Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 15,907 ratings
Read 15,907 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.

Family trip to Barcelona and Valencia
Spain | Aug 23 - Aug 30, 2022

J
Jackie E.
Ridgewood, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 02, 2022
Barcelona- our stay at Be Mate Gracia was incredible- great location (thank you Bea!), and great space for families. The reception and all staff there was so helpful and kind and attentive throughout. I would highly recommend them. Our bike tour was great, great guide! Unfortunately our tour guide for our day trip to Girona-Costa Brava- Pals was so nice, but way too chatty and the tour was not geared towards children at all. My kids were SUPER bored. Pals was an amazing last stop... Read more

Barcelona- our stay at Be Mate Gracia was incredible- great location (thank you Bea!), and great space for families. The reception and all staff there was so helpful and kind and attentive throughout. I would highly recommend them.

Our bike tour was great, great guide!

Unfortunately our tour guide for our day trip to Girona-Costa Brava- Pals was so nice, but way too chatty and the tour was not geared towards children at all. My kids were SUPER bored. Pals was an amazing last stop though.

We did Montjuic on our own which was nice but I would not recommend Poble Espanol- pointless.
Casa Battlo was one of our favorite places in Barcelona, along with Oassis restaurant for delicious salads across from our hotel.
.
Valencia was magical- we loved the city and did a bike ride on our own which I recommend. Although Mon Suites Catedral was clean and in a fabulous centrally located area (the Old town), it was very loud, and the beds were terribly uncomfortable. As a result, I would NOT recommend that place to anyone.

Special thanks to Bea for being so attentive to all of our needs during the trip!

Hotel Reviews
Mon Suites Catedral
Valencia

It was a great location but unfortunately the beds were so so uncomfortable that I cannot recommend it. Rooms were clean, spartan. Great Kitchen.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
clean but the beds were NOT comfortable. felt like sleeping on a table
Be Mate Paseo de Gracia
Barcelona

Great location, great for families, great staff, super helpful, super comfortable beds!!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided Visit of Barcelona by Bike
Guided Visit of Barcelona by Bike
Barcelona
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Flamenco Night
Flamenco Night
Barcelona
Quality of Experience
Day trip to Medieval Girona and Costa Brava
Day trip to Medieval Girona and Costa Brava
Barcelona
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Beatriz
Beatriz De Pablo Rocha
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Sep 06, 2022

Hi Jackie! Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review and for all your detailed feedback, this would be really helpful for us to continue to improve in the future as that's what we always strive for. I'm so glad you enjoyed your trip and thank you so much again for letting us help you to organize it. Best regards! Bea

Unforgettable trip to Uganda!
Uganda | Aug 13 - Sep 1, 2022

I
Irene F.
Austria | Reviewed on Sep 02, 2022
Our trip through Uganda was amazing!
The tour was perfect organized, our driver and guide Teo (Able Safaris, a local office, 19 days) was perfect, he managed everything in a good way.
The gorilla-tracking, the beautiful landscape, the game drives, the friendly people,.. all that we will never forget!
Read more

Our trip through Uganda was amazing!
The tour was perfect organized, our driver and guide Teo (Able Safaris, a local office, 19 days) was perfect, he managed everything in a good way.
The gorilla-tracking, the beautiful landscape, the game drives, the friendly people,.. all that we will never forget!

Hotel Reviews
Isunga Lodge
Fort Portal, Uganda

A extremely beautiful lodge! The architecture, the design, everything well deliberated. Nice and professional people, amazing view,..

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rushaga Gorilla Camp
Bugambira

Nice lodge, nice location, amazing activity (gorilla-trakking), one of our best lodges!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Forest Cottages
Kampala

I would never choose this hotel again! Extremely loud music during the whole night (because it is a wedding hotel), the cleanliness in the room especially the bathroom was disgusting.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Arcadia Lodges Lake Bunyonyi
Kabale
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kidepo Savanna Lodge
Kampala, Uganda
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Topi Lodge
Kampala, Uganda
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Kontiki Hoima
Hoima
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and on to Gulu
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and on to Gulu
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park
Quality of Experience
Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Community Walk
Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Community Walk
Kibale National Park
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Gorilla Tracking/ Village Walk
Gorilla Tracking/ Village Walk
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Sep 21, 2022
Hello Irene,

Thanks so much for your review, I'm really happy that you enjoyed your trip, we have taken note of some the hotels that didn’t meet your expectations. Many thanks as well for your patience and kindness throughout, you have been so great during the whole planning process, and it was such a pleasure to work with you. We will definitely share your comments with all the partners involved.

We really appreciate for trusting us with your trip plan. We hope to see you again in the...
Read more

Hello Irene,

Thanks so much for your review, I'm really happy that you enjoyed your trip, we have taken note of some the hotels that didn’t meet your expectations. Many thanks as well for your patience and kindness throughout, you have been so great during the whole planning process, and it was such a pleasure to work with you. We will definitely share your comments with all the partners involved.

We really appreciate for trusting us with your trip plan. We hope to see you again in the near future with more trips to East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda) or any other part of the world.

Best wishes for your future travel journeys.

Many thanks & kind regards,
Joseph

Antonis knows what he is doing!! Amazing trip...
Greece | Aug 19 - Aug 31, 2022

Cindy
Cindy S.
Erlanger, KY | Reviewed on Sep 02, 2022
Antonis knows what he is doing!! Amazing trip from beginning to end!! From our transfers always being on time and in style, the adventures and tours he planned for us to the perfect locations of all of our hotels! Trip of a lifetime! Thank you Antonis and Kimkim!! Read more

Antonis knows what he is doing!! Amazing trip from beginning to end!! From our transfers always being on time and in style, the adventures and tours he planned for us to the perfect locations of all of our hotels! Trip of a lifetime! Thank you Antonis and Kimkim!!

Hotel Reviews
Elia Ermou Athens Hotel
Athens

Great location and accommodations

Authenticity & Character
Location
Location
Staff
Very kind
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pelican Bay Art Hotel
Mykonos

Very authentic Greek hotel! Beautiful views from the pool.

Authenticity & Character
Views, pool, made me feel like I was in a movie
Location
Not many places to walk to to eat but loved quietness
Staff
Very helpful on recommendations
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tzekos Villas
Santorini

In the middle of everything! Most beautiful view from any hotel I have ever stayed in. My only complaint is the definitely need to update their beds!

Authenticity & Character
Authentic Greek hotel
Location
Beautiful views, in the middle of everything!
Staff
Poor bell boy had to carry all of our very heavy luggage up many flights of stairs and did so with a smile!!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Views from room
Olive Green
Heraklion

Clean and close location to everything

Authenticity & Character
Location
In the middle of everything
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
SanSal Boutique Hotel
Chania

Clean with the most amazing views!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
The Real Cretan Cooking Experience - Private Tour
The Real Cretan Cooking Experience - Private Tour
Chania

The most amazing experience!! From our tour guide to the views to the gracious couple who shared their home and gave us the culinary experience of a lifetime!!

Quality of Experience
Everything!!
Food
Everything was delicious
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Our tour guide was amazing
Sailing Yacht Cruise to Rhenia Island & Delos
Sailing Yacht Cruise to Rhenia Island & Delos
Mykonos

Loved everything, just a very hot day for the walking part. I should have brought an umbrella or fan

Quality of Experience
The sailing and swimming was amazing
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Island of Santorini - Tour & Wine Tasting
The Island of Santorini - Tour & Wine Tasting
Santorini

One of my favorite days. Learning about traditions and the villages. Watching the donkeys carry things up the hills and the wine tasting!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very kind, and adjusted the tour because it was a very busy cruise ship day
Transport
Walking Tour of Acropolis and Plaka
Walking Tour of Acropolis and Plaka
Athens
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Antonis Alexandrou
Antonis
Antonis Alexandrou
Local specialist in Athens | Replied on Sep 07, 2022

Dear Cindy,

I appreciate your feedback and review!! It's always very important for us to know that our guests enjoy the trips that we prepare in Greece!!

I really liked all the photos that you uploaded from your trip!! You are all lovely!!

Thank you so much!!

Keep smiling!!

Antonis

A dream come true
Norway | Aug 19 - Aug 31, 2022

sudhir
sudhir m.
India | Reviewed on Sep 02, 2022
We have wanted to go to Norway for a long time to see the Fjords.We got great advise , where to go what to do from Tom. the planning stage was extensive with multiple revision to my itinerary.
The trip was planned and executed to perfection by Tom. It was personalised to my taste and liking. Tom even figured out a way for me to drive a Porsche 911 GTS , which was an absolute pleasure for me. All the hotels chosen were to my liking and beyond. From when we landed till we left Tom was in...
Read more

We have wanted to go to Norway for a long time to see the Fjords.We got great advise , where to go what to do from Tom. the planning stage was extensive with multiple revision to my itinerary.
The trip was planned and executed to perfection by Tom. It was personalised to my taste and liking. Tom even figured out a way for me to drive a Porsche 911 GTS , which was an absolute pleasure for me. All the hotels chosen were to my liking and beyond. From when we landed till we left Tom was in touch constantly to help me with my every whims and fancy, it was like have him as friend along with me in the trip. We are planning a trip in winter soon. My friends and relatives who saw the pictures want to come and wanted Toms contacts.
we had an amazing experience in food , places we went , the tours everything.
Cheers!
Thanks Tom

Local specialist: Tom Christer Larsen
Tom Christer
Tom Christer Larsen
Local specialist in Oslo, Norway | Replied on Sep 02, 2022

Thanks for those kind words, it was both fun to plan and a pleasure arranging your Norwegian journey. I also felt like I was your friend following you around your trip, and it was almost like i was a part of your journey as well (and wish I had been a part of that Porsche drive he he). Happy to hear you had a great time, and both you and family and friends are more than welcome to come back to Norway.

Cheers!

Best regards,
Tom

Hi, my daughter and I took a fairly short tri...
Galapagos Islands | Aug 24 - Aug 30, 2022

Wynette
Wynette Y.
Takoma Park, MD | Reviewed on Sep 01, 2022
Hi, my daughter and I took a fairly short trip to the Galapagos in August 2022 and Alvaro at kimkim set up every detail. Through Alvaro, kimkim continues to provide a wonderful, small group, personalized trip. We had the luxury of being met at airports and ports, and taken to comfortable, well-located hotels. Whenever I had a question or there was a problem (in our case, in the form of a cancelled flight that threw the schedule off), Alvaro was there and worked intensely to help. ... Read more

Hi, my daughter and I took a fairly short trip to the Galapagos in August 2022 and Alvaro at kimkim set up every detail. Through Alvaro, kimkim continues to provide a wonderful, small group, personalized trip. We had the luxury of being met at airports and ports, and taken to comfortable, well-located hotels. Whenever I had a question or there was a problem (in our case, in the form of a cancelled flight that threw the schedule off), Alvaro was there and worked intensely to help.

Before the trip, Alvaro worked through several different itineraries with me, as I tried to figure out what would work. He was, throughout, friendly, cordial, responsive, and full of suggestions that might fit. He listens well, and never seems to get impatient. I'll always associate our memorable trip with his benevolent presence, and would highly recommend both him and kimkim!

Hotel Review
Acacia Galápagos Boutique Hotel
Puerto Ayora

Hi, this hotel is clean and stylish, and the staff go out of their way to be helpful, in a quiet, intelligent way. The breakfast was also fresh-cooked and very good!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Sep 01, 2022

Dear Wynette!

You are so amazing and I loved planning a journey for you and Arielle to the Galapagos Islands. I appreciate very much your kind review, I still have lots of plans for you to get to know the other hidden wonders that Ecuador has to offer you.

Warm hugs from your friend in the middle of the world!
Alvaro

Top country
Colombia | Aug 18 - Aug 31, 2022

L
lorenzo d.
Italy | Reviewed on Sep 01, 2022
Great Experience,
Best guides in Bogotà at the market (Alejandro?) and in tayrona, Aruen
Need experience Ely in bogota
All places remarkable except for Santa Marta, nothing really to see and remember
Also the trip to playa tranquilla was far from expectation, too far, too crowdy
Read more

Great Experience,
Best guides in Bogotà at the market (Alejandro?) and in tayrona, Aruen
Need experience Ely in bogota
All places remarkable except for Santa Marta, nothing really to see and remember
Also the trip to playa tranquilla was far from expectation, too far, too crowdy

Hotel Review
Villa Playa Tayrona
Magdalena

Great position and wonderful room, try the spa

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Michael Gold
Michael
Michael Gold
Local specialist in San Agustín, Huila, Colombia | Replied on Sep 01, 2022

Dear Lorenzo, Federica and Michela,

It was a great pleasure for all of us to accompany you on your journey through Colombia. It was very nice with you and I was very happy to see that you were able to enjoy the country to the fullest.

The beaches in and around Cartagena are always very crowded, you are right. Nevertheless, I hope you were able to enjoy the last beach day. :)

We are looking forward to your next visit!

The Chaska Tours Team

Our Family Spain Trip
Spain | Aug 12 - Aug 20, 2022

Brenda
Brenda B.
Abilene, TX | Reviewed on Sep 01, 2022
Our favorite guide was Jordi in Barcelona. He was the perfect guide and extremely knowledgeable; providing us history , taking us to a fabulous restaurant for lunch, visiting incredible sites (Prak guell, sagrada familia). We also loved Mercedes. She was extremely knowledgeable about Seville and we loved visiting the alcazar and the Roman Catholic cathedral. And Elena was also one of our favorite guides. She was so knowledgeable about Spain and Frigiliana (which we loved so much!). One of our... Read more

Our favorite guide was Jordi in Barcelona. He was the perfect guide and extremely knowledgeable; providing us history , taking us to a fabulous restaurant for lunch, visiting incredible sites (Prak guell, sagrada familia). We also loved Mercedes. She was extremely knowledgeable about Seville and we loved visiting the alcazar and the Roman Catholic cathedral. And Elena was also one of our favorite guides. She was so knowledgeable about Spain and Frigiliana (which we loved so much!). One of our favorite sites/tours was trekking the Caminito del Rey!!! Loved it!!!

Activity Reviews
Modernist Barcelona: Gaudi's Highlights
Modernist Barcelona: Gaudi's Highlights
Barcelona

Jordi, our guide, shared with us the history of Gaudi and his beautiful, incredible creations.

Quality of Experience
Visiting Gaudi’s creations.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide, Jordi, was incredible !
Transport
Perfect with walking and taxis when needed.
Alhambra Private Guided Tour
Alhambra Private Guided Tour
Spain

Our guide gave us wonderful history about the Alhambra and all that was occurring at the time. The palace was beautiful!

Quality of Experience
The Alhambra was beautiful and we were able to see everything close up.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide, Enrique, was great.
Transport
On time
Transfer to Nerja with Frigiliana day trip
Transfer to Nerja with Frigiliana day trip
Spain

Frigiliana was the perfect small town to visit. It was beautiful and a nice relaxing place. Elena was the perfect tour guide. We loved having her as our guide!!!

Quality of Experience
The town was beautiful!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Elena was incredible! She was so knowledgeable and extremely sweet!
Transport
Perfect traveling vehicle and a nice relaxing drive to Frigiliana.
Caminito del Rey with guide
Caminito del Rey with guide
Spain

Caminito del Rey was Amazing!!! We loved trekking by the tall cliffs. We love nature and this tour was incredible!

Quality of Experience
The scenery was incredible!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Pleasant guide, Alfredo.
Transport
On time and very nice vehicle and drive to Seville.
Sevilla Guided Tour
Sevilla Guided Tour
Seville

Our guide, Mercedes, was very knowledgeable about Spain history. She gave us an incredible tour of alcazar and the Roman Catholic Cathedral. I learned so much!

Quality of Experience
We loved visiting alcazar.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mercedes was so knowledgeable and pleasant!
Transport
Mercedes was on time.
Local specialist: Dalia Bouzerar
Dalia
Dalia Bouzerar
Local specialist in Spain | Replied on Sep 01, 2022

Hello Brenda,
Thank you for your wonderful review! It was such a pleasure hosting your lovely family and all the guides had a wonderful time with you as well!
I'll be sure to pass on your kind words to them.

Have a great day and hope to host you again in Spain very soon!
Warm regards,

Dalia

Costa Rica Trip August 2022
Costa Rica | Aug 14 - Aug 25, 2022

Jayshree
Jayshree D.
Berkeley, CA | Reviewed on Sep 01, 2022
Both my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our Costa Rica trip. All the planning of our activities and places to visit was done in conjunction with Yuliana and she was able to set us up with very comfortable, inviting and clean accommodations at every stop. All the hotels provided excellent breakfasts so we were well fortified for our activities
Our trip started in San Jose, then a private transportation to La Fortuna/Arenal area, boat transportation to Monteverdi area and finally a private...
Read more

Both my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our Costa Rica trip. All the planning of our activities and places to visit was done in conjunction with Yuliana and she was able to set us up with very comfortable, inviting and clean accommodations at every stop. All the hotels provided excellent breakfasts so we were well fortified for our activities
Our trip started in San Jose, then a private transportation to La Fortuna/Arenal area, boat transportation to Monteverdi area and finally a private car trip to Tamarindo, a beautiful beach town on the Pacific Ocean.
We had excellent guides for all our activities which included hiking near The Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna water falls, riding class 3-4 rapids on the Balsa River, exploring Hanging Bridges and The Monteverde Cloud Forests, Ziplining and finally kayaking in the Pacific Ocean. We were able to see many flora and fauna, including the beautiful Quetzal, Howler monkeys and sleepy Sloths!
The whole trip was amazing, stress free with the excellent planning of Yuliana and her team at kimkim. Would highly recommend planning a trip with them.

Activity Reviews
Tamarindo Estuary Boat Tour
Tamarindo Estuary Boat Tour
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Kayak & Snorkel Tour in Tamarindo Bay
Kayak & Snorkel Tour in Tamarindo Bay
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Whitewater Rafting on the Balsa River Class II & III
Whitewater Rafting on the Balsa River Class II & III
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sky Walk, Sky Tram & Sky Trek Zip Line Adventure
Sky Walk, Sky Tram & Sky Trek Zip Line Adventure
Monteverde

Daniel, our guide for the hanging bridges tour was extremely knowledgeable, patient and had great communication skills. The whole group of assistants working on the 7 different Ziplines were professional, caring and reassuring those who were a little scared of the Ziplines.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica | Replied on Sep 01, 2022

Hello Jayshree,
I hope you are well.
Thank you for the time to leave us this amazing review.
It was our pleasure assisting you during this time, it is great to know you had a good time in our country, and enjoy all the activities we planned for you and your husband.
I hope you could visit us in the future, and explore different destinations with us.
Warm regards from Costa Rica.
Best,
Yuliana

Outstanding, personal attention
Italy | Aug 22 - Aug 30, 2022

Heather
Heather G.
Marblehead, MA | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
KimKim organized an amazing trip for our family of four to Italy. Sonia, our travel agent, attended to our every request, and Daniela, our personal concierge, made sure that all of our transfers went seamlessly. The tours arranged (mainly LivTours) in Rome were outstanding. Our family was often alone or with one other couple so our tours were private and efficient. The tour guides, Jonathan, Elena and Gio, were knowledgeable and friendly. Our transfer from Rome to Sorrento was smooth and... Read more

KimKim organized an amazing trip for our family of four to Italy. Sonia, our travel agent, attended to our every request, and Daniela, our personal concierge, made sure that all of our transfers went seamlessly. The tours arranged (mainly LivTours) in Rome were outstanding. Our family was often alone or with one other couple so our tours were private and efficient. The tour guides, Jonathan, Elena and Gio, were knowledgeable and friendly. Our transfer from Rome to Sorrento was smooth and quick. We had a wonderful tour with Jean Luc in Pompei and very intimate local tours throughout Sorrento and the Amalfi coast of a winery, lemon grove, cheese farm and pizzeria. Every outing felt intimate and authentic. Overall, I would give KimKim 5 stars for exceeding our expectations. I will, without question, use their services for future travel.

Hotel Reviews
47 Boutique Hotel
Rome

Clean, attention to detail, every amenity available

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Corallo
Sorrento
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private golf cart tour
Private golf cart tour
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Small group tour of Vatican City , Sistine Chapel & saint Peter's Basilica
Small group tour of Vatican City , Sistine Chapel & saint Peter's Basilica
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Small Group tour of Colosseum underground, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum ( max 6 people)
Small Group tour of Colosseum underground, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum ( max 6 people)
Rome
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sorrento Coast & Capri Boat Tour
Sorrento Coast & Capri Boat Tour
Italy
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit of the Amalfi Coast  villages  with wine tasting and lunch at Tenuta di San Francesco
Visit of the Amalfi Coast villages with wine tasting and lunch at Tenuta di San Francesco
Italy
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lemon Grove- Mozzarella Farm in Sorrento area
Lemon Grove- Mozzarella Farm in Sorrento area
Italy
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Sonia Vanzin
Sonia
Sonia Vanzin
Local specialist in Venice | Replied on Sep 01, 2022

Ciao Heather. Grazie for your nice review.
It was a pleasure planning your family trip and glad you now have great memories.
Wish you all the best.

Marta was amazing. Kim Kim for Portugal is a definite recommendation!
Portugal | Aug 20 - Aug 30, 2022

C
christy h.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
Marta was amazing. The vacation was amazing. We really enjoyed Rui, Paolo and Sandra are very high recommends! The ladies that took us on the food tours were great as was the gal that took us on a history tour of Lisbon. The gentleman that took us on the Algarve wine tour was knowledgeable but not so good as a guide. He was pleasant but not so good at making it a personal experience. Bea was very helpful when she was able to get the extra room at the Algarve hotel. That hotel is very... Read more

Marta was amazing. The vacation was amazing. We really enjoyed Rui, Paolo and Sandra are very high recommends! The ladies that took us on the food tours were great as was the gal that took us on a history tour of Lisbon. The gentleman that took us on the Algarve wine tour was knowledgeable but not so good as a guide. He was pleasant but not so good at making it a personal experience. Bea was very helpful when she was able to get the extra room at the Algarve hotel. That hotel is very Bohemian and offered no privacy and thank you so much for fixing the issue. That made the experience so much better!
One suggestion is that I didn’t realize that the meeting point for the catamaran trip was more than 30 minutes drive from the hotel. I wish that the instructions were a little more clear about that. We ended up not making it on that trip because (my fault) I assumed that the departure point was Marina across the street from the hotel. The boat company let us take another cruise the following day but it wasn’t the great cruise that we had booked. But at least it was something.
Overall the trip was planned and managed very well. There are not enough amazing words to describe how happy I am with the trip. I will only use Kim Kim to plan vacations from now on. I have already recommended it more than 5 times and will continue to do so.
Also one final shout out again to Rui, Sandra and Paulo. And of course to Marta and Bea. Thank you so much! Hope to be in touch soon for my next adventure!
Best Regards
Christy

Hotel Reviews
Hotel AlmaLusa Baixa/Chiado
Lisbon

This hotel is beyond amazing. It’s gorgeous the staff are very helpful. The food was great. The room was so nice. This is located in a nice location definitely recommend!!!

Authenticity & Character
So gorgeous inside
Location
Easy to get to restaurants and points of interest.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Super clean. Room seemed new
The Arc Carris
Porto

This was ok. The food was great. The staff were nice. The room was ok. It suited the purpose

Authenticity & Character
It was ok
Location
Porto
Staff
They were nice
Cleanliness & Comfort
It was ok
Lagos Avenida Hotel
Lagos

This is a beautiful bohemian hotel if you are a single traveler. The rooms were clean and well maintained. The issue is that there is no privacy to use the shower, dress/ undress and very little privacy for the toilet. But my experience was that the room was lovely as long as I was the only one staying in the room. The restaurant, bar and lobby are gorgeous - but I would not want to stay in a room with another person due to lack of privacy

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful lobby
Location
Right across from Marina and very near the old downtown and beautiful shops and restaurants
Staff
Very friendly and exceptionally helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
The lack of privacy makes me rate it lower - very bohemian
Hotel Star Inn Lisbon Aeroporto
Lisboa

This hotel was ok - there was a mediocre restaurant and bar - it was close to the airport so that was very convenient.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing great except that the management provided a lovely welcome snack and cherry liquor shots
Location
Right next to airport with feee shuttle
Staff
They were ok nothing really spectacular
Cleanliness & Comfort
It was an older property with zero personality and the bar and restaurant were not nice
Activity Reviews
Architectural & Historical Highlights of Lisbon with a Local
Architectural & Historical Highlights of Lisbon with a Local
Lisbon

I enjoyed all the historical stories about Lisbon

Quality of Experience
Everything
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Food and fun
Transport
I like walking.
Foodie Experience in Porto
Foodie Experience in Porto
Porto

Marion was very knowledgeable. The places w we went and quality of tastings were high. I would definitely recommend her and the tour

Quality of Experience
The stories that went along with the food tastings.
Food
The quality of food and drinks was first rate
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Marion was great and we enjoyed the tour. She was personable and knowledgeable
Vintage Car Tour of Porto
Vintage Car Tour of Porto
Porto

This was a lot of fun. Sandra’s extensive knowledge about Porto and her ability to tell the story made this a fun adventure.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Both Sandra and our driver were a lot of fun
Transport
Super cute vintage car
Day Excursion to Douro Valley:  Wine Tasting & River Cruise
Day Excursion to Douro Valley: Wine Tasting & River Cruise
Porto

Definitely one of the best tours and days I have had on vacations ever! Rui was great. He arranged for a wonderful meal with a wine maker where we bought several cases of wine. I loved this day. Rui is super knowledgeable and definitely a recommended guide.

Quality of Experience
The wine, port and food at the Quinta was amazing
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Rui
Transport
Very clean vehicle
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Portugal

Paulo is amazing. His plan of visiting Sintra and Monserrate made sense based on the day’s weather and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Paulo also gave us some great recommendations for our trip to Algarve. He is great. Highly recommend him as a private guide

Quality of Experience
Such a gorgeous day. Paulo is very knowledgeable
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Paulo
Transport
Very clean
Catamaran Cruise to Benagil & Carvoeiro w/Snorkeling & SUP
Catamaran Cruise to Benagil & Carvoeiro w/Snorkeling & SUP
Portugal

We ended up missing the original cruise. I didn’t realize that the meeting point was 30-40 minutes from the hotel. We took a cruise the next day. It was nice

Quality of Experience
The boat was nice the crew was fun
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Wine Tasting & Lunch at a Portuguese Quinta
Wine Tasting & Lunch at a Portuguese Quinta
Portugal

This was wine tasting in Algarve. There was no lunch included. The guide was ok. He was knowledgeable but the wines we tried were low end and well it wasnt great at all . Was lunch supposed to be included?

Quality of Experience
The wines were meh confused about the lunch since it wasn’t included
Food
There was no food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
This wine tasting was nothing like the one we had with Rui
Transport
We drove ourselves
 Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk
Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk
Portugal

This was fun and the food was good

Quality of Experience
The guide was great and the food was too
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
I like walking
Local specialist: Marta Trzeciakowska
Marta
Marta Trzeciakowska
Local specialist in Madrid, Spain | Replied on Sep 01, 2022

Hi Christy, thank you so much for your kind words, it was a pleasure to create this experience for you in Portugal and I am thrilled Lee and you enjoyed it. The location of each activity is always in the travel documents but we will make sure it is well pointed out. The lunch at the Quinta was not available and we agreed to only do the wine tour, but next time you visit Portugal I will make sure you enjoy the Quinta too :) All my best, Marta

KimKim = A+! Highly Recommend!!
Argentina | Aug 19 - Aug 23, 2022

M
Michael S.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
Marina covered all the bases and was excellent. Our experience with Argentina and with KimKim was AMAZING! Trip of a lifetime! Only downside is now we’re quite spoiled and will probably never NOT use KimKim if it is available in whatever destination we head to next!! Read more

Marina covered all the bases and was excellent. Our experience with Argentina and with KimKim was AMAZING! Trip of a lifetime!

Only downside is now we’re quite spoiled and will probably never NOT use KimKim if it is available in whatever destination we head to next!!

Hotel Review
Panoramic Grand Hotel
Puerto Iguazú

Excellent location and accommodations. Pool is a refreshing touch!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Biking Buenos Aires
Biking Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires
Asado Dinner at El Fogón
Asado Dinner at El Fogón
Buenos Aires

Staff, ambiance, and food were a must fit an already perfect visit to the city!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visiting the Argentine Waterfalls of Iguazu
Visiting the Argentine Waterfalls of Iguazu
Argentina

Laura was an excellent guide and just an overall wonderful human being! The falls were breathtaking and we wouldn’t have had the same experience without her. This is a MUST do trip in Argentina!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Marina Sinigagliesi

Trip of a lifetime to Morocco
Morocco | Jun 9 - Jun 29, 2022

Lam
Lam N.
Missoula, MT | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
We, like so many people, had a lot of wanderlust built up from the pandemic years. We also had a few family milestones come up this year. So we wanted a really special trip and we let our graduating high school senior pick the destination -- Morocco. That was the full extent of our ability to plan. We didn't want to be on a big all-inclusive tour, but neither could we manage a fully independently-planned itinerary. Kimkim came to the rescue! Our local specialist team planned a... Read more

We, like so many people, had a lot of wanderlust built up from the pandemic years. We also had a few family milestones come up this year. So we wanted a really special trip and we let our graduating high school senior pick the destination -- Morocco. That was the full extent of our ability to plan. We didn't want to be on a big all-inclusive tour, but neither could we manage a fully independently-planned itinerary.

Kimkim came to the rescue!

Our local specialist team planned a fantastic and varied itinerary (Sea, Rif Mountains, Imperial Cities, Sahara, Atlas Mountains) for us, complete with private van transportation between places. I so appreciated that they took the initiative to mock up a plan, including accommodations, based on some initial feedback about our traveling style and objectives, and then were able to adjust and fine tune (that's too fancy! not enough time here, too much history/serious stuff, more camels! etc.) to craft us a trip that everybody was excited about (we have 4 boys 11-19) and which made good use of our time there to see a little bit of everything. It was so nice to be able to just relax into the rhythm of the trip once we got on the plane, vs scrambling to arrange the next place, transportation, etc.

Mike Tyson famously said, "Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth." The plan was fantastic. Our punch in the mouth came when a member of our group became ill in Fes one week into our trip. With four boys in tow and myself being the only person who could communicate in a language other than English, we would have been completely overwhelmed had we not had the amazing support from Abdellah and his local team. They rearranged the remainder of our trip, helped secure medical care, made sure the boys were still amused during our extended stay in one of our stops, in short, did all the heavy lifting needed so that we could continue on safely and with a minimum of stress, and maintained all the must-keeps (camels, camels and camels) from our itinerary despite the changes.

Abdellah and his team made us feel truly cared for and the guides they arranged, especially in Chefchaouen and Essaouira, seemed personally invested in showcasing the best and most interesting parts of their cities.

We went to Morocco knowing that it would be the trip of a lifetime but assuming that we would keep exploring new places after that; we now know there is so much more to explore there and plan to return!

Hotel Reviews
Riad Madu Luxury Camp
Merzouga

This hotel on the edge of the Sahara desert was a totally magical experience. We'd had a long day on the road to get there and arrived in the early evening. The temperature was around 110. The boys rolled out of the car and the hotel staff, knowing exactly what they needed, showed them directly to the pool. The pool deck was supervised by a very charismatic sheepdog whom the boys immediately fell in love with. Everything about the hotel is beautiful and the dinner was excellent.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Chbanate
Essaouira

The accommodations were beautiful and the hotel was very conveniently located. But our stay was made especially memorable because of the really fantastic hotel manager. He and his staff made us feel really cared for.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Sep 01, 2022
Hi Lam, We really appreciate the time you took to leave such a detailed and thoughtful review about our service. We're happy that you spent a wonderful time in Morocco enjoying its scenic sights, imperial cities, historical monuments and inspirational cultures. It means the world to us to hear that our staff have taken good care of you especially when a member of your group got sick, and that we did our best to make sure everything was going well. Our guests' safety is our priority and we... Read more

Hi Lam,

We really appreciate the time you took to leave such a detailed and thoughtful review about our service.

We're happy that you spent a wonderful time in Morocco enjoying its scenic sights, imperial cities, historical monuments and inspirational cultures. It means the world to us to hear that our staff have taken good care of you especially when a member of your group got sick, and that we did our best to make sure everything was going well. Our guests' safety is our priority and we always strive much hard to make them feel truly cared for throughout the whole trip. Your valuable comments are what helps us to improve our business, and push us forward to even greater progress. Original travels designs wonderful trips for guests and welcome them warmly as members of family not as outsiders or strangers, and we are so grateful to know that we delivered this commitment to you.

Wish to serve you again in the future and design another great trip for you exploring other parts of the country and dig more deeply into its magical beauty.

Best,
Abdel

Amazing trip to Costa Rica with kimkim
Costa Rica | Aug 16 - Aug 26, 2022

M
MOTTI T.
Potomac, MD | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
I'd like to split my review into 2, our experience with kimkim and the serendipity team, and Costa Rica overall:
1. We knew nothing about CR prior to this trip, Bryan and the serendipity team built a perfect itinerary for us, adjusted it multiple times based on our preferences and were fast and efficient. Before but also during our trip and sometimes in a very short notice, they were always attentive, available and flexible, this trip could not have been so successful if it wasn't for Bryan...
Read more

I'd like to split my review into 2, our experience with kimkim and the serendipity team, and Costa Rica overall:
1. We knew nothing about CR prior to this trip, Bryan and the serendipity team built a perfect itinerary for us, adjusted it multiple times based on our preferences and were fast and efficient. Before but also during our trip and sometimes in a very short notice, they were always attentive, available and flexible, this trip could not have been so successful if it wasn't for Bryan and the team, THANK YOU 🙏
2. Costa Rica - how can you not fall in love with this country? Starting with the warm and welcoming people of CR and continue with the amazing nature, and finally the different attractions and things to do, we enjoyed every bit of it, our guides (Kenneth and Pablo in Arenal, Edson in the Sloth territory, Hector and David at Rio Celeste horseback riding, Andy at Monteverde, Juan at Damas) all were absolutely amazing!
We will definitely come back to CR following this great vacation.
Thank you, Pura Vida!
Motti and the family

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
La Fortuna

The villa seriously surprised us, we didn't expect such an amazing accommodation, the hotel is in great location and all was great!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Shana By the Beach Resort
Manuel Antonio

To be honest, when we got there the room wasn't ready and it wasn't what we expected, also the hotel doesn't have a beach, it has access to a public beach and that too isn't easy to go to (or come back from) but I have to say, the management listened to our feedback and insisted on fixing the experience right away, our room was changed, we were given opportunity to enjoy other services and it was absolutely amazing! They have a pool that cannot be beaten, great hotel, definitely coming back.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
El Establo Mountain Hotel
Monteverde

This is probably our least favorite hotel but nothing wrong with it, we just a little outdated comparing to other hotels and the facility on the mountain was a bit tough, limited pool and bar, but again, pretty decent

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rio Celeste Hideaway Resort
Bijagua

This was our favorite, amazing hotel and staff, need to go back soon!! 😂

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Bryan Leon
Bryan
Bryan Leon
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Sep 08, 2022

Hola Motti and the family,

We really appreciate you taking the time to share your rating with us. We look forward to seeing you again in our small but beautiful country.

We are proud of our tour guides because they are passionate about sharing the details of our biodiversity. We will share your comments with all partners involved.

It was a pleasure to work with you! :) Thank you to contribute to our local economy with your visit.

Pura Vida,
Bryan

Our driver Ilyas was an absolute pleasure. We...
Morocco | Aug 8 - Aug 16, 2022

A
Aaron J.
Australia | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022

Our driver Ilyas was an absolute pleasure. We spent over a week driving around with him exploring Morocco. He was the perfect mix of a great guide as well as a fun and interesting person to hang out with. The bookings made by Mohamed and the Kimkim team made our journey easy and maximized our time. Thoroughly recommend this entire process for those looking to explore the kingdom of Morocco.

Local specialist: Mohamed El Asely
Mohamed
Mohamed El Asely
Local specialist in Atlas Mountains | Replied on Aug 31, 2022

Hi Aaron,

Thank you so much for your kind words which are highly appreciated.

We’re so glad to hear that you had a wonderful journey and passed a great time in our gorgeous country with Ilyas, one of the best drivers we have in our company. An excellent experience is obviously what we set as our goal for every guest who comes to enjoy Moroccan kingdom, and discover its beauty. We take a lot of pride in our work and we are so grateful that we made your trip a success.

Looking forward to having you again in our country.

Best,
Mohamed

A memorable trip I had been to Norway t...
Norway | Aug 8 - Aug 24, 2022

gerard
gerard b.
Fitchburg, MA | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
A memorable trip I had been to Norway twice before so one may think I had done it all - far from it. Despite my age of 76 I had planned a hiking trip w
trip with Kim-Kim tours. It was an independent tour with Kim-Kim making most of the itinerary, booking guides, gondolas etc and making helpful suggestions
The result being, that despite
a couple problems, that this was an awesome trip and experience. The first 6 days of the 3 week trip I relived past experiences in Oslo, ...
Read more

A memorable trip

I had been to Norway twice before so one may think I had done it all - far from it. Despite my age of 76 I had planned a hiking trip w
trip with Kim-Kim tours. It was an independent tour with Kim-Kim making most of the itinerary, booking guides, gondolas etc and making helpful suggestions
The result being, that despite
a couple problems, that this was an awesome trip and experience. The first 6 days of the 3 week trip I relived past experiences in Oslo, Stavanger and Bergen climbing pulpit's rock, dining on wharf in Bergen, cruising the archipelago in Oslo, etc., but I also had many new adventures like hiring a guide in Oslo (Kim-Kim suggestion) that was fantastic. Kim-Kim gave me an option of mountains to hike at every stop and also options on accomations. I rented a car in Bergen and headed to Kalvag, staying in unforgettable Knutholmen. Unfortunately it had rained all July in Norway so despite sunny weather the ground was saturated and gave way on my hike causing me to have a serious fall and injury. The owner of knutholmen was fantastic in helping me, but my hiking trip was ended. This is where Kim-Kim stepped up and not only saved my trip but made it the best sight seeing trip of my life. Linda, from Kim-Kim, each night provided me with incredible scenic drives and interesting stops and activities along the way. I have seen incredible scenery I would have never seen without her help. Norway turned out to be the most beautiful country I have ever seen. So instead of the fall ruining my trip, it turned it into a fantastic explorative journey that Kim-Kim enhanced with Linda's constant help. For example, Andalnes and route 93 with the Trollstigen drive are indescribable beauty suggested to me by Linda.
It was truly a trip I will never forget !

Activity Review
Oslo City Walk with a Local
Oslo City Walk with a Local
Oslo
Quality of Experience
Everything
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Wit and knowledge
Transport
I used my own rental but kim-kim did move my bags once. Each country had excellent transports of busses, trains ferries
Local specialist: Linda Veråsdal
Linda
Linda Veråsdal
Local specialist in Norway | Replied on Sep 07, 2022

Hi Jerry, thank you so much for your wonderful review! I am really to read that you had a great experience and enjoyed our suggestions and planning. I hope to see you in Norway again another time. Still things to explore! :-) Best wishes, Linda

Hi - I totally recommend KimKim in Morocco ; Kudos to the team!
Morocco | Aug 5 - Aug 14, 2022

Roel
Roel S.
Rye, NY | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
Hi - I totally recommend KimKim in Morocco for organizing your next trip. Our experience has been fantastic! The planning process - ahead of the trip - was a smooth ride. I continued to make quite a lot of changes to the itinerary, but Abdel and Said (with whom I communicated online via the kimkim website) remained calm and patient, and provided speedy and thoughtful answers to all my requests and questions.
Then, during the trip itself, we remained in touch with Said (via Whatsapp) to...
Read more

Hi - I totally recommend KimKim in Morocco for organizing your next trip. Our experience has been fantastic! The planning process - ahead of the trip - was a smooth ride. I continued to make quite a lot of changes to the itinerary, but Abdel and Said (with whom I communicated online via the kimkim website) remained calm and patient, and provided speedy and thoughtful answers to all my requests and questions.
Then, during the trip itself, we remained in touch with Said (via Whatsapp) to make small tweaks along the way. And also during that time Said was amazingly responsive and action-oriented.
The trip itself was glorious, because Morocco has a lot to offer. We are a family with 4 teenage kids (i.e.: sometimes hard to please!), and they all loved the surprising activities, beautiful hotels, impressive landscapes, the mix of cultures, and the great Moroccon food.
Also, the Kimkim team and I ensured we had sufficient variety in the program, and that we also had some downtime - during which we couldn't still anyway and organized a few optional activities ourselves (e.g. hammams, cooking class). :-)
Also a shoutout to Samir, our driver from Original Travels.!
In conclusion: What an amazing trip it was!
Will definitely use KimKim for a possible following trip in another country.

Hotel Review
Riad Salam Fes
Fes

Everything about this hotel is amazing: the history, the entourage, the service. But I do want to call out Mohammed and his team, who always welcomed us with a smile and with kind words. That made us really feel home at this glorious hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Abdellah El Asely
Abdellah
Abdellah El Asely
Local specialist in Marrakech | Replied on Sep 01, 2022
Hi Roel, Thank you so much for giving us such a perfect rating and leaving us an amazing five star review. It was a pleasure to have you in our beautiful country and make your journey an unforgettable one. We really love to learn that you enjoyed all the destinations and activities we have crafted for you and the hospitality provided by the members of our team. We always value our guests' feedback and take it into consideration so as to improve the guest's experience and enhance their... Read more

Hi Roel,

Thank you so much for giving us such a perfect rating and leaving us an amazing five star review.

It was a pleasure to have you in our beautiful country and make your journey an unforgettable one. We really love to learn that you enjoyed all the destinations and activities we have crafted for you and the hospitality provided by the members of our team. We always value our guests' feedback and take it into consideration so as to improve the guest's experience and enhance their satisfaction. Your awesome comments have been shared with our team to let them know that their hard work was so much valued.

So happy that your visit to Morocco was memorable and we look forward to having you again in our beautiful country.

Best,
Abdel

Go local with Jessica!
Italy | Aug 7 - Aug 20, 2022

E
Eileen S.
Manhattan, NY | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
We had a wonderful trip traveling through Venice, South Tyrol, and the northern lakes region of Italy. Jessica helped us book a sensible itinerary, with stays at boutique hotels (often recently renovated) that we would not have easily found ourselves. She set us up with several terrific local tour guides, including a family-owned restaurant where we made pasta in a private class and enjoyed a fabulous meal overlooking the countryside. Post-pandemic, the tour guide industry has shrunk as... Read more

We had a wonderful trip traveling through Venice, South Tyrol, and the northern lakes region of Italy. Jessica helped us book a sensible itinerary, with stays at boutique hotels (often recently renovated) that we would not have easily found ourselves. She set us up with several terrific local tour guides, including a family-owned restaurant where we made pasta in a private class and enjoyed a fabulous meal overlooking the countryside. Post-pandemic, the tour guide industry has shrunk as people have changed careers, so it is definitely worth going through a knowledgeable and connected travel agent.
Jessica was also extremely responsive and sensitive to our budget objectives. We also through her a last-minute curveball in adding a friend's child to our reservation the week before we left, and she was able to maneuver quickly to arrange this for us, saving us time and stress. I highly recommend her and the kimkim platform for a well-planned vacation.

Hotel Reviews
Ca' dei Proverbi Suites
Venice

great location, newly renovated

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Goldenstern Townhouse
Bolzano

gorgeous, artful decor, newly renovated. We had a spacious suite. We loved this place. They had a great interior designer. Wonderful continental breakfast included.

Authenticity & Character
Location
central
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Borgo Stazione Bike Inn
Valeggio sul Mincio

We loved this place, also recently renovated. Nice continental breakfast. Staff were so friendly. The only issue with the kids' room with the hammock was that the shower is open to the room - just glass - so there isn't privacy on that front. Our treehouse suite also had a lovely soaking tub next to the shower. You can rent your Lake Garda bikes directly at this hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel San Giuseppe
Cernobbio

Rooms are clean and comfortable enough, with air conditioning. We only give it 4 stars because it wasn't as nice as the other hotels where we stayed. However, we loved the very personalized service by Maurizio and his family who own the hotel. Great restaurant - we had dinner there one night. A little gem.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Loved Maurizio!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Best of Venice tour: Murano Island & Guided Walking Tour with St. Mark's Basilica
Best of Venice tour: Murano Island & Guided Walking Tour with St. Mark's Basilica
Venice

Our tour guide lives in Venice and was so knowledgeable and personable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The historic centre of Bolzano
The historic centre of Bolzano
Italy

Highly recommend - Bolzano is such an interesting town.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cooking Class - How to prepare the famous Valeggio Tortellini (Wednesday and Thursday morning)
Cooking Class - How to prepare the famous Valeggio Tortellini (Wednesday and Thursday morning)
Italy

don't leave Italy without doing a cooking class! We were all inspired to go home and make our own pasta! Kids especially loved it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jessica Proietti
Jessica
Jessica Proietti
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Aug 31, 2022

Dear Eileen, thank you very much! It was a great pleasure to design for you and your family an authentic family trip throughout the Northern part of Italy. We love food and we know that, during an Italian trip, you must enjoy a high-quality cuisine experience, in order to better understand our background and history.
Thank you again and Arrivederci!

An Ideal and Well Planned Vacation
Costa Rica | Aug 13 - Aug 25, 2022

E
evelyn w.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
Sergio was terrific in helping plan a trip for my husband and myself to Costa Rica. We were to be in CR for about two weeks and he had to work out an itinerary that involved a commitment in Playa Hermosa, near Santa Teresa. The arrangements were ideal and proceeded seamlessly with an abundance of good suggestions. Accommodations were all excellent. Throughout the trip, Sergio was available to help or answer questions and was always accommodating. He is also very knowledgeable and knows... Read more

Sergio was terrific in helping plan a trip for my husband and myself to Costa Rica. We were to be in CR for about two weeks and he had to work out an itinerary that involved a commitment in Playa Hermosa, near Santa Teresa. The arrangements were ideal and proceeded seamlessly with an abundance of good suggestions. Accommodations were all excellent. Throughout the trip, Sergio was available to help or answer questions and was always accommodating. He is also very knowledgeable and knows his country extremely well.

We flew from Denver to Liberia, where we were met by our driver, who took us to Monteverde, which was fantastic. Sergio convinced me to do the zipline above the cloud forest, and I was happy he did. Our privately guided hike was perfect with an extremely knowledgable fellow, who managed to find exotic birds, even one quetzecoatl.

Drivers were arranged to and from our assorted destinations, always punctual, and excellent and friendly. Our stay in Playa Hermosa (near Santa Teresa) was independent and I do not especially recommend that nor Santa Teresa unless the objective is to surf. Getting around means negotiating mud during rainy season and flying dry sand in summers with the smell of gasoline from zooming dune buggy vehicles.

Our driver picked us up from Playa Hermosa and drove us to a private island to Isla Chiquita, which is a fabulous resort with kayaking, whale watching, and a host of other activities. It was great and I would not mind returning.

So all and all a superb holiday with Sergio making ideal choices that were efficient and made the best use of time as he needed to plan around Playa Hermosa.

Hotel Reviews
Isla Chiquita

This is a private glamping hotel off on a tiny island, which is leased from the government. It is quite top notch with lots of staff always available and doing their utmost to make sure your stay is perfect and wonderful, which it was. The glamping tent was beautiful, roomy, spotless, and very private surrounded by jungle--quite idyllic. There were plenty activities to keep us busy for four days. The hotel is immaculately maintained with gorgeous plantings and flowers everywhere.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Isla Chiquita is in the middle of a jungle and extremely safe, not a thing to worry about. No need to lock up anything.
Staff
Staff was always there wanting to be sure that we were happy and doing everything we wanted. They bent over backwards. Everyone seemed happy, calm, and never rushed,
Cleanliness & Comfort
Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
Monteverde

The hotel is well situated with beautiful surroundings. Not a luxury hotel, but adequate. The staff was always available and very helpful. I was quite happy with the restaurant and menu choices.

Authenticity & Character
A pretty hotel with stunning grounds.
Location
Short distance to all of the sites and forests.
Staff
They were available and did their best to make you comfortable and to address any concerns.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Accommodations were roomy and pretty
Activity Reviews
Cloud Forest Reserve Privately Guided Hike
Cloud Forest Reserve Privately Guided Hike
Monteverde

Our guide, Andreas, was great and very interesting. He is extremely knowledgeable about all of the plants, vegetation, and wildlife in his region, as well as the history. He loves what he does and loves sharing information, which is obvious. It is great to have a guide to provide information about plants and their habitats and can spot birds and animals which are camouflaged in trees.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Isla Chiquita Optional Activities
Isla Chiquita Optional Activities
Isla Jesusita
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bioluminescence & Sea Life Tour
Bioluminescence & Sea Life Tour
Isla Jesusita

Totally enjoyable and a fun thing to do in the evening. We even saw a manta ray.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
TreeTram, Hanging Bridges & Zipline Adventure
TreeTram, Hanging Bridges & Zipline Adventure
Monteverde

This was totally fun. I can't think of improvements other than the hanging bridges are kind of sketchy for overweight people.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They all had a good sense of humor and made everything fun.
Transport
We had a private driver to take us there and to our next destination, and I recommend that.
Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Costa Rica

This was great, entertaining, and educational. I will be ordering chocolates and coffee directly from Don Juan. I never knew anything about coffee making processes, the holy coffee, in particular. And their chocolates are fabulous.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Sergio Bolaños
Sergio
Sergio Bolaños
Local specialist in Limon, Costa Rica | Replied on Aug 31, 2022

Hi Evelyn!

I am so glad you had a great experience, for me, it was a real pleasure to work with you on planning your vacation, and also practice a little your Spanish :)

De verdad muchísimas gracias Evelyn, espero que usted y su esposo tengan muy buenos recuerdos de su viaje por Costa Rica.

Saludos especiales,
Sergio

Great trip to Australia
Australia | Aug 7 - Aug 21, 2022

S
Stephen W.
Brighton, MA | Reviewed on Aug 31, 2022
My wife and I had a wonderful trip to Australia for two weeks. We did Sidney --> Palm Cove --> Byron Bay --> Brisbane and had a wonderful time in each place. Liz was instrumental in helping us plan where to go, booking lodging, and arranging for tours/activities in each place. We did a mix of tour activities (Great Barrier Reef, Blue Mountains outside of Sydney, Springbrook National Park outside of Brisbane, among others) and free days. For our free days, Liz had good recommendations for... Read more

My wife and I had a wonderful trip to Australia for two weeks. We did Sidney --> Palm Cove --> Byron Bay --> Brisbane and had a wonderful time in each place. Liz was instrumental in helping us plan where to go, booking lodging, and arranging for tours/activities in each place. We did a mix of tour activities (Great Barrier Reef, Blue Mountains outside of Sydney, Springbrook National Park outside of Brisbane, among others) and free days. For our free days, Liz had good recommendations for other sights to see or places to eat. Particular highlights among the many things Liz arranged for us were the Aboriginal Fishing (crab hunting) on the mudflats north of Palm Cove and the Scenic Rim tour outside of Brisbane. Liz suggested and arranged for both of those, neither of which we would have thought of on our own. Working with Liz made everything quite easy on our end - the lodging was excellent, our rides to and from airports or activities were always right on time and very comfortable, and the planned activities themselves were always enjoyable. It was a great mix of big highlights we discussed with Liz with lesser known things that she suggested. She also worked well with us to make a great trip within our budget on relatively short notice (only a couple months) during a busy travel period.

Hotel Reviews
Spicers Balfour Hotel
Brisbane
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pier One Sydney Harbour
Sydney
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Reef House Adults Retreat
Palm Cove

Great adults only hotel in Palm Cove with lovely rooms, lots of pools, fun activities (yoga, cocktail classes, etc.) included.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Crystalbrook Byron
Suffolk Park

Beautiful hotel a little outside of downtown Byron with kitchenettes and a combo washer dryer. Really great place to relax by the pool, on the covered room patios, or the nearby beach, or in the beautiful forest on the grounds.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Beautiful hotel with lots of boardwalks through lush trees and plants.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Blue Mountains Deluxe Day
Blue Mountains Deluxe Day
Sydney
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Scenic Rim Outback Trip
Private Scenic Rim Outback Trip
Brisbane

Eco Tours Queensland was excellent. The scenic rim tour was beautiful with a great mix of sights, hiking opportunities, or beautiful drives. This is the kind of thing that would be very very difficult to do on your own given the back roads required to get to the best spots, but we had a lovely time with everything.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Neal
Liz
Liz Neal
Local specialist in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles | Replied on Aug 31, 2022

Oh my goodness you guys !! thank you so much for your kind words. You were delightful to work with! I am so glad you enjoyed this trip so much !! Hopefully we can work together again in a future trip ! Wishing you lots of happiness !!

Liz

We loved hiking the Perito Moreno Glacier, it...
Argentina | Aug 11 - Aug 19, 2022

Heather
Heather V.
Millboro, VA | Reviewed on Aug 30, 2022
We loved hiking the Perito Moreno Glacier, it was amazing. The all glaciers boat tour was amazing as well especially if you upgrade to The Captains Club. Rolpho, or Rudy for short, was fantastic in communicating the history of the Iguazú falls and understanding when we wanted to move on. We did both sides, Brazil and Argentina, and the boat ride at the bottom. We highly recommend all. Read more

We loved hiking the Perito Moreno Glacier, it was amazing. The all glaciers boat tour was amazing as well especially if you upgrade to The Captains Club. Rolpho, or Rudy for short, was fantastic in communicating the history of the Iguazú falls and understanding when we wanted to move on. We did both sides, Brazil and Argentina, and the boat ride at the bottom. We highly recommend all.

Hotel Reviews
Recoleta Grand Hotel
Buenos Aires
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mirador del Lago Hotel
El Calafate

We liked the location to town.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Loi Suites Iguazú Hotel
Puerto Iguazú
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Glaciers Experience
Glaciers Experience
Patagonia
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Buenos Aires Barrios Tour
Buenos Aires Barrios Tour
Buenos Aires
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Minitrek Perito Moreno Glacier
Minitrek Perito Moreno Glacier
El Calafate
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore the Brazilian Falls
Explore the Brazilian Falls
Puerto Iguazú
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Iguazú Falls Great Adventure
Iguazú Falls Great Adventure
Puerto Iguazú
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Natalia Canónico
Natalia
Natalia Canónico
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Sep 06, 2022

Dear Heather,
We are so happy to read that all your experiences in Argentina went great!
Thank you for taking some time to write this nice review. It's always good to know if your expectactions for the trip were well satisfied 😊
Looking forward to welcoming you again very soon!
All the best,
Natalia

Why travelers love kimkim

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

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

Authentic travel experiences

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

Secure & easy booking

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

Local support during your trip

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