Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 21,592 ratings
Read 21,592 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.

The Quilt of Ireland
Ireland | Jun 6 - Jun 19, 2026

Renee
Renee v.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jun 23, 2026
The Quilt That is Ireland Claire and her team stitched together a patchwork of history, culture, spectacular scenery, food, and music, threaded together with engaging guides, drivers and staff. My heart was especially touched by the people. Welcoming, kind, anxious to share and so very proud of their heritage. And those who left other countries and adopted Ireland, offered great insights as well. New best friends all. (Pretty sure I was the last one to get back in the taxi, on the bus or... Read more

The Quilt That is Ireland

Claire and her team stitched together a patchwork of history, culture, spectacular scenery, food, and music, threaded together with engaging guides, drivers and staff. My heart was especially touched by the people. Welcoming, kind, anxious to share and so very proud of their heritage. And those who left other countries and adopted Ireland, offered great insights as well. New best friends all. (Pretty sure I was the last one to get back in the taxi, on the bus or in the trap at every stop!)
Grouping our tour into Architecture, Geography, Culture, these are my "highlights."

St. Patrick's Cathedral is just jaw droppingly gorgeous. Kylemore Abbey and Kilkenny Castle offered insight into an elegant lifestyle that was a dramatic comparison to the humble one-room thatched roof cottages shared with livestock that were showcased in the Bog Village museum. Our first hotel, Staunton's on the Green, deserves special mention. Loved the Georgian architecture, decor, garden, food and staff. I want to live there.

Our circular route through the country gave us a real understanding of how diverse Ireland's landscape can be. Lush farmland seamed with stone walls and dotted with herds of sheep and cattle, dense forests with a plethora of wildflowers, the incredible granite domes of the Burren made way to the Stones of Viking lore and then land's end, at the Cliffs of Moher. Additionally loved the view drives-Connemara Sky Road, Ring of Kerry and the Inishmor pony and trap tour with Tom. (Shout outs to Tom, Colleen and Derrick for informative and humorous narratives.)

As an artist and calligrapher, The Book of Kells, and Trinity Library were a high point for me. The evolution of the written word from Ogham script on stone to the Illuminated Manuscripts was fascinating. Not enough time here!
Howth Castle Cooking Class -Julie and Pierre were delightful and we definitely learned some new skills. I would go back! (and would like to tour the castle)
Sheepdog experience- the border collie's command of sheep wrangling is awe-inspiring. Fun and well done.
Falconry- Another high point. Excellent presentation and extremely knowledgeable. And yes, I got to hold a PEREGRINE FALCON!
Killarney Lake by kayak- My first time in a kayak. My first time in a kayak in front of a castle. Hester and William are charming - great experience. Loved the stop at Innisfallen Island.
Taylor's Irish Night-Flatley-esque, good food and lovely combination of music, dance and history with a bit of humor.
All of the city tours were informative and helped get us acclimated. Note: Cromwell= bad.
The Ross-Maeve and Sheila our breakfast waitresses made us feel like family. We sampled MANY pubs. Loved the Guinness, the opportunity to try Irish cuisine and enjoy a wide variety of music. I cannot get the song "Grace" out of my mind, still. Not one negative comment, Claire and Team, it was the trip of a lifetime!
I will miss being told "Lovely and Brilliant" when I place my breakfast order.

I love you, Ireland, and will bask in my memories of your incredibly green quilted country.
Renee'

Aer Lingus gets a huge thumbs up!

Hotel Reviews
Pembroke Hotel kilkenny
Kilkenny
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Ross
killarney

Very interesting layout. unique decor and menu

Authenticity & Character
Location
Great location for our excursions. Fun to sit in the bar and people watch
Staff
Bar staff was attentive and accomodating. LOVED Maeve and Sheila at our breakfasts-felt like family!
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Hyde Hotel
Galway
Authenticity & Character
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Stauntons on the Green
Dublin

I felt like royalty in this gorgeous hotel. Staff from front desk to waiters was warm, welcoming and efficient. LOVED the art work, the garden and the food was delicious. Cozy room with a view of St Stephen's park with great people (and Irish Wolfhound) watching. Great proximity to St. Patrick's, the pub scene and park activities. Really loved our stay here.

Location
Staff
Ian. Big hugs!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Loved the dining space, especially by the garden windows. Bird watching, peaceful. Breakfast and afternoon respite with a glass of wine. Lovely.
Activity Reviews
Tickets for St Patrick Cathedral, Dublin
Tickets for St Patrick Cathedral, Dublin
Dublin

What a spectacular cathedral. Really loved this.

Quality of Experience
nice that there are recorded tour info in multiple languages
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Ireland

in spite of large crowds, beautiful location and visitor center. Happy they had golf carts for my mom

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Killarney Lakes Discovery by Kayak
Killarney Lakes Discovery by Kayak
Killarney

Absolutely loved this

Quality of Experience
Stunning scenery
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Excellent -very professional, fun, knowledgeable. My first kayak adventure and felt totally safe
Taylor's Irish Night ( with dinner)
Taylor's Irish Night ( with dinner)
Dublin

Well produced show with standout performers. Excellent dinner

Quality of Experience
This is a large venue, we got to meet other travelers which was fun. Fast paced show and interactive w the audience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Welcome to Doolin
Welcome to Doolin
Doolin

We didn't stop here, but really would have liked to! Only marked poor in order to move on in the survey

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Galway Walking Tour
Welcome to Galway Walking Tour
Galway

Our guide was very knowledgeable and gave a great overview about Dublin's history

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Interactive, good sense of humor
Transport
It was good to walk
Pearse Lyons Distillery: Dublin's Unique Church-Converted Spirit Haven
Pearse Lyons Distillery: Dublin's Unique Church-Converted Spirit Haven
Dublin

We ran out of time and did not experience this tour. Only giving one star as I cannot complete this item without using a star...

Private Transfer/Taxi
Private Transfer/Taxi
Ireland
A Pony & Trap Tour in Inishmore
A Pony & Trap Tour in Inishmore
Ireland

What a fascinating place to visit! Really impressed with the horse pulling the trap with a LOT of tourist traffic all around him- steady! Tom was an excellent guide and shared much info about the island and his own history. Excellent!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Corrib Princess River Cruise
Corrib Princess River Cruise
Galway

This was an okay ride- not a lot to see after the "Castle of despair" as I'm calling it. Sad story. had a nice chat with the boat captain and got a great pic of a Mute Swan family .

Cooking Class in Howth Castle
Cooking Class in Howth Castle
Ireland

Another high point of the trip!! As mentioned, we learned, ate and drank well and loved hearing the stories of how Julie and Pierre made their way to Ireland for keeps. We strolled up the grounds to the ocean overlook. Lots of birds and wildflowers which I loved.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Enjoyed the train experience and getting a different view of the country and mode of travel
Falconry Adventures
Falconry Adventures
Killarney

LOVED this. One of my favorite visits. Unique, Well presented, wonderful to participate and could have talked to him for hours.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kilkenny Food Tour
Kilkenny Food Tour
Kilkenny

A fun approach to foods and the various locations were interesting and had great back stories. Especially liked the small grocery and the lovely lunch.

Dublin Private Walking Tour
Dublin Private Walking Tour
Dublin

Great to start in the park, liked the architecture, Guinness history, Handel performance building and Rock n Roll wall of fame.

Ring of Kerry  Group Day Tour
Ring of Kerry Group Day Tour
Killarney

This is quite a bit of land to cover with a lot of diversity. Lucky to have clear enough sky to see the Skellig Islands. Derrick was great, though he commented that he could pick me up next Wednesday....I was lollygagging I guess.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Excellent recall of Irish history
Killarney Combination Tour - Boat + Jaunting Car
Killarney Combination Tour - Boat + Jaunting Car
Ireland

Enjoyed the tour with all of the landmarks explained. Same with the jaunting car through the forest with deer and wildflowers. the boat was fine, but probably wouldn't choose that again as we also did the kayak experience.

Quality of Experience
Private tour of Connemara (Sky Road, Kylemore Abbey and a Sheep dog Farm experience)
Private tour of Connemara (Sky Road, Kylemore Abbey and a Sheep dog Farm experience)
Ireland

Beautiful drive through "Quiet Man" country. The Abbey was magnificent. I needed more time to wander the gardens as I spent so much time on the inside tour. Sheep dog experience thumbs up. I have 5 border collies that we use for cattle. The dogs are "brilliant" and to me it would be impossible to work the sheep on that hilly country without them. Really good job explaining how they work and background on the sheep industry. Well done.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Colleen was the best. Very informative, funny and just a pleasure. Loved our lunch stop that she recommended.
Transport
Galway Cathedral
Galway Cathedral
Galway

One of the more modern cathedrals, especially the stained glass. Interesting that JFK is included on a mosaic. A liturgy was just being concluded so that was meaningful. Also liked that they offer a prayer book where one may leave a request for prayers.

Local specialist: Claire Monfray
Claire
Claire Monfray
Local specialist in Lyon | Replied on Jul 20, 2026
Hi Renee, Thank you for such a beautiful, heartfelt review. "The Quilt of Ireland" is such a perfect way to describe your trip, and I loved reading every stitch of it. I'm so glad Staunton's on the Green swept you off your feet right from the start, and that the sheepdog demonstration, the falconry (holding a peregrine falcon, no less!), and the kayak in front of the castle all made such a mark. Your descriptions of Ireland's landscapes, from the Burren to the Cliffs of Moher, and the... Read more

Hi Renee,

Thank you for such a beautiful, heartfelt review. "The Quilt of Ireland" is such a perfect way to describe your trip, and I loved reading every stitch of it.

I'm so glad Staunton's on the Green swept you off your feet right from the start, and that the sheepdog demonstration, the falconry (holding a peregrine falcon, no less!), and the kayak in front of the castle all made such a mark. Your descriptions of Ireland's landscapes, from the Burren to the Cliffs of Moher, and the people you met along the way really capture what makes this country so special.

I'll be sure to pass along your kind words to Colleen, Derrick, Tom, and the whole team, they will be thrilled. It meant so much to help create this trip of a lifetime for you, and I have no doubt Ireland will miss you calling everyone "lovely and brilliant" right back.

Thank you again, Renee. I hope our paths cross for another adventure soon.

Claire & High Point Holidays Team

Family Fun in Iceland
Iceland | Jun 14 - Jun 21, 2026

S
Stephanie W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 23, 2026
We had an amazing time. All of our excursions were great. We did a Lava Cave experience and our guide was great! The Ice Cave experience was so cool and our guide was really fun and even gave us information about movies filmed in certain parts of Iceland. Our favorite activity was the Zodiac boat tour at Glacier Lagoon. We visited the Blue Lagoon and Laugaras Lagoon. The Laugaras Lagoon was by far our favorite of the two. Gudmundur our specialist was quick to answer our questions and help... Read more

We had an amazing time. All of our excursions were great. We did a Lava Cave experience and our guide was great! The Ice Cave experience was so cool and our guide was really fun and even gave us information about movies filmed in certain parts of Iceland. Our favorite activity was the Zodiac boat tour at Glacier Lagoon. We visited the Blue Lagoon and Laugaras Lagoon. The Laugaras Lagoon was by far our favorite of the two. Gudmundur our specialist was quick to answer our questions and help with anything we needed. His planning of our trip and knowledge of Iceland were top notch. We loved everything we did and saw.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Vík í Mýrdal
Vík
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Grímsborgir by Keahotels
Ásborgir
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hótel Búðir
Búðir

Amazing location!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Apótek Hótel by Keahotels
Reykjavík

Great hotel and location!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Center Hotel Arnarhvoll
Reykjavík

We were disappointed in the hotel. The staff was friendly and we were greeted with sweet treats in our room upon arrival. That was the positive. Unfortunately, the rooms were not up to par. It was shown/advertised as a 4 star hotel and the rooms did not meet this standard. We had 2 rooms for one night. The bathrooms in both rooms were very tiny and awkwardly layed out. The shower in our children’s room was so small and the shower cleaner brush was left in the shower. Water leaked out from the shower as well. Our shower in the queen room was an oddly shaped tub shower and hard to get into. The queen room had cracks in the ceiling and seemed not well maintained. Walls and doors needed paint.

Authenticity & Character
Spa was nice.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Glacier Ice Cave Experience
Iceland
Quality of Experience
I
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Víðgelmir Lava Cave Experience
Víðgelmir Lava Cave Experience
Iceland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by Zodiac Boat
Explore Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon by Zodiac Boat
Iceland

Once in a lifetime experience. Great guide!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
Guðmundur Óli
Guðmundur Óli Pálmason
Local specialist in Iceland | Replied on Jun 25, 2026

Thank you for the kind review Stephanie
I'm sad and surprised to read that Center Hotel Arnarhvoll was such a let-down.
I know it doesn't change your experience, but I will definitely follow up on this and send them a formal complaint.

I'm happy everything else went well though and I do hope you'll visit us soon again :)
All the best
Gummi

Emilie was amazing!
Switzerland | May 11 - May 23, 2026

Debbie
Debbie M.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Emilie was the best! She listened to what we were and were not interested in doing during our 13 day Switzerland adventure! She picked wonderful hotels in each city/town we visited, each conveniently located near a train station. She set up all of our daily activities and gave us great recommendations for things to see/do on our free days. Emilie also recommended that we download the SBB Mobile App to easily navigate the train schedules. Having that plus the KimKim App made the whole trip... Read more

Emilie was the best! She listened to what we were and were not interested in doing during our 13 day Switzerland adventure! She picked wonderful hotels in each city/town we visited, each conveniently located near a train station. She set up all of our daily activities and gave us great recommendations for things to see/do on our free days. Emilie also recommended that we download the SBB Mobile App to easily navigate the train schedules. Having that plus the KimKim App made the whole trip run smoothly! We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Switzerland and will recommend Emilie and KimKim to all of our friends and family!

Local specialist: Emilie Dubreuil
Emilie
Emilie Dubreuil
Local specialist in Villefranche-sur-Saône | Replied on Jun 23, 2026

Thank you so much Debbie for your lovely review. We are so happy to see that you had such a wonderful time in Switzerland. Thank you also for your kindness and quick responses throughout the planning process. It was a real pleasure for me to work with you!
If you ever decide to explore more of Switzerland or visit another destination such as Italy, I would be delighted to help you again.
Wishing you all the very best and many more amazing travels ahead!
Emilie

We had a great time in Costa Rica. The trip w...
Costa Rica | Jun 9 - Jun 14, 2026

P
Patty H.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026

We had a great time in Costa Rica. The trip was worry-free and well planned. We went on the mountain hike and loved it. Our guide, Oliver, was wonderful. He was knowledgeable and made it fun for us older folks. The river adventure was awesome as well. Our guide, Henry, was great. The food was amazing and the people were so friendly. Three Monkeys were always early to take us on the next adventure. Our drivers were friendly and kept us informed of where were and where we were going. We hope to return to Costa Rica in the future and will use Serendipity again. Thank you for a wonderful trip.

Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 22, 2026

Hi Patty!

Thank you so much for your lovely message. I'm so happy you had such a wonderful time! It's great to hear that Oliver and Henry made your adventures so enjoyable, and that the Three Monkeys team and drivers took such good care of you.

Knowing you'd consider returning and using Serendipity again means the world to us. We would love to welcome you back anytime!

Thank you for choosing us, it was a true pleasure.

Pura Vida!
Bryan León,
Serendipity Adventures | Costa Rica🦥🦉🌳

Not quite as good as we expected
Finland | Jun 6 - Jun 15, 2026

K
Ken C.
Jacksonville, FL | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
I will start with what went well or very well.
- Hotel in Stockholm was excellent in an excellent location.
- The Wildlife Safari was a disaster. The guide, I think his name was Daniel, smelled so bad it was nauseating. The trip was not as advertised. The van was not comfortable and it was dirty -- so dirty I could not see out of the windshield and we were supposed to be looking out the window to spot wildlife. It included one hike up a fairly steep hill with NO PATH. It was extremely...
Read more

I will start with what went well or very well.
- Hotel in Stockholm was excellent in an excellent location.
- The Wildlife Safari was a disaster. The guide, I think his name was Daniel, smelled so bad it was nauseating. The trip was not as advertised. The van was not comfortable and it was dirty -- so dirty I could not see out of the windshield and we were supposed to be looking out the window to spot wildlife. It included one hike up a fairly steep hill with NO PATH. It was extremely difficult and I would never done that trip if I had known. I would never recommend this trip.
- Guided Tour in Stockholm was great with an excellent guide, Adam.
- Pre-arranged transportation in Stockholm from hotel to airport worked well.
- Helsinki & Suomenlina Tour was good with an excellent guide, Danielle.
- Guided Tour to Porvoo was good with an excellent guide.
- Pre-arranged cab in Rovaniemi worked well.

Here is what was not so great.
- The Hotel Reisen in Stockholm was not within walking distance of where the ship left us off. We were easily able to get a cab but it would have been helpful to know that in advance.
- Loyly Sauna was not a great place. We went for a drink but did not stay for dinner.
- Turku was very disappointing. Not much to see or do there. We took the train, walked around from the Cathedral to the Tower (which was a pretty long walk), stopped at a cute place for a drink but not much was open. I would not recommend going all that way.
- Rovaniemi was not a good choice in the summer. Most everything including most restaurants in town were closed. Our hotel was fine but the BAR and restaurant were closed. We got off the 9 hour train ride to check in and have a drink but we could not. At the point, we did find one restaurant in town that was open and pretty good. Sitting at our table, we began the process of trying to fly home earlier than we anticipated. That night our hotel room was so hot. There were only a couple of guests at the hotel and no manager on the property. He had given us his What's App contact and I contacted him to ask how to make the room cooler. He did not respond until we had left the next day at noon.

I think that is it.

Hotel Reviews
Nova Skyland Hotel
Rovaniemi

Pleasant room. Bar and restaurant were closed. And room was way too hot with no ability to make it cooler. Not a great place in the summer.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Way too hot
Hotel Lilla Roberts
Helsinki

Nice hotel. Good lobby. Pretty good location. Room was a bit overdone.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hôtel Reisen in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Stockholm

Really great location. Nice hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right at the edge of the old town.
Staff
Our room was not available when we got there. We walked around for quite a while and then went back to the hotel for a drink in the lobby until the room was ready. One women at reception charged my phone for me.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Wildlife Safari
Wildlife Safari
Stockholm

Horrible experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walking Tour Stockholm (private)
Walking Tour Stockholm (private)
Stockholm
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Tour to Porvoo
Guided Tour to Porvoo
Helsinki
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Helsinki and Suomenlinna
Helsinki and Suomenlinna
Helsinki

Good trip. Guide was great.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Roy Pushpak

Italy 2026
Italy | Jun 12 - Jun 21, 2026

Lisa
Lisa D.
Spring Valley, NV | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Overall, it was amazing. Only two minor hiccups which could have been prevented with more proactive communication. However, they were handled quickly and only slightly inconvenienced me. Loved the path of the gods hike; however, having everyone in the group introduce themselves first and maybe answer an icebreaker question or two would go a long way in making the tour more enjoyable. Our group was quiet and we jumped into the hike with no introductions. Of note, all of the tours could be... Read more

Overall, it was amazing. Only two minor hiccups which could have been prevented with more proactive communication. However, they were handled quickly and only slightly inconvenienced me. Loved the path of the gods hike; however, having everyone in the group introduce themselves first and maybe answer an icebreaker question or two would go a long way in making the tour more enjoyable. Our group was quiet and we jumped into the hike with no introductions. Of note, all of the tours could be better improved with intros and icebreakers so the group can more easily get to know each other and relax. My favorite day was the day trip through Tuscany (Siena, San Gimigiano). Our guide, Giacomo, made the experience unbelievable. He was so knowledgeable about the area, Italian food, and Italian wine. It was a long day but worth it. Metro in Rome was easy to navigate. No problems with either train transfer. Well worth what I paid for the trip.

Hotel Reviews
Don Antonino Relais
Sorrento

Good location. Neighbors upstairs were noisy but that’s not the hotel’s fault. Good size room. Very quiet, secluded, and peaceful property. I wish breakfast started before 8:00. I had early morning tours scheduled and never had time to try their breakfast, so I can’t comment on that.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Hermitage
Florence

I like being close to the sights but this was a little too close. Tourist crowds were noisy late into the night. I would’ve preferred a hotel 5-10 minutes away.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Donna Francesca
Rome

Tiny but clean. All I needed was a bed and a bathroom and that’s what I got.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Alex Mottler
Alex
Alex Mottler
Local specialist in kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 24, 2026
Ciao Lisa! Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and for sharing such detailed feedback about your experience. We're delighted to hear that you had an amazing trip overall and felt it was well worth the investment. We also appreciate your candid comments regarding the two communication hiccups. While we're glad our team was able to resolve them quickly, your feedback is a valuable reminder of the importance of proactive communication, and we'll continue working to improve in that... Read more

Ciao Lisa!

Thank you so much for your thoughtful review and for sharing such detailed feedback about your experience.

We're delighted to hear that you had an amazing trip overall and felt it was well worth the investment. We also appreciate your candid comments regarding the two communication hiccups. While we're glad our team was able to resolve them quickly, your feedback is a valuable reminder of the importance of proactive communication, and we'll continue working to improve in that area.

Thank you as well for your suggestion about group introductions and icebreakers. That's excellent feedback that we'll share with our tour partners - we can certainly see how taking a few minutes at the start of an activity could help create a more comfortable and connected group dynamic. We'll be sharing this recommendation with our tour partners and their guides as an opportunity to enhance the guest experience for our Travelers.

We're especially happy to hear how much you enjoyed the Path of the Gods hike and your Tuscany day trip. Giacomo will be thrilled to know that his knowledge, enthusiasm, and expertise made such a lasting impression. Experiences like Siena and San Gimignano are truly special, and we're glad they became a highlight of your journey.

Thank you again for traveling with us and for taking the time to share your insights. We hope to help you plan another unforgettable adventure in the future!

Warm regards,
Alex & the kimkim Team

An Extraordinary Family Journey Through Japan — Thank You Bella & Team
Japan | May 30 - Jun 15, 2026

David
David J.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
When we first considered using Kimkim to plan our family's trip to Japan, I was honestly a little reluctant. As someone who typically plans complex travel myself, I wasn't sure if anyone could truly understand what we were looking for. We wanted luxury, but not just luxury. We wanted authenticity. We wanted Michelin-level food experiences alongside tiny local restaurants. We wanted our children (ages 10 and 13) to experience the real Japan, not simply move from tourist attraction to... Read more

When we first considered using Kimkim to plan our family's trip to Japan, I was honestly a little reluctant.

As someone who typically plans complex travel myself, I wasn't sure if anyone could truly understand what we were looking for. We wanted luxury, but not just luxury. We wanted authenticity. We wanted Michelin-level food experiences alongside tiny local restaurants. We wanted our children (ages 10 and 13) to experience the real Japan, not simply move from tourist attraction to tourist attraction. Most importantly, we wanted a trip that would bring our family closer together.

Then we met Bella.

From our very first conversation, Bella was remarkable.

Over the course of months, we probably sent her hundreds of questions, requests, revisions, restaurant ideas, hotel changes, flight updates, and random thoughts. Not once did she make us feel like a burden. In fact, she embraced the process. Every request was met with enthusiasm, thoughtfulness, and genuine care.

What impressed me most was her willingness to adapt. We changed hotels. We added destinations, removed destinations, swapped experiences, changed flights, debated Disney, baseball games, restaurants, and transportation. Bella never missed a beat.

She helped us create exactly the trip we wanted.

And then the trip began.

What followed exceeded every expectation.

The guides Bella selected were exceptional.

Mr. Hajime in Tokyo was fantastic. Knowledgeable, personable, flexible, and passionate about sharing Japan beyond the guidebook. He understood immediately that we loved local culture and hidden gems. Some of our favorite moments came from spontaneous recommendations and side streets we never would have discovered on our own.

Mr. Hiroyuki in Hakone helped us experience a completely different side of Japan. The pace slowed, the scenery changed, and we were able to enjoy one of the most relaxing parts of our journey.

Ms. Ursula in Kyoto and Osaka was equally outstanding. Warm, insightful, and incredibly knowledgeable, she helped bring centuries of Japanese history and culture to life while also making everything accessible and enjoyable for our children.

The drivers were equally impressive.

Every transfer was seamless. Every pickup was on time. Whether we were moving between hotels, stations, or destinations, the logistics simply disappeared into the background—which is exactly how great travel should feel.

One of the things I appreciated most was that the trip never felt rigid.

We had structure when we needed it and flexibility when we wanted it.

Bella listened when we said we preferred local neighborhoods over crowded tourist zones. We explored areas where locals actually live, shop, and eat. We wandered hidden streets in Tokyo, discovered incredible food, and experienced moments that felt authentic rather than manufactured.

The food was extraordinary.

We enjoyed everything from world-class omakase and Tempura Kondo to local ramen shops, yakiniku, Kobe beef in Kyoto, and countless memorable meals in between. Bella understood that we were food-focused travelers and helped us build a dining experience that balanced celebrated restaurants with places we likely never would have found ourselves.

Hakone was magical.

Our stay at Gen Hakone Gora was one of the highlights of the trip. The onsen experience, the kaiseki dinners, the tranquility, and the incredible hospitality created memories our family will never forget.

And then there was the family aspect.

As I write this, we're sitting in the Delta Lounge preparing to fly home.

The thing we're talking about isn't DisneySea. It isn't the Michelin restaurants. It isn't the luxury hotels.

It's how much time we spent together.

This trip gave us something that becomes increasingly difficult to find in everyday life: uninterrupted family time.

We laughed together, explored together, got lost together, discovered new foods together, and experienced an entirely different culture together.

Our children leave with a genuine appreciation for Japan.

My wife and I leave with memories that will last forever.

And our family leaves closer than when we arrived.

That's the true measure of a great trip.

Japan itself is an extraordinary destination, but Bella and her team transformed it from a vacation into a family experience we'll be talking about for decades.

If you're considering Japan and wondering whether to trust Bella and Kimkim, my advice is simple:

Do it.

Trust the process.

Share what matters to you.

Bella will listen.

And if your experience is anything like ours, you'll come home wondering when you can return.

Bella, thank you for your patience, your professionalism, your attention to detail, and most importantly, your genuine care for our family.

You helped create memories that we will cherish for the rest of our lives.

Local specialist: Bella Wu
Bella
Bella Wu
Local specialist in China, Japan | Replied on Jun 23, 2026
Thank you so much, David. Reading your review was incredibly moving and truly one of the most rewarding moments of my career. Your words touched my heart, and I cannot thank you enough for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback. From the very beginning, I could tell that this trip was about much more than simply visiting Japan. You and your family wanted meaningful experiences, authentic connections, unforgettable meals, and most importantly, precious time together. As someone... Read more

Thank you so much, David.

Reading your review was incredibly moving and truly one of the most rewarding moments of my career. Your words touched my heart, and I cannot thank you enough for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback.

From the very beginning, I could tell that this trip was about much more than simply visiting Japan. You and your family wanted meaningful experiences, authentic connections, unforgettable meals, and most importantly, precious time together. As someone who specializes in family travel, I firmly believe that what matters most is not how many attractions you visit, but the memories you create with the people you love.

That belief guides every itinerary I design.

My goal is always to create journeys that allow families to slow down, connect, discover, and experience Japan in a way that feels personal and meaningful. Reading that your family returned home with wonderful memories and an even stronger bond is the greatest compliment I could ever receive.

Thank you as well for your kind words about our guides and drivers. I will be sharing your review with Hajime-san, Hiroyuki-san, Ursula-san, and the rest of the team. They pour their hearts into what they do, and I know your recognition will mean the world to them. Feedback like yours inspires all of us to continue creating unforgettable experiences for future travelers and families visiting Japan.

It was truly a privilege to work with your family throughout the planning process. Every conversation, every adjustment, and every idea helped shape a journey that was uniquely yours, and I am grateful for the trust you placed in me and my team.

Thank you again for allowing us to be part of such a special chapter in your family's story.

Whenever your travels bring you back to Japan—or perhaps even to China one day—I would be honored to help create another unforgettable adventure for your family.

Until then, I wish you, your wife, and your children many years of wonderful memories from Japan.

Warmest regards,
Bella

Alicia was my right hand woman during this whole trip!
Iceland | Jun 12 - Jun 21, 2026

Jaime
Jaime F.
Charleston, SC, USA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
It was so great to work with Alicia. She was so helpful and very responsive! I recommend doing a lot of your own research too so you can feel confident adjusting your plan if needed. I also recommend training ahead of time if you plan on hiking a lot. The elevation is a bear! 10 days was a great amount of time for our trip but would have loved maybe 2 more days. We rented a 4x4 and explored the golden circle and down to the south.
This was the greatest trip of my 50 years!
Read more

It was so great to work with Alicia. She was so helpful and very responsive! I recommend doing a lot of your own research too so you can feel confident adjusting your plan if needed. I also recommend training ahead of time if you plan on hiking a lot. The elevation is a bear! 10 days was a great amount of time for our trip but would have loved maybe 2 more days. We rented a 4x4 and explored the golden circle and down to the south.
This was the greatest trip of my 50 years!

Hotel Reviews
The Reykjavík Edition
Reykjavik

Spring for the nicer room with a view!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Hótel Jökulsárlón - Glacier Lagoon Hotel
Hofn

This is one of the best hotels I’ve stayed at! We had a superior room. It was hands-down the nicest room I’ve ever stayed in. The design of the hotel is wide open and airy, floor to ceiling windows to take the view. Lots and lots of seating areas, beautiful breakfast buffet and fantastic bar menu. I highly recommend the pulled pork sandwich. The sheep wandering around the hotel grounds was so appreciated and charming. The outdoor bathing experience was perfect. If only they had a spa!!

Authenticity & Character
The turf roof is amazing and the sheep wander the grounds were so fun!
Location
Amazing views!!
Staff
Everyone was so so helpful and kind.
Cleanliness & Comfort
I cannot say enough nice things about this hotel. It was a perfect place to relax. I recommend taking a day or at least a half to enjoy it.
UMI Hotel
Rangárþing eystra

The hotel was under construction when we stayed there. It’s a little small, but I think the construction will help. The walk down to the private beach is incredible. Perfect location to explore the area!

Authenticity & Character
Location
The beach and convenience.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
ION Adventure Hotel
Nesjavellir
Authenticity & Character
Reallly fun designs! Great room at the front of the hotel for watching northern lights in the winter or just relaxing in the summer. Dinning room wide open with huge windows to take in the view.
Location
Set away from the hustle and bustle. Great walking trails around the hotel
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
There was no exhaust fan in our bathroom, which made the room very steamy in the summer. We had one of the family rooms on the bottom floor I wish it had a better view.
Silica Hotel
Grindavík

Spring for the retreat blue lagoon package and a lagoon room! So worth it.

Authenticity & Character
The design is so special. It feels like one with the surrounding environment.
Location
Like nothing you’ve ever seen. Straight off the plane is the best way to refresh from travels.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The beds were so comfortable and the room was spotless. The breakfast buffet was wonderful.
Activity Reviews
Skaftafell Glacier Hike
Iceland

A great adventure! The guides were so amazing. Particularly Anya.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sky Lagoon
Iceland

The blue Lagoon is better. The experience is the same.

Quality of Experience
Laugaras Lagoon
Iceland

Wild and beautiful. A true Icelandic experience.

Quality of Experience
This Lagoon is off the beaten path. On the day we were there courses were herded past. It was incredible.
Puffin watching tour at the Ingolfshofdi cape
Iceland

The puffin tour was hands down one of the best things!! The guide was super knowledgeable and third generation. They started as sheep farmers and now run these tours. Really cool tractor ride out to the island and fun walk up the black sand dune. Once up to the grassy part of the island you are not prepared for what you see! 100’s of puffin flying, building nests just hopping around. You can get so close to them they aren’t afraid of you unless you make fast movements. We were really lucky with the weather just a little rain to keep them close to home but not enough to send them into their nests. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alicia Jean-Talon
Alicia
Alicia Jean-Talon
Local specialist in France/Iceland | Replied on Jul 08, 2026

Hi Jaime and Jackie,

Thank you so much for this detailed review!
I was very happy to help you plan your birthday trip, and I am even happier to hear how much you enjoyed it!
It was great to get to build this itinerary together, and I wish you many exciting adventures to come!
All the best,
Alicia

AMAZING trip to Iceland thanks to Emanuela!
Iceland | Jun 14 - Jun 20, 2026

A
Alan S.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
My extended family just returned from a 7-day trip to Iceland that was organized by Emanuela Grieco at Arctic Travel Designer (through KimKim). We had a FANTASTIC time. I can't speak highly enough about Emanuela and her incredible work putting together our itinerary. She is awesome! We were a group of 10 people ranging from ages 13 to 80, so it wasn't easy finding the right mix of things to do and the right pace to do them at. But Emanuela handled it all while answering our endless... Read more

My extended family just returned from a 7-day trip to Iceland that was organized by Emanuela Grieco at Arctic Travel Designer (through KimKim). We had a FANTASTIC time. I can't speak highly enough about Emanuela and her incredible work putting together our itinerary. She is awesome!

We were a group of 10 people ranging from ages 13 to 80, so it wasn't easy finding the right mix of things to do and the right pace to do them at. But Emanuela handled it all while answering our endless questions with incredible patience and great insight. Among other things, we had a fantastic food tour in Reykjavik, a wonderful trip through the Golden Circle sights along the south coast, and an incredible trip to Sky Lagoon. We especially loved snowmobiling on a glacier and going on a Zodiac boat tour at Glacier Lagoon.

If you are thinking about traveling to Iceland, get in touch with Emanuela. She is a total gem and will not steer you wrong. (She hooked us up with Siggy at Iceland Everywhere Tours to take our family around via luxury bus for the week. I'd highly recommend him as well. You can find him at www.icelandeverywhere.is.)

Thank you, Emanuela!

Alan S.
Washington, D.C.

Local specialist: Emanuela Grieco
Emanuela
Emanuela Grieco
Local specialist in Iceland | Replied on Jul 03, 2026
Dear Alan,
Thank you so much for your heartwarming words.
We worked hard to make your trip a success, so it is incredibly rewarding to hear that it exceeded your expectations. I am delighted that you and your family had such a memorable time in Iceland and that you enjoyed all the glacier adventures we had planned for you. I am especially happy that you decided not to cancel the snowmobile tour in the end, and that it turned out to be one of the highlights of your trip! Those are exactly... Read more

Dear Alan,
Thank you so much for your heartwarming words.

We worked hard to make your trip a success, so it is incredibly rewarding to hear that it exceeded your expectations. I am delighted that you and your family had such a memorable time in Iceland and that you enjoyed all the glacier adventures we had planned for you.

I am especially happy that you decided not to cancel the snowmobile tour in the end, and that it turned out to be one of the highlights of your trip! Those are exactly the kinds of experiences that make an Iceland adventure so special.

I will be sure to pass your kind regards on to Siggi—he will be thrilled to hear your feedback. I know he thoroughly enjoyed showing you around and sharing his beautiful country with you.

Thank you once again for choosing us to plan your Iceland adventure and for taking the time to share your experience. It was a true pleasure helping you create these memories.

If you ever decide to return to Iceland—or even Grenland—I would be delighted to help you plan your next journey.
Wishing you and your family all the very best, and I hope our paths cross again in the future.
Warm regards,
Emanuela

10th Anniversary Trip
Spain | Jun 11 - Jun 21, 2026

Bianca
Bianca L.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
We were so grateful to have found Kimkim when we were planning a trip to celebrate our 10-year wedding anniversary! Coraima was very responsive to our messages and helped us modify our itinerary MANY times until it was just what we wanted. We especially enjoyed our guided tours of the Royal Palace and the Prado, though our day trip to Toledo and the paella cooking class were highlights of the trip. All the guides were so knowledgeable and friendly! We also adored our wine tasting day in La... Read more

We were so grateful to have found Kimkim when we were planning a trip to celebrate our 10-year wedding anniversary! Coraima was very responsive to our messages and helped us modify our itinerary MANY times until it was just what we wanted. We especially enjoyed our guided tours of the Royal Palace and the Prado, though our day trip to Toledo and the paella cooking class were highlights of the trip. All the guides were so knowledgeable and friendly! We also adored our wine tasting day in La Rioja—truly such a gorgeous and enjoyable day. This trip was so special and it was nice to have so many of the details taken care of by Coraima and the Kimkim team. Our hotels in Madrid and Logroño were just right and located perfectly for our daily wanderings. The train from Madrid to Logroño was so convenient, as was the new app to keep track of our itinerary and bookings. The next time we travel, we will definitely use Kimkim again!

Hotel Reviews
Sercotel Calle Mayor (Logroño)
Logroño

This hotel was conveniently located and had great breakfast. The hotel is a bit impersonal and the beds were a little hard, but the rooms were spacious and quiet.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very centrally located in old town Logroño
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room Mate Alba
Madrid

The hotel was conveniently located, the staff were all so friendly and helpful, and the beds were SO comfortable!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Conventionally located in El Centro
Staff
They were all amazing and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Spend a Sunday like a local: Exploring El Rastro Market in Madrid
Spend a Sunday like a local: Exploring El Rastro Market in Madrid
Madrid

El Rastro is clearly a big part of Madrid’s weekly culture, but we were hoping to find more handmade items rather than the cheaply made items designed for tourists most stalls sold. It was still a pretty enjoyable experience though.

Quality of Experience
Short Prado Museum Visit with Skip-the-Line Ticket
Short Prado Museum Visit with Skip-the-Line Ticket
Madrid

Our guide was clearly very knowledgeable about art history and made her tour so engaging! The Prado is huge, so getting a snapshot of some of the most important works and art movements was so helpful—plus you can continue to wander the museum after the tour ends.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Self-Guided Walk around the Historic Center
Self-Guided Walk around the Historic Center
Madrid

This activity was a nice way to kick off our trip and let us familiarize ourselves with Madrid and go at our own pace. It would have been nice to have more information about the background and history of the places we visited though—we ended up Googling this information because we love history and were so curious. An embedded map of all the locations would have been helpful too, though it was easy enough to navigate with Google Maps.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Coraima Yañez
Coraima
Coraima Yañez
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Jun 24, 2026

Hola Bianca! I really appreciate you taking the time to write such a kind and thoughtful review about your experience with us at kimkim. It was such an honor to help you and John plan your wedding anniversary with John — you had such a lovely route, and I'm happy to read that you enjoyed your time there. I hope you're already dreaming up your next international trip together!
Coraima

Johannesburg/Safari/Cape Town
South Africa | Jun 12 - Jun 21, 2026

B
Bobby M.
Atlanta, GA, USA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Bianca planned a 10 day itinerary for me. We started in Johannesburg and visited the Apartheid Museum and Soweto. Our guide in Joburg was Tefo and he was excellent. We had lunch in Soweto and got to experience the vibrant cultures of Johannesburg. Tefo was knowledgeable, warm and kind. We then flew to Hoedspruit for a 3 day safari at the Kusudelwani Safari Lodge. This part of the itinerary really exceeded our expectations. Kusudelwani is the perfect combination of safari and relaxing... Read more

Bianca planned a 10 day itinerary for me. We started in Johannesburg and visited the Apartheid Museum and Soweto. Our guide in Joburg was Tefo and he was excellent. We had lunch in Soweto and got to experience the vibrant cultures of Johannesburg. Tefo was knowledgeable, warm and kind. We then flew to Hoedspruit for a 3 day safari at the Kusudelwani Safari Lodge. This part of the itinerary really exceeded our expectations. Kusudelwani is the perfect combination of safari and relaxing vacation. The staff and the accommodations delighted us and the safari experience was a bonus as we saw 4 of the Big 5. I highly recommend the Panorama Tour while you are there. We finished our itinerary in Cape Town where our guide Mansur showed us all Cape Town had to offer over a 4 day period. Mansur was knowledgeable about the Cape and its history. Our favorites while in Cape Town include The Wine Tours, Table Top Mountain, and our visit to see the African Penguins. We couldn't have planned this trip on our own. We are happy with the trip and felt like we got more than our money's worth.

Local specialist: Bianca Gersbach
Bianca
Bianca Gersbach
Local specialist in Cape Town, South Africa | Replied on Jun 22, 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! 😊 It was an absolute pleasure planning your South African adventure, and I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed every part of the journey. I'm especially happy that Tefo and Mansur helped make your experience so memorable. They are both passionate about sharing their country, and I know they will be thrilled to hear your kind words. It is also fantastic to hear that Kusudalweni exceeded your expectations—it's such a special place, and seeing 4... Read more

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! 😊

It was an absolute pleasure planning your South African adventure, and I am delighted to hear that you enjoyed every part of the journey.

I'm especially happy that Tefo and Mansur helped make your experience so memorable. They are both passionate about sharing their country, and I know they will be thrilled to hear your kind words. It is also fantastic to hear that Kusudalweni exceeded your expectations—it's such a special place, and seeing 4 of the Big 5 is an incredible bonus!

Thank you for trusting me with your trip. Knowing that you felt the experience offered great value and that you were able to enjoy South Africa without the stress of planning everything yourself means a lot to me.

I hope the memories of Johannesburg, the safari, and beautiful Cape Town stay with you for many years to come. I would love to help you plan another African adventure in the future :)

Kenya Masai mara, Tanzania Serengeti, Rwanda gorilla trekking
Kenya | May 25 - Jun 6, 2026

Rajesh
Rajesh P.
Woodway, TX, USA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
we traveled from may 24th 2026 to June 6th 2026 to Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. Melvin team is amazing as we have welcome call 1 month before with us and they are helpful in getting visa and working thru all details. Guides in each country -Norman ( Kenya) , Simba and Kaku ( Tanzania) and Nelson ( Rwanda) are very friendly, professional and caring. trip was amazing memorable and without any hick ups. Thank you whole team ( Caroline, redo and Irene). Thank you thank you for providing amazing... Read more

we traveled from may 24th 2026 to June 6th 2026 to Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. Melvin team is amazing as we have welcome call 1 month before with us and they are helpful in getting visa and working thru all details. Guides in each country -Norman ( Kenya) , Simba and Kaku ( Tanzania) and Nelson ( Rwanda) are very friendly, professional and caring. trip was amazing memorable and without any hick ups. Thank you whole team ( Caroline, redo and Irene). Thank you thank you for providing amazing experience.

Hotel Reviews
Tiloreza Volcanoes Ecolodge
Musanze

very friendly service, feels like home, they wash your shoes after you come back from trekking, food was amazing, they did bon fire at our request just for us that was very kind .

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fairview Hotel, Nairobi
Nairobi

they have restaurant 24 hours and they serve hot food anytime. location was very peaceful, convinent, safe and rooms are cleaned and comfortable. Staff was amazing

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Coffee Tour in Ngorongoro
Coffee Tour in Ngorongoro
Ngorongoro
Local specialist: Melvin Mapetla
Melvin
Melvin Mapetla
Local specialist in East Africa | Replied on Jun 23, 2026

Thank you so much for your kind words. It was truly a pleasure to be part of your journey through Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda.

I’m delighted to hear that everything went smoothly and that Norman, Simba, Kaku, and Nelson helped make the experience so memorable. I will be sure to share your feedback with Caroline, Fredo, Irene, and the rest of the team, they will be thrilled to hear it.

Thank you for trusting us with your adventure. We hope to welcome you back to East Africa again someday.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional Service from Paul at KimKim...
Galapagos Islands | Jun 16 - Jun 20, 2026

Timothy
Timothy D.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional Service from Paul at KimKim Travel — A Truly First-Class Experience As seasoned and discerning travelers, our expectations are high, and Paul at KimKim Travel exceeded them in every way. From the beginning, his communication was outstanding—prompt, consistent, and incredibly thorough. He anticipated needs before we even had to ask, including arranging a flight upgrade and providing detailed information to help us pack and prepare for three very different microclimates:... Read more

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Exceptional Service from Paul at KimKim Travel — A Truly First-Class Experience

As seasoned and discerning travelers, our expectations are high, and Paul at KimKim Travel exceeded them in every way. From the beginning, his communication was outstanding—prompt, consistent, and incredibly thorough. He anticipated needs before we even had to ask, including arranging a flight upgrade and providing detailed information to help us pack and prepare for three very different microclimates: Quito, Mashpi Lodge, and the Galápagos Islands.

Upon arrival to the Quito Airport, everything was seamless. Tony Sotomayor met us at the airport and orchestrated a flawless transition with luggage, customs, security, and access to the VIP Sala Lounge before our adventure began. Traveling with children can be challenging, but Paul thoughtfully arranged a private naturalist guide who met us at the Baltra airport and made the experience both effortless and enriching for our family.

The Galápagos portion aboard the Elite was nothing short of extraordinary. The crew was exceptionally accommodating to families with children and operated on our pace. Special recognition goes to Captain Marcelo for getting us safely to every destination, Roberto for delivering a true luxury experience as cruise director, Chef Angel and Bartender Romulo for keeping us wonderfully fed and refreshed, David for capturing incredible GoPro memories, Andreas for kayaking with our daughter Brynn, and of course our naturalist guide, Matthias the Magnificent, whose passion and expertise ensured we experienced every wildlife encounter the islands had to offer.

This journey was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience—not only because of the incredible destinations and wildlife, but because of the remarkable people who made us feel at home every step of the way. We are forever grateful to Paul and the entire KimKim team for crafting such a seamless and unforgettable adventure.

Warmest regards,
Dr. Timothy, Joy & Brynn Davis

Hotel Review
M/C Elite

★★★★★ An Unforgettable Galápagos Experience Our family and friends recently enjoyed a truly once-in-a-lifetime journey aboard the Elite Galápagos Cruise, and we are forever grateful to the incredible crew who made us feel so at home. Traveling with children can be challenging, but everyone went above and beyond to accommodate our family and ensure that our children felt included in every adventure. Special thanks to Captain Marcelo for safely guiding us to every destination, Roberto, our outstanding Cruise Director, for delivering a first-class luxury experience, and Chef Angel and Bartender Romulo for keeping us exceptionally well fed and refreshed. Thank you to David for capturing and sharing amazing photos and GoPro memories, and to Andreas for making kayaking with Brynn such a special experience. And a very special thank you to Matthias the Magnificent, our naturalist guide, whose passion and expertise ensured that we experienced every incredible wildlife encounter the islands had to offer. The Galápagos themselves are extraordinary, but what made this trip unforgettable was the warmth, kindness, and service provided by the entire Elite crew. We will forever cherish the memories and are deeply grateful for making this journey so special. Warmest regards, Dr. Timothy, Joy & Brynn Davis

Authenticity & Character
The Elite combines elegant, intimate luxury with the spirit of the Galápagos, offering beautifully appointed suites, personalized service, gourmet cuisine, and a warm, family-like atmosphere that makes exploring these extraordinary islands feel both exclusive and authentic.
Location
We enjoyed incredible encounters with blue-footed boobies, Darwin’s finches, marine iguanas, and sea lions. One of the joys of the Galápagos is that every voyage offers new surprises, and we look forward to returning someday in hopes of adding penguins to our growing list of unforgettable wildlife sightings.
Staff
The Elite’s authenticity and character come from its exceptional crew, who make every guest feel like family while sharing the natural wonders of the Galápagos with warmth, expertise, and genuine Ecuadorian hospitality.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Elite was impeccably clean and exceptionally comfortable, with spacious suites, thoughtful amenities, and meticulous attention to detail that made every moment onboard feel relaxing and luxurious.
Local specialist: Paul Cisneros
Paul
Paul Cisneros
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Jun 22, 2026
Dear Tim, Joy, and Brynn, I'm so happy to hear that you had a wonderful time aboard the cruise and exploring the Galapagos alongside Carmen's family, as well as Joann and Michael. 🐢 It was truly a pleasure helping you discover and explore this unique destination. From the very beginning, planning this journey with you was easy and enjoyable, and I'm grateful for your kind words. I'll be sure to pass your feedback along to the cruise crew. Comments like yours mean a great deal and are... Read more

Dear Tim, Joy, and Brynn,

I'm so happy to hear that you had a wonderful time aboard the cruise and exploring the Galapagos alongside Carmen's family, as well as Joann and Michael. 🐢

It was truly a pleasure helping you discover and explore this unique destination. From the very beginning, planning this journey with you was easy and enjoyable, and I'm grateful for your kind words.

I'll be sure to pass your feedback along to the cruise crew. Comments like yours mean a great deal and are always appreciated by everyone involved in creating memorable experiences for our travelers.

I'm sure you'll cherish this adventure and the memories you made in the Galapagos for years to come.

Sending you my very best wishes! 🤗

Warmly,
Paul

Don't skip Ghent and Antwerp
The Netherlands | May 21 - Jun 7, 2026

Paul
Paul D.
Australia | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Bear in mind that the airfares were paid and the Kimkim deposit paid before the US and Israel decided to bomb Iran, so the entire trip was will we/won’t we with our flights travelling from Australia through Dubai. Bas, however, accommodated us every inch of the way with our concerns. Luckily threats around our travel dates never eventuated. I, and an old university friend, flew into Paris CDG and caught trains into Brussels. Three nights in Brussels, starting with a very instructive tour... Read more

Bear in mind that the airfares were paid and the Kimkim deposit paid before the US and Israel decided to bomb Iran, so the entire trip was will we/won’t we with our flights travelling from Australia through Dubai. Bas, however, accommodated us every inch of the way with our concerns. Luckily threats around our travel dates never eventuated.

I, and an old university friend, flew into Paris CDG and caught trains into Brussels. Three nights in Brussels, starting with a very instructive tour guided by Lieven and culminating in a sampling of the famous Belgian beer. The last day took us via an extensive voyage through the Brussels metro to the overrated Atomium.

Onto Ghent and guided by the excellent Christine, we stayed near the main square in the Ghent River Hotel. A visit to the Castle of the Counts was eventful. Well worth it, as was the included river cruise around the city. One day was taken with a day trip to Bruges, but unfortunately electric overhead wire problems delayed us substantially, and we did make it in time for a canal cruise viewing the highlights of the medieval architecture. A visit to the Historium, a video re-enactment of the time of Rubens was interesting, and followed by a cooling beverage.

We next caught the train to Antwerp where we had two great guides, Jorinde and Nina. Jorinde took us around the historic areas, Nina the food areas. We visited an early printing house, the Plantin-Moretus Museum, which was run for centuries by the Plantin family. Antwerp is a major river port and the river Scheldt is much bigger here than in Ghent. We also visited the MAS museum. Interesting building!

Over to the Netherlands and Rotterdam, one of the biggest ports in Europe, and very heavily bombed during WW2. We did a cruise around the port and it is massive…much bigger than Sydney Harbour. The weather burst here after 7 or 8 days of 30 degrees (86F) and we got quite damp. We also visited the Markthall, a big indoor market, and the Cubic Houses. The next day was a trip to Kinderdijk where there remain a dozen or so working windmills, with their original purpose of pumping water upwards to the river system. Well worth it.

Amsterdam next where we had our first mishap in communications in meeting the tour guide. A quick Whatsapp call rectified the issue but we had a shortened, but quality, trip around the city with Jan. We met 45 minutes overdue, and were restricted by the next appointment. A visit to a canal-side mansion, the Van Loon House, followed. Next day, we had the visits to the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, two of the world’s great art museums showing the works of Rembrandt (among others) and Vincent Van Gogh. The must-do two-hour canal cruise split the two visits. The hotel was an interesting one in the Halles district, an old tram workshop. There was a food hall covering many cuisines.

Onto a rainy Utrecht where we stayed in a boutique hotel alongside the city canal. One quibble would be whether this hotel was appropriate for 70-plus year-olds lugging heavy luggage up two flights of a spiral staircase with no lift. But with an unbooked tour round the church, the rains came again and I, personally, decided that 465-step towers, both the climbing and the height, were no longer part of my bucket list. My friend ventured up. The next day, we walked to a 100-year-old house, the Rietveld-Schröder house which was built to be adaptable and utilitarian in every way. An interesting walk through the Utrecht neighbourhoods.

The next day, we travelled to Eindhoven, the home of the Philips electrical goods company which dominates the city. All of our activities thenceforth were with friends from the area and we visited the site of the Battle of Arnhem, Operation Market Garden, “A Bridge Too Far” from the later days of WW2. And a more localised Van Gogh museum from his home area of Nuenen.

Even though we’re not really connoisseurs of haute cuisine, we did enjoy most suggestions that Bas made. The hotels ranged from quite modern (Amsterdam and Eindoven) to more boutique. The appointed guides were all very good, and the provision of the Chipkaart, which is required for most public transport in the Netherlands, very handy.

Hotel Reviews
Westcord Hotel Eindhoven
Eindhoven

Probably the most modern and comfortable hotel. Close to the station, shopping and restaurants. We did have a mild hiccup with the booking in that the hotel weren't aware of our booking, but after calling the agents, was resolved very quickly. Excellent breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
It's very modern, probably on the site of an old Philips building.
Location
So close to everything.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Boutique Hotel Museumkwartier
Utrecht

Quaint is the word. no facilities downstairs eg breakfast. No lift, and two storeys of narrow spiral staircase. Good location on the canal though.

Authenticity & Character
it's old-fashioned but the lack of a lift takes marks away.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel de Hallen
Amsterdam

Was modern and comfortable but the bathroom setup was a bit below par. No privacy and not enough hanging space for extra towels.

Authenticity & Character
REfurbished tram depot.
Location
A little out of the way but ideally positioned within the Hallen district.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel van Walsum
Rotterdam

Close to the shopping strips. Everything else was good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Near to bars and main shopping strip.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel FranQ
Antwerp

Close to amenities. Wasn't modern but comfortable enough.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Near to transport.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ghent River Hotel
Ghent

Quality hotel central to the main square.

Authenticity & Character
Location
On the river, but also very close to a major square.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
9Hotel Central
Brussels

Very local to the centre of town and particularly the railway station.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Central to transport.
Staff
Great tips for food.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Rotterdam - harbor boat tour
Rotterdam - harbor boat tour
The Netherlands

We didn't realise the harbour was so massive. Unfortunately the weather did break towards the end, and we got wet.

Quality of Experience
Transport
Amsterdam - Van Gogh Museum
Amsterdam - Van Gogh Museum
The Netherlands

Another great museum/gallery. We did visit another Van Gogh gallery in Neunen, near his home town. This was not part of the trip, rather with friends in Eindhoven.

Quality of Experience
Amsterdam - Museum van Loon
Amsterdam - Museum van Loon
Amsterdam

The house was nice, particularly the garden. I don't think our trip would have been poorer if we'd skipped this one.

Quality of Experience
Antwerp - Private guided Food Tour (on foot)
Antwerp - Private guided Food Tour (on foot)
The Netherlands

Nina collected us in the town square and introduced us to various food types. The charcuterie (don't know the Flemish word) gave us a good sample of Antwerp delicacies.

Quality of Experience
Food
All of it.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Nina was excellent.
Bruges - Historium
Bruges - Historium
The Netherlands

A little stagey. A video re-enactment of a young man working for Rubens and a model he was asked to collect from, the port.

Quality of Experience
Utrecht - Dom Tower
Utrecht - Dom Tower
The Netherlands

I've decided that I'm past the age of being willing to do high towers, both due to my poor fitness and issue with heights. My travelling companion however did all 465 steps and got the photos.

Quality of Experience
Amsterdam - Canal cruise (join in)
Amsterdam - Canal cruise (join in)
The Netherlands

A good, long cruise around the canals.

Quality of Experience
It's essential to do a canal cruise in Amsterdam, indeed in many cities of the Low Countries.
Amsterdam - Private guided historic city walk
Amsterdam - Private guided historic city walk
The Netherlands

The problem here was the miscommunication re pick up times. We were told to wait opposite the railway station. The guide, Jan, was told to pick us up at our hotel. So we lost 45 minutes of our two hours. Nevertheless, Jan gave us a good walk through the old town.

Quality of Experience
Communication, although we were able to contact the agency quickly.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jan was good, Just a pity about the lost time.
Antwerp - MAS (Museum Aan de Stroom)
Antwerp - MAS (Museum Aan de Stroom)
The Netherlands

Interesting view of the various aspects of Antwerp history, including the war. We did skip some floors which were of no particular interest.

Quality of Experience
Antwerp - Private guided walking tour
Antwerp - Private guided walking tour
The Netherlands

Jorinde showed us all over the main part of town, together with the port region.

Quality of Experience
The history and geography.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ghent - Scenic Boat Tour
Ghent - Scenic Boat Tour
The Netherlands

Along the river (Leie), a good view of that part of the city.

Quality of Experience
Ghent - Private guided walking tour
Ghent - Private guided walking tour
The Netherlands

Excellent walk with Christine. Through the main part of town, with the cathedral (not that I sent in), chocolate merchants and the Castle of the Counts.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
10/10 for Christine.
Brussels - Atomium
Brussels - Atomium
The Netherlands

Overrated. Reasonably difficult to get to on the train network.

Quality of Experience
Transport
Brussels - Private guided walking tour
Brussels - Private guided walking tour
The Netherlands

With Lieven, through the government and museum district, and then into the central part of Brussels. Finishing with a convivial introduction to Belgian beers.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Amsterdam - Rijksmuseum
Amsterdam - Rijksmuseum
The Netherlands

One of the great masters of European painting. The Night Watch is currently being restored, iun full view, and the reproduction is on display.

Quality of Experience
Rotterdam - Kinderdijk windmills by water shuttle
Rotterdam - Kinderdijk windmills by water shuttle
The Netherlands

Interesting insight into the use of windmills in raising water levels, rather than in milling grains.

Quality of Experience
Transport
Getting there by water.
Antwerp - Museum Plantin-Moretus
Antwerp - Museum Plantin-Moretus
The Netherlands

Very interesting insight into the history of printing in Western Europe. Printers from Antwerp went with Caxton to set up printing in England, then prettyy much the only country in the English-speaking world and able to influence English spelling.

Quality of Experience
Ghent - Day trip to Bruges
Ghent - Day trip to Bruges
Ghent

This was a little less than expected due to problems in the railway system. Trains through Gent-Dompaart were out of action due to problems with the overhead wiring. We had to take other methods to get to Gent-St Pieters and then to Brugge. It was a very warm day as well.

Quality of Experience
Transport
Bad luck with the network.
Explore Ghent with a CityCard
Explore Ghent with a CityCard
The Netherlands

Excellent value. We jumped a large queue to enter the Cstle of the Counts.

Quality of Experience
Brussels card 48h
The Netherlands

We didn't really get full use of this.

Quality of Experience
Unimpressed with the ways to get to the Atomium.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lieven was excellent and information, and good value for the post-tour sampling of Belgian beers.
Transport
Local specialist: Bas Naus

Our magical trip to Croatia— thanks to Nikola!
Croatia | Jun 6 - Jun 15, 2026

Najia
Najia G.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Our family just returned from the most magical and unforgettable trip to Croatia, and we owe it all to Nikola and the incredible team he set up for us through Kimkim. Nikola planned the perfect itinerary for my 50th birthday, taking us from Zagreb to Zadar, the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Park, Split, Hvar, and finally Dubrovnik. Every destination was more beautiful than the last. Croatia is now my favorite country, and we genuinely did not want our vacation to... Read more

Our family just returned from the most magical and unforgettable trip to Croatia, and we owe it all to Nikola and the incredible team he set up for us through Kimkim.

Nikola planned the perfect itinerary for my 50th birthday, taking us from Zagreb to Zadar, the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Park, Split, Hvar, and finally Dubrovnik. Every destination was more beautiful than the last. Croatia is now my favorite country, and we genuinely did not want our vacation to end.

From the very beginning, Nikola was exceptional. He was always available to answer questions, whether by email or phone, and his communication throughout the entire process was outstanding. He was patient, kind, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in making our trip special.

The Kimkim app made everything seamless. Having our daily itineraries at our fingertips and receiving Nikola’s nightly check-ins gave us so much peace of mind. Every tour guide and driver we met was friendly, professional, and incredibly helpful.

What made this experience so special was having a local expert who truly knows and loves their country. Nikola’s recommendations, attention to detail, and personal touch transformed our vacation into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Nikola. We are so grateful for all the care and effort he put into planning this trip. If you’re considering a trip to Croatia—or anywhere Kimkim operates—I wholeheartedly recommend working with him.

Thank you, Nikola, for creating memories our family will cherish forever.

Local specialist: Nikola Vojvodić
Nikola
Nikola Vojvodić
Local specialist in Zagreb | Replied on Jul 13, 2026

Hi Najia,
I'm happy to hear you and your family had such an incredible time in Croatia! 😊
Planning your birthday trip was an absolute pleasure, and I'm so glad everything came together so magically for you! Thank you for your kind words about me and the team - it was a team effort for sure, and I'm just happy you felt the love and care in every detail. Also, I'm glad that Croatia is now one of your favorite countries, and I hope you will visit my country again! Wishing you all the best, and I hope our paths will cross again in the future!
Warm regards,
Nikola

Our trip was great. The itinerary was perfect...
Ireland | Jun 10 - Jun 20, 2026

S
Sherrie C.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Our trip was great. The itinerary was perfect. And Rachel did a good job helping us customize it for our needs. The only items should be pointed out are two of the links in the app directed us to the wrong place for tours. One was the food tour in Kinsale and the other was the boat tour of the cliffs of Moher. Read more

Our trip was great. The itinerary was perfect. And Rachel did a good job helping us customize it for our needs. The only items should be pointed out are two of the links in the app directed us to the wrong place for tours. One was the food tour in Kinsale and the other was the boat tour of the cliffs of Moher.

Hotel Reviews
Dunraven Arms Hotel

Dunraven Arms Hotel had a vibrant atmosphere and was well-situated. Overall, a pleasant place to stay.

Old Bank Townhouse Kinsale
Kinsale

Old Bank Townhouse in Kinsale was in a nice location, and although my in-laws had a nicer room, ours was a bit cramped with an extra single bed. It did impact the overall experience slightly.

Cliff House Hotel
Ardmore
Location
Activity Reviews
Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin ( 50 min)
Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin ( 50 min)
Doolin

The Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin was an amazing experience. Unlike the typical view from the top, being on the water offered a unique perspective of the cliffs. We were fortunate to have sunny weather which made the sights even more beautiful.

Celtic Nights Music and Dance Show - with dinner optional
Celtic Nights Music and Dance Show - with dinner optional
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations - Private
Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations - Private
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Kinsale Private Walking Food Tour
Kinsale Private Walking Food Tour
Ireland

Awesome guide

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Rachel Long
Rachel
Rachel Long
Local specialist in Wales | Replied on Jul 12, 2026
Hello Sherie,
Thank you for taking the time to write your review and for your kind words! I really enjoyed working with you to customise your trip, and we are so pleased that your trip was great and that your bespoke itinerary was perfect! Thank you for highlighting the route links in the app.
We work closely with our suppliers, and we will let your Kinsale Private Walking Food Tour guide know that they were awesome! Thank you for your accommodation feedback. We are delighted that you enjoyed...
Read more

Hello Sherie,
Thank you for taking the time to write your review and for your kind words! I really enjoyed working with you to customise your trip, and we are so pleased that your trip was great and that your bespoke itinerary was perfect! Thank you for highlighting the route links in the app.
We work closely with our suppliers, and we will let your Kinsale Private Walking Food Tour guide know that they were awesome! Thank you for your accommodation feedback. We are delighted that you enjoyed the private Caherconnell Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations and the Celtic Nights Music and Dance Show. Seeing the Cliffs of Moher from the water does offer a unique perspective of the cliffs, we are pleased that your experience was amazing!
It has been a pleasure working with you and we hope to be able to work with you again in the future for trips to the UK, Ireland and France!
All the best,
Rachel and the High Point Holidays Team

AMAZING TRIP!
Australia | Jun 6 - Jun 20, 2026

Heath
Heath R.
Houston, TX | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026

What a amazing trip that Vicky help put together. She was very helpful with date changes, tour changes, hotel changes and anything else I asked for. In the end she made it happen and the entire trip was a success.

Communication with KimKim was great.

Local specialist: Vicky Steinhardt
Vicky
Vicky Steinhardt
Local specialist in Noosa, Australia | Replied on Jun 22, 2026

Thank you for the feedback Heath. I am so glad you both enjoyed your trip and it was all you hoped it would be
Wishing you many more travel adventures ahead.
All the Best
Vicky

Independent travelers needed a little help
Japan | Jun 10 - Jun 19, 2026

JR
JR L.
Salina, KS, USA | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
My wife and I are pretty independent travelers. We have done trips to all 50 US States and a few trips abroad by basic research and online bookings. So this year when we decided to travel further and we picked Japan, I thought it would be the same. It really wasn’t. I was having a difficult time knowing where to stay (Tokyo is very large) what things we needed to see, and the best way to travel to multiple cities within our budget. Also we were a little worried about the language... Read more

My wife and I are pretty independent travelers. We have done trips to all 50 US States and a few trips abroad by basic research and online bookings. So this year when we decided to travel further and we picked Japan, I thought it would be the same. It really wasn’t. I was having a difficult time knowing where to stay (Tokyo is very large) what things we needed to see, and the best way to travel to multiple cities within our budget. Also we were a little worried about the language barrier and finding our way around. We did not want to do a guided tour, we like working on our own timetable, but were worried about doing this on our own. After looking through several websites, came across KimKim and on a lark filled out some information. Before long, we were contacted by Carinta and through a basic survey on our interests and goals she came up with a really great vacation package. We had a video chat and fine tuned a few things, but were very happy with the plan! So our anticipation grew and we had our vacation all prepped and planned well in advance. A few weeks before our trip we received our Roadbook with all the specific information and links, along with some helpful cultural tips. Another video chat with Carinta to go over the points and answer any questions and we were ready to go!
The accommodations that she picked for us were all wonderful. The train travel between cities was all laid out very well. We only had one ticket issue with an experience (could not get the ticket link to come up) but a quick text and the issue was solved immediately. All of the locations that were suggested that we had no idea about but went to because of the suggestion were all fantastic . And because we weren’t in a group dynamic, we did a few things on a lark that we had a great time doing. She did provide us with an airport pickup and a half day guided tour, so we did have a little help navigating the public transport and finding our way around to start. That was super helpful, and not sure we would have been so bold with our travels ha we not had that initial help. The contact from KimKim on travel days was appreciated, and even though we didn’t have any huge issues or emergencies, the fact that we had a resource there was incredibly comforting. This was honestly a great experience from the start through the trip and I am so happy that we went with this company, and we are already thinking of our next adventure with a little more confidence knowing this company is here.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Androoms Kyoto Shichijo
Kyoto

Great hotel super close to Kyoto Station. Nice neighborhood, very comfortable room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ryokan Aura Tachibana
Hakone

Our first stay at a Ryokan and it was incredible. The room was super spacious and comfortable, the private onsen was so relaxing, and the meals there were some of the greatest meals we have ever had.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
the b asakusa
Tokyo

Very nice accommodation, super convenient location, staff was wonderful, nice breakfast buffet, had a great stay here.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Super close to transit, great food and sites nearby.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Hakone Free Pass (3 days)
Hakone

Great experiences, and not having to worry about individual ticketing is super nice.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Experience Kabuki Theater
Experience Kabuki Theater
Tokyo

So intriguing! I have seen Kabuki before, but never at this level and environment. Fascinating experience.

Digital TeamLab Borderless Museum
Digital TeamLab Borderless Museum
Tokyo

So much fun we actually did another in Kyoto.

Quality of Experience
Visit Tokyo Skytree
Visit Tokyo Skytree
Tokyo
Quality of Experience
Sumo demonstration around a Japanese meal!
Sumo demonstration around a Japanese meal!
Japan

So much fun! And the meal was delicious!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Experience Ryokan
Experience Ryokan
Japan

Nothing we would have individually picked, but what a great time! Incredible vacation experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff here went above and beyond all the time. Incredible hospitality.
Transport
Airport assistant premium Tokyo HND [8:00 - 20:00]
Tokyo

After 20 hours of plane travel, not sure how we would have found our hotel without this service. Highly recommend!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Traditional Afternoon Tea Ceremony
Traditional Afternoon Tea Ceremony
Kyoto

Very interesting cultural experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Goodbye Japan!
Goodbye Japan!
Japan

Having a private driver so we didn’t have to haul luggage through public transport was a super comforting way to end our trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local Private Guide Half Day Tokyo
Local Private Guide Half Day Tokyo
Tokyo

Such a great way to get acquainted with the city. Learned a lot about the history of Tokyo while also getting a lot of tips about navigating such a vast space. Our guide, Charlotte, was tremendous.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Carinta Rizki Yuniar
Carinta
Carinta Rizki Yuniar
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jun 23, 2026
Dear JR, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed review. I’m truly grateful to hear that your trip to Japan was such a positive experience and that the itinerary, accommodations, and on-the-ground support helped you travel comfortably and confidently. It means a lot to know that the balance between independent travel and having support when needed worked well for you. It was a real pleasure helping you plan this journey, and I’m especially happy that... Read more

Dear JR,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed review.

I’m truly grateful to hear that your trip to Japan was such a positive experience and that the itinerary, accommodations, and on-the-ground support helped you travel comfortably and confidently. It means a lot to know that the balance between independent travel and having support when needed worked well for you.

It was a real pleasure helping you plan this journey, and I’m especially happy that you were able to discover places and experiences you might not have found on your own. I’m also glad the communication during your trip and the Roadbook were helpful and reassuring along the way.

Your kind words truly motivate me, and I’ll be sure to share your feedback with the wider team as well.

I look forward to helping you plan your next adventure one day.

Warm regards,
Carinta

Mouad made Morocco Magical
Morocco | Apr 1 - Apr 12, 2026

Natalie
Natalie M.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
I traveled through Morocco as a solo female traveler, and from the moment I arrived in Casablanca, I knew this trip would be special because of my guide, Mouad. He greeted me at the airport with flowers and the biggest smile, and for the next 13 days we journeyed together across Morocco—from Casablanca and Rabat to Chefchaouen, Fes, the Sahara Desert, Marrakech, and countless beautiful places in between. What could have been an amazing trip became a truly magical experience because of... Read more

I traveled through Morocco as a solo female traveler, and from the moment I arrived in Casablanca, I knew this trip would be special because of my guide, Mouad.

He greeted me at the airport with flowers and the biggest smile, and for the next 13 days we journeyed together across Morocco—from Casablanca and Rabat to Chefchaouen, Fes, the Sahara Desert, Marrakech, and countless beautiful places in between. What could have been an amazing trip became a truly magical experience because of him.

Mouad went above and beyond every single day. He adjusted the itinerary when needed, introduced me to local experiences that weren’t on the original schedule, helped me find great shopping deals, recommended hidden gems, arranged excursions, and even took countless photos so I could fully enjoy the experience. During parts of the trip that were supposed to be self-guided, he generously spent extra time with me to make sure I got the most out of every destination.

What impressed me most was his passion for his country and his genuine kindness. Everywhere we went, he seemed to know everyone. He greeted people with warmth, happiness, and respect, and in return they welcomed him like family. Through him, I experienced the real Morocco—not just the sights, but the heart and soul of the country.

As a solo female traveler, feeling safe is incredibly important, and Mouad made me feel completely comfortable and secure from beginning to end. That sense of safety allowed me to relax, be present, and fully enjoy every moment of the journey. It made all the difference.

His positivity never faded, his smile never disappeared, and his enthusiasm was contagious. He is professional, knowledgeable, patient, thoughtful, and truly cares about the people he guides.

The entire 13-day trip was unforgettable, and much of that is thanks to Mouad. I arrived in Morocco with a guide waiting for me at the airport, and I left with memories that will last a lifetime—and a friend.

If you have the opportunity to travel with Mouad, consider yourself lucky. I cannot recommend him highly enough.

Hotel Reviews
Atlas Sky Airport
Nouaseur

Perfect location for my early flight in the morning. Comfortable bed and convenient shuttle. Highly recommend.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Elegancia Riad Boutique & SPA
Marrakech

Beautiful rooms, stunning, rooftop, breakfast, luxurious spa in the basement. I loved every second of staying here. Staff was exceptional and location was superb. Thank you!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Rihana Dades
Douar Aït Ouffi

Excellent! One of my favorite hotels of all time!! Staff was incredibly warm and hospitable, I wish I could move in! Thank you for everything!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sahara Stars Luxury Camp
Merzouga

Excellent experience from the greeting to the dinner and entertainment music at night, absolutely perfect! The rooms in the tents are way more than glamping, they are luxury and comfortable and beautiful. Hope to visit again!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Le palais des cerisiers.
middelt
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Al Andalous - Riad
Fès
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Laman
Chefchaouen

Excellent authentic beautiful hotel with stunning views!!! And delicious food!! Thank you!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Nour Hotel
Tangier
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Kalaa
Rabat

Loved! Beautiful rooms and stunning courtyard! Stay here!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided Tour of Tangier
Guided Tour of Tangier
Tangier
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Architectural Elegance: A Journey through the Hassan II Mosque
Architectural Elegance: A Journey through the Hassan II Mosque
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sand-Boarding in Erg Chebbi
Sand-Boarding in Erg Chebbi
Merzouga
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hammam & Spa Session 6 Pm at your Riad Accommodation .
Hammam & Spa Session 6 Pm at your Riad Accommodation .
Morocco

So wonderful! I wish I could do this every day

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Chefchaouen with your local guide
Explore Chefchaouen with your local guide
Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen is absolutely beautiful! Mouad showed me all around the city, took countless photos of me in great spots, and accompanied me on a hike to a church for an incredible sunset. Thank you, Mouad, this experience was incredible!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dades Valley, Ouarzazate, Ait Benhaddou & Marrakech
Dades Valley, Ouarzazate, Ait Benhaddou & Marrakech
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Camel trek to your  luxury camp
Camel trek to your luxury camp
Merzouga

A true highlight! To ride a camel in the Sahara desert at the sunset? How lucky I am to have had this experience. I was nervous at first, but the guides made me feel very safe and comfortable. I hope to go back one day!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Monkey Trail (3M Squared Loop Trail)
The Monkey Trail (3M Squared Loop Trail)
Midelt

What an excellent hike! My guide was so knowledgeable and fun and prepared a delicious picnic of authentic Moroccan food and snack snacks for us. It was so wonderful to get out and see nature and also a ton of monkeys. Thank you!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
 Dinner with a Local Family and Henna Party
Dinner with a Local Family and Henna Party
Fes

An absolute highlight of my trip! Thank you for welcoming me into your home and meeting your wonderful children. The home-cooked meal is absolutely delicious. Anyone that gets a chance to visit with your family in your home is truly lucky as this is a magical experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Tour of Volubilis
Guided Tour of Volubilis
Morocco

Excellent! I had no idea there was so much Roman history in Morocco, I learned so much on this tour. Thank you

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
the Monkey Fingers Canyon loop Hike.
the Monkey Fingers Canyon loop Hike.
Boumalne Dades

Oh wow, I cannot say enough good things about my hike with my local guide. His name is escaping me at the moment, but he is a truly wonderful, knowledgeable, kind, adventurous, and fun character. Thank you so much for my time with you and for welcoming me into your home. I am truly grateful.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Exploring Marrakech's Wonders: A Private Guided Tour
Exploring Marrakech's Wonders: A Private Guided Tour
Marrakesh
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Tour of Aït Benhaddou
Guided Tour of Aït Benhaddou
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Merzouga to Boumalne Dades via Tinghir & Todra Gorge
Merzouga to Boumalne Dades via Tinghir & Todra Gorge
Morocco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer to Merzouga via Erfoud, Saharan Camel Ride
Transfer to Merzouga via Erfoud, Saharan Camel Ride
Morocco

So fun! What a highlight to ride on a camel at sunset

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fes to Midelt via High Atlas Mountains
Fes to Midelt via High Atlas Mountains
Morocco

Thank you, Mouad!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fes: Exploring the Imperial City
Fes: Exploring the Imperial City
Fes

The best day! Thank you so much

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Evening in Casablanca with your driver/guide.
Evening in Casablanca with your driver/guide.
Casablanca
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Rabat

Excellent! My Tour Guide was so knowledgeable, friendly and passionate about her city and her job. She went above and beyond to show me a good time and I will always remember my time in robot. Thank you!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Majid Mrabti
Majid
Majid Mrabti
Local specialist in Morocco & France | Replied on Jun 22, 2026
Hi Natalie,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt and thoughtful review. Your words mean a great deal to us, and I’m grateful that Mouad has played a part in making your journey memorable and magical.
It’s always my goal to ensure our guests feel welcome, safe, and fully immersed in the Moroccan experience. I’m delighted to hear that you felt comfortable and enjoyed every destination, from the vibrant cities to the quiet, hidden gems. Your openness and curiosity made every day an adventure,...
Read more

Hi Natalie,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt and thoughtful review. Your words mean a great deal to us, and I’m grateful that Mouad has played a part in making your journey memorable and magical.
It’s always my goal to ensure our guests feel welcome, safe, and fully immersed in the Moroccan experience. I’m delighted to hear that you felt comfortable and enjoyed every destination, from the vibrant cities to the quiet, hidden gems. Your openness and curiosity made every day an adventure, and I appreciate the trust you placed in kimkim throughout your travels.
Thank you again for your kind recommendation. I wish you all the best in your future adventures.
Best,
Majid

We fell in love with Istanbul!
Turkey | Jun 10 - Jun 15, 2026

Cathy
Cathy M.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 22, 2026
Volcan
The trip was absolutely amazing. The sites we saw were perfect and what made the two days in Istanbul was our guide, Volcan. We have had many guides over the years but we have never had anyone come close to how superior he was. He was so knowledgeable, personable and explained the history of Turkey so well and we came to love the city. Our excursions were to the
two famous mosques, the Cistern, private boat ride on the the Bosporus, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. We also...
Read more

Volcan
The trip was absolutely amazing. The sites we saw were perfect and what made the two days in Istanbul was our guide, Volcan. We have had many guides over the years but we have never had anyone come close to how superior he was. He was so knowledgeable, personable and explained the history of Turkey so well and we came to love the city. Our excursions were to the
two famous mosques, the Cistern, private boat ride on the the Bosporus, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. We also flew to Cappadocia and saw the underground city which was incredible.

The planning that KimKim did in advance to make our trip so memorable could not have been better. A first class company that I would certainly use again and recommend. It was flawless.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Taskonaklar Cappadocia
Nevsehir

The room was in a cave but probably not my favorite hotel. And the restaurant was overpriced.!

Authenticity & Character
It was in a cave.
Location
It was fine.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room was large and very clean.
Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton
Fatih Istanbul

It was beautiful, in a beautiful setting with cobblestone streets. A lovely area to have food or drinks and a restaurant across the street.

Authenticity & Character
Small boutique-like and historical.
Authenticity & Character
Small boutique-like and historical.
Authenticity & Character
Small boutique like and historical.
Location
It was walking distance to everuthing.
Location
It was walking distance to everuthing.
Location
It was walking distance to everuthing.
Staff
I wish I had his name but the one who took care of our grandson to get him in a room near us.
Staff
I wish I had his name but the one who took care of our grandson to get him in a room near us.
Staff
I wish I had his name but the one who took care of our grandson to get him in a room near us.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bed and bathroom.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bed and bathroom.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bed!
Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Jun 29, 2026

Thanks, Cathy, for this great review!

We thank you for choosing us as your travel companions in Turkiye!

Best,
Berat

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.

Secure & easy booking

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.