Kimkim Trip Reviews

- Planning with Kimkim was very easy. Jessica was great
- Days per destination and activities added were the right ones.
- Biggest miss was hotels. Arenal hotel was great (Lost Iguana). Monteverde hotel was not good (Jaguarundi lodge) as they have a bad section were you have 8 apartments next to each other with bad soundproofing, no heating, faulty windows etc. We decided to stay at another place called Green Tree B&B which was great and actually a great experience. Manuel Antonio hotel was mediocre (Tabulia tree) as the bathroom was smelling, the beds were not great, but we were able to interact with macaws and monkeys at hotel premises. Overall the last two had some of the things mentioned in public comments and reviews so I would double-check next time public reviews.
- Activities overall were great with enough time in between, good guides, good mix etc. Some guides didn't speak as great English, and one of the activities (snorkeling) was a let down. But overall happy with that part.
- In our view Costa Rica is a very nice and safe place to visit that combines nature and wildlife with beach vacations. That said, it has become very expensive and quite touristy especially during the peak season that we visited. Not our best trip, but a good experience.

Hotel Reviews

Park Inn San José by Radisson

San José

Solid choice if you are just passing by San Jose. Not great neighbourhood, but if you are there just for a night's sleep is great (beds, staff etc)

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Jaguarundi Lodge

Monteverde

This place is actually a hostel (at least the room we stayed in). Wouldn't recommend

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Tabulia Tree

Manuel Antonio

Ok choice but better options to look for.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Lost Iguana Resort & Spa

Fortuna

Great place, right next to nature.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Río Balsa Whitewater Rafting Adventure

Arenal/La Fortuna

Desafio is a great company to do this experience. The river is not that scenic, but a good experience to add while at La Fortuna.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Amazing guide!

Transport

Nocturnal Rainforest Walk

Arenal/La Fortuna

Good place to spot some nocturnal animals

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Great guide!

Río Celeste & Tenorio Volcano National Park Guided Rainforest Hike

Arenal/La Fortuna

As a park is very nice, but maybe not worth spending a whole day for the experience.

Quality of Experience

Food

Great food at the stop the guide made!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Coffee, Chocolate & Sugar Cane Experience (English Tour)

Monteverde

Quite touristy but other than that a good visit

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

a lot of people per vehicle

100% Aventura Zip Line Monteverde

Monteverde

Great experience

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Transport left early and we had to drive there

Arenal Hanging Bridges Guided Walk & EcoTermales Hot Springs & Meal

Arenal/La Fortuna

Must-see at Arenal. Hot Springs were solid.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guide didn't speak great English

Transport

Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Nature Hike

Manuel Antonio

Very touristic place. You can see cappucin monkeys and some other animals we couldn't see elsewhere. We had to slide between people to make our way.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Catamaran Adventure with Barbecue

Manuel Antonio

Great Catamaran ride but very very bad snorkeling.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Could not recommend Kimkim and Samir more. Incredibly accurate, informative, flexible and responsive communication before and during trip. The guides and drivers were clearly well respected locals and very good at their jobs. Only feedback would be a bit more clarity to and from Israeli/Jordan border in terms of logistics and who was meeting us but I again very small glitches in fabulous experience. We recommend them heartily.

Hotel Reviews

Palmera Camp

Wadi Rum

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Petra Moon Hotel

Wadi Musa

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Full Day Petra (With Site local Guide or private guide)

Petra

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Wadi Rum (2-3 Hrs Jeep ride)

Jordan

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

This was a great trip that ran very smoothly! Any questions or concerns that we had before or during the trip were answered swiftly. Our trip included a lot of traveling around and I was very impressed by how reliable all of our transportation arrangements were. Our drivers were always on time, and were very friendly and considerate. Probably the greatest highlight of our trip was the white water rafting. It was so exciting and fun. Our instructor was very knowledgeable and made sure we were safe out in the water. I enjoyed all of our locations though, and our accommodation in Arenal had a great view of the volcano. It was a bit cloudy most of the time, but when the sky finally cleared up, the view was breathtaking. Our last accommodation in Tamarindo had an ocean view and was only a few feet from the beach. Everyone we met during our trip was so nice and helpful!

This was a great trip filled with very positive and unforgettable experiences. Everything worked out as planned. The itinerary we had was excellent and the gastronomic, geographic, archaeological, and artisanal tours were excellent. The hotels were great with a couple of exceptions. They were all centrally located and we could easily move about on our own and explore the places not included in the formal itinerary. All the guides were knowledgeable and spoke english as promised. The drivers that took us on our city tours and long distances from city to city were friendly and drove with great care. All the guides and drivers were very punctual and we could complete all the activities in the time that was planned.

Ximena out travel coordinator was outstanding! She checked in with us every day to ask how the day went and also to inform us about the next day's plan. The couple of times we had an issue with hotels, she was very quick to get them resolved.

Hotel Reviews

Histórico Central Mexico City

Mexico City

Very centrally located with extremely friendly and helpful staff. The breakfast that was included had a lot of choices, and the free food all day long was amazing.

Authenticity & Character

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Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Casona de los Sapos Hotel Boutique

Puebla

Very centrally located. The staff were very accommodating even though it was Christmas eve.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Boutique Casa Garay

Oaxaca

The hotel is very centrally located and that was the only positive aspect about it. The room was windowless and had very poor ventilation. Unfortunately, to improve ventilation we could not leave the door ajar since it opened directly into the dining area. The room was not serviced well and one morning the water ran out in the bathroom and it took a lot of time to restore. The air conditioning unit was very noisy, but we had no choice to use it since the room had no air circulation. The hotel was understaffed and the couple of employee there were doing multiple tasks and as a result everything took time. We had breakfast at the hotel the first morning, but it was such a bad experience that we decided to eat elsewhere the next day. We were also very frustrated with the wifi which was very very slow and at times we could not even connect to it.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Please refer to my detailed review.

Hotel Parador Margarita

San Cristobal de las Casas

Nice hotel. very centrally located. Large rooms. The only issue was that the rooms did not have any heating, but fortunately we could get spot heaters from the hotel. The breakfast was wonderful and the staff were very friendly and helpful.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The heating could be improved.

Piedra de Agua Hotel Boutique Palenque

Palenque

It is a nice hotel, but it is far from the town center. Also, there are no shops anywhere within walking distance. Continental breakfast was served at the hotel, but besides that the hotel did not have a restaurant and since we did not have a car, the only option was a restaurant that was 75 meters away. We had to eat all our meals at that single restaurant, The room was a bit small and it was strange that the light for the bathroom also switched on a light that was in the bedroom. That did not work out well at night when my wife or I had to use the toilet.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Please see my detailed review.

Hotel Plaza Campeche

Campeche

Nice hotel, very centrally located.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Nice large room and everything worked.

Hacienda Mérida

Mérida

This is nice hotel, but we had a bad experience. We were assigned a room with clearly had an issue with the plumbing. The water pressure was extremely low and therefore we informed the front desk who sent someone to attend to it. After sometime they reported they had fixed the problem, but the situation was still the same. It is hard to accept that the hotel was not aware that this room had a plumbing issue, but still decided to assign the room to a guest.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

I have mentioned about the issue with the plumbing in my review.

Activity Reviews

Tour of historic Mexico City with street food tasting

Mexico City

This is a good introduction to Mexico City's historic center and street food. The tour is a bit early in the day to truly enjoy the street food especially after a hearty breakfast.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Knowledgeable, friendly and could speak English.

Transport

This was a walking tour and so there was no transport.

Be amazed by the pre-hispanic beauty of the chinampas in Xochimilco

Mexico City

This is a very unique tour. We enjoyed the serene and quite environment and the demonstration of how farming is carried out on the small islands on the canals.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore Coyoacán

Mexico City

Very nice neighborhood of Mexico City with its colonial ear houses, markets, and food courts. The zocalo and church are very picturesque.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore the archaeological site of Teotihuacan

Mexico City

Must visit archeological site.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Free Afternoon in Puebla

Mexico

Very charming city with a nice zocalo and cathedral.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Oaxacan Markets: A Culinary Journey through Colors and Flavors

Oaxaca

This is a fun tour, but to do justice you have to start on an empty stomach since there are many stops for food.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore the history and crafts of Oaxaca through Monte Alban, Arrazola, Cuilapam and Coyotepec.

Oaxaca

All wonderful sites and places on this very enjoyable tour.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Excursion to the Sumidero Canyon & Chiapa de Corzo

San Cristobal de las Casas

The Sumidero Canyon is amazing!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Cultural Immersion: Cooking in Zinacantan

San Cristobal de las Casas

This was a very very unique tour. The visit to Chamula and especially to the church there was a truly one-of-a-kind experience. The visit to Zinacantan was also special, with an exposure to the milpa form of farming and being invited to the house of a local artisan to see how they create their wears and to share a meal with them.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The beautiful waterfalls of Misol-ha & Agua Azul - Night in Palenque.

Mexico

Agua Azul is beautiful, but Misol-ha is special.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Discover the Palenque Archeological Site

Palenque

A must visit archeological site of the Mayas.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Uxmal, a city with Puuc style

Mexico

A must see archaeological site of the Mayas. It is laid out much better than Palanque, the first Mayan archaeological site we visited.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Jícara Engraving Workshop & lunch in a Mayan Community

Mexico

A very unique experience. We loved the hands-on workshop on how to polish and engrave a jicara shell.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore Chichén Itzá: A Wonder of the Mayan World

Chichén Itzá

Unfortunately, we could not visit Chichen Itza since the site was closed due to local protests. However we did visit Izamal which was nice.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

From beginning to end, a big shout out to Natalia and Ximena! Natalia tailor-planned our trip to our interests and it was a pleasure working with her enthusiastic personality. Our family was looking for an authentic experience for our trip of Colonial Mexico. From the diverse activities to the beautiful accommodations, they exceeded our expectations. We will never forget hiking the volcano Popocatepetl, visiting archaeological sites, and seeing the vibrant colors of the colonial towns. Ximena was available at all times during our trip, and she was responsive to every question we had and did so in a very professional, kind, and timely manner. Our guides Emiliano, Jorge, Lupita, Rafael, and Maria were passionate and very knowledgable about their culture. Our drivers were also very professional. Thank you Kim Kim Mexico team!

Hotel Reviews

Casa Jacinta Guest House

Del Carmen, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México

This hotel was very personable and authentic. It was perfectly located walking distance from the center of Coyoacan. We very much enjoyed the breakfasts as well--freshly made in the kitchen and traditional Mexican food! The staff was extremely helpful and accommodating.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Posada del Tepozteco

Tepoztlán

We very much enjoyed this hotel for a couple of restful days! The grounds and views are beautiful, and everyone in our family was able to find activities that suited them: reading by the pool, massages, or walking into town. Located near the town center, it was easy to walk into town to explore the local market or climb el Tepozteco. The staff were also very friendly and accommodating--and the breakfasts were divine!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Tour of historic Mexico City with street food tasting

Mexico City

Emiliano was a wonderful guide! This was our first day in Mexico City and he gave us a great introduction to the city and the food. He tailored his tour to our interests (more history over gastronomy) and brought us to some hidden gems such as Plaza Loreto and the Cultural Center. The food was also AMAZING with lots of variety. It was so nice to have a guide to show us the safest foods to eat as we were a little worried about getting sick on our trip.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit of Teotihuacan and the Basilica of Guadalupe

Mexico City

As an anthropology professor, our guide Jorge was incredibly knowledgable and passionate about the Teotihuacan and the Basilica. We felt that we were able to really understand the importance of Teotihuacan in the Aztec culture as well as the significance of the Virgen de Guadalupe among Mexican catholics. We also felt that we had plenty of time to wander through Teotihuacan as well as the Basilica by ourselves and did not feel rushed at any point.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Between the Izta and the Popo in Puebla, México

Puebla

We so much enjoyed hiking with Rafael! He is very knowledgable about the geology and landscape of the park as well as the volcano and its activity. He is also wilderness-medicine trained so it was very interesting to learn about his work in the park. It was a wonderful way to see Popocatepetl and and the vast nature in this area. We also appreciated that Rafael took all of his time on the hike and paced us well, asking us if we were doing well with the altitude change.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Discover the Magical town of Cholula

Mexico

Our guide Lupita was incredible! She is so passionate about her city of Cholula and took all of her time explaining the history behind the city as well as its beautiful churches. Although the tour says 5 hours, she spent more like 8 hours with us. There is so much to see and learn about!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our Morocco trip made it to the top three family trips. Amazing!!!
The majority of the planning/foot work was done by Louis and Yassine for us.
I oversaw the hotel choices because it mattered we slept in memorable, comfortable and quiet roads and hotels. They delivered above our expectations 98% of the time. We were very pleased. I am confident to recommend that their word/promise held true. Thank you Louis and Yassine.
The person who made the biggest difference in our trip was Abdr Fateh Makhlouf!
A compassionate, forward thinking and our friendly driver Maukhlouf, who by the end of the 11 days trip became like family member.
He was punctual; he incentivized us to start earlier but worked with us on days we didn’t get out at 8 am; he was “magical” in planning the road stops. Not even once did we feel, like it was taking too long to get to the next destination! He planned very timely stops for tea or bathroom breaks for the family.
He paid attention and kept the inside of the vehicle very clean and comfortable.
Thank you Fateh Mouflouf!

PS: Our local guides arranged by Loius and Yassine were all great!

Hotel Reviews

Hyatt Regency Casablanca

Casablanca

Authenticity & Character

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Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Royal Tulip City Center

Tangier

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Dar Meziana

Chefchaouene

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

It’s hard to expect comfort to equal of 5 star luxury hotel . The authenticity of the hotel, and view from our room was memorable.

Hotel Sahrai

Fès

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Loved it!

Kenzi Rose Garden

Marrakesh

Over stressed front desk staff. Unwelcoming and poorly trained . Poor English

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Room size, decor and comfort was of motel 6.

Luxury Camp Chebbi

Merzouga

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

They need to inform guests how to reach them in case of the heater stopping suddenly in middle of the night!!! That’s what happened with us and really caused discomfort. When searching for them they were nowhere to be found.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hôtel New Mars Dades

Boumalne Dades

This was a real gem of a hotel! What a surprise the decor, the service and meals were! The multi course dinner- we paid for- had a memorable presentstion!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The heating in the corridor of the suites is absent. ALL the door knobs need oiling?! They stick- always.

Hotel Le Medina Essaouira Thalassa Sea & Spa MGallery

Essaouira

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial

Marrakech

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Hammam Visit: Traditional Body Scrub

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Overnight in the Sahara Desert

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Exploring the Medina and Historical Sites Of Marrakesh

Marrakesh

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

A wonderful trip to Cambodia. A really great itinerary was planned before hand which went very smoothly. The choices and timings of itinerary were well suited for my friend and I. The guides and drivers were all very kind and helpful. They were also knowledgeable and enthusiastic. A really great trip which made for a lovely experience and memories, with highlights such as the Angkor temples and beach time at Koh Rong Samloem island. Many thanks for an excellent trip.

Joseph worked with me to create an eclectic trip that catered to our unusual needs. He managed it while staying within our low to medium budget. Our guide, Andrew Kamau was phenomenal. He has been doing this for 20+ years and was equally good at finding animals in game parks and facilitating our daughter’s need to return to the US right in the middle of the trip. He was fun, positive and knowledgeable. I could not have been happier!

Hotel Review

The Ark

Great food. The views of the watering hole were wonderful, watching a pack of hyenas try to take down animals for hours was fascinating as was the following night seeing herds of buffaloes and elephants come through with their young babes. Having said that, the rooms are cramped and one can feel trapped. It is a good first stop out of Nairobi and a great place to have jet lag because one can wander downstairs and watch animals at all hours.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Maasai Mara National Reserve

Masai Mara

We did not go during the migration but we saw all the major cats and lots of large herds. Our Guide Andrew Kamau was so knowledgeable and thoughtful that it was a joy. We liked birds and he found and identified them all.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Samir and our guide and driver (Anees) provided us with the most amazing experience in Jordan we could have asked for. The entire trip was very seamless, we got everything we had expected and never felt stressed. Anees was super kind and helpful through the trip - showing us all the locations, telling us about the history, stopping by whenever we needed our coffee or hummus fixes! It’s tough to choose a favourite in Jordan - but waking up in a bubble tent on 1st Jan 2023 and to see the vast expanse of the Wadi Rum and caravans of camels passing by is a pretty unforgettable experience! I would highly recommend Jordan and Samir!

Hotel Reviews

TORINO HOTEL

Amman

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Petra Palace

Wadi Musa, Petra

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Luxury Rum Magic Camp

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Meet & Assist - Queen Alia Airport

Jordan

Amman half day City tour

Jordan

Madaba & Mount Nebo Visit

Jordan

Full Day Petra (With Site local Guide or private guide)

Petra

Petra - Morning Free

Petra

Wadi Rum (2-3 Hrs Jeep ride)

Jordan

Rum Valley - Aqaba - Dead Sea

Jordan

Amman-Jarash-Ajloun-Amman

Jordan

Tendu Sherpa and our equally wonderful Kathmandu in-town guide were both terrific. Professional, kind, knowledgeable. And, importantly, fun.

Tendu Sherpa, for example, went above and beyond to care for our experience starting with our flight into Lukha and on our winter "off-season" trek to Ama Dablam basecamp. He gave us the gift of a glimpse into the beautiful Sherpa community and culture, including guiding us through a Sherpa museum with a family prayer room, sharing stories of his own family, and introducing us to extended family in Namche Bizar. In one beautiful and unexpected moment, our 12-year-old daughter had the chance to play and draw and laugh with 4-year-old girl, Ang Sherpa, and hear Ang Sherpa sing "Frozen".

We lucked out on the 6-day trek with blue skies and clear long views. We also got to visit schools, like the Hilary School, and monasteries.

Back in Kathmandu, we mountain biked and saw more OF the city and the local hills that we otherwise would have. In short, our trip was incredible. We felt safe, welcomed, supported and inspired throughout.

Where to start? I hope I can properly express how incredible our trip to Argentina was because of the planing and care Natalia provided. This was my first experience using KimKim and I will continue to use it for all my future trips. We were able to fully enjoy ourselves knowing everything was taken care off, no stress about pickup or what to do each day. We had the loveliest personal expert guides in every city who became part of the fun ( we had a our own personal sommelier in Mendoza!). Natalia also arranged one of the best experiences in my lifetime, horseback riding in the middle of a remote island in Patagonia, something I know we would have never been able to find on our own. I have told anyone who is interested in visiting Argentina they must use Natalia and I hope we get the opportunity to return and work with her again!

Hotel Reviews

Alpasión Lodge

Mendoza

Our favorite hotel of the trip, we could have stayed there for a month.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Los Ponchos Hotel Boutique

El Calafate, Santa Cruz

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel

Puerto Iguazú

Come to this hotel to just hang out at the pool! It's one of the top 3 pools I've every seen.

Mio Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Horseback riding at Estancia Cristina

El Calafate

YOU MUST! It was heaven! We couldn't believe it was real the whole time.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

We felt safe and taken care off the whole time.

Transport

Iguazu Falls Great Adventure

Puerto Iguazú

Quality of Experience

The boat trip that takes you under the waterfalls is an epic experience.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The Glacier at your fingertips!

Argentina

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Uco Valley Wine Country

Mendoza

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Sunset Horseback Riding in Mendoza

Mendoza

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore the Brazilian Falls

Puerto Iguazú

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Buenos Aires Barrios Tour

Buenos Aires

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We took a South American tour from 27/11/2022 to 13/12/2022 organized by agent Emi through Kimkim. Here is our feedback on the trip:
It was very helpful to have ongoing emails from Emi before and during the trip. It helped to keep the communication going and prepare us. We could have used some more information about tipping – when and how much is appropriate in different situations.
For the most part, the internal flight times, tours and the accommodations were well planned with no waste of times. At times during the whole trip, we felt it was too busy but, in the end,…. we realized it was worth it as we had limited time in each city and needed to make the best of it.
We arrived in Santiago on Dec 27th morning. A nice lady driver (Olivia?) and guide Franco received us at the airport, helped with bags etc. and took us to the hotel Pullman. Our room was not available until the afternoon. The concierge allowed us to keep our luggage safe for the time, so we went out to find some lunch. Later, we got and settled into our room. Following a nice rest, we were driven to the Vinolia winery and restaurant. We had a wonderful and thorough gastronomic experience of Chilean wine tasting (with a very knowledgeable host). It was a very enjoyable well presented dinner; we appreciated that the staff especially accommodated our dietary needs(lactose intolerant).. The next day morning, after our breakfast we met the guide (Robinson) who took us on a panoramic tour of the city including the Cerro Santa Lucía park where we got a nice scenic view. After our city tour, we enjoyed a fresh fish lunch with our fellow travellers at the fish restaurant in Mercado Central. As we went on the tour, Robinson attempted to give us English translation but the group was mostly Spanish speaking so we got less information than we would have liked. In the afternoon we visited the Maipo vineyards - Concha Y Toro where we had a wine tasting experience (happy to get the wine glasses to take home).The next day also guided by Robinson, was another busy day with a morning visit to Valparaiso where we saw the incredible artistic graffiti throughout the city, the harbour and scenic views of city and favelas from atop of one of the hills. We had nice lunch at the castle restaurant at Vina Del Mar and a stop at the beach. This time, Robinson placed us closer to front of bus so he could translate in English more often when seeing us. His regular suggestions to take funny photos made for some extra fun!
The next day was a day of rest and an evening flight to Mendoza. The driver Orlando who took us to the airport was informative and helpful. We arrived in Mendoza late evening, The quaint hotel - Club Tapiz we stayed at was located in a vineyard and provided a very serene peaceful experience. The restaurant staff were very accommodating and helped us meet our dietary needs. The next morning, we left early for a whole day in the mountains. We noted that out of consideration of our early start, the hotel staff was very nice to leave us a kettle, tea packets, some fruit and cookies etc. for breakfast. Our driver Patricio (very considerate and helped to get a badly needed coffee) drove us to meet the bus in the city. We met the guide and bus full of other tourists. We then proceeded to travel to the pre-Andes mountains where we stopped to visit the Inca bridge and old hotel with hot springs. It was a long journey but nonetheless interesting. Again, sadly the guide.... spoke most of the time in Spanish because it was mostly a Spanish speaking group (there were only three of us who spoke English). The lunch was a traditional type of a meal in a small restaurant. We sat with some others in the group who were so nice that they treated us by sharing a bottle of wine and did not allow us to contribute. It was
quite cool at times in the mountains so it was good that we were told ahead of time to bring jackets. The next day, our guide Claudia took us to wine tasting experiences at two vineries both very different and quite interesting to see the wine production facilities including the wine cellars. It was followed by another wine experience this time accompanied by a five course lunch (each course paired with a wine). That was quite a day and we definitely needed to rest after all that! In the evening we were taken to the airport by Orlando to catch the plane to Buenos Aires.
We arrived late in BA. The guide (Andrea) was informative and also helpful about money changing as she knew that would be difficult on a Sunday night. The hotel ( Pestana BA) which was not what we expected. The room was very basic and there was not even a bottle of water. That is usually something that is so welcoming to a weary traveller. Sadly, as we were tired, we would have preferred to stay in but there was not even room service available. We were forced to go out at that time in a strange city and managed to find a restaurant we could eat at. Thank goodness for Google maps and GPS. The next day we had a half day city tour, and our guide Savarita was helpful and knowledgeable. We visited the La Boca area where we saw a lot of street artists and in the city, we saw some of the important places like Evita Peron’s balcony and Pope Francis’s home church. That evening, we went to La Ventana for an incredible dinner tango show. The next day, a large group was collected from various hotels by our guide Camilla. It was a very long day with a trip to the countryside to visit a farm and see the Gauchos. The experience included horseback riding, a barbecue lunch, a show of traditional folk dancing and finally a moving show with a gaucho/horse whisperer. It was an extremely hot day as apparently often is at this time in BA and any travellers on this trip should be prepared with cool clothes, wet wipes, water bottles etc. Camilla was very informative and went out of her way to look after everyone in the group well. She even showed us how to make the traditional tea drink “matte” on the bus while we were on route. She diligently ensured that each one got back to their hotel at the end of the long tiring day even arranging a special taxi for us.
The following day, we left to catch a flight to Iguazu. We arrived around 10am. and were received at the airport by a guide Milvia. She took us to the hotel Mercure and since we arrived early, we could not book in our room till 3pm. We were tired and hungry, but we were supposed to go on a half day tour to see the Brazilian falls and the Parque Das Aves. We had to request the guide to give us a bit of time to change in the hotel guest washrooms and allow us to have something to eat. Luckily, we had saved a small meal from the airport as there was no food easily available at the hotel at that time. We wish we had been given a little more time to rest before the half day tour because it turned out to be a very long day with a lot of walking. The falls and bird park were spectacular and not to be missed! We found the Mercure hotel and services (dining room with unusual glass floor section overlooking fish pond, pool, conference room where we watched the soccer game) to be excellent. The next day, we were taken on a day tour of the Argentinian falls and the National Park by our guide John. He was very helpful and knowledgeable. He accompanied the group and provided interesting facts along the whole pathway to witness the spectacular beauty of all the many falls. We also took the extra excursion of the adventure on the boat which goes right to the bottom of the falls. It’s good to let the tourists know that taking this trip means you will get thoroughly soaked. Luckily, they provided participants with waterproof bags to store cameras and other belongings. The next day we had the whole day to explore Iguazu town, so we went to the arts and crafts stores to buy some gifts. We realized that when in South America at any point one is without a guide, it really helps to know some Spanish and to have the correct currency on hand. The small stores cannot not always handle credit cards. That evening we got to watch the World Cup soccer game with some passionate Argentinian soccer fans in the hotel conference room…that was fun especially since Argentina was playing.
In the evening, we were picked up to head to the airport to head to Rio de Janeiro. That was an adventure itself because the Spanish speaking driver took us to the wrong airport thinking we were flying on a domestic flight. We were surprised that he had not been informed it was the international airport we were going to so we could get to Rio. Luckily, we were able to explain to him that we were going to Brazil. He then quickly rerouted and we were taken right across the city to the correct airport, thankfully in time to board.
We arrived in Rio and were taken to the Arena Leme Hotel which was walking distance from Copacabana beach. The next morning, we were picked up and taken by our guide Paolo to visit Corcovado and see the famous Christ the Redeemer statue. Paolo who spoke both English and Spanish, was quite entertaining throughout the trip. We were taken to an All u can Eat BBQ lunch and got to try some sugar cane liquor. In the afternoon, we saw the soccer stadium and then went to Sugar Loaf. The cable car trip was not as good because the weather (very foggy) did not cooperate, but the group made the best of it. Finally, we were finished with the trip and got ready to go to the airport to take our flight heading home. We found the drivers who drove us to the airport were not helpful. We understand that not all of them speak English so there may be no conversation during the ride but there was not even an offer to help with the bags. Needless to say they were not in our favourite list for gratuities.
All in all,….it was an amazing and well organized trip. We highly recommend to others to take it. We would love to make another trip to see the countries we missed!

Hotel Reviews

Pullman Santiago El Bosque

Las Condes, Santiago

Nice place comfortable and close to amenities

Authenticity & Character

Authentic

Location

Close to amenities

Staff

Service especially in the restaurant

Cleanliness & Comfort

Great

Club Tapiz

Maipú - Mendoza

Fantastic relaxing among the vineyards. helpful and accommodating staff especially in the restaurant.

Authenticity & Character

Very unique

Location

Serine

Staff

Helpful and courteous

Cleanliness & Comfort

Bathrooms , Linen

Pestana Buenos Aires Hotel

Buenos Aires

Poor location and service

Authenticity & Character

Facilities, especially restaurant, availability of room service

Location

Middle of the city but Poor could have been a better location

Staff

Front desk staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Mercure Iguazu Hotel Iru

Puerto Iguazú

Unique palace to relax

Authenticity & Character

Beautiful and modern

Location

Nice and relaxing among the wild life

Staff

very helpful and accommodating at all times

Cleanliness & Comfort

Excellent

Arena Leme Hotel

Rio de Janeiro

Nice and comfortable near Copacabana beach

Authenticity & Character

Modern facility with allservices

Location

Close to beach and center of the city. Walking distant to every place.

Staff

very helpful

Cleanliness & Comfort

Excellent.

Activity Reviews

Vinolia: Wine Tasting

Santiago

It was wonderful and informative.

Quality of Experience

Food

Authentic

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Courteous and helpful

Transport

Comfortable

Panoramic City Tour

Santiago

Peterson was very informative.

Quality of Experience

Detais

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Polite and courteous

Transport

Small group

Half day Maipo Vineyards - Concha y Toro Winery: Classic Tour

Santiago

Amassing peice of history

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Provided ample time for us to explore

Transport

Comfortable

Full Day - Valparaiso & Viña del Mar

Santiago

It is a unique experience

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

High Mountain Tour Mendoza

Mendoza

It is a long day but good experience to see the landscape

Quality of Experience

It is a piece of history that is unique

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guide could be more fluent in multilingualism. We had few lines of English explanation.

Transport

Long ride but comfortable enough

High end Malbec – Lujan de Cuyo & Maipú 🍷🧀

Mendoza

It is a wonderful opportunity to to experience many wines and to see the production lines

Quality of Experience

Rare opportunity

Food

Wow

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Private driver Patricio and the guide was very caring

Transport

Comfortable private transport

Neighborhoods Tour

Buenos Aires

Architecture , history and restaurants

Quality of Experience

Walking around, La Boca

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Informative

Transport

Comfortable

Tango Show & Dinner

Buenos Aires

This was something I was waiting for. It was a fabulous show and dinner. I like the fact the dinner was served prior to the show so we could watch show uninterrupted.

Quality of Experience

The fabulous entertainment

Food

Quality

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Private driver was excellent guided us to the place

Transport

Comfortable and safe car

San Antonio de Areco & Estancia el Ombu

Buenos Aires

Unique experience

Quality of Experience

Food

Unique experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Camilla was informative and very helpful

Transport

Perfect for the long trip

Brazilian Falls - PRIVATE

Puerto Iguazú

Exhausting to do the half day tour straight off the flight from BA. Some time to recap and rest would have been nice. Lots of walking.

Quality of Experience

Nice to see the birds and get close to the falls

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Took the time to take us around walking the 1800 steps

Transport

Perfect private transportation

The Birds Park - PRIVATE

Puerto Iguazú

It is nice to see some injured birds are being cared for

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Argentinean Falls - Full day

Puerto Iguazú

It is a must see if you are visiting South America

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guide Milvia was helpful and walked the distance with us.

Transport

Nice private transportation

Rio de Janeiro: FD Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Excursion

Rio de Janeiro

It is a must in Rio

Quality of Experience

Long Day

Food

Nice to enjoy the local food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Paolo was entertaining

Transport

Comfortable

Our trip was fantastic and memorable! All of the logistics (with the exception of a few minor mishaps) were well planned and we were able to do all of our activities. Veronica was very attentive and helpful and met our every request. All accommodations (except Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel which was ok) were fantastic and activities were amazing! The guides who led us in rafting canyoning hiking and zip lining were outstanding and experts who made us feel safe and comfortable. We loved Arenal Paraiso and El Establo and found both accommodations to be excellent. Pueblo Dorado was ok-not quite as nice and had some issues with ants in our room. However all people were very kind and helpful and respectful.
Veronica and team were available 24 hours a day for questions and answers and to provide help. I was nervous using a company to plan the trip and we were very happy with the outcome. Everyone was professional and kind and helpful. Our overall trip was unbelievable and we would recommend Kim Kim band use them again! Pura vida!!

Hotel Reviews

El Establo Mountain Hotel

Monteverde

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Arenal Paraíso Resort, Spa & Hot Springs

La Fortuna

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto

San José

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel

Camino Principal, Tamarindo

Good location though a bit of a walk to main strip. People extremely helpful and friendly. Cleanliness good bit ants and lizards in room likely due to heat and older rooms with not updated windows. Great breakfast with Eat at Joes!!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River

Costa Rica

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Carlos was fantastic and very experienced! Kept us safe and was funny too!

Transport

Arenal Volcano Hike & Paradise Hot Springs & Meal

Arenal/La Fortuna

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Lost Canyon Waterfalls & Rappelling Adventure

Arenal/La Fortuna

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Traditional Cooking Class with Dinner

Arenal/La Fortuna

Quality of Experience

Change menu away from items already eaten during trip like rice and beans - bring newer items and more diversity. Allow more hands on cooking and provide recipes and more time. Very short class and seemed rushed

Food

See above

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Coffee & Chocolate Tour

Costa Rica

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Sky Tram, and Sky Trek Zip Line

Monteverde

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Not very personable and just seemed in a rush to get us done due to shift change. Least engaging group of guides on trip.

Transport

Dry Forest Canopy Tour

Tamarindo

Canceled this tour due to duplication from prior tour

Surf Lessons at Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We enjoyed our trip to Istanbul and Capadoccia.

We don't have any have complains, but would like to make some suggestions.

In the US and other countries there are very strict rules about smoking in restaurants or in public paces, however in Turkey it still is very common for people to smoke in restaurants or public spaces.
I understand that this is not under your control but I think you need to advice people visiting about this situation there and make sure to request a non smoking table when eating in restaurants because waiters there usually don't ask .
Another suggestion is to make sure to communicate directly with the person that will be the main guide during the visit, because in our case or main communication was with Ms. Berat but during our visit our guide was Mr. Ibrahim and there was a confusion about which places were included for our visit, he had to call the agency because according to him the visit to Topkapi palace was not included in our tour.

Hotel Reviews

Hagia Sofia Mansions Istanbul, Curio Collection by Hilton

Fatih Istanbul

Excellent location and service, it is located near all major attractions in the center of Istanbul

Authenticity & Character

Although the hotel expands a large area, each mansion feels like a small independent hotel

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Kelebek Special Cave Hotel

Nevsehir

The hotel matches with the cave environment of the city and region

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Discover Byzantine + Ottoman Istanbul

İstanbul

We enjoyed the visit to all the mosques , Topkapi palace, the boat trip through the Bosporus and the modern area of Taksim and Galata. For us the visit to the spice market and grand bazaar was the least attractive part of the visit

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hot Air Balloon Tour at Sunrise

Cappadocia

Eminönü Heritage Tour: Explore the Historical Bazaars and Ottoman Architectural Sites of Istanbul

İstanbul

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Private Boat Tour on the Bosphorus

İstanbul

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore the historical + modern hub: Pera, Karaköy and Beyond

İstanbul

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Kaymaklı Underground City

Cappadocia

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Whirling Dervish Ceremony at Saruhan Caravansarai

Turkey

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visiting Göreme Open Air Museum (UNESCO World Heritage)

Cappadocia

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Sightseeing Around Uçhisar and Discovering the Cappadocian Valleys

Cappadocia

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

It was amazing, thanks for the all team who worked with me

I was hesitant to book with an agency online and i was worried about who they would link us up with. I worried for NO reason! dealing with Kimkim to pay etc was easy and we had no issues.
Working with Sangita was WONDERFUL! Even before we paid she was going above and beyond to try and arrange things and help us feel secure in deciding to book with them. When we were not overly happy with one of the hotel suggestions and we wanted to suggest another trekking route she was straight on it to try and arrange a new plan.
We are a family of 4 with our girls being 15 and 16 years old.
Once we arrived in Nepal, Sangita was so helpful and kind. She made contact with us each step of the way. Each hotel and driver we had to deal with already knew about us and if they were late or needed to change the time she was calling them and then messaging us each step of the way.
We were greeted and welcomed to Nepal by Bipin and Kancha our trek guide on the first day which really helped set the tone for our whole trip.
Nepal is so different to anywhere we had travelled before and we wanted to soak up as much of it as we could so helping us that first day to get on the right foot was v welcome.
The drivers Sangita arranged were kind, respectful and safe.
The hotels were all clean, safe, great food and so welcoming.
Our whole experience with trekking was fantastic. Our guide Kancha was kind, understanding and informative. We made a new route half way thru our trip because it was more of what we wanted and it was perfect. Kancha made sure we were happy and coping each step of the way. Our daughter had a little medical incident straight away and he was as concerning as you would want when it comes to that sort of thing in a place you dont know. All was fine but I do feel if things were more serious we would have been in good hands.
Kancha brought 2 porters and i felt that both were treated with respect by our guide. Harka has the best laugh and he uses it often. Suma was probably bored with our pace as he normally runs the everest marathon in his off days. both were lovely and we felt all 3 made a truly wonderful asset to our trek.
if you want a lovely trek - do the muldai (mulde- take your pick of spelling ) trek via dobato vs poon hill... but you have to want off the beat track and much quieter tea houses - its not for the those that want luxuries along the way.
and if you want to laugh more than you have in ages then go rollerskating in pokhara...
for me i thought nepal was wonderful - my husband would agree, our 2 teenage daughters really loved their experience - i do honestly feel that all the support and personal interest that Sangita gave to us really helped with all those areas that often can be the stress in a holiday - and when you have 2 weeks and its all new. She was worth every single penny!

Hotel Reviews

Oasis Kathmandu Hotel

Kathmandu

staff could not do enough for us. we had a room with 2 double beds which suited our family v well. v clean and comfortable with heat or air con easily v noisy due to its locations but i feel thats likely most places in thamel

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Ramada Encore

Thamel

exactly what we needed - we wanted some place that was just like any western hotel we have stayed in before so those first 2 nights we could get our heads down and have a v good nights sleep. breakfast was good and the staff were so friendly we had food upstairs on the roof the first night. outstanding food!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Heritage Guest House & Restaurant

Bandipur

the owners were kind and helpful as we needed but since we were the only people staying they didnt seem very interested overall we had a great breakfast and the rooms were clean the view from either side of the hotel is amazing the hotel is a slight walk to the main area of a town -

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Peninsula

Pokhara

the owner and manager is such a joy so try and get to meet him. he pointed us in the direction of anything we had questions about. he smiles very easily and he made every effort to make sure we were happy. the place is really big and open with huge rooms electrics are questionable but it had hot water for showers they are in the middle of building a huge new additional building - could be a v different place??

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Parkside

Chitwan , Narayani

the hotel arranges for the jungle treks etc all thru them. they have their own guide Banta - he was so kind and it was obvious he loved the animal aspect of his job. he was outstanding at sighting animals. thankfully he didnt show us any tigers but we saw plenty of prints in the dirt. we saw lots of animals and he did his best to point out everythign around us. when our daughters were scared he adjusted what we did so they felt better. the hotel has elephant and you can go say hello at any time. they might use it for safaris but we didnt want that the food was really good and the masala tea was the best i had in nepal. the chap that helped us each day (i can not remember his name off hand) was so lovely and professional and laughed with us the owners chatted to us and even showed us his rhino injury!! the rooms are big and comfortable bathrooms are tired but all are clean with nets over the beds

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Bhaktapur Tour

Nagarkot

a MUST do- and take bipin with if you can!! the city is beautiful !!!! but having bipin with us was such a bonus we learned so much that day!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Jungle Walk. Free time in Chitwan

Chitwan National Park

this is the canoe trip and the walkign tour - totally do the canoe trip its beautiful. the walking tour was so scary and yet also fantastic. i have no idea what you might see or not but it was really enjoyable and scary. our guides were lovely.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Trek Briefing

Kathmandu

exactly what we needed to get us set up for our whole two weeks.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Welcome Dinner

Kathmandu

food was fine but probably the poorest in quality compared to all we had in nepal ... the food overall is amazing so this was only ok. but the experience for Bipin to give us an introduction to the food and way of eating etc was educational. dancing was ok. we saw a better show in chitwan

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

we walked

Trip Briefing. Evening Tharu Cultural Program

Chitwan National Park

ok i wondered if this would be a bit naff... but it was 45 mins and it was really interesting and they were really fun to watch.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Full Day Jungle Activities in Chitwan

Chitwan National Park

this is the jeep safari - it felt safer than when we did the walk but you dont get to see as many animals i dont think its v cold in the jeep - in december i think its somethign you need to do but it was not as good as the walk - its better to do all options

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Depart Kathmandu

Kathmandu Int. Airport (KTM)

We are so thrilled with the trip Austin planned and organized for us! We were struggling to plan on our own logistically and he put together an itinerary that made perfect sense. He booked wonderful places to stay and booked our car too. When we got to Dublin he met us and gave us a 2 hour walking tour of the city. I plan to hopefully use him again when my family takes a trip to Ireland!

Greetings from Penang Island (Malaysia)

BEFORE THE TRIP
I managed to get in touch with Mr. Ali about my trip to Morocco. So far of the best travel service advisor and planner that I ever encountered. The information that planned and given by Mr. Ali was very clear and outstanding. A 5-star rating travel plan with Wowww when you first received from Mr. Ali that how much work & effort he had put in to share with me in such a short period of time. Well done Mr. Ali!

DURING THE TRIP
My trip goes well throughout my 9 Days road trip.
I was first pick up by Mr. Mohamed on 23 Dec (Friday) @ Casablanca Airport. He was on time and holding the label with my name. Not to blame him, the label with Original Travel is a bit too small on the paper but was OK and manage to meet up with him. :D
Mr. Mohamed was an awesome driver+guide. He has been very helpful and very caring throughout the journey. We have lots of laughter like a friend instead of client throughout our lengthy 2000km+ road journey.

I've total 8 nights in Morocco.
The riad the recommended by Mr.Ali @ Fes was gorgeous, the moment you walked into the riad, seems like walking inside one of the palace.

So far, the most enjoyable stay was in Merzouga in the middle of nowhere of Erg Chebbi Sahara desert where I stayed in the luxury camp of Tiziri Camp. The merely 2Hrs camel ride journey can be boring to many but to me it's simply awesome accompany with a great camel driver Mr. Hamid during the sunset. I would like to mention a great staff there in Tiziri Camp and wish I would return someday to stay there for more day. Thank you Mr. Ahmed, Mr. Hassan (The Chef), Mr.Mohamad and Mr. Mustafa for taking care well on me during my stay in Tiziri Camp.

I need to be frank that my stay in Marrakech didn't go well as per plan.
NOT to blame Original Travel for their planning but instead "The Management Team" from the Riad Passali itself.

The management in Riad Passali is very unreasonable. I supposed to stay there for 2 nights consecutively from 29 - 31 Dec 2022. But then, imagine on the 2nd day 30 Dec early morning after having my breakfast. I supposed she is the riad manager (Incharge Person) asked me to leave and given the reason that Riad Passali is overbooked. As Riad Passali has another group from Germany already booked the room that I'm staying. This is kind of discriminating. I was asked to move out from Riad Passali then move to the other way way way smaller riad few roads down away from Riad Passali namely Riad El Walida. To be frank, I'm flexible in any kind of accommodation. But my in opinion, the management in Riad Passali is very unprofessional.

Riad Passali : Awful management especially to the lady manager (Unfortunately I didn't get her name).
To be fair, I must say the guy who first receiving me to the Riad Passali was Mr. Ayoub had been very friendly and helpful. I'm very sorry for him to work in Riad Passali with such as poor management. I met him in my 1st evening stay on 29 Dec then again early in the morning of 30 Dec while he started to prepare my breakfast. I supposed this had been a routine for him. I doubt, Riad Passali is treating his staff well needless to say to the solo guest like me.

Riad El Walida : (This is the substituted riad that given by the lady from Riad Passali).
The staff working there is friendly but not so informative and not proactive. They don't even tell the WIFI password or what time is the breakfast that going to serve the following day. WIFI only workable around the common area. Well, WIFI is small thing but the service team still need to brush up their skill in term of handling guests.

Imagine, my stay in Marrakech make me feel like I was being downgraded from Riad Passali to the Riad El Walida. If you have been to these 2 riads before then you know how it I felt and I started to compared.

To Original Travel (Kim Kim) side. I understand they did nothing wrong. The problem that created was solely from the management from Riad Passali.

I must say a million thanks to Mr. Said from Original Travel (Kim Kim). He has been very professional that trying his very best to solve my problem in Marrakech. If without Mr. Said, the plan will not go well in Marrakech after the unexpected incident ignite by The Management Team of Riad Passali.

On my last day, Mr. Mohamed who was my 8 days awesome driver need to bid farewell with me as he had been assigned to another new group. Mr Said did a very well arrangement for my transport on the last day. I was assigned assigned with a new driver that send me the Jardin Majorelle and to Marrakech Airport. The new driver was Mr. Soufiane. I must say that Mr. Soufiane was another awesome driver. Very helpful and informative too.

Overall, I would like to highly recommended Original Travel (Kim Kim) to the world.
The are so far the travel agent that offering the best travel service.
Once again, million thanks to Mr. Ali, Mr, Said, Mr. Mohamed and Mr. Soufiane.

Warmest regards,
Boon

Amazing vacation in Morocco, flawlessly planned by Original Travel.

Original travel arranged every detail, from local dinners and wonderful hotels, to the perfect driver. Our trip was outstanding!

We admittedly were nervous entering our first experience with KimKim, not knowing whether the scheduled drivers and guides actually show up, what would the tours really be like, what about the hotels, would the restaurant reservations actually be reserved? Not to worry! Everything went exactly as scheduled, all drivers and guides were exceptional, the hotels were great (one spectacular), and the food astounding., and Marta was there every step of the way. The overall experience could not be better. PS: We want especially to thank Marta for somehow getting us a New Year's eve reservation at José María after we had failed. It was a truly spectacular culinary experience. Marta is remarkable! Thank you.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Rector

Salamanca

This is a very small, boutique hotel is a perfect location related to the historic heart of Salamanca. The service was personalized and exceptional. The rooms were beautiful and well-appointed. We were greeted with champaign and some special treat every night. This is one of the best hotels we have experienced anywhere we have travelled. We cannot recommend it too highly.

Authenticity & Character

Beautiful throughout; with very classy art and decoration.

Location

Staff

Carried bags to room before we knew they were gone. Nothing they would not do to be helpful.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Simply perfect!

Hotel Palacio de Valderrábanos

Ávila

Perfectly located right next to the Cathedral in the heart of the old city. Nothing fancy, but very pleasant.

Authenticity & Character

In historic structure well repurposed.

Location

Could not be better located.

Staff

Professional and accommodating. Expect to carry your own luggage.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel San Antonio El Real

Segovia

We initially thought that the hotel was badly placed, outside the walls of the old city. It turned out to be a perfect location to follow the Roman aqueduct into town. For those with cars, it actually has a parking lot, which you will not find in the city center.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Expect to carry your own luggage. Facility with English was helpful. Accommodating in every way.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Nothing special, but pleasant.

Hotel Madrid Alameda Aeropuerto, Affiliated by Meliá

Madrid

Much higher quality, more pleasant and less generic than your average airport hotel.

Authenticity & Character

Location

10 minutes to the terminal. In a neighborhood of apartment residences.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Day Excursion to Douro Valley: Wine Tasting & River Cruise

Porto

This was the highpoint of our two weeks in Iberia. Coming from California wine country, BUT already hooked on Duoro red wines, we were not prepared for the steep hillsides and rugged beauty of the river. Second, the specific driver, Rui, was remarkable: Personable, knowledgeable, and responsive. He specifically approved of the choice of Quintos de S. Tiago in Mesâo Frio, which on the outside is a dump that no-one would pull off and visit on their own--burned out buildings, junky driveway, humblest of houses. But, upon entering the house through an open-hearth kitchen, we knew we were in for something special. The food, the wine, the atmosphere, and the host made this the Quinta an unforgettable experience. Keep using Rui and this particular Quinta.

Quality of Experience

It rained all day, and we didn't care. Even the river cruise was perfect.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Everything you could want in a driver--and more. He really opened up after he became familiar with us.

Transport

Guided Visit of Salamanca

Spain

Our guide met us in a timely manner at the hotel and walked us through the University and Cathedral and associated areas. She was delightful, but overly detailed about things that interested her and not necessarily sensitive to whether or not it interested us. She was particularly absorbed with esoteric marginalia about the university. Eventually, after the tour was 30 minutes longer than scheduled, we (gently, I hope) asked her if we could have the opportunity to explore on our own.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Didn't like: Driver knew very little about stops along the way.

Guided Visit of Ávila

Spain

With certificates in tourism and theology, our guide provided the perfect introduction to Avila and its two saints--Teresa and Juan de la Cruz. He quickly picked up our interest in them and shaped the tour and his message to our interests. For instance, at the chapel built in the room where Teresa probably was born, he emphasized the holiness of the space, not the art of the chapel, and he asked if we wanted some time just to sit in prayer and contemplation; we did. He also recommended the monastery where Teresa had trained and lived, and we found it to be a deeply moving experience. I was in the museum business for 40 years, and I deeply appreciated the simple presentations, the unprotected access to the "things," and the freedom to explore on our own time. Our guide reflected that receptive and trusting attitude and helped us discover meaning and treasures beyond the formal tour.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The tour guide provided the perfect introduction and shaped it to our obvious interests as we went. He was responsive and suggestive, with great integrity.

Transport

Privately Guided Visit of Segovia

Spain

This was the most traditional tour of the trip. The handed us ear plugs, spoke into a microphone, and largely led with her back to us. She would have fit as a tour guide in San Francisco. At the same time, she provided a marvelous orientation to the city, not too detailed, but with enough off the wall items--like the first book published in Spanish--to make it fascinating. A special commendation: When she informed us that the Cathedral was closed New Year's Eve (the day of our tour) and New Year's Day, we noted that January 1st was a Sunday, she called a friend to check on service times, which we attended the next day. That is the kind of personal responsiveness you would seldom receive on a tour in the United States. She also helped us plan our walking for the next day. We are grateful for her tour and assistance.

Quality of Experience

There is so very, very much packed into this small city.

Quality of Experience

There is so very, very much packed into this small city.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Transport