Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 16,791 ratings
Read 16,791 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.

Stonehedge
England | Jun 20 - Jun 24, 2025

Sara
Sara S.
Menlo Park, CA | Reviewed on Jul 01, 2025
We have used Kimkim before and loved the experience. However, this trip was deeply disappointing. My husband’s bucket list item was to do a private Inner Circle tour of Stonehenge. When we booked with Aleksandra, we specifically asked to secure this tour as soon as possible because we knew it could fill up. Her response was, “We always have guides for that. It’s no problem.” Well, it was a problem. We were at Stonehenge during the summer solstice, when it’s closed for private tours.... Read more

We have used Kimkim before and loved the experience. However, this trip was deeply disappointing. My husband’s bucket list item was to do a private Inner Circle tour of Stonehenge. When we booked with Aleksandra, we specifically asked to secure this tour as soon as possible because we knew it could fill up. Her response was, “We always have guides for that. It’s no problem.”

Well, it was a problem. We were at Stonehenge during the summer solstice, when it’s closed for private tours. Aleksandra didn’t inform us of this until right before our trip. Had we known this back when we booked three months earlier, we could have adjusted our itinerary — for example, visiting Stonehenge at a different time or going to Spain first.

Summer solstice happens at the same time every year, and Stonehenge’s closure for private tours is a predictable, annual event. If Aleksandra were truly an expert on England, she should have been aware of this and flagged it immediately. Even more frustrating, had she reached out to a guide when we requested it in March, she would have discovered the conflict then, giving us time to adjust our plans.

This was a major letdown on what was meant to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There were many other things she missed the boat on. We went to castle combs for three nights with no car and no grocery store in town. There were only two restaurants in town and one you needed a reservation When we told people we had no car there they couldn’t believe it. Oh, and no taxis. So we were stuck at the same restaurant for three days. Although, lovely town. Go for only one night or just lunch.

Hotel Reviews
Fox Den Cottage
Castle Combe
Authenticity & Character
Location
Castle Combs was beautiful but nothing to do for three nights. Only two restaurants no grocery store
Staff
Neighbor doesn’t seem too happy with renters.no staff to ask questions
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Hoxton, Southwark
London

The one good thing about the trip. Hotel was great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
A Walking Tour of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey
A Walking Tour of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey
London

Guide was good.

Stonehenge and Bath
Stonehenge and Bath
England

We liked our guide but so many problems! For example we booked Bath but Aleksandra said oh sorry it doesn’t make sense to go to Bath. She told us a week before we left. Because of timing, we couldn’t do Bath. This was soooooo frustrating. She messed up so many times.

Quality of Experience
On our private tour, we were standing outside a fence because Kimkim messed up the tour.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was great.
Transport
Local specialist: Aleksandra Shebaltseva

Adventure in the Pantanal
Brazil | Jun 15 - Jun 22, 2025

Dave
Dave W.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 01, 2025
Overall we had a great time. The locations were varied and interesting. The guides and staff were friendly and accommodating, the food was delicious, and we enjoyed the activities and for the see lots of wildlife. It's a trip we'll remember for a long time. 2 areas could use improvement: 1. Managing guests' expectations. Sometimes we weren't informed about things that would have made the experience better, like that we were to spend one night on a houseboat in Porto Jofre. B/c no one told... Read more

Overall we had a great time. The locations were varied and interesting. The guides and staff were friendly and accommodating, the food was delicious, and we enjoyed the activities and for the see lots of wildlife. It's a trip we'll remember for a long time.

2 areas could use improvement: 1. Managing guests' expectations. Sometimes we weren't informed about things that would have made the experience better, like that we were to spend one night on a houseboat in Porto Jofre. B/c no one told us this, including Sara, we didn't pack clothing for the next day, toothbrushes and toothpaste, and medication. Luckily we did ok and the staff helped once they realized the situation. But all we needed was 1 guide to tell us we were going to be spending a night away from the lodge and we would've packed properly. That said, staying overnight in Porto Jofre is a must as you need to be up early to see the animals and it's too far from the lodge.

2. One guide, Yann, needs more guidance in dealing with people. He's knowledgeable in plants and animals and he did a great job helping my partner w/ a bad hip get up and down from a difficult view location and on other trails. But he could've provided more info on what we should expect, how long things take, and difficulty. By not telling us that we could swim at some waterfalls, we neglected to change into bathing suits. On a hike around the lodge, he didn't take opportunities to check in with us to see how we were doing. There was a place about halfway where my partner and another guest with a bad hip could've turned back to the lodge. Instead they ended up continuing too far and struggled to make it back. He also needs to learn to take responsibility for mistakes and apologizing. One night he told 3 of us we'd need to be up the next morning at 4:30 to take a sunrise hike when he meant 5:30. Maybe he got the numbers mixed up in English but 3 of us heard him say 4:30. He refused to acknowledge his error and apologize which made things awkward going forward.
Otherwise great trip.

Hotel Reviews
Reino Encantado Pousada
Nobres - MT

If you're going to Nobres, this is a cool place mostly b/c of easy access to the Saloda River for snorkeling. Also near the lake where macaws go at sunset. Comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and delicious food, plus lots of animals, like burrowing owls, curaçao, and macaws on the grounds.

Authenticity & Character
You'll def know you're in Brazil
Location
Has easy snorkeling and not far from lake w/ macaws
Staff
Friendly and served good food and drinks
Cleanliness & Comfort
UeSo Pantanal Lodge

UeSo is a nice place to stay in the Pantanal w/ comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and delicious food, plus lots of animals, like macaws, capybara, and caiman, on the grounds. There's also a tower you can hike to to get a bird's eye view of the landscape. But be warned, it's quite far from Porto Jofre on a washboard road where you'll spend at least 1 night on a houseboat to see jaguars, otters, and other animals. The houseboat is also comfortable, though beds are small, and also delicious food. Just be prepared for the long journey there and back.

Authenticity & Character
Well decorated, many animals around the grounds
Location
Far from Porto Jofre but that can't be improved
Staff
Most were great, one guide needs improvement
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cantos da Mata
Chapada dos Guimarães

This is essentially a collection of guest rooms run by a woman named Sandra. It's a fairly convenient location near the town and also the scenic locations in the area. Breakfast is included and was well prepared. The rooms were fine for sleeping. The shower was adjacent to the toilet and required squeegeeing to push the water down the drain and away from the toilet. This place is about 1 km down a washboard road from the main highway so be prepared for a bumpy ride to and from

Authenticity & Character
Location
Near the town and also scenic stops
Staff
The woman who prepared breakfast was very nice and did a good job
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Welcome to the Chapada dos Guimarães! First tour
Welcome to the Chapada dos Guimarães! First tour
Chapada dos Guimarães

Chapada dos Guimarães is a small cute town w/ a covered main street w/ restaurants and boutique shops. Outside the town is a scenic plateau where people gather at sunset to gaze down at the valley. There are also trails that lead to waterfalls where you can swim. It's a good intro to this part of Mato Grosso. We enjoyed the variety. It was also our first opportunity for sucos and sorvete.

Quality of Experience
Waterfalls to swim in, nice hikes
Food
Got our first taste of suco, pastel, and sorvete
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Yann was informative but wish he'd share more info ahead of time
Transport
Discovering the Chapada dos Guimarães full day
Discovering the Chapada dos Guimarães full day
Chapada dos Guimarães

A long hike to a beautiful waterfall we could swim in. The plateau at sunset.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Nobres - tours
Welcome to Nobres - tours
Mato Grosso Norte

Snorkeling in a river is different and cool. The current just takes you along. The lake where people go to watch the sunset is really to see dozens of macaws gather

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Wish Yann had told us in advance about macaws, but he was good at positioning binoculars over phone camera lens to take closeup pix
Transport
First day at the Ueso Pantanal Lodge
First day at the Ueso Pantanal Lodge
North Pantanal

It's a bit of a drive from Nobres. We stopped at a pasteleria for lunch. which was good. One of the pastels had caiman, tastes a little like chicken. We arrived at UeSo right before dinner. Nour greeted us w/ Caipirinhas which is a good way to start the experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Pastels are interesting. Food at Ueso is delicious and there's a lot of variety
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day 2 at Ueso Pantanal Lodge
Day 2 at Ueso Pantanal Lodge
North Pantanal

We left Ueso for what we thought was a full day excursion but would return that night. Surprise! We ended up spending the night on the houseboat in Porto Jofre. Seeing jaguars was amazing.

Quality of Experience
Jaguars, wildlife along the road
Food
Food on the houseboat was good
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Wish they'd told us in advance we were overnighting on the houseboat but they were very nice once they figured out we didn't know about it
Transport
Wildlife along the way. It's a long drive.
Last day at Ueso Pantanal Lodge
Last day at Ueso Pantanal Lodge
North Pantanal

Yann led us on a tour around the lodge before we had to depart for the airport. He did say the hike was 2 km but at the halfway point didn't check in to see how we were doing. This would've been a point where those who were tired could turn back toward the lodge. Instead we kept going and it was too much for some. My partner and I went a bit further but ended up leaving the tour and heading back to the lodge on our own. The ride to the airport in Cuiaba was faster than I thought. Thought it would be 3 hrs, Pedro Paolo made it in 2.

Quality of Experience
Checking in w/ guests halfway through the hike
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide could check in w/ guests halfway through the hike
Transport
Got to airport faster than I thought
Jaguar Full-Day Safari – From UeSo Pantanal
Jaguar Full-Day Safari – From UeSo Pantanal
North Pantanal

This was the best day of the tour. More jaguars including one swimming. A family of giant river otters. A capybara w/ birds in its ears. We felt lucky that we got to see all these animals. Followed by a long drive back to Ueso but Nour did his best to make it go fast

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They're good at spotting animals
Transport
day 3 at Ueso Pantanal Lodge
day 3 at Ueso Pantanal Lodge
North Pantanal

I did a hike w/ Nour to the tower while my partner rode a horse. We saw a lot of caiman. In the afternoon we kayaked on the river.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Sara Martinel
Sara
Sara Martinel
Local specialist in Rio de Janeiro | Replied on Jul 03, 2025
Hi Dave,
Thank you so much for your incredibly detailed review – it’s extremely helpful both for us to improve and for future travelers. We really appreciate the time you took to share your feedback.
I’m very sorry to hear that the guide assigned to you at the lodge in the Pantanal wasn’t as empathetic and communicative as they should have been. I want to clarify that the organization of the activities included in the lodge package is managed and arranged directly by the lodge itself. This... Read more

Hi Dave,
Thank you so much for your incredibly detailed review – it’s extremely helpful both for us to improve and for future travelers. We really appreciate the time you took to share your feedback.

I’m very sorry to hear that the guide assigned to you at the lodge in the Pantanal wasn’t as empathetic and communicative as they should have been. I want to clarify that the organization of the activities included in the lodge package is managed and arranged directly by the lodge itself. This means that it is the responsibility of the on-site guide to coordinate and align daily activities with the guests, providing all relevant information such as schedules, logistics, and practical advice once the guest has arrived at the lodge.

As a result, it’s not possible for us, as DMC, to know in advance the detailed and final daily schedule-times, because these activities are discussed, agreed upon, and finalized directly between the guide and the guests. Everything related to the activities, accommodation, and so on is handled directly by the lodge.

I’m also very sorry that we weren’t informed by the lodge that they had decided to add – and essentially took the initiative to include – an overnight stay in the Porto Jofre area during your safari. We had been informed it would be a day trip, and as mentioned, any changes or adjustments are managed by the lodge and should be directly communicated and agreed upon with the guests by the guide. In your case, the guide clearly failed to do so, and we thank you for bringing this to our attention.

As soon as we found out now, we immediately informed the lodge that they failed to notify us – as the organizers and purchasers of the package you used – about this change. This was not what had been previously agreed upon for your stay. All the emails exchanged with the lodge prior to your arrival clearly stated that you would be staying at the lodge in the Poconé area only, taking a day trip to Porto Jofre to spot the jaguar round trip from morning to dawn to evening, full day tour that always works for all our customers as a day tour (it has never happened that customers have to sleep in Porto Jofre, the tour is always scheduled with round trip on the same day)

Once again, we’re very sorry the lodge made this change without informing us and you, and that your guide failed to clearly explain what was happening.

Best regards,
Sara

Our trip was great. We really appreciate Hec...
Spain | Jun 15 - Jun 28, 2025

Jenny
Jenny G.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jul 01, 2025
Our trip was great. We really appreciate Hector's assistance with the planning. All of our guides were great, with Nuno being the BEST on our daytrip to Cascais and Sintra! He was informative, kind and entertaining. Our second favorite guide was Rachel on our Cominito Del Rey tour. For the most part our drivers were also fantastic, with the exception of Julio. We had to wait a little bit for him to pick us up (even though he said he was there) but what was most disappointing was that he... Read more

Our trip was great. We really appreciate Hector's assistance with the planning. All of our guides were great, with Nuno being the BEST on our daytrip to Cascais and Sintra! He was informative, kind and entertaining. Our second favorite guide was Rachel on our Cominito Del Rey tour. For the most part our drivers were also fantastic, with the exception of Julio. We had to wait a little bit for him to pick us up (even though he said he was there) but what was most disappointing was that he clearly was not well. He coughed and sniffled repeatedly and very frequently spat out the window. I'm pretty sure as a result of his apparent symptoms our daughter who was sitting directly behind him fell ill during our trip. In fact, there were sputum tracks on the passenger side window from his spitting.

Hotel Review
BessaHotel Liberdade
Lisboa
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Concierge was super helpful. Breakfast waitstaff were very kind to refill our water bottles each day for our adventures. We love the wonderful fragrance in the hotel lobby.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Flamenco Experience
Flamenco Experience
Spain

We enjoyed the cultural experience but the location could have been better to our hotel.

Algarve Kayaking Trip to Benagil Caves
Algarve Kayaking Trip to Benagil Caves
Spain

Super cool experience. Our kids loved the kayak tour and seeing the caves.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Foodie Experience in Porto
Foodie Experience in Porto
Porto

Our guide was great. We appreciated his pride in his country and culture.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Get to know Porto by E-bike
Get to know Porto by E-bike
Porto

This was a great way to see and experience Porto, especially with active teens.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lisbon Fado Dinner Experience
Lisbon Fado Dinner Experience
Spain

Great production.

Food
Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour
Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour
Spain

This was our least liked experience as it was difficult to take in the sights. It may have been better if both seats faced forward. (we faced each other). Our guide, however, was easy to hear as he had a headset.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Spain

LOVED, LOVED, LOVED Nuno!! As I mentioned before, Nuno was our favorite guide.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Family Friendly Seville City Tour
Family Friendly Seville City Tour
Spain

We had great tour of Seville. Our guide was very knowledgeable and clearly had a passion for history. There were a few discrepancies from the description in our itinerary and the actual tour which was fine but not sure if we actually covered all that was intended.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Málaga Wine & Gourmet Experience
Málaga Wine & Gourmet Experience
Málaga

The tour was ok but not our favorite. I'm not sure I would call this a Wine and Gourmet experience. We had sangria but no wine. Actually, I think it was considered a Tapas tour.

Quality of Experience
It might be nice to be able to choose from menu items ( especially if you have a picky eater, like my son)
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Day Excursion to Caminito del Rey
Day Excursion to Caminito del Rey
Spain

We really enjoyed this excursion. Rachel, our guide was also very good and knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Hector Molina
Hector
Hector Molina
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 01, 2025

Hi Jenny!

Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m truly glad to hear that you had a great trip and that you enjoyed the planning process with my assistance. It’s also wonderful to know that Nuno and Rachel made such a strong impression.

I want to sincerely apologize for the experience you had with Julio. Your concerns are absolutely valid, and I’m very sorry to hear about the discomfort and health issue it may have caused your daughter.

It was a pleasure working with you, and I’d love to assist you again in the future!

All the best,
Héctor

Everything about our trip was exactly what we wanted and more
Wales | Jun 15 - Jun 23, 2025

Pamela
Pamela H.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
Everything about our trip was exactly what we wanted and more. We truly feel like we experienced Wales. Alex did an exceptional job planning the trip. Our driver guide, Riki, was far exceeded our expectations and truly took good care of us. Being 2 senior women from Iowa, we had no idea what to expect. We felt truly safe, secure and well taken care of on our journey. The Welsh people were genuinely friendly and welcoming. The scenery was beautiful and the towns quaint. Read more

Everything about our trip was exactly what we wanted and more. We truly feel like we experienced Wales. Alex did an exceptional job planning the trip. Our driver guide, Riki, was far exceeded our expectations and truly took good care of us. Being 2 senior women from Iowa, we had no idea what to expect. We felt truly safe, secure and well taken care of on our journey. The Welsh people were genuinely friendly and welcoming. The scenery was beautiful and the towns quaint.

Hotel Reviews
The Angel
Abergavenny

Lovely room and accommodations. Delicious food. Very hospital.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to shops and restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Llys Meddyg
Newport

Quaint 60's vibe. Very good food at the restaurant.

Authenticity & Character
Very authentic and rich in history
Staff
Could not locate staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Spiders
Penmaenuchaf Hall Hotel
Dolgellau

Wow! Truly an experience in different way of life. Spectacular in all ways and authentic to its setting.

Authenticity & Character
Definitely updated without removing the character of a manor house
Location
Beautiful gardens and countryside! Not close to town.
Staff
Very friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beautiful and clean!
The Bull Beaumaris
Anglesey

Very retro. rooms. Large and roomy. Wonderful restaurant at the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Retro feeling and fun decor
Location
Castle within walking distance
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Relais Henley
Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

Truly luxurious accommodation. Did not serve an evening meal on a Sunday. Breakfast was great. Beautiful view right along the Thames. Many shops within walking distance.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Beautiful setting
Staff
Very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Thames River Cruise
Thames River Cruise
Wales

Would have liked to see more estates. Did get to watch some rowing races

Cadw Explorer Pass - 7 Days
Cadw Explorer Pass - 7 Days
Wales

Only used it 2 times and would not work on day 7 at the Castle in Anglesey.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Portmeirion Village
Portmeirion Village
Wales

Very unique experience.

Conwy Castle
Conwy Castle
Ireland

Amazing medieval town with all the walls enclosing the city and the castle.

Local specialist: Alex Rawson
Alex
Alex Rawson
Local specialist in Wales | Replied on Jul 01, 2025

Thank you so much for your lovely review, Pamela! We’re absolutely delighted to hear that your trip to Wales exceeded expectations and gave you such a genuine sense of the country. We are so pleased to know the itinerary was spot on, and Riki clearly went above and beyond: he’s a true pro, and we’re glad you felt so well looked after.

It’s wonderful that the warmth of the Welsh people, the beautiful landscapes, and the charm of the towns all left such a lasting impression. Let us know when you’re ready to plan your next adventure and we’ll be delighted to help!

Our Edinburgh city tour was excellent. Our g...
Scotland | May 20 - May 31, 2025

William
William A.
Canada | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
Our Edinburgh city tour was excellent. Our guide was a passionate history student at the local university and was exceptionally knowledgeable. In contrast, our city tour of Inverness was not so great. Our guide was a local volunteer and community activist but looking back, I am not sure the tour helped us at all. Timing was poor as the market was closed when our guide took us there. Read more

Our Edinburgh city tour was excellent. Our guide was a passionate history student at the local university and was exceptionally knowledgeable.

In contrast, our city tour of Inverness was not so great. Our guide was a local volunteer and community activist but looking back, I am not sure the tour helped us at all. Timing was poor as the market was closed when our guide took us there.

Hotel Reviews
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Edinburgh
Authenticity & Character
Old building, well maintained and renovated.
Location
Walking distance to everything!
Staff
Helpful, available and friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bunchrew House Hotel
IV3 8TA

Looks great, seems understaffed. Dusty, old, needs a deep cleaning, maybe replace some carpets. My sense was that they think they are better than they are, staff are pretentious. The menu is very different, only ate there once but wouldn’t recommend the dining room.

Authenticity & Character
Old, history. Felt like a castle.
Location
Need a taxi or car. No Uber in the north regions.
Staff
All were fine, when you could find someone. No one at the front desk.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Marcliffe Hotel & Spa
Pitfodels Aberdeen

Staff excellent. Parking is a problem with construction and loss of land to an adjacent development.

Authenticity & Character
Golf theme and many famous golfers have stayed here.
Location
Remote from downtown.
Staff
The bellman was a character, joking, making us smile and a true loyal employee.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cameron house

One of the best hotels we have ever experienced.

Authenticity & Character
The addition to the original building was done exceptionally well.
Location
Excellent! Right on the lake!
Staff
Lots of them, knowledgeable and friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cannot get any better!
Hotel du Vin & Bistro Edinburgh
Edinburgh

Awkward location, no valet, nowhere to park.

Authenticity & Character
Maintained the character of an old building.
Location
Central location.
Staff
Not many staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Edinburgh Old Town Tour
Edinburgh Old Town Tour
Edinburgh

Our guide was passionate, knowledgeable and a pleasure to be with.

Quality of Experience
Learned so much history.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
We met at the hotel entrance.
Guided Exploration of Haddo House
Guided Exploration of Haddo House
Aberdeen

This location is off the beaten path but an important part of our trip because of family connections. We were pleased to see a photo of our great grandfather in the wall of the cafe!

Explore Glen Affric, Culloden, and Clava Cairns Tour
Explore Glen Affric, Culloden, and Clava Cairns Tour
Inverness

Very interesting.

Quality of Experience
History
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Microphone did not work.
Private Inverness Walking Tour
Private Inverness Walking Tour
Scotland

We could have done this walkabout on our own.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Kateryna Garkavenko

2nd trip with KimKim, we will be back for round 3!
Japan | Jun 21 - Jun 28, 2025

Luke
Luke B.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
Everything very helpful and always very responsive. This was our second time using KimKim (first time Iceland, this time Japan) and we will definitely do so again. We were a little spoiled with amazing deeply customized support for Iceland, but our Japan support was still excellent - highly recommend! Read more

Everything very helpful and always very responsive. This was our second time using KimKim (first time Iceland, this time Japan) and we will definitely do so again. We were a little spoiled with amazing deeply customized support for Iceland, but our Japan support was still excellent - highly recommend!

Hotel Reviews
The Blossom Kyoto
Kyoto

Perfect for families

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Laforet Club Hakone Gora Yunosumika
Hakone

Great layout in family suite. The private in-suite onsen was fantastic for our small family!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Olivia Luang
Olivia
Olivia Luang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jul 03, 2025

Hi Luke,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt feedback. We're truly grateful for the opportunity to help you create such a memorable journey. I hope your third trip on kimkim will be just as amazing!
And if you—or your friends and family—ever come back to Japan in the future, don’t forget, I’ll always be here for you!

Stupendous Thailand Trip
Thailand | Jun 19 - Jun 29, 2025

Rober
Rober V.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
I chose Kimkim randomly when I decided to travel to Thailand and could not be more pleased. Bella helped me plan a trip based on my interests which included pickup from my arrival through ten days of robust activities and to my departure. My driver Chin was fabulous from the first pickup. My guide Leena met me at the hotel where we embarked on a public transportation tour of Bangkok. It was a wonder way to get the local pulse. Two sky trains an express boat all added to my wonder.... Read more

I chose Kimkim randomly when I decided to travel to Thailand and could not be more pleased.

Bella helped me plan a trip based on my interests which included pickup from my arrival through ten days of robust activities and to my departure.

My driver Chin was fabulous from the first pickup. My guide Leena met me at the hotel where we embarked on a public transportation tour of Bangkok. It was a wonder way to get the local pulse. Two sky trains an express boat all added to my wonder. Her knowledge of the history and culture was impressive. I experienced Wat Arun and learned about its design and how broken teacups from China were used in the design. We visited the Emerald Buddha, The Reclining Buddha, and the Main Palace. All with rich detail from Leena. Explored Chinatown had a meal and took the subway back to my hotel.
The next day She and Chin took me to the Railroad and Floating Market pointing out the sea salt fields along the way. She even helped me resolve an exchange problem.
Chin brought be to the airport to Chaing Mai where I met Lilly my guide and Text the driver. Lily showed me the city and temples much different than Bangkok and stayed with me throughout my engrossing Elephant experience and lunch. Lilly also traveled with me to the airport to be sure all went well

The next elements of my trip were equally well coordinated. From Chiang Mai I was met by a driver in Samui who took me my boat to Koh Tao and helped me check in. I was met in Koh Tao by a driver who brought me to an extraordinary Beach resort hotel My beautiful room was 75 feet from the shore.
There I was picked up for an outstanding snorkeling trip with a side mountain hike. Tons of fish and giant sea turtles

At my next trip was well coordinated with drivers taking me to boat and airport where I was met in Phuket by my guide Ben with driver She gave a wonderful tour of Phuket. Viewing from high above the area and exploring Chinatown and old Portuguese building. My trip culminated with a visually stunning and exhilarating speed boat tour of the iconic James Bond islands and boat ride into a cave and a canoeing adventure under and through huge monolithic rocks rising from the sea.
Once again picked at airport and Chin in Bangkok who brought me to my departure flight.

This the adventure of a lifetime artistically organized and executed by Bella who I hold in great esteem.

If you thinking of travel to Thailand or elsewhere in Asia , save your money and call Bella at Kimkim.

Hotel Reviews
Koh Tao Beach Club Resort
Surat Thani

I was blown away by my room close to the beach and well appointed

Authenticity & Character
Charming l
Location
75 feet from the shore Close to the port I watched the sunset from my bed.
Staff
The massage therapist was outstanding.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Perfect
De Charme Hotel
Amphoe Muang, Si Phum, Chiang Mai

Great staff beautiful hotel

Authenticity & Character
It felt right
Location
Close to walking street market and temples
Staff
Helpful Friendly Efficient
Cleanliness & Comfort
Well maintained
Layalina Hotel
Phuket

A hidden gem Set off the Main Street the hotel opened into a wonderland. Small hotel. Huge room with everything zi could ask for

Authenticity & Character
Charming delightful comfortable
Location
Right on the beach with breakfast served on room terrace
Staff
Could not be more attentive and personable
Cleanliness & Comfort
Attention to detail wonderful facility and room a gem
Activity Reviews
A visit to Mae Klong Railway market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market!
A visit to Mae Klong Railway market and Damnoen Saduak Floating Market!
Bangkok

The markets were a feature. My guide Leena made it even more special

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Knowledge attentiveness and personal toucj
Transport
Bangkok city tour with a food tasting at Chinatown!
Bangkok city tour with a food tasting at Chinatown!
Bangkok

Couldn’t ask for more. My guide made the experience more wonderful than the sites themselves. She made me feel special. The choice to travel either mass transit brought me close to the culture

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Chin was fantastic
Welcome to Chiang Mai!
Welcome to Chiang Mai!
Chiang Mai

My guide Lilly gave me a personalized tour of the city and temples and provided great insight into how to spend my free time. Adapted tour to meet my interests

Quality of Experience
Ancient temples
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Comfortable timely efficient
Eco-Elephant Care Full Day
Eco-Elephant Care Full Day
Chiang Mai

More than I had hoped for. The facility guide was amazing I learned much about elephants and interacting with them. Beyond expectations

Quality of Experience
Learning about and feeding the elephants with various food type. Feeding them helped to connect when interacting in the wild and water
Food
The lunch buffet rivaled restaurants amazing Tom Yum soup
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lilly made sure I had everything I needed. I enjoyed her company and attentiveness
Transport
Always there great drive
Snorkeling Trip!
Snorkeling Trip!
Koh Tao

Multiple sights amazing fish and turtles a side trip up a mountain safe friendly wonderful

Quality of Experience
Food
Excellent buffet
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The crew was remarkable
Transport
Short ride to hotel
Phuket Half-Day City Tour
Phuket Half-Day City Tour
Phuket

My guide Ben gave me a personalized tour of the city based on information she drew from me. Tiger Kingdom was perfect

Quality of Experience
Tiger kingdom. Ben’s caring detailed manner
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Phang Nga bay or James Bond island by speed boat
Phang Nga bay or James Bond island by speed boat
Thailand

The lead guy Bobbi made the amazing sights more remarkable. Always ready with a helpful funny answer.

Quality of Experience
Great island tour cave exploring canoeing and buffet on the Muslim Island
Food
Hardy full Thai buffets
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Organized intelligent entertaining and safety conscious
Transport
Smooth ride comfortable van
Local specialist: Bella Saung
Bella
Bella Saung
Local specialist in Thailand | Replied on Jul 01, 2025
Dear Mr. Robert,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review. It was truly a pleasure to plan this journey with you, and I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed every moment of your Thailand adventure—from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Koh Tao, and Phuket.
I’m especially glad to know that Leena, Lilly, Ben, Chin, and the rest of our team helped make your experience both meaningful and seamless. Your kind words mean a great deal to me and the entire CK41 Tours team. Wishing you many... Read more

Dear Mr. Robert,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed review. It was truly a pleasure to plan this journey with you, and I’m delighted to hear that you enjoyed every moment of your Thailand adventure—from Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Koh Tao, and Phuket.

I’m especially glad to know that Leena, Lilly, Ben, Chin, and the rest of our team helped make your experience both meaningful and seamless. Your kind words mean a great deal to me and the entire CK41 Tours team. Wishing you many more inspiring travels ahead. I’ll be here anytime you’re ready for your next adventure in Asia—perhaps Vietnam or Cambodia!
Best regards
Bella

Amazing Trip
Morocco | Jun 8 - Jun 15, 2025

Diane
Diane A.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
Every aspect of the trip was carefully and beautifully curated. This was the first time that we took a trip organized by an agency.
Maryem was very responsive from the beginning of the planning and organized an amazing trip for our family of five. She planned an unforgettable trip beginning and ending in Marrakesh, with a 4 Day Loop across the Atlas mountains through Dades Valley into the desert. Every Riad and Kasbah we stayed at were great. The camel ride at sunset to the luxury camp...
Read more

Every aspect of the trip was carefully and beautifully curated. This was the first time that we took a trip organized by an agency.
Maryem was very responsive from the beginning of the planning and organized an amazing trip for our family of five. She planned an unforgettable trip beginning and ending in Marrakesh, with a 4 Day Loop across the Atlas mountains through Dades Valley into the desert. Every Riad and Kasbah we stayed at were great. The camel ride at sunset to the luxury camp under the stars was a highlight not only of this trip but of any trip we’ve taken.
Aside from the planning, the most valuable aspect of the trip was our driver and guide, Omar. He not only drove us safely from place to place and provided historical and cultural information on Morocco and the places we visited, but he exemplified the hospitality, sincerity and friendliness of the Moroccan people. He connected us with local guides in the specific places we visited, who were also great. We particularly enjoyed walking through some of the small villages and appreciating the local people, local food, local culture, music and economy.
During the trip, we were able to communicate with Maryem to tweak our itinerary, which we left flexible (purposefully) for the final day and a half. We spent a 1/2 day with Omar, appreciating the Jardin Majorelle, Berber Museum and Yves Saint Laurent museum.
Overall, it was an unforgettable eight days in Morocco and we are looking forward to returning again with the same agencies (Morocco Imersion) and Kim Kim.

Hotel Reviews
Riad al Rimal
Marrakech

Wonderful Riad. Well appointed rooms. Our three older kids stayed in one room and my husband and I stayed in another. Breakfast was amazing. The employees were very friendly and professional. The location was very well situated within the Medina.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kasbah Tiziri
Kelaat Mgouna

Michelle runs an incredible Kasbah in the mountains. Rooms were very comfortable, the layout of the property was authentic and allowed for room enjoy the property from various perspectives. A wonderful place to go after a busy day touring. We only wish we could’ve stayed longer.

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

Everything about this particular stay was so memorable from start to finish from the camel ride across the Sahara into the camp at sunset, to sand boarding down the dunes, followed by dinner and drumming.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dar Chamaa
Ouarzazate

We were very pleased with our stay here. It was a more western style hotel. Very nice pool and dining set up near the pool was also lovely. Staff were very professional and friendly.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided Tour of Marrakech
Guided Tour of Marrakech
Marrakesh
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Marrakech to Dades Valley via Ouarzazate
Marrakech to Dades Valley via Ouarzazate
Morocco

We toured Atlas Studios, and our local guide there, Mohammed, made a couple of movie trailers starring our family! We had such a blast there. We could appreciate many of the sets from gladiator one at gladiator two at this studio. I got to be Cleopatra in a movie trailer.

Quality of Experience
The Atlas studio tour was so unique and fun, highly recommend.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our tour guide at Atlas Studios, Mohammed, was super knowledgeable and made a couple of fun movie trailers for our family as souvenirs.
Transport
Merzouga to Ouarzazate via Draa Valley
Merzouga to Ouarzazate via Draa Valley
Morocco

Return trip to Marrakesh via Atlas mountains. New landscape to enjoy.

Dades Valley to Merzouga Camel Trek via Todgha Gorge & Tinghir
Dades Valley to Merzouga Camel Trek via Todgha Gorge & Tinghir
Morocco

Spectacular landscape. Riding the camels at sunset into the luxury stars camp, and the entire stay at the camp was the highlight of the trip if there had to be one highlight. This is a do not miss experience.

Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Ait Ben Haddou
Ouarzazate to Marrakech via Ait Ben Haddou
Morocco

Unique environment and you will recognize it from the movie, Gladiator. Our driver/guide, Omar, brought us to meet an elderly lady who lives in the settlement. She gave us a tour of her home, complete with courtyard full of goats and sheep. It gave us a glimpse into the life of a local woman who makes this famous old city her home.

Local specialist: Maryem Kouna

Best trip planner ever!
Croatia | Jun 2 - Jun 20, 2025

Amanda
Amanda C.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
Antonia was the absolute best! She was overly helpful and attentive both before our trip began and during the entire trip. I even texted her at midnight one night and she responded back within five minutes. She took our suggestions to heart and she implemented a wonderful and individual itinerary for our family. I would definitely work with Antonia and Kim Kim again! Read more

Antonia was the absolute best! She was overly helpful and attentive both before our trip began and during the entire trip. I even texted her at midnight one night and she responded back within five minutes. She took our suggestions to heart and she implemented a wonderful and individual itinerary for our family. I would definitely work with Antonia and Kim Kim again!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Sanje ob Soči
Bovec

This hotel is wonderful. We were able to stay in the 3 bedroom plus the upstairs room and we absolutely loved this as we had room to spread out. There is a washer/dryer in this room as well which was so convenient.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Penzion Berc
Bled

We are a family of five who stayed here the beginning of June, 2025. It was absolutely wonderful. The e-bikes were a great addition as well and were free of charge! You will not be disappointed in your stay here.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy access to lake bled and the town around. Plus use of e-bikes for free.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Angelo d'Oro Holiday Home Silva
Rovinj

This hotel is right in the middle of old town. It was charming and very easy to get around in. We loved this place.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Villa Malo More
Dubrovnik

This hotel was beautiful. The pools were amazing and the workout room was great. The breakfast was also amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
16 Lakes Hotel
Rakovica

We had two rooms here and it was great. The rooms were very large and welcoming. The restaurant was a great addition to, as well as the workout room and pool. We would definitely stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia
Split

We absolutely loved the charm of this hotel. We had connecting rooms so that was definitely an added bonus. The restaurant and breakfast were lovely. We will definitely stay here again.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Villa Porta Maestra Hvar
Hvar

This place was GORGEOUS. Stephani was absolutely amazing and made sure were were well taken care of. Our room was amazing and we will definitely seek this hotel out again because Hvar was one of our favorite places.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel A'mare
Zadar

The hotel is a great stop. Hotel was well kept and the restaurant was great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
art'otel Zagreb
Zagreb

Beautiful hotel in the middle of Zagreb.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Tandem Paragliding over the Soča Valley
Tandem Paragliding over the Soča Valley
Bovec

10/10 recommend! These guides were professional and I felt extremely safe with them. They are calming and reassuring and fun too! Overall, if you want to paraglide, pick this company!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Walking Tour of Dubrovnik
Private Walking Tour of Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik

This was a fun trip through Dubrovnik! The guide was able to tell us a lot about her home town.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Presentation of Traditional Silk Production in the Konavle Region
Presentation of Traditional Silk Production in the Konavle Region
Croatia

This was so much fun. Wish we had more time here to see the whole presentation! Definitely felt the guide was knowledgeable and loved this tradition.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sea Kayak Tour - Pakleni Islands
Sea Kayak Tour - Pakleni Islands
Croatia

Loved this activity. Our guide was nothing short of professional and he was so easy to talk with. We had an excellent time on this trip!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day Trip to Mostar & Blagaj
Day Trip to Mostar & Blagaj
Split

This was a great trip. We had a lovely time in Mostar. Blagaj was extremely busy.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rafting Experience on Soča River
Rafting Experience on Soča River
Croatia

This was hands down one of our favorite rafting trips we have done. Guides were super fun and knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Walking Tour of Split
Private Walking Tour of Split
Croatia

Our guide was so knowledgeable about Split. She definitely made the tour great! We learned so much about the history of Split. It was also fun seeing some of the movie sets from game of thrones show.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Walking Tour of Ljubljana
Private Walking Tour of Ljubljana
Croatia

We loved this tour. Our guide was amazing. Wish we could have stayed longer.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hot Air Balloon Flight Over the Bled Lake
Hot Air Balloon Flight Over the Bled Lake
Croatia

Once in a lifetime! Guide was amazing and very knowledgeable about piloting. The views were amazing and breathtaking.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pottery class at family estate
Pottery class at family estate
Plitvice Lakes

Make this a part of every itinerary! This family was amazing and we felt so comfortable and at home here. The pottery class was so much fun and the meal that was prepared was the best meal we had all trip!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bike Adventure in Brijuni National Park & Visit to Fažana
Bike Adventure in Brijuni National Park & Visit to Fažana
Croatia

We had a great time on this bike tour. It was calming and beautiful and our guide was so knowledgeable about the park.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Guided Hike of Plitvice Lakes National Park - (Lower & Upper Lakes)
Private Guided Hike of Plitvice Lakes National Park - (Lower & Upper Lakes)
Croatia

Our guide was amazing and professional. He was very knowledgeable about the national park and the animals/plants too.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Full Day Boat Tour to Blue Cave & Pakleni Islands
Private Full Day Boat Tour to Blue Cave & Pakleni Islands
Croatia

We had a great time on this trip. It was a lot of stops to see and time to swim. We also ate at a great restaurant too.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Antonia Šutić Ljuština

Amazing experience in Italy!
Italy | Jun 18 - Jun 29, 2025

Mary
Mary N.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
We had the most amazing trip to Italy! Sonia was such a gift in the planning process. She tailored the trip to our preferences and we felt like we experienced so much of the wonderful Italian culture and sites in 12 days! Sonia was very responsive and set us up with amazing tour guides (Samantha at the Vatican, Ricardo on the golf cart tour and Gabriel in Tuscany) who brought the regions to life for us. Whenever we had questions, before or during the trip, Sonia and her team were quick to... Read more

We had the most amazing trip to Italy! Sonia was such a gift in the planning process. She tailored the trip to our preferences and we felt like we experienced so much of the wonderful Italian culture and sites in 12 days!

Sonia was very responsive and set us up with amazing tour guides (Samantha at the Vatican, Ricardo on the golf cart tour and Gabriel in Tuscany) who brought the regions to life for us. Whenever we had questions, before or during the trip, Sonia and her team were quick to respond and problem-solve. We plan to use Kim Kim again in the future for our travel plans!

Hotel Review
Hotel Corallo
Sorrento

The views at this hotel were absolutely breathtaking! The staff was so warm and hospitable! They went out of their way to ensure we had a great experience. The lobby, rooms and breakfast were all wonderful and we hope to visit again if we are ever in Sorrento in the future!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Sonia Vanzin
Sonia
Sonia Vanzin
Local specialist in Venice | Replied on Jul 01, 2025

Thank you so much! I’m so happy to hear you had an amazing time in Italy. It was a pleasure helping you plan your trip, and I’m thrilled you enjoyed the guides and experiences. Can’t wait to help you with your next adventure to Italy, which is always waiting!

Aleksandra was amazing in guiding us with our...
England | Jun 17 - Jun 27, 2025

Bruce
Bruce W.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
Aleksandra was amazing in guiding us with our first trip overseas to London, Paris, and Normandy. She was able to develop an awesome itinerary based on our desired sightseeing requests as well as offer additional points of interest to consider and she coordinated and purchased tickets for the tours, hotel accommodations, drivers, and other modes of transportation. All we had to do was book our flights. The trip could not have gone any smoother with little to no issues during the ten day... Read more

Aleksandra was amazing in guiding us with our first trip overseas to London, Paris, and Normandy. She was able to develop an awesome itinerary based on our desired sightseeing requests as well as offer additional points of interest to consider and she coordinated and purchased tickets for the tours, hotel accommodations, drivers, and other modes of transportation. All we had to do was book our flights.

The trip could not have gone any smoother with little to no issues during the ten day trip. She also checked in with us to make sure things were going well. You could not go wrong with Aleksandra!

Hotel Reviews
Blakemore Hyde Park Hotel
London
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Plaza Elysées
Paris
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Chambres d'hôtes du Bas Manoir

A great countryside bed and breakfast outside of Caen for our stay in Normandy. The owners were quite friendly and delightful. The residence was built in the 16th century and was bombed on D-day, which made it that much more special to us.

Authenticity & Character
A 16th century residence and bombed on D-day, how authentic can you get!!
Location
Staff
Very friendly older couple.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hôtel A La Villa des Artistes
Paris

Right in the heart of Paris! What more could you want!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Palace of Versailles Day Trip With Driver Guide
Palace of Versailles Day Trip With Driver Guide
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Thames Cruise with Dinner
Thames Cruise with Dinner
London

Relaxing evening on the Thames with great food and sights from the river.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus
Hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus
London

Great place to start your stay by getting your bearings and layout of the city.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Churchill War Rooms & WW2 Westminster Private Tour
Churchill War Rooms & WW2 Westminster Private Tour
London

One of my favorite tours as a World War II buff. Plenty of history and gives you and understanding what went on in the bunkers!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
City & University Tour – Oxford Walking Tours
City & University Tour – Oxford Walking Tours
England
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Aleksandra Shebaltseva

An Exceptional England Adventure - Thanks to Kateryna!
England | Jun 5 - Jun 13, 2025

Julie
Julie H.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
I'm thrilled to share our incredible 9-day family trip to England, which exceeded our expectations in every way. I would rate our overall experience a 9/10, and I cannot recommend both England as a destination AND our amazing travel agent Kateryna highly enough! What made this trip truly special was having everything seamlessly handled for us. Kateryna arranged all our accommodations, transportation (including private drivers and train tickets), and event tickets. The peace of mind that... Read more

I'm thrilled to share our incredible 9-day family trip to England, which exceeded our expectations in every way. I would rate our overall experience a 9/10, and I cannot recommend both England as a destination AND our amazing travel agent Kateryna highly enough!

What made this trip truly special was having everything seamlessly handled for us. Kateryna arranged all our accommodations, transportation (including private drivers and train tickets), and event tickets. The peace of mind that came with having every detail professionally managed allowed us to simply enjoy our vacation. Her expertise really showed in the quality of experiences she curated for us. And any time we had a question while on the trip, she was extremely quick to respond.

We explored London, York, Oxford, and the charming Cotswolds villages. Our itinerary was perfectly balanced, including iconic sites like Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, cultural experiences at the British Museum and Harry Potter Studio, and unique adventures like our Secret Food Tour in Soho.

The private drivers and guides were a game-changer - traveling on our own timetable with just our family was luxurious and efficient. The trains ran smoothly with easy-to-navigate stations. Special shout-out to Eddie from Good Vibes Tours, who made our day absolutely memorable!

The Grand in York was phenomenal - spacious rooms, perfect location, and their afternoon tea was the epitome of a proper English experience. The Academy in London had great atmosphere in its Georgian townhomes setting, though some service issues arose. The Malmaison in Oxford served its purpose with a good location.

Early June was ideal - beautiful weather with minimal rain, and manageable crowds since schools weren't out yet. The food scene was excellent, especially our food tour with Tom King and that unforgettable afternoon tea at The Grand.

Bottom line - Kateryna created a trip that perfectly balanced must-see attractions with unique experiences, all while handling every logistical detail. For anyone considering England, I highly recommend both the destination and Kateryna's professional services. She made our family vacation absolutely magical!

Hotel Reviews
The Academy London

The location of the hotel was great -- close to tube stations and great restaurants. Our room was large; however, the bathroom was small. My biggest complaints resolved around service. Our room safe wasn't working when we arrived. I reported it multiple times and was assured that maintenance would look at it. Even though we were there four nights, it was never fixed. I requested extra blankets twice -- they never arrived. I also requested a room that didn't face the street and was assured the room didn't. However, when we checked in, it did.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Grand, York
North Yorkshire

The Grand was amazing. The hotel itself is beautiful. The location was fantastic - close to the train station but also close to local attractions. Our room was extremely large and well appointed. The bathroom was amazing. And the food was great. We ate in the bar as well as having afternoon tea in the restaurant. Both were delicious. And the afternoon tea was everything a proper English tea should be.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Malmaison Oxford
Oxford

The location of the hotel was fantastic. Close to the train station while also being close to the local attractions. It's a renovated prison which gave it an interesting character. My biggest complaints were that the rooms were very small, only one elevator worked, and the restaurant was overpriced.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The hotel was clean. It was the size of the rooms that made it not very comfortable.
Activity Reviews
Discover London in a Private Black Cab
Discover London in a Private Black Cab
London

Our black cab tour was awesome. Our driver was so friendly and knowledgeable. Despite having a grumpy teenage girl with us, he was excellent at making her laugh and enjoy the experience. We really enjoyed the tour and learned a lot!

Tower of London Beefeater Welcome & Crown Jewels
Tower of London Beefeater Welcome & Crown Jewels
London

The Tower of London was pretty much everything I expected. It was an enjoyable experience and full of history.

Thames Cruise with Dinner
Thames Cruise with Dinner
London

The Thames Cruise with Dinner was really enjoyable. The food exceeded my expectations, which were initially low due to it being a cruise. My only subtle complaint, unrelated to the tour itself, is that it was summer, so it didn't get dark until towards the end of the cruise, but the skyline was gorgeous once it did.

Stonehenge & Jurassic Coast Private Tour
Stonehenge & Jurassic Coast Private Tour
London

Our driver, Eddie, suggested a substitute tour for the planned Stonehenge & Jurassic Coast tour due to weather, and it ended up being awesome! We visited a couple of castles, Canterbury Cathedral, the White Cliffs of Dover, and an old pub from 1610. It was a day full of surprises and great experiences.

The Royal London Tour: Changing of the Guard and More
The Royal London Tour: Changing of the Guard and More
London

The Changing of the Guard tour was fun, although our tour guide wasn't as engaging with kids compared to others we had on the trip. She mostly talked to me and my husband, which was fine, but it could have been better tailored for my daughter.

British Museum, self-guided tour
British Museum, self-guided tour
London

The British Museum was good and offered a large collection of exhibits. We enjoyed our self-guided tour there.

London Secret Food Tour
London Secret Food Tour
London

The London Secret Food Tour with Tom was so much fun! He engaged with different couples throughout the evening, making it personal and enjoyable for everyone. We had a great time tasting various foods in a small group setting.

Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey
London

Westminster Abbey was wonderful, although I preferred York Minster as it was so much less crowded. Regardless, the history and architecture were stunning.

Amazing Tour of Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio with Private Transfer
Amazing Tour of Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio with Private Transfer
London

The Harry Potter Warner Bros Studio tour was fantastic, definitely a highlight of the trip for my daughter. Our driver was flexible and even got us there early, allowing extra time to enjoy all the magical details.

Iconic Oxford  Private Walking Tour
Iconic Oxford Private Walking Tour
Oxford

The Iconic Oxford Private Walking Tour was a great experience, led by a charming Oxford student. Unfortunately, it did fall during their school finals though so we weren't able to view all of the rooms of the Bodleian Library which I had been looking forward to.

Cotswolds Tour, Oxford to Bath
Cotswolds Tour, Oxford to Bath
Oxford

The Cotswolds Tour from Oxford to Bath was a wonderful experience, greatly enhanced by Christopher, our driver who engaged well with my daughter.

Local specialist: Kateryna Garkavenko

all of our guides were great - very knowledge...
Turkey | Jun 1 - Jun 12, 2025

L
Lynda G.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
all of our guides were great - very knowledgeable and on time and respectful and the transportation arranged was ideal! Read more

all of our guides were great - very knowledgeable and on time and respectful and the transportation arranged was ideal!

Hotel Reviews
Pera Palace
Istanbul

great location history and a very accommodating and friendly staff

Authenticity & Character
the breakfast included was excellent - very authentic and over the top in selections and quality of food
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
the rooms were great and the common areas lovely in every way.
Hotel Taskonaklar Cappadocia
Nevsehir

great location - great views and super fun to be in this cave hotel

Activity Reviews
Cappadocia E-Bike Tour - Full Day
Cappadocia E-Bike Tour - Full Day
Cappadocia

Guides were great - bikes were great- super fun day!

Wine Pairing Dinner at Revithia Cappadocia
Wine Pairing Dinner at Revithia Cappadocia
Cappadocia

this restaurant had a great view and the staff was super friendly but the food didn't feel super authentic and was a bit fussy. that said, the plates, bowls and the serve ware was very artsy and amazing!

Local specialist: Berat Ornek
Berat
Berat Ornek
Local specialist in Turkey | Replied on Jul 01, 2025

Dear Lynda,
Many thanks for your review, we appreciate it! So glad to hear you had a great time in Turkey with us. We look forward to hosting you in the future for a second round!
Best,
Berat

La Dolce Vita!
Italy | Jun 19 - Jun 29, 2025

Diana
Diana K.
Bayonne, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
We had a fantastic 10 day family adventure to Southern Italy! Bea matched our request for experiential travel, great food and learning opportunities for our school-age kiddos, giving us a great blend of seaside, countryside and labyrinth cities. We particularly loved the food tour with Luca in Sorrento, the views and lemons treats on our hike with Lisa, and the kindess extended by Claudio and chefs as we made some delicious meals and desserts. Highlights for the adults included the great... Read more

We had a fantastic 10 day family adventure to Southern Italy! Bea matched our request for experiential travel, great food and learning opportunities for our school-age kiddos, giving us a great blend of seaside, countryside and labyrinth cities. We particularly loved the food tour with Luca in Sorrento, the views and lemons treats on our hike with Lisa, and the kindess extended by Claudio and chefs as we made some delicious meals and desserts. Highlights for the adults included the great restaurant recommendations, the kids loves Pompeii, and we all enjoyed a day on the boat to enjoy the Amalfi Coast. It truly was a magical, pasta-filled vacation.

Hotel Reviews
Magi House Relais
Sorrento

Fantastic location in the historic center and near the park overlooking the bay, kind and helpful staff. Room was a bit cramped/lacking privacy with 2 kids. Great spot to explore and get lost in the streets - and the room was quiet in spite of the action outside.

Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were hard for us; set up was cramped for a family of 4.
Quarry Resort
Matera

Clean, spacious, unique. Wonderful views from the terrace--also a delicious restaurant!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Masseria Cappuccini
Ostuni

Peaceful and intimate boutique. Great for lounging by the pool. Great location from which to explore the Itria valley and visit the beach.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
E-Bike Tour, Olive Oil Tasting & Picnic Experience: Dune Costiere Natural Park
E-Bike Tour, Olive Oil Tasting & Picnic Experience: Dune Costiere Natural Park
Italy

Great ride for a family - smooth roads, easy pace, with multiple stops to learn about the history and olive groves we rode through.

Sorrento Historic Tour & Food Stroll
Sorrento Historic Tour & Food Stroll
Italy

Come hungry! Our guide was charming, fun to speak with and learn from. So happy we booked this around dinner - a beautiful time to explore the city and seaside restaurants on an otherwise hot day. Very accommodating for our crew's mixed dietary needs (allergies, some vegetarian).

Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha

Amazing service and experience
Japan | Jun 12 - Jun 22, 2025

Mike
Mike O.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
I’m now back in the UK following an amazing month with my high school best buddy Phil, who I’ve known 54 years (!) which took in various parts of the USA and an amazing 11 days in Japan, curated brilliantly for us by Olivia-san at Kimkim. I’ve travelled much of the world, but can safely say Japan is ranking in my top 3 experiences and it is in no small part to the assistance Olivia gave us in plotting the itinerary and then in being incredibly available, responsive and ever efficient in... Read more

I’m now back in the UK following an amazing month with my high school best buddy Phil, who I’ve known 54 years (!) which took in various parts of the USA and an amazing 11 days in Japan, curated brilliantly for us by Olivia-san at Kimkim.

I’ve travelled much of the world, but can safely say Japan is ranking in my top 3 experiences and it is in no small part to the assistance Olivia gave us in plotting the itinerary and then in being incredibly available, responsive and ever efficient in helping us make some minor adjustments as we went along.

Tokyo, Kyoto, Kanazawa and Osaka have given us some incredible experiences and memories plus a thousand photos.

The Japanese people we encountered on our travels were unfailingly polite, helpful and kind, and were happy to let us use our rudimentary Japanese to communicate with them!

In particular the guides Olivia arranged for us, Yumiko-san in Tokyo, Hector (Boza Helfers), a Peruvian national married to a Japanese lady and living 20 years in Japan and fluent in his native Spanish, English, Portuguese and of course Japanese, plus as he put it “street” French and Italian!, hosted us in Kyoto and Osaka, and Ai Kawachi, who toured Kanazawa with us with charm and incredible knowledge, and Tasei-san back in Tokyo again who took us on a brilliant food tour.

I’ve used agents previously in Africa, Australasia, and India, and they don’t match the service that Kimkim and Olivia-san offered us, so I would definitely return to them.

Arigato gozaimashita ありがと ございました Olivia-san

Mike

Hotel Review
Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier
Tokyo

Really lovely clean hotel, with friendly staff and well appointed rooms, great Japanese breakfasts. Felt a little businessy and corporate, so perhaps not the ideal holiday vibe and the desk staff level of English was competent rather than fluent - but million times better than my rudimentary Japanese!

Authenticity & Character
Felt a little business corporate, but a great hotel nonetheless
Location
A bit on the edge of the Roppongi district, but we weren’t keen on the Roppongi vibe overall.
Staff
Friendly, efficient, available. Only reason not five star is that spoken English was competent but not always fluent (I feel bad mentioning that!)
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Olivia Luang
Olivia
Olivia Luang
Local specialist in Japan | Replied on Jul 02, 2025
Hi Mike, Thank you so much for your wonderful message — I can’t tell you how much it means to me. I’m truly touched by your kind words, and I’m so happy to hear that your time in Japan was such a memorable and meaningful part of your travels. It was an absolute pleasure working with you and Phil — your spirit of adventure and enthusiasm made the planning process so enjoyable. I’m especially glad the guides made a lasting impression and that Japan has earned a place in your top 3 travel... Read more

Hi Mike,

Thank you so much for your wonderful message — I can’t tell you how much it means to me. I’m truly touched by your kind words, and I’m so happy to hear that your time in Japan was such a memorable and meaningful part of your travels.

It was an absolute pleasure working with you and Phil — your spirit of adventure and enthusiasm made the planning process so enjoyable. I’m especially glad the guides made a lasting impression and that Japan has earned a place in your top 3 travel experiences!

Wishing you both all the best back home in the UK — and I’ll be here anytime you’re ready to plan your next adventure.
Arigato gozaimashita, Mike-san 😊

Warmest regards,
Olivia

A wonderful trip to Wales,
Wales | Jun 15 - Jun 23, 2025

M
Maureen B.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025

Riki was our guide. He was AMAZING! He took us to a lot of places, was an excellent driver. He gave us so much information about Wales, the history, the people, the buildings, the castles, the food, etc. We had considered driving a car ourselves, but were thankful he was our driver who was so good with the narrow roads and traffic. It didn't take long to recognize how difficult that would have been.
The person booking our travels did an excellent job of booking our overnight rooms and meals and the sites we went to.

Local specialist: Alex Rawson
Alex
Alex Rawson
Local specialist in Wales | Replied on Jul 01, 2025

Thank you so much for your kind words, Maureen! We’re thrilled to hear that Riki made such a strong impression: he truly is a gem, and it’s great to know his knowledge, driving skills, and warmth added so much to your time in Wales.

We’re also glad the accommodations, meals, and itinerary all hit the mark. Sounds like the decision not to self-drive paid off!

Let us know when you’re ready to plan your next trip and we’ll be delighted to help craft another memorable journey.

Super easy, very responsive
Costa Rica | Jun 16 - Jun 23, 2025

Julie
Julie B.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
The planning process was super easy, and all of our plans were executed perfectly. The team was extremely responsive and great to work with. Read more

The planning process was super easy, and all of our plans were executed perfectly. The team was extremely responsive and great to work with.

Hotel Reviews
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna

Beautiful secluded setting.

Authenticity & Character
Secluded feel
Location
Close to activities
Staff
Friendly and sttentive
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room felt basic, not luxurious
Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
Tamarindo

Beautiful beach location

Authenticity & Character
The separation between the two sides of the resort is odd and feels very disconnected
Location
Right on the beach
Staff
Slow service but everyone is friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Housekeeping was great. Overall the resort needs some upgrades, cosmetic repairs
Activity Reviews
Big Arenal Mundo Aventura Zipline
Big Arenal Mundo Aventura Zipline
Arenal/La Fortuna

Awesome adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Whitewater Rafting Sarapiqui River (Class III-IV)
Whitewater Rafting Sarapiqui River (Class III-IV)
Costa Rica

Highlight of our trip!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Full-Day Cruise
Private Full-Day Cruise
Costa Rica

Great day on the water. Plenty of time on the boat and in the water. The staff was attentive and the food was great!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Jun 30, 2025

Thank you Julie for your comments on your trip plan. I'm glad you and your family had some great experiences in Costa Rica, especially the private sailing charter. That's one of my favorites!

Erica and Lea were AWESOME with planning our ...
Greece | Jun 17 - Jun 27, 2025

P
Paige B.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
Erica and Lea were AWESOME with planning our trip to Greece! Both were super responsive to my requests and questions during the planning of this trip. While we're were in Greece, Maria was also amazing in responding to our needs for changes in our itinerary.
Our itinerary included Athens, Milos, Santorini and Mykonas. We enjoyed the Acropolis tour and loved our food tour with Katerina. She was so much fun!
Milos was definitely the highlight of our trip and I wish we would have booked a...
Read more

Erica and Lea were AWESOME with planning our trip to Greece! Both were super responsive to my requests and questions during the planning of this trip. While we're were in Greece, Maria was also amazing in responding to our needs for changes in our itinerary.
Our itinerary included Athens, Milos, Santorini and Mykonas. We enjoyed the Acropolis tour and loved our food tour with Katerina. She was so much fun!
Milos was definitely the highlight of our trip and I wish we would have booked a longer stay there. The full day sailing was incredible! We loved our charming captain, George and his great crew! Our chef provided some of the best food of the whole trip! We rented a car to explore all of the must see spots including the Plakka and Sarakinika Beach. We loved our stay at Konstantinos.
Was alittle disappointed in the sunset sail cruise in Santorini after our amazing day sailing and snorkeling in Milos. We did enjoy the walk from Fira to Oia.
Kayaking in Mykonas was a blast. Overall, Mykonas was crowded and felt very touristy. But glad we saw it.
Would highly recommend Erika and Lea for trip planning and will request them if we travel to Greece again!

Hotel Reviews
Konstantinos
Milos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Achilleas Hotel
Athens

Rooms are much smaller than pictured.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Provide bottled water?
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kasimatis by La Perla
Santorini
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ilio Maris Hotel
Mykonos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full-Day Sailing Cruise with Lunch
Full-Day Sailing Cruise with Lunch
Milos
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ancient Athens Acropolis & Mythology Walk
Ancient Athens Acropolis & Mythology Walk
Athens
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Evening Neighborhood Food Walk
Evening Neighborhood Food Walk
Athens
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sunset Caldera Catamaran Cruise
Sunset Caldera Catamaran Cruise
Santorini
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayaking Adventure
Kayaking Adventure
Mykonos
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Erica Gerakos

Our local specialist Joao was amazing. He wa...
Portugal | Jun 23 - Jun 29, 2025

G
Greg D.
Concord, MA | Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025
Our local specialist Joao was amazing. He was so helpful planning day trips and restaurant reservations. We had the best time! Read more

Our local specialist Joao was amazing. He was so helpful planning day trips and restaurant reservations. We had the best time!

Hotel Review
Bela Vista Hotel & Spa
Portimao

Once you enter the gates to the hotel property, it is an amazing experience. The property was beautiful and the service was beyond our expectations!

Authenticity & Character
The hotel main building was beautiful and authentic Portuguese architecture and design.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: João Branco
João
João Branco
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Jun 30, 2025

Hi Greg,

Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m really happy to hear you had such a great time and that the day trips and restaurants worked out well. It was a pleasure helping you plan your journey, and I’m so glad it all came together for you.

If you ever decide to return to Portugal, I’ll be here and more than happy to help again.

Your friend in Portugal - João

Why travelers love kimkim

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

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.