Kimkim Trip Reviews

Emily was an absolute pro at making me feel well looked after on this trip. She was wonderful about listening attentively to my needs and shifted her approach to the planning when some unexpected developments emerged shortly before and during the trip. The local guides and drivers were so hospitable and made me feel like a family member at every step of the way. I couldn’t have enjoyed this trip more!

Minh was great in helping us plan out trip!

All activities were superb and most lodgings. We love KimKim and highly recommend!

Hotel Reviews

Mango Bay Phu Quoc

This hotel was not a good fit at all for us. We request king beds or 2 beds throughout our trip - this was neither. It was not central air, bathroom outside. I have breathing issues and we never assumed this would be an issues. Kimkim could not help us with a different property so we found our own property and transferred the next night. The toll away bed they brought in at a different villa was not suitable for my husbands back. This was a total disappointment. We loved where we transferred to and we’re able to solve our own issue .

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Above noted

Can Tho Ecolodge

Can Tho

Issues with restaurant. Gluten free and menu issues with lack of understanding regarding our questions about the food. Language issue primarily.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Bad experience with massage, rough treatment and got the feeling she did not want to be there doing the massage. Above restaurant issues noted.

Cleanliness & Comfort

La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa

Hoi An

Over this hotel, wish all lodging were to this standards, most were.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Exceptional and really great with gluten free!!!!

Cleanliness & Comfort

We had to switch rooms when we arrived but the staff & hotel were totally GREAT!

The L’Amour Junk

Great experience!!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Staff, everyone was superb and exceeded our expectations!!!

Cleanliness & Comfort

Tam Coc Garden Resort

Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Had issues with their understanding gluten free.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Avana Retreat

Hoa Binh

Authenticity & Character

Worth everything to enjoy this experience!

Location

Loved our villa!

Staff

Staff was totally exceptional!!!

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Scuba Diving Day in Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc

This day I did the mud baths while Bob did scuba so both were great experiences!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Phu Quoc Island Getaway

Phu Quoc

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Can Tho - visit floating market and explore around Can Tho

Can Tho

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit Tra Que Village & Hoi An City Tour

Hoi An

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Ninh Binh - Ha Long Bay - Bai Tu Long Bay - Cap La (with L'Amour Junk)

Vietnam

This was truly a one of a kind experience! They exceeded all of our expectations from the food to all activities. I am only filling out this one with pictures to be all inclusive of all activities❤️

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hanoi - Hoa Binh: Avana Retreat

Vietnam

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

A full day explore the rural life in Hanoi

Hanoi

This was amazing due to our guide which was different than planned, thank good ness we had a different guide. Only wished we had been able to switch to him for that day on. His name was: Hiep Nguyen +84 98 671 02 34

Quality of Experience

Food

Amazing experience at the lady’s home!!!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

I was not the easiest customer and asked Mathia to put together a 'slow travel' itinerary for me and my father, who has mobility issues. I asked for a train trip, a boat trip and high views of the fjords. I was not expecting him to be able to achieve all of this in 7 days. Mathia organised an incredible itinerary with multiple opportunities to experience the points that I requested. I never could have navigated the websites (which were in Norwegian) or book all of the tickets in the speed he managed to do so. The entire trip went according to plan, other than a slight change due to an avalanche which affected one part of our trip. He communicated clearly throughout and managed to convey alternative options with such prudence and cadence. The guided walks in Oslo and Bergen were brilliant and helped us to immerse ourselves in local culture quickly. I would absolutely recommend kimkim and, most importantly, Mathia, to anyone looking to book a trip of a lifetime to Norway. Thank you Mathia, for your speedy and personalised service, and for giving me a wonderful opportunity to make memories with my Dad.

Veronika prepared a fun itinerary for a short trip to Sweden to the see the Northern Lights. Veronika was available throughout the trip and answered questions promptly. When a train was cancelled, she immediately re-booked us on an alternate route, and our trip continued smoothly. She herself needed to take a flight during our trip and took the initiative to find a replacement guide in case we had any questions while she was travelling in case we couldn’t get in contact with her. Veronika put together an intricate itinerary which involved a few different hotels and activities, all in a short 4 day visit. She gave restaurant suggestions and made reservations where appropriate. Working with her was a breeze. Veronika is friendly, accomodating, and a joy to work with!

We are a family of 5, kids aged (9,15,17) 15 days in New Zealand starting in Auckland, driving down to Rotoroa, flying down to Christchurch, traveling by train to Greysmouth, car to Frans Jofef and car to Queenstown. It was a busy trip, but we loved every minute. The Maori traditional hungi and cultural night was enjoyed by of us, the mud baths at Hellsgate in Rotoroa - don't expect to get your clothes back, just take ones you can ditch! but it is a lovely experience. The night time glowworm kayak on the lake also a great experience - so peaceful. Down to the south island, the Christchurch botanical gardens are well worth an afternoon exploring - beautiful. The train ride to Greysmouth is very scenic. When driving from Frans Josef to Queenstown, remember the sick bags if anyone has travel sickness, the windy roads are next level, but the views are stunning. Queenstown is a beautiful part of the world, the lake offers so many options for tourists. The Bungee at the bridge, is worth just visiting to witness other peoples bravery! So much we didn't see, so we will be back.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel St. Moritz

Queenstown

Authenticity & Character

Location

Although it is on a really steep hill, that you need to walk up and down to get the town.

Staff

The breakfast barista made a beautiful coffee with a smile - thankyou

Cleanliness & Comfort

Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier

Reception decor looks quite fancy, but the rooms don't match that, but we were comfortable and it was clean and tidy. You do have beautiful views of the snow topped mountains and the fog rolling in is quite surreal.

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Sudima Lake Rotorua

Rotorua

Great location, we had rooms next to each other as we have 3 kids. Walking distance to the town.

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Oaks Auckland Hotel (Prev. Nesuto Stadium Auckland)

Auckland

We enjoyed our stay in these apartments. We just really need at least a fan in the bedrooms as it was too hot in January and the a/c was only in the living area. Great location and walking distance to the ferry and shops.

Location

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Full-Day Jet-Boat Adventure & Funyak River Safari

Queenstown (NZ)

Due to bad weather we just did the jetboat part of this tour. Was a lot of fun, and the scenery was stunning.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

staff were all fantastic.

Transport

Franz Joseph 4 hour Kayak and Walk

New Zealand

This is a lovely day on the lake, if you are lucky enoguh to get a still day, the reflections are just beautiful. The kayaks are very comfortable and easy to manouver, the walk up into the forrest is really peaceful and beautiful.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

she was sounding a bit rusty, nearly didn't start.

Twilight Glow Worm Kayak Experience - 3 hour guided

Rotorua

It's a lovely experience, maybe not for kids that don't like the dark or the water. As its hard to come back if they don't like it. For couples its a lovely time together, its really peaceful on the lake.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Mitai Cultural Experience & Dinner

Rotorua

great family experience for all ages. we thoroughly enjoyed this tour.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

TranzAlpine Train: Christchurch to Greymouth

Christchurch

Great experience, beautiful views, great time for reflection and relaxation. The scenic cart was an added bonus.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

I was feeling overwhelmed in December trying to pull a January trip off last second. That's when I found KimKim and though a motor hesitant went ahead and booked through them.

Olman was great at understanding my requirements and interests and offering a few suggestions until we had the perfect itinerary for us.

The trip was also perfectly executed from our airport pickup to dropoff. Tours, hotels, and especially transfers are all the mundane work about a vacation that's not fun. The Kimkim team took that off our hands entirely which just left us to enjoy.

My favorite excursion was the white water rafting! And followed closely by the ecotermales hot springs in La Fortuna... But I love good hot springs. Our guide, Alan, in the Manuel Antonio park was also so nice and knowledgeable.

The restaurant recommendations were also top notch!

I e-mailed and spoke with Linda to have a fabulous trip of 12 days. After 2 days on our own Milton Chiqui Lopez took us to sites around Quito-highlighted by the weird effects at the equator-we visited the charming mountain of Baños in the high Andes. The 4 hour drive each way was scenic.
The trip ended with a trip into the deep Amazon rainforest to the extraordinary La Selva lodge Biden by a lake. Ore guide Dan Hicks was a 16 year veteran from England. Four days of walks and canoe rides to explore both flora and fauna. F
Innovative Euro-American cuisine that was 5 star. Luxurious accommodations high in the jungle.All rides to airports were smooth, courtesy of Alejandro & son
It was perfect.

Hotel Reviews

La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat

Yasuní National Park

An extraordinary luxurious lodge with 5 star 3 meals daily. Great hiking and boat rides A beautiful setting on a going size lake

Authenticity & Character

A true resort deep in the wilderness.

Location

In the rainforest.

Staff

All 28 employees spoke excellent English and went out of their way to be helpful. Wait staff had the polish of a 5 star restaurant All 28 staff spoke excellent English. They went out of their way to be helpful. The wait staff worked as a team and had the professionalism of a 5 star place.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Immaculate

Isla de Baños Hosteria y Spa

Baños

A small very charming hotel.

Authenticity & Character

Location

In pleasant neighborhood

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Las Plazas

Quito

No heat in 49F weather. Breakfast just ok. Some spoke no English.

Authenticity & Character

Small and quaint

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Arrival to Coca, transfer to rainforest lodge, rainforest hike

Ecuador

Scenic 2hour ride on rivet

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Observation Tower, Garza Cocha Lake & Night Walk

Yasuni National Park

All fascinating exploration of Amazon and its flora & fauna

Quality of Experience

As abkve

Food

Activities in Baños & Return to Quito

Ecuador

Just tour of the Andes

Quality of Experience

Food

Very giid

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Quito - Cotopaxi National Park - Baños

Ecuador

Grest visit to the stunning Andes.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Visit the "Middle of the World"

Ecuador

Interesting although 200 meters off equator

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Great guides and perfect transfer services

Transport

This was a very last-minute trip. Our Travel Specialist, Moonika, showed her expertise and savvy in promptly providing an itinerary of travel, accommodations, and outdoor winter activities available during Rovaniemi's high season that had everything we wanted - plus a few things we didn't know we wanted! Our time in Helsinki was also fascinating, and the day trip to Tallin, Estonia was fantastic. While we were on the trip, Moonika stayed in touch and was especially helpful in contacting a snowmobile tour company to help retrieve a lost phone! You could tell she was poised and ready to go above and beyond to assure we had an unforgettable Nordic vacation, which is truly what we experienced.

Our family has travelled to more than 30 countries and all seven continents. We have used various travel agents for trips to Africa, Latin America, Asia, Australia and Antarctica.

I can say without hesitation that Kimkim is the best travel agency, and our local specialist Sandy is the best individual travel agent, that we have ever worked with.

The planning process with Sandy was easy, transparent, efficient and informative. We went back and forth several times as we narrowed down our itinerary, chose our hotels and selected our experiences. Sandy always had great options, common sense suggestions and creative ideas. Every time I had a question or a message for Sandy, I would have a direct and helpful answer from her the very next day. And, importantly, she always respected our budget. We never felt rushed, manipulated or "up sold" on anything.

Our Kyoto guide Sunny was delightful. A longtime guide, his love for Japan showed through at all times. He was very easy to be with -- always going out of his way to find just the right snack or restaurant, shortcut or camera angle.

Or Hiroshima guide, Yuji was terrific. During Covid, he created a series of illustrated notebooks that cover every possible aspect of Japan's history, geography, culture and traditions. I think I learned more about Japan while reading his notebooks than at any other moment on the trip. Yuji also plays the flute and gave us an extraordinary sample of his musical talents while we walked through a beautiful forest on Miyajima island -- it was a totally magical and unexpected moment for us.

Yoshi, our Tokyo guide, was equally excellent. He took us across Tokyo on various subway and commuter lines -- covering more sights and attractions more immersively than we could have imagined. His choice of sushi lunch restaurant was absolutely perfect -- some of the best sushi I have ever had in my life. After just one day with him, we were sorry to say goodbye.

Finally, Ryoji, our guide for a night time food tour of the Shinjuku district of Tokyo, was absolutely amazing. Over the course of four hours, he took us to five different eating establishments, down narrow alleyways, along wide boulevards and through crowded neon-lit intersections. This was probably my favorite single experience on the trip.

Unfortunately, while in Tokyo, we had an unexpected health situation (totally unrelated to our activities or Kimkim's planning) that required us to cut short our trip and return home. In these difficult moments, Sandy was unbelievably supportive and helpful. She helped us make immediate and urgent changes to our plans, was available 24/7, and helped us get refunds on the activities that we could not do. Her constant availability, encouragement, and support helped us get through a difficult moment which required difficult choices and stressful adjustments to the trip.

Even weeks after our trip, Sandy was still engaged with us, helping wrap up final details and offering encouragement.

In summary, I highly recommend Kimkim, Sandy and our local guides. They really are the best travel professionals we have ever worked with.

We will definitely use Kimkim for our next trip.

If your experience is half as good as our experience was, you won't be disappointed!!

Activity Review

Tokyo Night Foodie Tour in Shinjuku

Tokyo

This was a fantastic experience. I highly recommend this. The highlight of our Tokyo visit!!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Ryoji was excellent! Ask for him!!

Transport

Our family of four (parents and two adult sons) had an amazing trip to Cambodia thanks to Steve and his team. While we have traveled in Asia before, this was our first time in Cambodia and Steve was enormously helpful in crafting a trip that worked for our family and gave us an incredible introduction to the culture, history and beauty of Cambodia. We will definitely be back! We began with 3 days in Siem Reap where our guide Ms. Sokin shared her in-depth knowledge of the beautiful temples of Angkor Thom, Angkor Wat, Ta Phrom & Banteay Srei. We enjoyed the traditional Apsara dancing one night and had delicious meals there and at Haven restaurant. Having a guide and driver from the moment we landed at the airport made the trip so much easier. We traveled by boat to Battambang, which was a long trip (@7 hours) but definitely worthwhile as we saw the floating villages and beautiful countryside along the way, and the boat was comfortable and a fun experience in itself. We stayed 3 days in Battambang with Ms. Sokin continuing as our guide - highlights included making lunch with the locals, where we harvested local ingredients and prepared delicious local cuisine as well as the bike tour, where we toured a number of local home-industries. Also the bamboo train was a fun experience and the visit to Phnom Sampeau for sunset should not be missed. We then traveled by car to Phnom Penh, stopping along the way to visit a pottery maker and the market, where we tried some local delicacies (some of us more adventurous than others!). We spent 3 days in Phnom Penh. Our guide there Ms. Sreyhouch led us through the beautiful central market, where you can get anything from fresh food to housewares to jewelry. We also visited the Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields, important to understanding the history of the Khmer people. All-in-all, our trip was amazing (but slightly exhausting) - the hotels were all comfortable and accomodating, and we felt that we were really able to see the local experience (particularly in Battambang). The knowledge and support of our guides and driver deepened our experience, allowing us to focus on the experience rather than worrying about whether we were missing something or how we were going to get to the next place. We would highly recommend Steve and his team!

Hotel Reviews

Palace Gate Hotel & Resort

Phnom Penh

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Maisons Wat Kor

Battambang

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The Aviary Hotel

Siem Reap

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Bamboo train ride

Battambang

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

HAVEN Restaurant

Siem Reap

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Angkor Wat morning visit

Siem Reap

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Traditional dance performance and dinner

Siem Reap

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Angkor Thom (afternoon) by remork (tuk tuk)

Siem Reap

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

My review is related to the value of the trip. It would have been fine if we were on one of those $2500 per person trips. We paid almost $7,000 per person and for that amount it was disappointing. Guides were really poor. Took the minimum time to explain things and then left us in our own. We had to discreetly join other groups to learn more than the basics. Hotels were ok with one terrible exception (Tolip in Aswan was really awful).

As far as I can tell KimKim doesn’t do anything except contract with lessor know agencies in each country. You would be better off working directly with the known agency.

Overall the trip was good. We had some issues with air travel within NZ and the respective taxi booking. What was given in the trip itinerary and the actual airline bookings were completely different. in one case we missed the flight because of this discrepancy and had to pay to for change and in another we had to arrange for our own taxi. We are expecting a refund on both. We had notified Olivia in NZ about the same and I believe the same communication has been shared with Liz in the US. I have not had anyone reach out to me about these issues. Look forward to hearing from you on the same

I have many positive things to say about Kim Kim and some questions about the costs of the trip. Sebastian was very responsive and helped us when we needed it. This was especially true about getting in to our hotel early. It was nice that he was from France and knew Paris. In the beginning he sent several possible trip options. It seemed that the these options were not really what we had in mind. Our primary reason for going to Paris was to see the Mark Rothko show. Sebastian recommended many other types of activities and we were not interested in them. We like to wander around Paris on our own without many tours. I can imagine that this was frustrating for Sebastian. I wonder if somehow that could have been more clearly stated. I had a friend who contacted Kim Kim recently wanting a trip to Paris. She wanted to wander around without many tours and was told by Kim Kim that it wasn't the type of trip Kim Kim planned.
When I inquired about the price break down I was given a vague response, they said they don't give the actual prices. When I look at the cost and what we actually used from Kim Kim its hard for me to reconcile. Kim Kim provided the cost of the hotel, transportation to and from the airport and tickets to 2 events .I am happy to pay for the all that Sebastian did and yet the price seems very high. The cost differential ( to the best of our abilities) was a several thousand dollars higher. If there is a representative from Kim Kim who would like to discuss tis further, please feel free to contact us.

Hotel Review

My Maison in Paris - Louvre

Paris

This place was great. The location was accessible to many things and the staff was helpful. The place was clesan and had all that we needed. Many conveniences are in the neighborhood. Would highly recommend?

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Exhibition at the Louis Vuitton fondation

Paris

This exhibit was amazing. Having a ticket was important. We provided our own transportation both ways.

Quality of Experience

Covered Passageways of Paris

Paris

This tour was long and heavy on the ancient history of Paris.

We had a wonderful time in winter Vienna. Clemens was thoughtful and conscientious in his planning and communication. We particularly loved the concerts and the Kunst museum/Shoenbrunn palace. The wine tasting that Clemens arranged was outstanding. Our guides Christina and Andreas were fantastic. Clemens had all out tickets ready and waiting wherever we arrived. The highlight was our hotel-the Sans Souci was outstanding. The accommodations, staff and cozy hotel bar was the highlight of the trip. The fact that there is a grocery store right next door was a gift!
We were not too fond of the restaurant we went to for the authentic Vienna meal and there was too much time allotted for it (3 hours and we were done in 45 min and there was no explanation as to what anything was..A few tips-you are better off taking ubers around the city instead of the arranged transfers/pick ups. We had to wait a lot, once we dropped off at the wrong place,then dropped 1/4 mile away from the entrance and has to walk in the dark. The concert had just started when we got there and it was very stressful. Also many of the arranged rides had drivers who were smokers and their vehicles reeked of smoke.The Uber would give you flexibility to come and go on your own terms and they were plentiful. Next time we do more museums!

Hotel Review

Hotel Sans Souci Wien

Vienna

This hotel was outstanding! The accommodations, the staff, the housekeeping and Le Bar were actually the highlight of our trip. The coffee service was delicious and the included breakfast was luxurious. We loved the grocery store right next door-very handy and quite the asset. One of the best hotels I have ever stayed in.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Manuel at the bar was fantastic. His champagne tasting was such a treat. He is so knowledgeable. Nicolas at the front desk was a wealth of knowledge.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Don't stay anywhere else!

Activity Reviews

Culinary Highlight tour through Vienna

Vienna

Andreas was outstanding! He was enjoyable to be with and picked a great place for us to have goulash (we had had enough Weiner schnitzel by then).

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Exploring Schönbrunn Palace

Vienna

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Masterpieces & Mysteries: A Tour Through Vienna's Kunsthistorisches Museum

Vienna

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Highlights of Vienna: Walking Tour

Vienna

Christina was fantastic. Warm, friendly, knowledgeable and honest about Austrian History.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Absolutely loved our trip to Costa Rica. The planning was fun. We were able to see so much of the country and do all of the activities that were the right fit for our family.

Hotel Reviews

Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

Tamarindo

Stunning views, amazing food, comfortable rooms and friendly staff. It was the perfect location, right in the center of Tamarindo.

Authenticity & Character

Location

It was right in the center of Tamarindo. Plenty of shopping and dining options. We stayed one night on the beach side, which was a little noisier, and then two nights on the other side of the street. it was very quiet and clean. We heard howler monkeys in the morning which was cool.

Staff

Brenda, our server by the pool was so great. She was very friendly and always seemed to be there when we needed her. Our family joked that our lives would be better if we could just take our girl Brenda home with us..

Cleanliness & Comfort

Very clean and comfortable. My only complaint would be that there aren’t enough chairs around the big pool. There were literally people scoping them out at 6 AM. My husband and I sat on the concrete the first day while the kids swam.

Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco

Monteverde

Out of our three hotels, this was our least favorite. We drove 3 1/2 hours from La Fortuna to Monteverde. We were tired from being in a cramped car. Our room was ready. Luckily when we got there. When we walked in the room was very small, no dresser or anywhere to put anything, and there was no air-conditioning and it was about 85° in the room. We went back to the front desk, but they had nothing else available. I don’t blame the hotel, but this is definitely, something Kim Kim should have told us. Apparently you can upgrade to a room with air-conditioning. At night time there was a breeze and it was cool so we had no trouble sleeping. We felt uncomfortable after complaining about the room. We kind of felt like all of the employees talked to each other about us, because we were ready to leave after realizing there was no air-conditioning.

Authenticity & Character

Felt very authentic. My husband and I loved walking around the garden. I think if my husband and I came here alone, it would have been a different experience. It was charming and quiet and relaxing.

Location

It was only about a mile from town but to walk there you’re on dusty, curvy roads with not much of a side road.

Staff

The bartender in the indoor pool area was very short with my husband. Never really smiled. We noticed at dinner how friendly the staff was with locals, but different with us. Just kind of felt all around uncomfortable. When we first mentioned that we were not happy with no air-conditioning the lady at the front desk looked at us like we were crazy. She told us that it gets cooler at night and we would be fine.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Extremely small room. Enough room for two beds. Nowhere to put our suitcases and no dresser to put our clothes. Bathroom was small as well. We were on top of each other in a hot room. Got cool at night though. I do think there are other bigger rooms available upon request. Not sure how our travel agent would think that four of us would be comfortable in that tiny room with no air.

Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs

Fortuna

This hotel was great! A little hard to find. Tucked away behind another hotel. The room size was good for my husband and I and two teenagers. It was nice and quiet, aside from the birds in the morning:) We slept so well! Each morning, I sat on the patio outside and read my book while watching hummingbirds, and listening to the sounds of nature. Everyone was very friendly. Loved the pool area and the hot springs. The food by the pool was great. We had the nachos. The sushi was also delicious. Would definitely recommend this place to other family’s traveling to Costa Rica. We were very comfortable. The location was really good as well. We were close to La Fortuna, 10 minutes, and close to hanging bridges, which were 10 minutes the other way.

Authenticity & Character

Felt like we were tucked away in nature. Each room felt very private. Lots of greenery.

Location

It was 10 minutes from La Fortuna. There were lots of Hot Springs and surrounding hotels and the hanging bridges park close by.

Staff

Really only interacted with the ladies by the pool that served us drinks and food. Very friendly. It is definitely more relaxed and you wait a little longer for food but we were in paradise so we were fine with that.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The housekeepers made a little puppy out of our towels, which the kids got a kick out of. Rooms were very clean.

Activity Reviews

Snorkeling at the Catalina Islands

Costa Rica

This was a very cool experience. The staff was very friendly. They pointed out wildlife on the way. We saw turtles mating on the way out to Catalina Island. we didn’t have much luck at our first two spots because of low visibility. On our third spot, we saw tons of fish: huge snapper, starfish, puffer fish, angel fish, parrot fish, a white tipped reef shark and other schools of fish. Andreas was so knowledgeable. He pointed out all types of fish and told us a little about them. They served cantaloupe and pineapple and they had packaged crackers and cookies. They also had water and iced tea. We were pretty hungry when we got back at 12.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Andreas was so great! Very friendly and knowledgeable. Easy to talk to.

Transport

Our Italian drivers was fun! He was relaxed and good spirited. Living pura vida:)

Night Walk: Children's Eternal Forest

Monteverde

The kids really enjoyed this night hike. We saw all types of animals: beetle, spiders, frogs, humming bird, pygmy frogs and tarantula! I was cool to hear all of the night sounds. Our guide was very knowledgeable, he studied environmental studies in college.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Adam was AMAZING. We planned this trip on short notice, knowing nothing about Iceland and relied heavily on Adam and his expertise. To say he excelled would be an understatement. Adam gave us a trip that was exactly what we wanted - the highlights of Iceland and some off the beaten path sights. He planned each day with things that we "needed" to do and listed optional items that we could do if time/energy permitted. He gave us info on each sight and a little of his personal experience/thoughts on the sights were appropriate. We travelled with our 3 kids and had a few requests for our housing options - he took what we said to heart and hit the nail on the head booking us exactly what we wanted and had asked for.

I cannot recommend Adam enough. We had a great trip and that was 100% due to Adams ability to listen to what we wanted, to do the research to find what we wanted and to deliver EXACTLY what we wanted!

Hotel Reviews

Apartments Reykjavik

Reykjavik

Maria is an AMAZING hostess. Place was spotless, well stocked and she was super responsive to any questions we had. Highly recommend staying at any of the locations she has!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Right in the heart of the city!

Staff

Seriously, Maria is the best hostess we have ever had!

Cleanliness & Comfort

Had everything we could possibly need as a family of 5

Stracta Apartments Orustustaðir

Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Brand new "apartments" next to a nature reserve. The buildings were almost finished (missing little things like one lamp had a shade, the other one didn't, the towel heater in the bathroom had not been installed yet - plumbing was installed, but not the heater, etc) and there was heavy construction equipment all over the place. Once they are finished building this could be a very nice location if you are looking for an out of the way place to stay. Also said they would provide breakfast but did not.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Blue View Cabin 1A with Hot Tub

Bláskógabyggd

Great cabin with a great view and the hot tub is a nice touch also!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Icelandic Lava Show

Iceland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Northern Lights Hunt

Iceland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Horse riding tour

Iceland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Dog Sledding

Iceland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Crystal Blue ice cave tour

Kirkjubæjarklaustur

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

First off, the trip I thought I was booking and what I got were not the same thing. What I actually got was so much better. It was very easy to get set up with kimkim and the trip that Hien put together for me sounded amazing. My husband and I were excited for all of the tour activities we were going to be doing. But it wasn't until after we arrived in Thailand, had transferred to our hotel, and had gone out for our first day's activities that we realized that First off, the trip I thought I was booking and what I got were not the same thing. What I actually got was so much better. It was very easy to get set up with kimkim and the trip that Hien put together for me sounded amazing. My husband and I were excited for all of the tour activities we were going to be doing. But it wasn't until after we arrived in Thailand, had transferred to our hotel, and had gone out for our first day's activities that we realized that we weren't booked to join group tours each day, we were actually getting private tours and we would have a dedicated tour guide and chauffeur for the entire time we were in Bangkok.
Joey was fantastic as our tour guide. He anticipated our comfort, taught us so much about Bangkok and life in Thailand, and we would not have had the same quality of experience on our trip without him. We were delighted by the food he helped us order and the level of service we received at every turn.
Our time in Chiang Mai was shorter but was also excellent. We did have different guides each day because our scheduled guide was ill but her coworkers took excellent care of us.
To end a great trip our days in Phuket were relaxing and full of time spent in the ocean.
We would absolutely recommend kimkim as a platform, Hien from Realistic Asia as a travel agent, and Joey as a local guide. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to our family and friends and we will use them again ourselves. we weren't booked to join group tours each day, we were actually getting private tours and we would have a dedicated tour guide and chauffeur for the entire time we were in Bangkok.
Joey was fantastic as our tour guide. He anticipated our comfort, taught us so much about Bangkok and life in Thailand, and we would not have had the same quality of experience on our trip without him. We were delighted by the food he helped us order and the level of service we received at every turn.
Our time in Chiang Mai was shorter but was also excellent. We did have different guides each day because our scheduled guide was ill but her coworkers took excellent care of us.
To end a great trip our days in Phuket were relaxing and full of time spent in the ocean.
We would absolutely recommend kimkim as a platform, Hien from Realistic Asia as a travel agent, and Joey as a local guide. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to our family and friends and we will use them again ourselves.

Karim was a wonderful driver and guide - he was very friendly and knowledgeable. It always felt like he was excited to be sharing his country and his culture with us, which made the trip much more enjoyable. He was also very clear that he was always available to help us with anything.

Our driver guide was Karim. He was very knowledgeable and especially about Berber culture. He made the trip so enjoyable with interesting stops along long drives, insight into the lives of the people and the lifestyle and ensuring that the whole trip was completely seamless.

Our trip was incredible! We enjoyed every place we went. Our driver Karim was so kind and we loved spending time with him. He taught us helpful phrases in Arabic and Berber and we felt prepared and safe with him. He is knowledgeable and loves sharing his Berber culture. We highly recommend him and would travel with him again.

Hotel Reviews

Riad Ghita

Fes

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Dar Rihana Dades

Douar Aït Ouffi

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Tiziri Luxury Camp

Merzouga

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Transfer to Marrakech via Roses Valley, Ouarzazate, Aït Benhaddou & Atlas Mountains.

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Half-Day Guided Sightseeing in Fes

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guided Sightseeing in Marrakech

Marrakesh

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Transfer from Fes to Merzouga via Erfoud & Camel Ride

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Scenic walking through Dades valley,

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

A Journey from Merzouga to Boumalne Dades

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Morocco Last Nomads Experience: Tea, Tales & Desert Adventures

Merzouga

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport