest of the Otway Ranges, one of the last original sites of untouched wilderness in Australia. We got a final bonus stop to view a huge flock of white cockatoos. Our guide was very knowledgeable about each area's natural and cultural history. She was very accommodating of the group's varying walking abilities. She also supplied an enjoyable Aussie soundtrack for the trip, which helped make the long drive back fun. Would recommend!

Quality of Experience

Food

Don't eat at the pub

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Afternoon Food & Culture Walk

Melbourne

Why not kill two birds with one stone? You can join this Walk Melbourne Tours backstreet crawl to discover the many alleyways of Melbourne and have some great food at the same time! Our guide was a long time Melbourne resident eager to let us in on the secret spaces of her city. We learned about the origin of alleys and how they were planned as integral part of the original city - and have since morphed into nooks with lots of tiny but respectable cafes, boutiques, and lots of fascinating street art. We found a hidden art deco gem, a few converted industrial spaces, and stayed protected from the harsh afternoon sun. Our food adventure took us around the globe and through several small but satisfying courses, including of course Melbourne's famous coffee. Our group was small enough we bonded quite well and even hung out for drinks at the end. Even for those coming from big cities, it would have been tricky find our way through the maze of alleys on our own and to suss out the best places to stop. Very much worth doing!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

2D/1N Highlights of Kangaroo Is Cruise/Cruise(Shared Small Group Tour)

Australia

Our family of three started the tour from our hotel. Our bus driver was very punctual picking us up at 6.15 ahead of getting folks at the bus station. The 90 minute ride to the ferry docks was filled with lots of useful info about the countryside we were travelling through. The ferry itself was modern, with lots of comfortable seating, toilets, and even a bar to keep everyone happy for the 45-minute crossing. Once we got to Kangaroo Island, we lucked out and were the only ones on this small group trip, so we were able to get a bit of a private tour. Our mini-coach made several stops to do short walks both inland and at the sea shore, our guide pointing out wildlife along the way and talking about how the wildfires of 2020 had affected this island. Lunch was a fun picnic in a secluded riverside BBQ area. The highlight of the day was definitely the seal sanctuary, where a certified ranger brought us down to the beach where we could see the seals relatively close up, lounging in their natural habitat. On the way to our hotel, after visiting eucalyptus and honey farms, we stopped at a gin distillery (at our request), where we got to see a koala right above our heads. Our accommodation at the Mercure at American River was amazing - a very comfortable room in a serene and beautiful setting right on the water, where we could watch the sunrise and many birds, as well as go on short walks in the surrounding area. Dinner there was very good as well. Day Two we stopped at some more beautiful beaches, explored the incredible Remarkable Rocks formation, and saw the sea lion colony below the cliffs, plus enjoyed another picnic lunch. The dinner time ferry ride and long bus trip home got us back well after dark, but we ended up sleeping on the bus anyway after two long days of sunny sightseeing. Taking two days and a small coach to see the island was a great way to get around and see almost everything. Definitely recommend.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dolphin Sanctuary Guided Kayaking

Adelaide

The tour started in the remote port area of Adelaide. Our kayaking guides made sure we were well sunscreened and hydrated before taking us out in double boats. We paddled around a calm area of the port, exploring mangroves and a couple of old shipwrecks lying the shallow water. We saw many birds, but it wasn't until we were almost back to shore that we spotted out dolphins - a whole little family coming through, right past us. It was a long wait, but worth the effort! This trip is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, even if you have never kayaked before.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Kuranda Rainforest Railway & Cableway

Australia

We had been expecting a ride on the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway, but the tracks had been washed out during a December cyclone, so the company had to readjust the tour. Instead, we were taken from our hotel by coach to a "Rainforestaion" about half way up the mountain, followed by another coach ride after lunch to the village of Kuranda at the top, then a gondola ride back down. We weren't expecting much (in fact we worried the whole thing was a Disney-fied version of Australia) , but the Rainforestation turned out to be a fun morning. We got to see several wild animals up close in the refuge section, including a cassowary, several friendly wallabies, koalas, snakes, Tasmanian devils, and two massive crocodiles - we were lucky to witness croc feeding time and learn a very healthy fear of these prehistoric beasts. We also got to learn about Aboriginal traditions, watch spear throwing and dancing demonstrations, and try our hand at boomerang throwing. We also learned about the rainforest in during a ride in an amphibious army "duck" vehicle. Lunch was a nice though unremarkable buffet. Kuranda village includes a main street and "village" of various artisan vendors, which we didn't spend much time in. There is also the original hippie Kuranda village, with lots of little kiosks built into the hillside at all angles, which was more fun to explore. We decided to spend our time taking a short hike though the forest before catching the gondola back to the bottom. The trail was well marked and easy to follow. For the gondola ride there is an app to download and listen to - we managed to mis-load it, so didn't get the full experience, though the view is spectacular no matter what. We did get off at the two stops on the way down to see and hear the incredible waterfalls. Once at the bottom we got a coach ride back to our hotel.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Full Day Outer Reef + 2 Certified Dives (all equipment included)

Australia

Two of our group scuba dives, the other one doesn't so we needed a trip that could accommodate everyone. Reef Magic turned out to be great for all of us. Their comfortable boat took us out to their private pontoon on the reef. At the reef, there was an area roped off for snorkelling. There was lots of equipment for everyone, so although many folks rushed to grab suits and snorkels, you could also take your time and not worry about missing out. They encouraged everyone to try it, even the non swimmers, whom they offered life jackets and pool floaties to help with buoyancy. They even supplied special suits to protect folks form jelly fish stings, common in February. For scuba newbies there was a Discover Scuba option, which was also a very safe way to get folks in the deeper water. For those not getting into the water there was a glass observation deck and even a "semi-submersible" little boat ride my daughter went on after scuba diving. My two scuba dives were well led; my husband's snorkel safari was also fun. While the dives weren't the most adventurous, they were a good length and we saw lots of amazing sea life. The staff included marine biologists who gave demonstrations and did a fun and informational fish feeding. Lunch was a very good buffet, again with lots of food for all. The staff on the boat were excellent at taking care of us and our safety and managing the needs of a huge crowd of folks. The only thing that sort of ruined our day were the really rude group of tourists who made us move our gear bags and then later stole our seats. Overall a great way to access the reef in a safe and enjoyable way.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Daintree Rainforest Full Day Adventure by 4WD

Australia

The regular Billy Tea Safari tour was edited somewhat owing to several roads having been washed out during a cyclone in December. Nevertheless, we explored quite a bit and got a full sense of the rainforest and its inhabitants. Our guide was a local who was passionate and very knowledgeable about nature. On the long drive from our hotel in Cairns to the edge of the Daintree we learned a lot about the flora and fauna, as well as the impact of the cyclone on the area, its industries and residents. Among the various stops, we got a fabulous view from near the top of the mountain (after a vertigo-inducing set of switchbacks getting up there), a river boat crossing where we attempted spot crocs, a short walk along a riverside boardwalk to see ancient ferns and gushing waterfalls (and spiders!), and a chance meeting with a wild cassowary. We enjoyed delicious lunch at the Heritage Inn, where we also had a cool dip in a crocodile-free water hole. Later in the afternoon we got homemade ice cream at a small plantation that grows its own tropical fruit. The drive home featured lots of great Aussie rock tunes.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our 13 day experience starting in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), followed by a day trip to the Mekong Delta and Ben Tre, then on to Hoi An with an add on cruise to Ha Long Bay, and finally Hanoi was nothing short of amazing!!! The accommodations were all very upscale with friendly staff and great buffet breakfasts! Every tour was well planned and informative! All of the tour guides spoke excellent English and went out of their way to make our experiences meaningful and special! The drivers did not usually speak much if any English, but were well versed in how to navigate all types of traffic without any mishaps. Our contact at Kim Kim and the tour guides kept in constant contact with us so that we always knew the daily schedule. We had enough "free time" in each of the areas to explore the sights and sounds on our own. We can't say enough positive things about the entire adventure!! My youngest son and I will forever be grateful for this trip of a lifetime!!!

Hotel Reviews

Au Lac Charner Hotel

Great location in Saigon. Well appointed with friendly staff and great buffet breakfast.

Authenticity & Character

Beautiful lobby setting.

Location

Very close to many cultural sights.

Staff

Everyone was most helpful.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Room and bathroom were spotless.

La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa

Quảng Nam

This resort was so outstanding that we did not want to leave!!

Authenticity & Character

There were multiple wings at this resort and each had its own unique vibe. The lobby was very beautiful and welcoming.

Location

The location made walking to various areas very feasible.

Staff

Wow! Every person at this resort was super friendly and we felt pampered every day.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The entire resort was super clean with lush surroundings.

La Sinfonía Majesty Hotel and Spa

Our stay here was lovely. Its location made walking to see local sights quite easy.

Authenticity & Character

The lobby, dining room and our private room were nicely appointed.

Location

We were able to walk to nearby sights with ease.

Staff

Every person on the staff was very attentive to our needs.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Our room and bathroom were spotless.

Dragon Legend Cruise

Hon Gai

The cruise was awesome even though we did not have any sunny days aboard.

Authenticity & Character

The cruise ship was appointed apropos to its name.

Location

We travelled aboard the Dragon legend to quite beautiful locations.

Staff

Everyone waited on the people on board with 5 star service.

Cleanliness & Comfort

As might be expected, the rooms showed some wear and tear from the constant dampness. However, the beds were comfortable and the bathroom was nicely appointed.

Activity Reviews

HCM City - Cu Chi tunnels

Ho Chi Minh City

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Ai Van (Vivian), our guide, made the whole day fabulous!! She provides a wealth of background knowledge that allows you to be fully engaged in the history.

Transport

HCM City - Cai Be - Can Tho

Can Tho

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Once again, Ai Van (Vivian), our guide, made this long day trip super enlightening and enjoyable!

Transport

Hoi An Fishing Village - Ancient Town Walking with Street Food Tasting

Hoi An

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

We were able to taste many types of Vietnamese local foods with our private guide.

Transport

Hanoi street food on Vespa

Hanoi

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Riding on the back of a Vespa at night to see the sights/sounds and taste many types of Vietnamese local foods with a local guide was super fun.

Transport

Hanoi - Ha Long Bay - Bai Tu Long Bay with Dragon Legend Cruise

Vietnam

Quality of Experience

Food

Every meal was super delicious.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The tour guide for our trip was delightful and informative.

Transport

Further explore the Bay / On Dragon Legend Cruise

Ha Long Bay

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Bicycle Tour of Rural Villages - Cultural Tour of Hanoi

Hanoi

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Our tour guide was very informative and made sure we were safe every step of the way. Our private lunch was awesome.

Transport

Half Day Red River Delta Countryside Discovery (Morning or Afternoon session) on Jeep Car

Hanoi

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Our informative guide made this unusual trip in a Russian Army jeep an awesome experience.

Transport

Michael was great at planning and helping us during the entire trip. Such a good idea to have Kim Kim help us.

Switzerland was the most beautiful country we’ve seen! It was simply breathtaking. Our local expert Clothilde worked with us to find the perfect hotel and excursions. She was always timely and courteous and we appreciated her knowledge.
The hotel was lovely and we liked the convenient location. We really enjoyed the complimentary breakfast each morning. It was always delicious and the staff were very nice and helpful. Only downsides were the street construction in front of the hotel. At night it was quite loud when cars drove over the metal covers on the ground. They also seem to not have enough towels. Oddly we kept having to ask and they kept running out. Otherwise this hotel was perfect for us.
I cannot say enough about our guide Celio and his knowledge about all things Switzerland. He was funny, engaging and just a fantastic guide. We had no idea what we would be seeing and he showed us some little known spots that were just…. Awe inspiring. We could have sat there all day. We really enjoyed our time with him. The trips to Lucerne and the glacier are not to be missed!! I’m so glad we made the last minute change in plans. Big thanks to Clothilde and her local contacts for making it happen on such short notice! Also a shout out to our airport transportation. They were on time and courteous; the cars were spotless. Overall our vacation was just outstanding!

Hotel Review

Boutique Hotel Wellenberg

Zurich

We really enjoyed their location in the heart of things. It was an easy walk to everything. The room was big and lovely. We appreciated the hot showers. The complimentary breakfast was really good and the staff was so kind and helpful. The only downsides were the street construction in front of the hotel. Primarily the metal plates that cover the ground. It was really loud at night when cars drove over them. Also they seem to not have enough towels. We kept having to ask for them and they kept running out. The staff though was very courteous and helpful.

Authenticity & Character

I loved the history of this hotel

Location

Many good restaurants and shops within a 5 minute walk. Also close to the public transportation

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Spotless- we enjoyed the convenience of the fridge and the hot showers

Activity Reviews

Rhine Falls & Stein am Rhein medieval village!

Switzerland

So beautiful and powerful

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Celio is the best!

Transport

Titlis - Eternal Snow and Glacier!

Switzerland

Although it was cloudy and we couldn’t see at the very top, The ice cave was very cool! We also loved the ride up and down the mountain. On the way down, it cleared up and made it all worth it!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

THE HEART OF THE BERNESE ALPS ! (Interlaken)

Switzerland

I just can’t say enough about how beautiful the countryside is. The knowledge of our guide Celio was everything .

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Lucerne Full-day trip

Zürich

We almost missed out on this beautiful city. We loved everything about our day. Celio recommended a restaurant and the food was outstanding. The transportation's museum was really fun and the lake cruise was not to be missed. It was probably our favorite part of the day!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Thank You Ioannis K. for helping us with our time in Mykonos and Santorini.
My husband and I typically research and plan our trips. Island hopping in Greece off season provided some challenges so we were very happy KimKim showed up in my online searches. Our six transfers with Welcome Pickups couldn’t have been any smoother. The vehicles clean, the drivers curtious and prompt. Ferry rides , flights and top rated hotels all booked for us.
Due to high winds our flight to Santorini had been canceled and rescheduled for the same midday flight the following day. At my request Ioannis worked diligently getting us on an earlier flight.
KimKim provided us with a list of hikes and activities for our destinations that we could add to our itinerary.
Open communication via WhatsApp made us feel comfortable that Ioannis was always there to assist us on our journey.

Our entire 5 day stay in Palm Cove and all the activities we did was superb. Kerrie and Gary did a fabulous job with the planning of our trip. Gary picked up where Kerrie left off and was awesome. He listened to all our needs and wants and made them happen. Our only glitch was we were signed up for an aboriginal art experience which ( we really didn’t want to do) and it got cancelled and replaced with an aboriginal spear crabbing experience- which was great. So happy this part of the trip turned out the way it did. All of the tour companies were great , very organized, on time and staff so kind and helpful. Overall extremely positive experience planning this portion of our trip! Thank you so much to all involved

Hotel Review

Peppers Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove

Palm Cove

Authenticity & Character

Location

Great location. Right across from beach and can walk to several restaurants for dinner

Staff

Manger knew us by name!

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Day trip to the Great Barrier Reef

Australia

This day was amazing. I was apprehensive about snorkeling as I had a previous bad experience. The crew that went out with us were so patient and helpful. Basically if you wanted a crew member would escort you out to reef , take you around to different locations and then return you to boat. It totally put me at ease and made my snorkeling experience so enjoyable

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We had the greatest trip. We had enough going on everyday but not too much that we felt overwhelmed or rushed. We had a good variety of activities. Myaen was the greatest. We planned everything together, gave me all the information I needed and checked in on us periodically through the trip. Couldn’t have asked for a better time in Japan and we are so excited to return!

I was flabbergasted that our whole trip went off without a single hitch. So many details to coordinate, so many different tours and guides, and all were great! Kim Kim did a super job (thank you, Ha!) with managing all these items. We were always picked up from the airport by a friendly smile and cold water, every morning when we met our guide for the day he/she was always early, and they always explained what would happen. They went above and beyond when we needed help (to find a lost phone, to visit the pharmacy)—really a great experience. A friend recommended I use Kim Kim, and now I will recommend it for others!

All of our guides were amazing and incredibly knowledgeable!! The tours were fascinating!
The drivers, especially Alfonso, were wonderful and went out of their way to be helpful.
Andrea did a great job putting everything we wanted to do together! Everything occurred seamlessly and made travel so easy.
Thank you to everyone who helped make our vacation so wonderful!

India is a very interesting country, with lots of history and cultural traditions and also with extreme difference in social and economic classes.
The local representative from Active India Tour met us at our hotel in Delhi to greet us and provide us with paperworks for our tour. We visited Delhi for the day and the next morning we took a flight to Jaiselmar to start our tour through several cities including Jodhpur, Udaipur, Pushkar, Jaipur, Agra and return to Delhi. Rahul was our driver for the remaining of the trip. Rahul was an amazing driver, very kind, patient and punctual. In every city we had a different tour guides. All were very competent, knowledgeable and very friendly. would recommend all of them. All the places we visited were very interesting, stunning and with history that exceeded our expectations.

According to the pictures of the Hotels sent at the time we booked our tour, they all looked clean, beautiful and we agreed on all of them. To our surprise, the hotels were not what they looked like in the pictures. The room we were assigned at the Udman hotel in Delhi, was on a floor where there were several room assigned to a wedding party so the noise was annoying. After we complained they switched our room to the suite in the hotel. I guess that room had not been used in a while, I found a spider under the sheets and the sheets were not clean. (they changed them after I called to complain again. The bathtub was stained and everything was in disrepair. The Gulaal Hotel in Jaiselmar was a total disaster, we even found a bed bug, so we run out of that hotel as soon as we could. We were surprised, disgusted and appalled that, Active India who arranged our trip in India, would book these rooms in these hotels without checking and ensuring that the facilities were clean and up to standard to any passenger.
At that point, we decided to upgrade the rest of the hotels in our booking so we would not have any more surprises. We were charged extra for the upgrades and a card payment fee, again, for having to make another payment for the upgrades.

Apparently we visited India during "wedding season", which we had no idea, so please make sure that the travel agent books hotels that are not fully occupied by a wedding party. The Radisson Blu Resort, which was one of the hotels we were upgraded to, was almost totally booked by the wedding party, 210 of the 245 room in the hotels. We had to bear with loud music during the day and at night till 3am. At the Marriot Hotel in Jaipur, we could not use the pool area due to a wedding party.

Even though we had issues with our hotels, we tried to make the best out of our trip. Rahul, our driver, and all our tour guides made our trip to India great.

We would highly recommend using Kim Kim for your next vacation! We just returned from Italy and had a 5 star experience! From private walking tours in Venice and Pompeii with passionate local guides to truffle hunting and olive oil tasting in Tuscany, a scavenger hunt through the Vatican and a private cooking class in Rome, every detail was customized for our family. Our Kim Kim travel advisor Eirini customized and planned the best vacation we’ve ever had!

Hotel Review

Hotel Bernini Palace

Florence

The highlight accommodation of our vacation! Stunning property, incredible service in an ideal location of Florence

Authenticity & Character

Stunning rooms and hotel

Location

Centrally location but quiet

Staff

Helped with all our needs

Cleanliness & Comfort

The lobby is stunning and a place to enjoy!

Activity Reviews

Truffle Hunting in Tuscany with Olive oil tasting and guided visit to San Gimignano

Italy

A must do activity while visiting Florence! Our guide was passionate and made this adventure memorable for our family!

Quality of Experience

Food

Outstanding meals at both locations for lunch and dinner! Fresh, local ingredients!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Tour inside the Colosseum & Golf Cart Tour

Rome

A highlight of our visit in Rome! The best way to see the city and avoid the crowds! Our guide was fun and ensured our kids enjoyed each place we visited! We even stopped at his favorite bakery for a sweet treat!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Family Experience: Vatican Tour for Kids

Rome

This is a must for families with children! It was a fun and interactive way to explore the Vatican! Our kids, 11 and 14 loved it!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Market Tour & Cooking lesson

Rome

This was the highlight of our Italy adventure! Michaela was amazing! From shopping in the market to learning about local life and then cooking a delicious meal, this was the best family activity we have ever done! She is passionate about what she does!

Quality of Experience

Food

Outstanding! Delicious, fresh and an amazing opportunity to cook in Rome!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Alessia was wonderful, responsive, personable, and did a terrific job planning the trip and staying in touch. Andrea, our driver in Sicily, was also terrific. I would say that Eva, our guide in Siracusa, would be a better guide for a family without children. She just didn’t seem to really know how to capture our 12-year-old’s interest or engage with her. In fact, she more or less addressed only me on our tour and didn’t interact with my husband very much either. She had some interesting information to share, but her delivery was very dry and just not particularly captivating.