Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 16,644 ratings
Read 16,644 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.

Morocco is a crazy and exciting place to visit
Morocco | Oct 29 - Nov 3, 2022

P
Paul P.
Pleasant Grove, UT | Reviewed on Nov 06, 2022
Morocco is a crazy place to visit and without the assistance of Hakim to set up our travel and Mahdi to act as driver and guide we would not have been able to navigate this wonderful country. The hotels were set up in advance. The hotel staff were all super friendly and helpful in finding restaurant reservations or even in having a quality dinner at the hotel. All of our hotels included breakfasts which was nice. Mahdi was a fabulous driver, obeyed all driving rules and was so... Read more

Morocco is a crazy place to visit and without the assistance of Hakim to set up our travel and Mahdi to act as driver and guide we would not have been able to navigate this wonderful country. The hotels were set up in advance. The hotel staff were all super friendly and helpful in finding restaurant reservations or even in having a quality dinner at the hotel. All of our hotels included breakfasts which was nice. Mahdi was a fabulous driver, obeyed all driving rules and was so knowledgeable about geography, history and commerce within Morocco. I would strongly recommend kimkim to anyone wanting to visit Morocco and suggest to ask for Mahdi as driver.

Hotel Reviews
Ksar Anika
Marrakech
Riad El Yacout
Fès
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen
Local specialist: Hakim ALIBOUCHE
Hakim
Hakim ALIBOUCHE
Local specialist in Agadir | Replied on Nov 13, 2022
Dear Paul, Thank you so much for sharing such wonderful and motivating feedback! I would really like to say that the pleasure and the honor was mine working with you and designing your trip. I wish you had a longer duration to explore more locations but I'm confident that you'll consider another travel experience to explore other cities, small villages and towns. Mehdi is actually one of our great drivers. I'm very happy that you enjoyed his services. He'll be very happy to read your... Read more

Dear Paul,

Thank you so much for sharing such wonderful and motivating feedback!

I would really like to say that the pleasure and the honor was mine working with you and designing your trip. I wish you had a longer duration to explore more locations but I'm confident that you'll consider another travel experience to explore other cities, small villages and towns.

Mehdi is actually one of our great drivers. I'm very happy that you enjoyed his services. He'll be very happy to read your feedback! The accommodations' staff will also be pleased to read your valuable review. This must be very encouraging for them all as well as for us to continue our work and deliver more great experiences to our future trusted travelers.

Again, it was a truly great pleasure e-meeting you! Hopefully, we can work again in the future!

Best,
Hakim

My family and I travelled to Costa Rica in Oc...
Costa Rica | Oct 6 - Oct 18, 2022

Jody
Jody R.
Canada | Reviewed on Nov 05, 2022
My family and I travelled to Costa Rica in October 2022. We had the best time! Sergio and his team made our experience completely seamless and yet adventureful. My husband and I are used to blazing our own trail when we travel, but this time having our 10 & 7 year old daughters along with us we wanted to capitalize on our time and have activities that they would find engaging and provide them opportunities to learn along the way. Sergio and the team at Serendipity provide this and so much... Read more

My family and I travelled to Costa Rica in October 2022. We had the best time! Sergio and his team made our experience completely seamless and yet adventureful. My husband and I are used to blazing our own trail when we travel, but this time having our 10 & 7 year old daughters along with us we wanted to capitalize on our time and have activities that they would find engaging and provide them opportunities to learn along the way. Sergio and the team at Serendipity provide this and so much more!

We visited Tortuguero, Turrialba and Puerto Viejo. Each location had well thought out activities that allowed us to explore the local culture and environment.

While in Tortuguero we enjoyed a canal tour and learnt about Costa Rica's conservation efforts and national parks. We watched a turtle lay her eggs on the beach and our highlight was an evening walk where a bunch of baby turtles were hatching and making their way to the ocean.
Our guide Jose engaged with the kids and made sure they felt safe, he also helped them spot some tree frogs and bull frogs by the pool at our hotel. It was a rainy couple of days but Jose showed up with ponchos, a sense of humor and a whole lot of fun!

On our 4th day we said goodbye to Tortuguero and met our driver Andres. Andreas was our driver for the duration of our stay in Turriabla and further to Puero Veijo. Andreas was such an amazing guide, he was incredibly knowledgably about Costa Rica and was very helpful translating for us when we needed some help. He safely delivered us to our hotels and always stayed to make sure we got checked in safely. He was wonderful with our kids and even had Disney radio cued up for them in his car!

In Turriabla we went rafting, canyoning and for a farm tour. Our guides while we were rafting, Jonathan and Poco were amazing! Jonathan had a great sense of humor and painted or faces with mud and taught us how to balance rocks on the shore line. The river was beautiful and warm. Poco was great to point out wild life along the shore. While were were rafting, Andres drove down stream and took some action shots of our family to share with us. Andreas also capped the day off by making us the most delicious and beautifully presented picnic we've ever had, he'd made pasta, salads, fresh fruit and even dessert!

The following day we enjoyed a canyoning trip and farm tour with our guides Ceasar and Sergio. They were also very knowledgeable. Our youngest was scared during canyoning and Sergio, who also has young kids got to her level and explained what would happen, how he would keep her safe and also confidently assisted her down the falls. But the last waterfall she was laughing and having the best day! We enjoyed lunch with Ceasar and Sergio at their family farm and then proceeded to a farm tour with Sergio, where we were able to sample fresh fruits and home made coffee. It was a day for the books!

Andreas safely delivered us to our final stop, Puerto Veijo, we were sad to say goodbye, over the last 3 days Andreas had become a trusted friend along our adventure. We arrived at Congo Bongo where we met the owner, Marisol, she was so welcoming and we felt like family instantly. She was an amazing host, providing free laundry service (which was much needed after a few days of rafting and canyoning!), farm fresh eggs, clean accommodations and an amazing eco-village for us to enjoy. Puerto Veijo was a great place to cap off our trip, it was laid back and we enjoy time playing in the ocean, walking to Manzanillo (If you're there check out Colores, the local Greek restaurant - great staff and good food!). Our days were enjoyed touring a chocolate tour at a local indigenous farm, our guide Theresa was incredibly caring. She spoke the local Bri Bri language which added so much value to our tour. We attended a cooking class with a local chef, Glenda and made a traditional Rondon Soup. The following day we went snorkling and on a light hike through the national park where we swam with a lemon shark, sting ray, a variety of fish and coral.

Our final stay before departure was at the Studio Hotel in San Jose. the roof top pool, art, food and Piano / Violin show we were treated to on our last night perfectly summed up our family vacation.

We came home with so many amazing memories and stories, we could never have planned a trip like this on our own. We met amazing people and experienced so much of Costa Rica! We are so grateful to Sergio and the Serendipity team for creating a memorable family vacation. If you are considering Costa Rica, reach out to Sergio, he will enhance your experience and take away the stress of traveling.

Sergio - Thank you for being a phone call or message away whenever we needed to adjust timing, ask advise and for easily rearranging activities based on the weather.

Pura Vida!
Jody

Hotel Reviews
Auténtico Hotel
San José

We weren't here very long, just slept and left, but the room was clean, the hotel was beautiful and the waiter at dinner was very friendly.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Laguna Lodge
Tortuguero
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Jose and the tour guides were very helpful. The front desk staff was not overly friendly or helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Turire
Turrialba
Authenticity & Character
We loved the Cuban feel and 1950's vibe this space had
Location
Staff
The staff was so helpful, friendly and accomodating, they offered games for the kids and suggested local scenery to take in
Cleanliness & Comfort
Congo Bongo EcoVillage Costa Rica
Manzanillo, Limon
Authenticity & Character
Marisol has done an incredible job with this eco-village I found her entrepreneurial nature and creativity refreshing. The world needs more people like Marisol
Location
A close walk to Manzanillo, but about 15-20 min drive to Puerto Viejo. This was nice as it was quite and away from the business of Puerto Viejo, although if your looking to be closer to the action and restruants in Puerto Viejo you'll need to find transport.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Marisol cleaned our house every day and helped with our laundry. Thank you!!
Studio Hotel
San José
Authenticity & Character
The art, piano, violin players were all incredible!
Location
about 40 mins to the airport
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable
Activity Reviews
A Journey into the History and Culture of Tortuguero Village
A Journey into the History and Culture of Tortuguero Village
Tortuguero

Cute town, I wouldn't recommend going at night. No street lights and it would be very dark and unsafe.

Nighttime Turtle Nesting Tour
Nighttime Turtle Nesting Tour
Tortuguero

Super cool experiance!

Guided Boat Excursion Through the Tortuguero Canals
Guided Boat Excursion Through the Tortuguero Canals
Tortuguero
Private rafting on the Pejibaye River with children
Private rafting on the Pejibaye River with children
Turrialba

Our guides were incredible!

Quality of Experience
Food
Best picnic lunch ever!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Canyoning  in Turrialba
Canyoning in Turrialba
Turrialba
Local Farm Experience
Local Farm Experience
Turrialba
Dive into Afro-Caribbean Culture with Exquisite Cooking Classes
Dive into Afro-Caribbean Culture with Exquisite Cooking Classes
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Chocolate Tour
Chocolate Tour
Costa Rica
 Exploring the Underwater Wonders of Cahuita National Park
Exploring the Underwater Wonders of Cahuita National Park
Costa Rica
Local specialist: Sergio Bolaños
Sergio
Sergio Bolaños
Local specialist in Limon, Costa Rica | Replied on Nov 07, 2022

Hi Jody!

Thank you very much! I am so glad that you had a great time in Costa Rica!
I hope you can come back in the future to explore more of our country!
Best regards,
Sergio

Everything fell into place, plane and transp...
Australia | Oct 25 - Nov 4, 2022

Carl
Carl S.
Palm Desert, CA | Reviewed on Nov 05, 2022
Everything fell into place, plane and transportation and tours, loved Sydney and the harbor and went to a concert in the Opera House, got rain at Ulrulu but that was a good thing as multiple waterfalls developed across it’s face. The eucalyptus forest on the return from the great ocean road was like a jungle version of our redwood forests in No Cal
Great planning for a wonderful trip. Now we’re in NZ
Read more

Everything fell into place, plane and transportation and tours, loved Sydney and the harbor and went to a concert in the Opera House, got rain at Ulrulu but that was a good thing as multiple waterfalls developed across it’s face. The eucalyptus forest on the return from the great ocean road was like a jungle version of our redwood forests in No Cal
Great planning for a wonderful trip. Now we’re in NZ

Hotel Review
Batman's Hill On Collins
Melbourne, VIC
Authenticity & Character
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Liz Neal
Liz
Liz Neal
Local specialist in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles | Replied on Nov 08, 2022

Hello!!!
So glad you enjoyed your trip so far!!
Thank you so much for working with us. I also was in Uluru with rain and it is great to see the water falling ! Enjoy NZ
Liz

This was our first time in Spain and we will be back!
Spain | Oct 23 - Nov 3, 2022

Rachelle
Rachelle E.
Norwood, OH | Reviewed on Nov 05, 2022
This was our first time in Spain and our first big trip since Covid-2020 shutdown. We did not have a lot of free time to do our own research and book a trip on our own. Luis understood the types of activities we wanted to do and the places we wanted to see. He provided a lot of background information on the places we will be visiting and summary itinerary with times and locations of tour meeting places. He responded on a timely manner whenever I sent a message with requests or... Read more

This was our first time in Spain and our first big trip since Covid-2020 shutdown. We did not have a lot of free time to do our own research and book a trip on our own. Luis understood the types of activities we wanted to do and the places we wanted to see. He provided a lot of background information on the places we will be visiting and summary itinerary with times and locations of tour meeting places. He responded on a timely manner whenever I sent a message with requests or questions. The accommodations he booked for us were exactly where we wanted to be - centrally located and near public transportation. They were clean and comfortable. The staff in the hotels/apartment were cheerful and helpful.

We enjoyed the private walking tours Luis arranged for us. It allowed us to see many sites at a more flexible pace. Our guides - Almudena (Madrid), Maria (Toledo) and Luca (Seville) were very knowledgeable of the area and pointed out things that we would have missed if we were just walking on our own. We appreciated that they were checking in on how we are doing with all the walking. They were all open to receiving feedback as to what is and is not interesting to us.

Luis also arranged for group tours to Cordova, Granada and Ronda. We were first concerned about going on a larger group tour but the tours were well organized and efficient. Although the bus ride were long, they were comfortable. We were in awe of the Alhambra as well as the view of the town from Alhambra. Just amazing! It was unfortunate that I got sick and missed the Cordova tour.

The last trip that Luis arranged for us was a small group tour to Montserrat from Barcelona. It so happened that our guide only had 1 tour that day so we had the flexibility to stay a little longer in Montserrat and listen to the Boys' Choir. It was a blessing to hear the angelic voices of the choir.

Overall, we had a great time! Exhausted but full of fond memories! Thank you Luis and staff for helping us enjoy our first time in Spain.

Hotel Reviews
Sacristía de Santa Ana
Seville

The building exterior and lobby has character. It is not very big hotel so there is not a lot of people going in and out of the hotel. The staff was friendly and helpful - they helped us arranged for take away breakfast on days we had early tours. We were only able to eat breakfast at their restaurant once and we wished we ate there every morning because what we had was yummy! The hotel is located in a busy street so at night you can hear some commotions. One thing they need to update is that their website says they have laundry service but we were told that service is no longer provided.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Eurostars Hotel Plaza Mayor
Madrid

Our room was clean and comfortable. The location was great -near many sites and public transportation. The staff was very helpful. The breakfast buffet had a wide selection of food and tey were delicious.

Authenticity & Character
Location
We are walking distance to many sites, restaurants and public transportation.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Happy Apartments
Barcelona

This 1 bedroom apartment is spacious and had all the amenities we needed. The facade has character but the inside is very modern. It's in the heart of Las Ramblas across Palau Guell and a short walk between to Metro stations. It was nice that the entrance is keyless and we felt safe walking in the street of the apartment even late in the evening.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Luis Fernandez de Vega
Luis
Luis Fernandez de Vega
Local specialist in Gijón, Asturias, Spain | Replied on Nov 07, 2022
Good morning Rachelle, Thank you for taking the time to provide such a complete review. Believe it or not it is very important to test if our providers do a good job and the selection of hotels matched your requirements and take actions if something is not like we both expected. Other than that I'm very glad you both enjoyed the trip, are happy with the planning and discovered part of this beautiful country. Maybe next time I can take you to visit other areas not so well known but amazing as... Read more

Good morning Rachelle,

Thank you for taking the time to provide such a complete review. Believe it or not it is very important to test if our providers do a good job and the selection of hotels matched your requirements and take actions if something is not like we both expected. Other than that I'm very glad you both enjoyed the trip, are happy with the planning and discovered part of this beautiful country. Maybe next time I can take you to visit other areas not so well known but amazing as well. Thank you very much for your flexibility and way of traveling. I can see you are very experienced and wise travelers with lots of interest in discovering our culture.
Please do not hesitate to contact back for anything you may need from Spain. I'll love to read back from you every some time.

My best wishes for a great end of the year!!

Luis

This was our first experience with a custom t...
Portugal | Oct 18 - Nov 2, 2022

Lynn
Lynn T.
North Bethesda, MD | Reviewed on Nov 04, 2022
This was our first experience with a custom tour. Usually, we do all the planning ourselves or have relied on a small group tour provider. The plan Tiago put together was well organized logistically, incorporating our specific asks. Hotels were well chosen, in some cases exceeding our expectations. It was our driver/tour guide Diogo that made our trip so fabulous.
Since this was our first time in Portugal, we wanted to get a full sense of the country (as much as possible) in 12 days. ...
Read more

This was our first experience with a custom tour. Usually, we do all the planning ourselves or have relied on a small group tour provider. The plan Tiago put together was well organized logistically, incorporating our specific asks. Hotels were well chosen, in some cases exceeding our expectations. It was our driver/tour guide Diogo that made our trip so fabulous.
Since this was our first time in Portugal, we wanted to get a full sense of the country (as much as possible) in 12 days.
We started in Porto with a Port tasting and excellent food tour. With Diogo as a our driver and guide, we headed to the beautiful Douro Valley for a vineyard tour, staying at an iconic hotel. On following days we visited Obidos for Jinja, Coimbra ostensibly to see the library, which turned out to be a delightful town. As we pulled into Tomar, I had my doubts. Diogo hooked us up at a local bar where we had a great time with the local football fans watching Benfica beat Porto.
Over 3 days in the Algarve we hiked the cliffs, took a boat tour of the caves, went to surfer beaches and ate fresh caught fish along the beach before heading for 4 nights in Lisbon. As part of our excursion to Evora, Tiago arranged for us to tour a cork oak farm which was particularly interesting. We saw all the must-see spots in and around Lisbon - the Pena Palace, a Fado show, the Coach Museum . . .
Having Diogo as driver took the pressure off our group of four- we could easily enjoy the local beverages and take in the views. Plus we got to see/experience things I don't know we would have without him. His knowledge and obvious pride in his country was evident at all the cultural sites and while driving across the country.
Bottom line: we had a great trip!
Tiago provided us with a custom roadbook with local info and suggestions. It would have been nice to receive that info more than 3 days before departure.

Hotel Reviews
Pousada Porto - Rua das Flores
Porto

Pousada Porto-Rua das Flores was very comfortable. Rooms were small but nicely appointed - every bit of space was well utilized. Hotel was well located which made it easy to walk all over the city. The reception staff when we were there let us down a couple times - they were distracted, and made careless restaurant suggestions. Which is a strong reason to get friendly with locals and other travelers.

Authenticity & Character
Location
comfortable, well designed , albeit small rooms
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Hospes Puerta de Alcalá
Madrid

Great room, candy delivered to the room twice daily. Well located. Excellent staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Culinary Tour of Porto
Culinary Tour of Porto
Porto

Tour guides were enthusiastic, had lots of local community knowledge. Wide ranging selection of foods. Arrive hungry.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Cork Farm Visit
Cork Farm Visit
Portugal

This is a small vineyard with cork oaks. Our guide explained the interconnectivity between grapes, cork oaks and Iberian pigs.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lisbon Market, Food and Cultural Walk (morning)
Lisbon Market, Food and Cultural Walk (morning)
Lisbon

Food tours in Porto and Lisbon were two of the best we have anywhere - and we do alot of food tours. Great variety of foods and places. Heck, this tour started with the best chocolate cake in the world!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Tiago Filipe
Tiago
Tiago Filipe
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Nov 09, 2022

Dear Lynn,

Thank you for your kind words and for your comprehensive review!! Truly appreciated!!!

I'll let Diogo know about it!!!

I hope that you carry fond memories of Portugal with you!

I'm only sad because you seemed to have become Benfica's fans which are my team's big rivals, but I'll get over it! :D

All the best!!

Tiago

Amazing honeymoon!
Greece | Jun 12 - Jun 19, 2022

Lorraine
Lorraine R.
Manhattan, NY | Reviewed on Nov 04, 2022

I didn't take this trip but my brother and sister-in-law enjoyed every moment. Eleni was very responsive and extremely helpful in providing me with suggestions for experiences they might enjoy based on their interests. I'd rate this 10/10

Local specialist: Eleni Koropouli
Eleni
Eleni Koropouli
Local specialist in Athens | Replied on Nov 06, 2022

Dear Lorraine,
It was such a pleasure working together to create a unique honeymoon experience for Reggie & Laura! I'm so glad that had a great time in Greece! I'm looking forward to welcoming you too in Greece & showing you our country's beauties!
Warm greetings,
Eleni Koropouli

Thank you to Samir our tour coordinator and N...
Jordan | Oct 23 - Nov 2, 2022

F
Fatima F.
Basking Ridge, NJ | Reviewed on Nov 04, 2022
Thank you to Samir our tour coordinator and Nadir our guide / driver., for an unforgettable trip to Jordan, Israel’s and Turkey. Samir was very professional and efficient and answered all
my concerns in the most efficient manner. He also organized our trip to Israel
which was last minute .Nadir was professional,friendly and made sure we were happy with our tour each and every day. Nadir went above and beyond in every way possible and I highly recommend him when touring these places. We...
Read more

Thank you to Samir our tour coordinator and Nadir our guide / driver., for an unforgettable trip to Jordan, Israel’s and Turkey. Samir was very professional and efficient and answered all
my concerns in the most efficient manner. He also organized our trip to Israel
which was last minute .Nadir was professional,friendly and made sure we were happy with our tour each and every day. Nadir went above and beyond in every way possible and I highly recommend him when touring these places. We will always remember him fondly as he was so welcoming and gave us a wealth of information of the places we were visiting. Thank you to the Kim Kim team, Samir and Nadir for making this vacation truly memorable.

Hotel Reviews
Sheraton Al Nabeel Amman
Amman
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Petra Moon Hotel
Wadi Musa
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dead Sea Spa Hotel
Sweimeh
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Memories Aicha Luxury Camp
Wadi Rum

Truly a one of a kind experience. We had booked a panoramic bubble but got the standard tent. It was beautiful but did not get the panoramic experience .

Authenticity & Character
Truly unique.
Location
Staff
Very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Gamirasu Cave Hotel
Ayvalı/Ürgüp/Nevşehir

A truly unique hotel experience in a cave . The room was a good size and the linens were of superior quality. Very comfortable and highly recommend this experience when visiting Cappadocia . Beautiful lay out of the hotel .

Authenticity & Character
Location
Owing to it being in a a cave the only downside is that it’s a bit far from the main streets .
Staff
Very helpful but would have liked them to be more conversant in English .
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Samir Bishara
Samir
Samir Bishara
Local specialist in Jordan | Replied on Nov 04, 2022

Hi Fatima
Thank you for the kind encouraging words.
was our pleasure and honor
Be well and safe
Sam

Jacky: professional, enthusiastic, engaged, knowledgeable!
Ecuador | Oct 13 - Oct 19, 2022

Renee
Renee E.
Canada | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2022
Jackie was a complete delight to work with. She was knowledgeable, professional, enthusiastic, and totally engaged with us as clients. We had booked a Galapagos cruise directly with a cruise tour operator, pre-Covid, and then worked with Jackie to set up a land portion for us at various haciendas in the highlands. We ran into numerous cancellations with the cruise, including one that happened *while we were in transit* to Ecuador. Although it was not her problem to solve, Jackie took the time... Read more

Jackie was a complete delight to work with. She was knowledgeable, professional, enthusiastic, and totally engaged with us as clients. We had booked a Galapagos cruise directly with a cruise tour operator, pre-Covid, and then worked with Jackie to set up a land portion for us at various haciendas in the highlands. We ran into numerous cancellations with the cruise, including one that happened *while we were in transit* to Ecuador. Although it was not her problem to solve, Jackie took the time to talk with the less-experienced agency now in charge of that, and it was *only* through her intervention and advice that we had a Galápagos experience on par with the one we had originally booked with a now-defunct company. Her initiative to help us with the very stressful cruise situation showed a level of professionalism and client engagement that was truly above and beyond the call of duty. Our driver and guide for the land portion, Dario, was exceptional — his knowledge was simply remarkable. We particularly liked the Hacienda Cienega (truly superb) and Hacienda Pinsaqui. Jackie arranged for a several surprises that were memorable for different reasons, including a visit to an indigenous community and an opportunity for horseback riding at another hacienda. In closing, we came to feel a great sense of trust in Jackie as someone who had both the experience and empathy to make our Ecuador experience quite remarkable. And when arranging things from far away, trust in the person you are working with locally is paramount.

Hotel Reviews
Hacienda La Cienega
Cotopaxi

Hacienda La Cienega is simply a stunning place. Steeped in history. Amazing staff and food. I would recommend staying more than a single night (we didn’t wish to leave!) and using it as a base to explore the area.

Authenticity & Character
Words cannot describe how utterly stunning it is.
Location
Convenient for day trips out, with a driver.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
San Jose de Puembo Quito Airport, an Ascend Hotel Collection
Puembo, Quito

We stayed here for two nights to recover from a vert long trip down, and because we we’re starting a tour of the highlands (so it didn’t make sense to stay in Quito at that time). Recommended by Jackie, our Kimkim agent. We felt delighted in the Ecuadorian feel of the common areas, rooms, and grounds. Its atmosphere belies the notion that it is an “airport hotel” — it was originally something else and its property includes adjacent farms land., which guests can walk through. The immediate property had stunning gardens, complete with a few wandering llamas on the grounds. I it was a magical place to experience upon arriving. If your immediate plans are to explore regions outside of Quito, we *highly* recommend staying here.

Authenticity & Character
The Ecuadorian feel of the common areas and rooms, gardens and the paths for guest through the adjacent farm and pasture lands. A fantastic place to land upon arrival in Ecuador.
Location
Outside of the city and therefore convenient for immediate arrival in Ecuador, especially if arriving late and/or taking off for explorations outside of Quito.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hacienda Pinsaqui
Otavalo

This is a lovely hacienda with exceptionally lovely gardens, and a walking path through them and property at large. The common areas were especially nice. Although we were there just as a couple, we were invited to attend welcoming receptions for larger groups (10 or so) that were also staying there. The reception included music from a local Ecuadorian group, Ecuadorian drinks and snacks, and a bit of history about the place. Recommend getting the largest rooms or suites available.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Useful for excursions planned by our kimkim agent.
Staff
Management was very engaged and approachable.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hacienda El Porvenir
Machachi

My husband liked it well enough, but I didn’t. The road to get there is horrible and long—-the end result was simply not worth it. The food was not that good and yet more expensive than more upscale haciendas. ; extra charge for eggs with breakfast. I unwisely ordered a salad — forgetting that any greens wouldn’t necessarily be washed with purified water and I guess they weren’t. I got quite ill for days afterwards. The rooms are rustic at best. Granted, it’s a farm kind of hacienda. But it’s a very arduous and uncomfortable drive for a not very remarkable experience. I saw some nose-to-tail horse riding in the cold mist going on. It was clouded in, so any advertised amazing views of Cotapaxi weren’t going to happen. Cotapaxi views are more easily had anywhere else. So even without the getting-sick experience, I just would not recommend this place.

Authenticity & Character
It’s character is what it is — a very remote farm.
Location
Such a long and uncomfortable drive to get to. Nothing to be changed about that.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nothing can be changed I think, given the structures they are working with.
Activity Reviews
Limpiopungo & Roses farm
Limpiopungo & Roses farm
Ecuador

The roses farm was jaw dropping. I didn’t expect it to be. I didn’t even have a concept of a ‘rose farm’. This was a real highlight of our entire 2 week stay in Ecuador. The Laguna de limiopunga was also lovely. Allocate enough time there if your schedule (and weather) allows to do more walking around.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide, Dario, seemed to know so much about everything fro. Geology to history to medicinal plants.
Transport
Panoramic visit to Quilotoa Lagoon
Panoramic visit to Quilotoa Lagoon
Ecuador

This is a spectacular crater lagoon and another example of Ecuador’s natural beauty. But as important, the area is home to indigenous people who have adapted to and taken responsibility for this locale. The ability to see Quilotoa Lagoon as an example of this, and the chance to visit an indigenous family in a remote area were both profound and thought provoking experiences.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist:
Jackeline
Jackeline V.
Ecuador | Replied on Nov 05, 2022

Hello, Renee.
Thank you so much for your kind words; they mean a lot to me, and I really appreciate your detailed feedback on your trip to Ecuador.
It was a pleasure to assist you and Francis with everything; you deserve it! I am happy to be a part of your wonderful memories in Ecuador.
Warmest hugs from the middle of the world, hope to see you again!
Jacky!

Anniversary Trip 2022
Spain | Oct 14 - Oct 27, 2022

Krista
Krista M.
Mequon, WI | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2022

We had a fantastic trip to Spain and it was largely due to the planning and thoughtfulness of our agent Marina. She helped us plan a fantastic anniversary trip while staying on budget! She also kept us informed and up to date on any changes and was consistently responsive to any questions we had both in planning the trip and while we were there! Would definitely use her for a trip in the future!

Local specialist: Marina Courtaut
Marina
Marina Courtaut
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Nov 04, 2022

Hi Krista, Thank you so much for taking the time to write your trip review and for your kind words! I'm so glad you enjoyed your time in Spain and I hope you and Daniel created lovely memories :) It was truly a pleasure helping you organize this trip to Spain and I hope to help you plan your next adventure! Warmest regards, Marina.

Foodies/Oenophiles, experienced travelers, loved Kimkim Service & Experience
Argentina | Sep 22 - Oct 1, 2022

Rebecca
Rebecca N.
Colchester, VT | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2022
We had a wonderful trip to Argentina and Chile thanks to the Kimkim team. My sister and I are international travelers who typically plan the details ourselves, but for this trip we decided to use the help and service of Kimkim and we are so thankful! Emi helped us plan itineraries to suit our preferences and answered our questions in preparation for the trip. Our drivers were always on time, and Andrea in Buenos Aires was so friendly. The experiences in Mendoza were amazing - we are foodies... Read more

We had a wonderful trip to Argentina and Chile thanks to the Kimkim team. My sister and I are international travelers who typically plan the details ourselves, but for this trip we decided to use the help and service of Kimkim and we are so thankful! Emi helped us plan itineraries to suit our preferences and answered our questions in preparation for the trip. Our drivers were always on time, and Andrea in Buenos Aires was so friendly. The experiences in Mendoza were amazing - we are foodies and wine lovers - the Wine Walking dinner, tasting at Finca Adelma and lunch at Alfa Crux were top notch. Best of all was our Mendoza driver, Daniel, who was knowledgeable and helpful - enjoyable conversationalist while also giving us appropriate space. We added a full day in Chile as well, and Vitor took us to a fabulous winery in Casablanca, a castle seafood restaurant and a tour of the colorful Valparaiso. A wonderful experience - great service at a reasonable price. Will do again and recommend to friends and family!

Hotel Review
Villa Mansa Wine Hotel
Vistalba, Lujan de Cuyo

We had a a full balcony of our own, even in the Superior Room. After full days of wine tasting or hiking, it was awesome to come back to our spacious hotel room, then enjoy a reasonably priced meal and great service at the on site hotel.

Activity Reviews
Wine Walking 🍷🚶‍♂️
Wine Walking 🍷🚶‍♂️
Mendoza

Excellent food, gin tasting and wine tasting experience. I am a foodie and oenophile and enjoyed every bit of this evening.

Food
The food pairings were wonderful. The goat was exceptional.
Aconcagua Park & Inca Bridge
Aconcagua Park & Inca Bridge
Mendoza

Daniel is an amazing driver - knowledgeable and helpful. He is a good conversationalist and also gives space and privacy where appropriate. The entire drive is gorgeous and the hike is an easy walk - good thing, given the altitude :-)

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Daniel is exceptional.
Transport
Cathedral of Wine: High end Valle de Uco 🍷🍃
Cathedral of Wine: High end Valle de Uco 🍷🍃
Mendoza

I've tasted wine in regions across the world, and this Uco Valley experience is at the top of my list of recommendations. Finca Adelma was a small family winery with wonderful empanadas. Alfa Crux is glorious.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Again, Daniel was excellent.
Transport
Local specialist: Emilce Alonso
Emilce
Emilce Alonso
Local specialist in Córdoba | Replied on Nov 04, 2022

Thank you so much Rebecca for sharing your experience!!

So happy that you and Liz had a great time in South America. It was my pleasure to assist you in this adventure!
Hoping to have the opportunity to welcome you back any time :)

Many thanks,
Emi!

we had a wonderful experience booking our ita...
Italy | Oct 8 - Oct 16, 2022

R
rashmi v.
Scottsdale, AZ | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2022

we had a wonderful experience booking our italy trip with kimkim. Valeria was very responsive and quick to maodify the trip based on our interests and made great suggestions for tours. All booking were made ahead of time and hotel tour and car reservations went smoothly. guides everywhere were awesome . I would totally book another tour with kimkim. Thansk Valeria and big thank you to all the local folks who made our trip fun and very memorable.

Local specialist: Valeria Arcangeli
Valeria
Valeria Arcangeli
Local specialist in Rome | Replied on Nov 07, 2022

Thanks, Rashmi
Was a pleasure working with you as well.
Hope I can meet you soon in Rome.
ciao valeria

The accommodations locations in Dublin and Ki...
Ireland | Oct 29 - Nov 2, 2022

S
Shawn K.
Elk Grove, CA | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2022
The accommodations locations in Dublin and Killarney were great as they were close to things. Killarney was the best. Cork and Galway were far from any local experience on foot for us. The breakfast at all was a plus.
In hindsight , for being the first time in Ireland, I would have stayed in Dublin for three or four days and experienced the area with day trips instead of long drives and being rushed at the end of the day.
You guys are great and did everything you said you were going to do....
Read more

The accommodations locations in Dublin and Killarney were great as they were close to things. Killarney was the best. Cork and Galway were far from any local experience on foot for us. The breakfast at all was a plus.
In hindsight , for being the first time in Ireland, I would have stayed in Dublin for three or four days and experienced the area with day trips instead of long drives and being rushed at the end of the day.
You guys are great and did everything you said you were going to do. I will have no problem recommending you in the future.

Hotel Reviews
Ashling Hotel Dublin
Dublin
Authenticity & Character
Location
Could see the Guinness brewery from hotel window
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Kingsley Hotel
Cork
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Abbey Lodge
Killarney Co Kerry
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nox Hotel
Galway City
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Nov 14, 2022

Hi Shawn

Thank you for your kind word regarding your trip. We are glad you had a great time on the trip.

I am sorry that you didn't get the chance to spend more time in Dublin however it is just great excuse to com back to the country.

We hope to welcome you back to Ireland in the near future.

Kind Regards

Dean

The most amazing trip to Chile
Chile | Oct 21 - Oct 31, 2022

Adam
Adam H.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2022
We had the most amazing trip to Chile (Santiago, Patagonia, Andes Mountains, Casablanca Valley, Valparaiso). Emi was SO helpful in the planning process. She listened to all of our desires and was always willing to make another change to the itinerary if we asked her to. And everything went very smoothly when we went on the trip. We absolutely loved Chilean Patagonia (stayed at Patagonia Camp which is the best place we will ever stay). Thanks to Emilce's communication she was able to hold a... Read more

We had the most amazing trip to Chile (Santiago, Patagonia, Andes Mountains, Casablanca Valley, Valparaiso). Emi was SO helpful in the planning process. She listened to all of our desires and was always willing to make another change to the itinerary if we asked her to. And everything went very smoothly when we went on the trip. We absolutely loved Chilean Patagonia (stayed at Patagonia Camp which is the best place we will ever stay). Thanks to Emilce's communication she was able to hold a room for us for a week while we confirmed our trip plans.

Before, during, and after the trip, I am impressed and amazed and how KimKim and Emilce helped us plan the perfect honeymoon. I honestly wasn't sure how I would feel about using a service like KimKim to plan our entire trip, and I couldn't feel better about it. We highlight recommend KimKim for your next trip.

We are so thankful for your Emilce!!!

Hotel Reviews
Patagonia Camp
Torres del Paine

BEST HOTEL WE WILL EVER STAY AT IN OUR LIVES! Every detail was perfect. They are so nice and the quality of our stay was amazing. If I could give more than 5 stars for a place to stay, this is the place. 10 stars out of 5. My wife and I were so sad to leave this magical place.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Cumbres Lastarria
Santiago

Great hotel in a good location! Go to Bocanuriz nearby for dinner. The quality of the room was great!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fauna Hotel
Valparaíso

Fantastic hotel in Valparaiso. Great location, very cool inside of the hotel, and the rooftop restaurant has a fantastic view and food was great (breakfast and lunch!).

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cascada de las Animas
San Alfonso

Great place! This was recommended to us by a coworker who stayed there 10 years ago. Really cool location in the Andes mountains, takes about 2 hours from Santiago airport to get there. It is definitely more remote. The staff was nice, but this was the place where we encountered the fewest amount of people who spoke english. Also, our perception is that this is a destination for local Chileans on the weekends. When we arrived Thursday night and had breakfast Friday morning, there was only one other group eating breakfast or had excursions planned that day. Then on Saturday and Sunday the place had lots of people. We always felt safe, but it's a big property so walking back at night was a little dark. Overall we enjoyed our stay, very unique and cool place that offers a lot!!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Torres del Paine all inclusive - Activities menu provided by the hotel
Torres del Paine all inclusive - Activities menu provided by the hotel
Torres del Paine

10 stars out of 5, we are active and just loved every minute of Patagonia Camp with guided hikes, and the guides would bring tea and fruit and chocolate for when you got to the top of the hike. And you'd have beers/drinks/wine after the hikes in the parking lot. The coolest stay ever, everything about it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Panoramic private city tour around Santiago de Chile - Half day
Panoramic private city tour around Santiago de Chile - Half day
Santiago

It was good, Orlando did a great job! I feel like Santiago doesn't have as much to see as I maybe thought, however it is a cool city with mountains surrounding it. Very scenic in terms of mountains.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Emilce Alonso
Emilce
Emilce Alonso
Local specialist in Córdoba | Replied on Nov 04, 2022

Adam and Mary,

I want to thank you once again for trusting me to organize your honeymoon and I'm very pleased that you have a wonderful and once in living memory and experience during your trip to Chile ♥️♥️

I really hope to receive you on another occasion so you get to know the rest of South America!!
It was a pleasure to e-meet you! :)
Emi

Relaxing Trip in Southern Italy
Italy | Sep 29 - Oct 13, 2022

T
Teresa C.
Flatbush, NY | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2022
My husband and I enjoyed a very relaxing and wonderful 15 days trip in the Amalfi Coast and Sicily in early October.  We contacted Jessica, a travel specialist for Italy through kimkim.com.  Within a week of speaking to Jessica, she arranged a private tour for us and we were on a flight to Rome.   Jessica was very efficient responding to our requests or updating changes before and during our trip to Italy. From the airport pickup to each destination, our trip was seamless and relaxing.  We... Read more

My husband and I enjoyed a very relaxing and wonderful 15 days trip in the Amalfi Coast and Sicily in early October.  We contacted Jessica, a travel specialist for Italy through kimkim.com.  Within a week of speaking to Jessica, she arranged a private tour for us and we were on a flight to Rome.  

Jessica was very efficient responding to our requests or updating changes before and during our trip to Italy. From the airport pickup to each destination, our trip was seamless and relaxing.  We enjoyed the central location of all our hotels and B&Bs which allowed us to walk everywhere and enjoy excellent meals with locals.  All the tours arranged by Jessica were very enjoyable and interesting.  We learned so much about Italian and Sicilian history, culture and art through our excellent tour guides.  In particular, Tony gave us a wonderful tour of the Cathedral of Monreale and Marta gave an excellent tour of the Ancient Villa Romana del Casale.  Our drivers, Ciro, Stefano and Fabio are great drivers and are very friendly.  We also enjoy lots of free time exploring on our own, visiting small old fishing villages and swimming in the crystalline waters of the Tyrhennian and Ioninan Seas.  We have so many beautiful memories.

We can’t thank Jessica enough for this very enjoyable last minute trip and for frequently checking in with us to make sure our time in Italy was going smoothly and according to plan.  We would highly recommend her to anyone thinking about traveling to Italy.  

Hotel Review
Grand Hotel Royal Sorrento
Sorrento

Grand Hotel Royal, Sorrento is the best hotel from our Southern Italy trip. It is centrally located in Sorrento with many nice restaurants near by. This elegant 5 star hotel is located at the top of a cliff with an elevator to the beach. The view from the beautiful garden and our balcony were magnificent . The staff was great and breakfast was delicious! It's so enjoyable and relaxing staying at the Grand Hotel Royal.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Exclusive Capri Boat Tour from Sorrento
Exclusive Capri Boat Tour from Sorrento
Italy
Limoncello Tour & Tasting
Limoncello Tour & Tasting
Amalfi Coast

The Limoncello Tour with Chef Fiore was lot of fun. The wonderful meal from his restaurant was so delicious and I learned many different ways using lemon in my cooking from this tour. Thank you Chef!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ciro is an excellent and friendly driver. We enjoyed his service to the Amalfi Coast and Limoncello tour.
Transport
Day Trip to Monreale & Cefalù
Day Trip to Monreale & Cefalù
Italy

It's amazing seeing the beautiful mosaic Bible stories all around the Cathedral of Monreale. Thanks to our terrific tour guide Antonio who made this tour very interesting and enjoyable! We had a wonderful time walking through the lovely town of Cefalu with many interesting shops and we tasted the best warm meat and sausage rice ball there. It's so wonderful cooling off and swimming at the beautiful Cefalu sandy beach.

Quality of Experience
 Guided Tour of Villa Romana del Casale
Guided Tour of Villa Romana del Casale
Italy

Seeing the incredible story telling mosaics in the Villa Romana del Casale was very impressive. Our excellent tour guide, Marta made this tour very interesting and lively. The vivid depiction of the captured animals and ostrich being loaded into a boat was awesome.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Catania: Food & Folklore
Catania: Food & Folklore
Catania

Enjoyed the sounds, taste and color of this delicious fish market tasting tour. Giusi our tour guide is excellent and we enjoyed the delicious green drink and fried seafood from her restaurant. The tasting menu from other restaurant and cheese sampling were great too.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
w
Local specialist: Jessica Proietti
Jessica
Jessica Proietti
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Nov 03, 2022

Dear Teresa, thank you very much for your review and the time you spent writing it. I'm glad to know you appreciated our services arranged in 1 week upon your arrival :)
I hope to see you soon! Arrivederci :)

Dream HoneymoOn 💕
Greece | Sep 8 - Sep 21, 2022

M
Megz W.
Overland, MO | Reviewed on Nov 02, 2022
Haiiiii Aggeliki! Apologies for the late response, October was cray, but here is our review/feedback as promised. As mentioned previously, all of our tours were fantastic! Everyone we encountered were soOoOo personable and helpful. It can be overwhelming when you’re visiting a new place so it was really refreshing to be welcomed by the locals! Thank you for being able to make last minute changes, such as adding on Naxos as well as the catamaran. We really appreciate you for taking care of... Read more

Haiiiii Aggeliki! Apologies for the late response, October was cray, but here is our review/feedback as promised. As mentioned previously, all of our tours were fantastic! Everyone we encountered were soOoOo personable and helpful. It can be overwhelming when you’re visiting a new place so it was really refreshing to be welcomed by the locals! Thank you for being able to make last minute changes, such as adding on Naxos as well as the catamaran. We really appreciate you for taking care of pretty much everythaaaaang for us as it made our trip that much more smoOth sailing. Pun intended! We got to practice our Greek, hehe, you would’ve been so proud, lol!! As stated multiple times in our group chat, you’re amazeballs, and we love your personality! KimKim was so worth it because of you!! The only thing that would’ve made it better is if we all got wine together, hahaha!!! Thanks again for being SO patient with us. All the best! ~ Μεγζ και Πατρικιε <3

Hotel Reviews
Urban Frame Hotel
Athens
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Aeolos Resort Mykonos
Mykonos / Chora
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Luxus VIP Suites
Oia
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Asma Suites
Santorini
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Round Ferry Tickets between Naxos & Mykonos
Round Ferry Tickets between Naxos & Mykonos
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Following Ariadne’s path in Naxos  (Wine, Spirits & Olive Oil Tasting)
Following Ariadne’s path in Naxos (Wine, Spirits & Olive Oil Tasting)
Greece
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Catamaran Sunset Cruise
Catamaran Sunset Cruise
Santorini
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
We guide you in the Past 2023
We guide you in the Past 2023
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Athens Highlights Mythology Tour
Athens Highlights Mythology Tour
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Angela (Aggeliki) Giannioti
Angela (Aggeliki)
Angela (Aggeliki) Giannioti
Local specialist in Greece | Replied on Nov 03, 2022
Μεγζ & Πατρίκιε! You are such a wonderful couple! It was amazing and enjoyable talking to you and assisting you with your trip. You guys are so fun!
Your level in the Greek language is astonishing! I was surprised multiple times and couldn't catch up with how fast you learn! LOL!
Next time you visit we will arrange to drink that glass of wine and raise our glasses and say Στην υγειά μας! :D
Thank you so much for trusting kimkim, my team, and me with your honeymoon in Greece. It was amazing...
Read more

Μεγζ & Πατρίκιε!

You are such a wonderful couple! It was amazing and enjoyable talking to you and assisting you with your trip. You guys are so fun!
Your level in the Greek language is astonishing! I was surprised multiple times and couldn't catch up with how fast you learn! LOL!
Next time you visit we will arrange to drink that glass of wine and raise our glasses and say Στην υγειά μας! :D
Thank you so much for trusting kimkim, my team, and me with your honeymoon in Greece. It was amazing assisting you and I would honestly love to assist you again in the future when you decide to visit Greece again and see some other amazing parts of the country. :)
Until then, take care and ALWAYS have fun!

My best wishes,
Αγγελική <3

Iceland Road Warriors
Iceland | Oct 22 - Oct 31, 2022

B
Barry G.
Dublin, CA | Reviewed on Nov 02, 2022
Overall, the planning and support by Eva of Iceland Untouched was terrific. We had a small hiccup in that the airport transfer for one of two couples on arrival never showed due to a travel agent miscommunication, but was remedied quickly. If there were any complaints, I would say there was very little down time. We were constantly moving in a hurry to keep on schedule. Because the days were planned around our ability to stay in certain hotels, when one hotel was unavailable, the driving went... Read more

Overall, the planning and support by Eva of Iceland Untouched was terrific. We had a small hiccup in that the airport transfer for one of two couples on arrival never showed due to a travel agent miscommunication, but was remedied quickly. If there were any complaints, I would say there was very little down time. We were constantly moving in a hurry to keep on schedule. Because the days were planned around our ability to stay in certain hotels, when one hotel was unavailable, the driving went from 4 hs to 5 1/2 hrs on one day, which was very difficult.

Generally, our guides were excellent, except for one: Ricky, of Glacier Adventures, for our Ice Cave Expedition. He was always in a hurry (our hike from the van to the cave was done at a far faster than needed or normal pace) and he was void of personality. We were the last ones to check in at the facility because we had a 1 1/2 hour drive under normal conditions, but because of the hotel change, we had to leave the hotel well before sunrise and travel on icy roads, which slowed us down considerably. When we were boarding the van to depart Base Camp for the cave, my wife asked if she had time to use the restroom before departure. Ricky appeared irritated and anxious to leave. His response was ok, but there's always the river. My wife, sensing his desire to be on the road, climbed aboard. The ensuing expedition was not very comfortable for her.

If we were to do it again, we would work to limit the amount of driving and build in time each day for some relaxation, instead of always being in a rush.

Local specialist: Eva Sigurðardóttir

Worth all the stars I can give!
Greece | Oct 7 - Oct 24, 2022

Wendy
Wendy M.
Orinda, CA | Reviewed on Nov 02, 2022
Chris and his travel agency are worth all the stars I can give. =) Initially I wasn't sure about using an agency, even one for independent travellers, because I like to be off the beaten path and have flexibility. However, Chris immediately understood what we were looking for (an educational gap year experience for my son - so not exactly a vacation, but not business either.) He was incredibly responsive, asked great questions, and listened to what I had in mind, which ultimately resulted... Read more

Chris and his travel agency are worth all the stars I can give. =) Initially I wasn't sure about using an agency, even one for independent travellers, because I like to be off the beaten path and have flexibility. However, Chris immediately understood what we were looking for (an educational gap year experience for my son - so not exactly a vacation, but not business either.) He was incredibly responsive, asked great questions, and listened to what I had in mind, which ultimately resulted in a trip plan much better than I could have done on my own. Moreover, it wasn't until we actually got to Greece that I understood the true value of working with Chris and kimkim. On our second day in Athens, my son got a skin rash and he was in quite a lot of pain. Not only did the staff at Sweet Home Hotel help me find medical assistance (including a pediatrician who made a house call to the hotel at 11 PM!), Chris was available as well, helping us find a pharmacy, rearrange plans as needed, and just generally providing support. As our trip progressed, there were very few hiccups, and those that did occur were either remedied quickly (or adjusted to something even better). I could not be happier with the service, and I recommend kimkim in general - and Chris in particular - to anyone looking for a bespoke travel experience.

Hotel Reviews
Sweet Home Hotel
Athens

The penthouse suite was amazing, the unlimited buffet breakfast was delicious, but what really made this place stand out was the truly warm and welcoming atmosphere on the part of everyone we encountered. The owners went above and beyond to help when my son got sick, including finding a doctor to make a house call at 11 PM at night! Staying here really did feel like a home away from home!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ippokampos Beachfront Hotel
Naxos

We liked this hotel and the view from the room was amazing. Just a note that the photos make the rooms appear larger than they are - not a complaint, but I wish I had noted the actual square footage of the room rather than just looked at the pictures. I'd still stay here again, but perhaps choose a larger room for three people.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Manos Small World Santorini
Santorini island

There was a bit of confusion with the room we had booked at first, but the manager not only quickly remedied the situation, he found us a room that was even better than the one we had originally selected. The location is perfect and the view of the caldera is incomparable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Acropolis Guided Tour
Acropolis Guided Tour
Athens

The guide was incredibly knowledgeable, patient with my son, and really made us feel as if we were getting an insider experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Full-Day Trip to Delphi
Private Full-Day Trip to Delphi
Athens

The driver was the best part of the trip! He was patient with my son (who was a bit sick), was very knowledgeable about the area, and flexible with respect to side trips. The guide was excellent also - my only recommendation is for the guide to clarify with the driver exactly where and when we would be picked up after the tour. But overall a fantastic trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A journey through Naxian Tastes
A journey through Naxian Tastes
Naxos

This was, hands down, one of the best and most memorable experiences of the entire trip. Our guide was amazing - she was a 4th generation Naxos resident, spoke English perfectly, and we really got a sense of the place through both the food and her insights. Very highly recommend.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Santorini Wine Roads
Santorini Wine Roads
Santorini

I'm glad we went - it was nice to try the variety of grapes used to produce Santorini wines - but the tour was very much oriented toward those who don't know much (or really anything) about wine. That said, the guide was good - I just wish I had known in advance that it was geared toward novices - I would have chosen a different tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Chris Gravas
Chris
Chris Gravas
Local specialist in Athens, Greece | Replied on Nov 02, 2022
Dear Wendy, What a pleasure it was to plan this amazing family trip for you, Ed & James! Thank you very much for your kind words, I am humbled! Most of all I am happy that James had a great time and that everything worked out smoothly whenever we had any hiccups. I hope that the memories from your trip keep you company in your everyday life and that you have a lot of stories and photos to share with your friends and family!
Looking forward to plan the next adventure with you, and this time...
Read more

Dear Wendy,

What a pleasure it was to plan this amazing family trip for you, Ed & James! Thank you very much for your kind words, I am humbled!

Most of all I am happy that James had a great time and that everything worked out smoothly whenever we had any hiccups. I hope that the memories from your trip keep you company in your everyday life and that you have a lot of stories and photos to share with your friends and family!
Looking forward to plan the next adventure with you, and this time to get to meet all of you in person as well, it will be a pleasure and honor!

Have a wonderful and happy holiday season!

Warm regards,
Chris

Exploring Portugal
Portugal | Oct 25 - Oct 31, 2022

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Melody B.
Waitsfield, VT | Reviewed on Nov 02, 2022
Hi Marta, Thank you so much for our vacation. It was outstanding. Anne Lynne and I appreciated every detail, and wouldn’t change a thing. Everything flowed so smoothly, thanks to you, which is no small feat when traveling ! We enjoyed a perfect mix of nature, culture, history, art, hiking and exploring, food and wine, music and adventure. The iPhone app you provided was terrific, making communication and logistics seamless. Our guides informative, professional and really interesting. We... Read more

Hi Marta, Thank you so much for our vacation. It was outstanding. Anne Lynne and I appreciated every detail, and wouldn’t change a thing. Everything flowed so smoothly, thanks to you, which is no small feat when traveling ! We enjoyed a perfect mix of nature, culture, history, art, hiking and exploring, food and wine, music and adventure. The iPhone app you provided was terrific, making communication and logistics seamless. Our guides informative, professional and really interesting. We will certainly use kimkim again and recommend it to friends and family too. Very best, Melody

Hotel Review
Vincci Baixa
Lisbon
Authenticity & Character
Location
Central
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Sintra Heritage Hike: Hidden Secrets
Sintra Heritage Hike: Hidden Secrets
Portugal

Guide was perfect. Hike, picnic, history, nature excellent

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Marta Trzeciakowska
Marta
Marta Trzeciakowska
Local specialist in Madrid, Spain | Replied on Nov 02, 2022

Hi Mel and Anne Lynne, thank you a million for taking the time to post the review. It was a pleasure to organize all the details for your trip, so you could enjoy the big array of experiences Portugal has to offer in the time you had there. I would be very happy to help you with future trips to Portugal and Spain, and I will make sure the guides know how much you enjoyed your time :) All my best, Marta

We highly recommend this company. Everything ...
Morocco | Oct 20 - Oct 26, 2022

Kai
Kai K.
Whitehall Township, PA | Reviewed on Nov 02, 2022
We highly recommend this company. Everything we arranged for our trip to Morocco with the Kim Kim team went smoothly. We appreciated the flexibility to add our own input.
Our guide Ali Moujan made everything even more perfect. He was a superb guide! We so highly recommend him. Always prompt, always happy and so very knowledgeable about his country. He could not do enough for us, we actually felt like a friendship was formed and we will miss him.
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We highly recommend this company. Everything we arranged for our trip to Morocco with the Kim Kim team went smoothly. We appreciated the flexibility to add our own input.
Our guide Ali Moujan made everything even more perfect. He was a superb guide! We so highly recommend him. Always prompt, always happy and so very knowledgeable about his country. He could not do enough for us, we actually felt like a friendship was formed and we will miss him.

Hotel Reviews
Riad Hicham
Chefchaouen

Everything was perfect about this Riad. The location was just what we wanted, in the heart of the Medina. The service could not have been better. The people friendly and helpful.

Authenticity & Character
The breakfasts were typical Moroccan which is what we wanted.
Location
In the heart of the Medina
Staff
We enjoyed talking with the staff who could not do enough to make us happy.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Perfectly clean .
Riad El Amine Fès
Fes

This was the most beautiful Riad we stayed in. It looked as though it had once been a Palace. It deserves its 5 stars. Our room was a dream and like an apartment. Our bed could have fit a dozen. The staff were more than helpful and very friendly. We highly recommend.

Authenticity & Character
From entering the lobby to our room all was beautiful.
Location
It seemed on the edge but actually was right near the Medina which is where we like to be.
Staff
They were so accommodating. We ate on the rooftop and they were happy to create a vegetarian menu for us.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bed was amazing in size and the sheets were dreamy. The shower had ample hot water and supplies were plentiful . The breakfasts were perfect.
Local specialist: Megan Lower

ALMOST STRAINED AT THE TRAIN STATION
Peru | Oct 27 - Nov 1, 2022

Y
Youngsoo R.
Los Altos, CA | Reviewed on Nov 02, 2022
Everything was good except the driver who drove me and other 8 passengers . First the driver didn't wait us at the train station with our names flags. I had to call Dario for assistance. It was a TERRIBLE ARRANGEMENT every passengers felt. We all felt being SYSTEMATICALLY AND INTENTIONALLY CHEATED, almost ! Then he refused to take us back to our hotel. He didn't speak English, or pretend he doesn't know any phone number to call. What a lie. How he knew we were waiting for being picked up... Read more

Everything was good except the driver who drove me and other 8 passengers . First the driver didn't wait us at the train station with our names flags. I had to call Dario for assistance. It was a TERRIBLE ARRANGEMENT every passengers felt. We all felt being SYSTEMATICALLY AND INTENTIONALLY CHEATED, almost !

Then he refused to take us back to our hotel. He didn't speak English, or pretend he doesn't know any phone number to call. What a lie. How he knew we were waiting for being picked up at the train station !! We had to insist to bring us to the hotel and SIT in the van for 10 minutes. Finally he drove me to my hotel. He knew which Marriott ( out of three in Cusco) he supposed to go ? He knew it to begin with !!

I am SERIOUSLY worry about other passenger ( all young girls from Denmark). I have considered to call the local police.

Kimkim is ultimately responsible for my case at least. I will post this experience to public to aware !!

Hotel Reviews
Palacio del Inka Cusco
Cusco

Wonderful place and wonderful staff

Authenticity & Character
Location
Conveniently licaat near tge center of Cusco
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Camping
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Shared Classic Inca Trail 1/4 w/ extra Porter Service
Shared Classic Inca Trail 1/4 w/ extra Porter Service
Peru
Quality of Experience
Food
Wonderful
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I thought Dario was my guide. Roberto was ok but I don't like to being switched to ther guide without any prior notice
Transport
Shared Classic Inca Trail 2/4
Shared Classic Inca Trail 2/4
Peru
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Shared Classic Inca Trail 3/4
Shared Classic Inca Trail 3/4
Peru
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
T
Transport
Shared Classic Inca Trail 4/4: Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
Shared Classic Inca Trail 4/4: Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
Peru
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
Liz Karen
Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
Local specialist in Cusco | Replied on Nov 12, 2022

Hi Youngsoo,
Thank you very much for your comment, this helps us to improve our services. Once again, we apologize for the unpleasant experience you had with your transfer, we’re certain that with the private transfers we’ll include from now, this won’t happen again. Even so, we’re very glad to know that you had a good experience with your hotel and during the trek (Guides, food and the rest of the transfers). We’re very happy that at the end when we had communication you accepted our sincere apologies.
Best regards.
Liz.

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