Kimkim Trip Reviews

My daughter and I traveled to Morocco for the first time. We had the most amazing time and experience! Our Driver, Faisal, was professional, courteous, helpful, and is someone I now consider a friend. He made sure we were comfortable, and took such good care of us. The tour guides in each city were so informative. We learned so much. This was one of our best trips ever!

Wow--what an incredible holiday in Costa Rica! We had a wonderful experience and are very pleased with kimkim--we would definitely recommend working with their team again. Fio was attentive to our requests and connected us with a fantastic local travel agency and expert, Nancy (Serendipity Adventures). Both Fio and Nancy were prompt to answer questions and help facilitate our travel needs--even when we were in the middle of traveling.
-3Monkies transportation was excellent. Drivers were always on time (usually 5-10 minutes early). Vans were spotless. Drivers were all very friendly and willing to accommodate any unscheduled stops. They were knowledgeable local resources and could answer any questions we had.
-Hacienda Guachipelin was EXCELLENT. Accommodations were very comfortable, restaurant options and food were fantastic, staff was very friendly and helpful. It was so convenient to have the activity center on the property--there was absolutely no feeling of a "vacation factory" (as I had read ahead of time). The activities were well organized and were thoughtfully integrated into their natural settings. The zip line through he canyon was fantastic. Waterfalls felt like a Costa Rican Shangri-La. Edward was a fantastic guide on the Las Pailas loop hike. The tubing was a blast.
-Hotel Mosque del Mar and Playa Hermosa was lovely. The pool area felt like a jungle oasis...but was dense with mosquitos.
-Kuna Vela sailing was NOT a catamaran...but rather a very nice sailboat. Our reservation was incorrectly made for 2 (instead of all 4 of us), but the staff was very accommodating and welcomed us all aboard. We had some higher swells on our sail, so the kids stayed in the back of the boat with the captain. He-and the entire Kuna Vela staff-were so friendly helpful, they really made the trip a hit with our family.
-The estuary mangrove tour in Tamarindo was excellent. The naturalist/boat captain was very knowledgeable and was able to point out many birds, plants, and crocodiles that we would have missed! This was a great activity that felt off the beaten path.
-Coco tours transportation was also excellent. Our driver was able to make a great lunch recommendation for us in Tamarindo.
-Nummbu Bungalows on Playa Carrillo was absolutely beautiful. Hotel staff was very friendly. Unfortunately our stay coincided with a group fitness retreat that dominated the property for the weekend--including a late night, thumping DJ party. Not the vibe we were hoping for. We were told this retreat is annual, so keep this in mind when booking in early June.
-Isla Chora ocean kayaking and snorkeling with Samara Adventures was a highlight!! We loved the open-air ride to the beach. The paddle to Isla Chora was so fun--we had turtles popping up to greet us along the way. The guides were very safety oriented and friendly. This was a fantastic family excursion--would highly recommend this.
We had such a wonderful time--Costa Rica, the beauty of the land, ocean and people, is truly a treasure of this planet!!

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Bosque del Mar

Playa Hermosa

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín

Liberia

Excellent!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Nammbú Beachfront Bungalows

Sámara

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Isla Chora Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour

Costa Rica

Mangrove & Estuary Safari by Boat

Costa Rica

Sunset Catamaran Sailing Tour

Costa Rica

This was NOT a catamaran tour, rather a sailboat

Hike to Las Pailas, Rincon de la Vieja National Park and La Oropendola Waterfall

Costa Rica

One Day of Adventure in Hacienda Guachipelin

Costa Rica

Amazing and unforgettable time in Portugal!
It was our first time working with KimKim qnd can’t say enough about the experience. From the beginning, we were impressed at the level of responsiveness and the travel “quiz” to help build a memorable trip that was aligned with our level and activity and budget. We hit the jackpot with working with Karenina! She built a picture perfect trip- from beginning to finish. She included amazing excursions that we would have never experienced or known about without her. She coordinated everything from excursions to private transfers. Each guide was wonderful, kind, knowledgeable and you can tell really enjoyed sharing the amazing culture, history and oftentimes - food with us! Karenina reached out two weeks ahead of time to confirm everything and provide helpful hints and she was there via the app throughout our time-
If we had any questions and just to check in with us. Can’t say enough about our experience and working with her. Friends have asked “how did you build such a great trip” and I simply answer- Karenina! We will certainly work with her again on our next trip to Portugal and hopefully other locations. Many thanks to Karenina and the KimKim team!

Hotel Reviews

PortoBay Marquês

Lisbon

Authenticity & Character

Location

Steps away from the subway station/Metro and at a great location to walk and explore on the way towards the downtown area

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Meliá Lisboa Aeroporto

Lisbon

Authenticity & Character

Location

Wonderful hotel, amazing decor -right next to airport!

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Lagos Avenida Hotel

Lagos

Authenticity & Character

Location

Across from the beautiful marina!

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Discover Rural Algarve on a 4WD

Portugal

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Get to Know Lisbon with a Local

Lisbon

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Alex was amazing- customized the pace to our needs and enjoyed seeing things in and off the beaten path— an especially understanding the history more

Lisbon Roots: A Food & Cultural Walk

Portugal

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Fátima Pilgrimage Site: Half-Day Excursion

Lisbon

A moving and memorable experience. Our private guide Paulo was superb. It was over an hour drive each way and yet he allowed as much time as we need at Fatima. We attended Mass, lit candles and he even ensured our statues/artifacts purchased were blessed by a priest. He went above and beyond and we are so grateful!!!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Paulo is amazing. A wonderful person, guide and now friend!

Transport

Antonia, my specialist, worked with me for several months and organized a complex trip for our group of four. The whole journey felt like a total concierge trip, with four and five-star hotels, excellent service, and Antonia being available to us 24-7.

Some of the highlights of our trip included a truffle tour, Skokin caves in Slovenia, Plitvice National Park, and exploring Hvar with a local guide. We were treated like royalty throughout our trip, and Antonia made sure everything was taken care of, from our transportation to our accommodations.

There were a few hiccups with a couple of hotels, but overall, everything was perfect. The best part was having someone in the same time zone as us, making communication and problem-solving much easier.

I would highly recommend Kimkim to others looking for a seamless and luxurious travel experience, and I can't wait to book another trip with them in the future.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Korsal

Korčula

We did not have a good experience here due to issues with the air conditioning and subpar staff.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel More

Dubrovnik

Although the room wasn't exceptional, the pool was amazing, and we had a great stay at Hotel More.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel

Ljubljana

The hotel was awesome, with great service and beautiful rooms. We had a fantastic stay here.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Adriatic

Rovinj

This hotel was beautiful, and we were treated like royalty. It was an amazing stay.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Bevanda

Opatija

We had an excellent experience at Hotel Bevanda. The staff and accommodations were top-notch.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia

Split

We had a major problem with the air conditioning and the staff was subpar. The only good thing about this hotel was the location.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Boutique Hotel La Roche

Tivat

The hotel was lovely, and the staff was very accommodating. We had a great stay here.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Private Lumbarda Wine Tour & Konoba Dinner

Korčula

We had an awesome day visiting two wineries and then having dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. The people were incredibly friendly, and the food was amazing!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Truffle Lunch with Presentation at Local Family Estate

Croatia

The truffle tour was phenomenal! We learned all about truffles and even got to taste them in various dishes. The family was lovely, and we had a delicious meal.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hvar Day Trip from Split

Croatia

We had an amazing full day in Hvar with our guide. He took us to his family's wine cellar and provided a really personalized experience. It was an incredible day!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Walking Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park

Croatia

The Plitvice National Park waterfalls were absolutely amazing. Our guide ensured that we had a fantastic experience.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We planned a trip to Prague and Croatia. We used KimKim to alleviate and the time and stress in planning all the details. Moreover, we were bringing our kids (11 and 13) to Europe for the first time and wanted to do activities that they would enjoy (ie not walking through museums and churches the entire time). KimKim and our local contact, Nikola, nailed it! We had a great time, everything went so well without a hitch. So easy!

Hotel Reviews

Villa King Apartments

Dubrovnik

Very very nice, but a little mush of a walk to Dubrovnik Old Town, particularly walking back because it’s all up hill. That being said, the actual room was very nice.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Villa Kogo

Hvar

Great location, big space, great host!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Kings Court

Prague

Excellent location! Very clean and comfortable!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Konavle Region Culinary Experience (small group)

Croatia

Really enjoyed the authenticity of this.

Quality of Experience

The family

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dubrovnik Sea Kayaking

Dubrovnik

Weather interrupted trip and really a lot of paddling - too much - for kids.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Walking Tour of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik

We didn’t end up doing it.

Private Boat Tour to the Red Rocks & Southern Shore of Hvar Island

Croatia

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Island of Hvar Cycling Tour

Croatia

The best

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Prague

Prague

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Marisa went well beyond what we expected, especially since we had to change our itinerary several times. We originally scheduled a Douro River cruise (outside Kim Kim) and then had Marisa plan a week in Portugal before the cruise. We spent 3 days in Lisbon, which has now become one of our favorite cities, The tours which Marisa arranged were a real highlight and we can't say enough good things about the Ivens Hotel and their bar and restaurants. The location was ideal. The tuk-tuk tour to Belem was also a highlight. She then arranged for a rental car which we drove to Coimbra where we stayed for two nights in another wonderful hotel outside town in Lousa, the Octant. Thanks to the car we were able to visit places like Nazare where we had a great seafood lunch, Aveiro where we took a boat tour and had another good lunch, the Roman ruins outside Coimbra. the Knights Templar castle and much more. We eventually finished in Porto where we stayed in another nice hotel, the Royal Bridges, just a block or two from the train station. It too was in a great location, especially with all of the ongoing construction..
Anytime we had a question Marisa was available to help out and we were not bashful about contacting her as she was a great resource. Overall we had one of our best European trips ever and we are already talking about returning to spend more time in Lisbon and to see Southern Portugal. When we return we will again use Marisa and Kim Kim.

Hotel Reviews

Porto Royal Bridges Hotel

Porto

A modern, well-located hotel with a courteous and helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character

Rooms, while on the smaller side were well appointed.

Location

Staff

Friendly and helpful. They kept our bags for half a day until we met our river cruise at 6pm.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Other than the smallish room everything was clean and comfortable.

Octant Hotels Palácio da Lousã

Lousã

The staff was friendly and very helpful, Our room was amazing with wonderful views. The restaurant also served good food. We could not have asked for more. While this hotel is still know by the locals as the Palacio, it has apparently been acquired by Octant and is now going by that name.

Authenticity & Character

The sitting rooms made you feel like you were part of the family.

Location

Easy to get around.

Staff

Everyone was helpful and courteous.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Private Transfer

Portugal

Driver was great and very helpful.

Discovering Belém's Charm on a Tuk-Tuk Ride

Lisbon

The first tuk tuk broke down, but a replacement was immediately sent. Our driver was amazing and knowledgeable. The only negative is that we did not know that we should have purchased tickets before hand to visit the cathedral. Because of the long line we missed touring it.

Immerse Yourself in the Portuguese Culture by Experiencing a Fado Dinner

Lisbon

The dinner was amazing, the performance not so much. They took a break after 3 songs at which time most of the restaurant cleared out.

Lisbon's Historic Odyssey on a Private Walking Tour

Lisbon

Our guide was great. She even showed us how to use the subway, which was a breeze. Her knowlege and love of Lisbon was apparent.

Quality of Experience

To Eat Suggestion: By the Wine

Lisbon

One of the best restaurants we ate at. The black pork was delightful and the wine was so good that we took a couple of bottles with us.

Quality of Experience

It was well done all around

Guides, Drivers and Staff

All of the drivers were very helpful and helped make our trip stress free.

Transport

We were not certain about renting a car, but Marisa assured us there would be no problems and she was right.

FYI-I don’t like starred reviews-We would give a four and half, so don’t look at 4 as 80%.
Some closer attention to details as hotel and transportation location and name(Ex: we had a confusion about the Scandic Hotel in Alesund indicated on our plan, and the phone number was no longer working. We had a confusion about our second shuttle, not sure if that could’ve been avoided because the bus company Norway’s Best didn’t use their regular shuttle. They were using the shuttle to Stegastein ). Any problems we encountered were addressed in a timely manner as best possible by the team with a phone call.
We had no idea there was an indoor terminal to wait for the Hurtigruten coastal boat, also the info « deck » as our overnight accommodation led us to believe we were outside. There is no obvious information regarding that on the Hurtigruten website either, so that would have been relevant information. It was a welcome surprise that we had a fine comfortable space indoors on the seventh floor of the ship. There was also a hot tub on deck and it’s a good thing we had bathing suits with us because we were able to enjoy were able to enjoy it. So, in the future, it would be good to know to a bit more about the ship facilities.
We think it would be great if smaller family hotels were used instead of chains when possible. I know we asked for more economical lodging, so maybe we shouldn’t expect a room with a view. I didn’t think much about that myself in planning. In a country, with so many beautiful views, and with daylight for so long, it’s nice to have some kind of view.
Our experience at the Midtnes in Balestrand was so wonderful. We decided to go to Vik before leaving for Aurland and the owner had breakfast ready early and also brought us to the boat dock( and met our boat when we arrived). He also was full of information. We enjoyed the wonderful dinners at the Aurland Fjord Hotel, we kind of forgot they were in the plan -so it was a nice surprise :)
The guide (Toon?)for our hike in Balestrand was wonderful and we did hike to a higher view, he also brought coffee and Norwegian snacks for us. But we needed to meet him at the trailhead, not the tourist info- not sure what happened there- it was fine, we got his phone number and were able to start no problem.
We had a fantastic trip and it was great that all the necessary booking was done and we had enough free time to add lots to our trip on our own. We are providing details here only to help improve the experience. It was great to have the Kim Kim team on hand to call when needed.
Hester & Maria

Great trip

Hotel Reviews

Casa Jacinta Guest House

Del Carmen, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México

Quaint and in the center of shopping, restuarants. Breakfast very good

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel La Aldea del Halach Huinic

Palenque

Good restuarant, Waking to the howler monkeys was exciting. Nice grounds.

Authenticity & Character

Location

near ruins, in park

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Parador Margarita

San Cristobal de las Casas

Very comfortable. Great base for our trips.

Authenticity & Character

buildings layout

Location

a short walk ti shopping and many resturants

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Fiesta Inn Aeropuerto Ciudad de Mexico

Mexico City

Incredible that it is in the city next to airport, highways, etc. Had a country feel. Only problem was that they could not easily use the 4 confirmation numbers in our kimkim trip plan to register. There was confusion that was cleared upon a call to Lizbeth, I think.

Authenticity & Character

as above

Location

near airport

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Visit the Museum of Anthropology and Chapultepec Castle

Mexico City

Unfortunately we did not see this so as to accomodate the needs/interests of the 3 children in out group.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

friendly and knowledgible

Transport

I can't emphasize how good Pasquale and Hector were.

Explore the Casa Azul Museum

Mexico City

Those of us that walked to, and visited this feature were quite happy with it. Others of us went to the Capultepec Zoo. This was quite good, not crouded. As hoped we saw some animals unique to the reigon. I think Mildred would have been a better guide for the Anthropology museum and Castle, but we wanted a site where the kids could run and be entertained. The zoo worked for this. Again, Mildred did fine and was very accomodating to our last minute change of plans.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Discover the Palenque Archeological Site and the Miotepa Trail

Palenque

Very interesting and Hector was expert in his descriptions of the details. The short walk through the jungle was not that useful on a very hot day, because there were no animals to be seen. Better to get to the hotel in the jungle where we saw/heard the howler monkeys, a large parrot, and some other criter.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

In the entire trip the vans were excellent, and again, Pasquale and Hector were great.

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

Mexico

We chose to miss Misol-ha to have more time to swim at Agua Azul. The detour due to the protest took more time, but it allowed us to see the agricultural aspects of the area more, so i considered this to be a plus.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Again, Pasquale and Hector were very expert and accomodating.

Transport

Cultural Immersion: Cooking in Zinacantan

San Cristobal de las Casas

This was outstanding for cultural exposure. Visit to Maria's home/ workplace/milpa was special. The authentic lunch was very interesting and well done. Her textiles and demo were excellent. The visit to the church with prayerrs and chickens was most revealing and interesting. Very culturally real and revealing. Hector was particularly good at describing the details and richness of this tour.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Again, Pasquale was expert.

El Chiflón and Lagos de Montebello

San Cristobal de las Casas

zip line was worth it. but their not taking credit card was combersome.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Sumidero Canyon landscapes in Chiapas

San Cristobal de las Casas

cool boat trip welcomed, and fast on the return.

Quality of Experience

cool when hot day

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our recent trip to Iceland was beyond wonderful. We did a driving tour of the south coast and Snaefellsnes peninsula that Terry helped us put together. Terry was top level attentive to our wishes and needs on this self-driving tour. Almost all the hotels we had reserved for us were excellent (didn’t really care for the Fosshotel Baron in Reykjavik. We felt like the excursions were well planned out and hit the mark as far as what we wanted to see and do during our vacation. Terry was excellent at communicating with us on a timely basis before and During the trip. Michelle, the local KimKim rep was also very attentive to us when things needed to be changed in our itinerary when we were actually on our trip. We felt well cared for and that the KimKim team really gave us great attention for this trip. I LOVE Iceland so much. The glacier hike 100% worth it with a great guide. The fact that I didn’t die on this hike (I’m not in the best shape) was a bonus. The Ice Cave was probably our second favorite thing, and whale watching was top of the list for my daughter who was so excited to see 5 whales on this trip. I would 100% recommend KimKim travel to friends and 1000% a driving tour of Iceland.

Hotel Reviews

Fosshotel Baron

Reykjavík

Very dated hotel. It felt like a college dorm room. Very loud doors. Breakfast was good though.

Authenticity & Character

Just seemed run down and old.

Location

Location was great right near the water and close walk to city center. It was quiet.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Beds uncomfortable. Needed more pillows and blankets. Shower was the worst.

Hotel Langaholt

Stadarstadur

Our favorite hotel during our trip. It is not much to look at from the outside but the charm of this family-owned hotel was exceptional. Everyone who worked there was so friendly and gave us excellent advise on where to see some things and where to shop nearby.

Authenticity & Character

The buffet dinner was so good. The food was hot and delicious. I loved the service we got.

Location

Staff

The receptionist at check in was obviously very busy, but she was so pleasant and willing to help.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Quaint room, comfortable bed. Could have a little bit better light blocking curtains.

The Greenhouse Hotel

Hveragerdi

This eclectic hotel was very comfortable, well situated in the city, quiet and clean.

Authenticity & Character

I loved the plants and greenery everywhere

Location

really liked the food court on the main floor.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Beds were super comfortable

Hotel Gullfoss

Tungufell

Excellent care and surroundings. Would definitely stay again.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel South Coast

Selfoss

Everyone there was so friendly and welcoming. Our room was wonderful. Good black out curtains for that 20hours of sunlight in Iceland in the spring. Would definitely stay again at this hotel.

Authenticity & Character

Location

We did a little walking tour of Selfoss “downtown” and our hotel was perfectly located to do this on foot.

Staff

Front desk folks were so sweet

Cleanliness & Comfort

Fosshotel Núpar

Kálfafell

Loved the lava moss scenery right out our back door. Very quiet and peaceful.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Seems out in the middle of nowhere but that was it’s charm.

Staff

Very pleasant and attentive to our needs.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Best warm showers ever!!! The room was very clean and quiet.

Activity Reviews

Whale Watching Ólafsvík

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

My daughters wish list and it did not disappoint.

Quality of Experience

Fontana Geothermal Baths

Iceland

Truly beautiful and relaxing day. Enjoyed the saunas. Definitely a beautiful view from the pool.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The checkin guy actually pronounced our last name correctly. This doesn’t even happen in the states.

Laugarvatn Paddle Board Tour

Iceland

cancelled due to wind.

The Secret Lagoon

Iceland

We were spoiled with the blue lagoon the first day so this lagoon was a bit disappointing. It is more like a public pool .

Quality of Experience

Skaftafell Blue Ice Experience

Iceland

So beautiful and overwhelming to be in the center of these ice caves.

Quality of Experience

Extra guys in the caves who were working on bridges and ladders were super helpful in getting us across some narrow bridges.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Local guide was informative and relaxed. We really enjoyed his information. Unfortunately I don’t remember his name.

Transport

Another bumpy fun ride from starting point to actual caves.

Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon Zodiac boat tour

Iceland

Cancelled due to weather :(

Solheimajokull Glacier Hike

Iceland

Experience of a lifetime to climb some glaciers. The weather was perfect (cloudy so not sweating on the hike). Our tour guide was amazing. My daughter changed her mind at the last minute and decided not to go and the guide was supportive and understanding and got her a ride back to the park. Our climbing experience was definitely challenging for this 60+ yo but I didn’t die, so it’s all good.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Get read for a very bumpy bus ride to the glacier.

Transport

Blue Lagoon

Iceland

So so glad our guide Terry had us going here right after landing in Iceland. So warm and relaxing. Going early in the AM it was not crowded at all. It was getting busy as we left around 10am.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Staff was wonderful and welcoming and very efficient.

We had the BEST honeymoon in Greece! Tasos was extremely helpful and flexible while we were planning. He was able to work with us to stay within our budget and made multiple revisions to the itinerary to accommodate our requests and preferences. He was also very helpful after booking and about a week before our trip he contacted us about a ferry strike that would prevent us from traveling one day. He helped us quickly book alternate transportation so we wouldn’t miss any activities! We are very thankful for his time! This was our second trip through Kim Kim and we will be using their services again for any future international trips.

Activity Reviews

Santorini Farm Tour: Food & Wine

Santorini

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Morning Catamaran Caldera Cruise

Santorini

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Walking Tour in Ano Syros

Syros

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Athens Food Tour

Athens

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Liz and the New Zealand Self Drive team were so easy to work with—Liz was really communicative and went above and beyond to take care of every detail of my last minute trip in the South Island! I usually love planning my own travel but this experience showed me how much local knowledge I've been missing out on. I loved the suggestions for my time in Queenstown (especially the lake cruise and farm dinner/show) and the detailed driving directions to Milford Sound the next day were really reassuring since I was traveling alone and didn't always have cell service. Loved the suggestions on where to stop for lunch or a great view too! They also found me a last-minute spot on an overnight cruise in Milford Sound for my 30th birthday and I can't imagine a better way to celebrate. Thank you to Liz and the NZ Self Drive team for going above and beyond! I'm so grateful for the experiences you created for me and would absolutely recommend your agency.

Activity Reviews

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Te Anau

I've been wanting to see the glowworms for years, and this tour did not disappoint (especially because Australia and New Zealand are the only places you can see these!) — after we took a comfortable ferry across the lake, we arrived on the island and split into smaller groups. My group was first to go inside the caves, which are lit up for the first section so you can see how they were formed by the water that's still rushing through. Walking on the metal gangplanks over the water and through the different pockets of the cave and the waterfalls (one coming straight down through a hole in the "ceiling" was incredibly cool and unique. At the top, our guide helped us into the little boat and then turned off all the lights so our eyes could adjust, and pulled the boat along a rope through the cave silently so we could take in the glowworms in the pitch black, floating on the water. She did a great job turning the boat around at different points so everyone could get directly underneath them for a better look. Be aware the they're not as bright in person as they are in the photos but that didn't make me marvel at it any less — such a cool phenomenon to witness. After, we walked on a nature path back to the welcome center for a drink and a presentation, and then took a look around the exhibits to learn more about the glowworms and the natural landscape on the island. After that, we headed back on the boat across the lake to Te Anau.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

TSS Earnslaw Farm Tour & Dinner

Queenstown (NZ)

It was so cool to see the inner workings of the steam ship before going out to the deck to enjoy the view and a glass of wine. The food at dinner was incredible too! Really enjoyed the farm show exhibition with the sheep and the herding dog—very cleverly done.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise ex Milford

Milford Sound

This was a bucket list experience that will be so special to me forever. The staff on board the boat were so great, friendly and knowledgeable and made the schedule and options really easy to understand. Heading out in the boats the first night from the cove where we docked, and seeing a pod of bottlenose dolphins swim right under our kayaks was something I'll never forget (they let us stay out a bit longer to enjoy that rare experience)! The food was also really good and I enjoyed the insightful commentary on the wildlife and the terrain of the Sound. 10/10 would recommend to anyone!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Being unfamiliar with the Malaga area, I was lucky to have found KimKim Travel. Adam was very helpful in taking our trip goals, and budget and recommending some wonderful experiences. Our first excursion was a private day trip to Ronda - we were picked up at our villa by Peter (Costa Excursions). I can't say enough about the adventure. Peter was prompt, knowledgeable and made sure we synced up with our local tour guide, who couldn't have been more passionate about the area and culture.

Next up was Caminito del Ray. What a fun day --- seeing how busy it can get at this destination, I highly recommend this small group activity. On our last day, we visited La Herradura to kayak and snorkel. While the weather wasn't ideal, we were still able to enjoy our time and were even able to go inside a cave with our kayaks.

In between our excursions, we had an array of self guided experiences to take advantage of. In fact, jet lag had hit us early on and our local KimKim advisor, Yuri, was quick to respond when I asked for some additional ideas/destinations a bit closer to where we were staying. He was available for quick questions about tipping and other FAQs. The entire experience definitely put me at ease and made the trip so much more enjoyable. I've already mentioned KimKim to a handful of people.

Marina did a fantastic job on our entire trip and we loved all of the planned activities and outings

The wine trip and private cooking class were fantastic!

All transportation services were on time a so nice.

Marina provided personal customized service and even helped me get my sunglasses that were left at the hotel in Porto shipped to our next hotel. Her service is excellent

Hotel Reviews

Be Poet Baixa Hotel

Lisbon

Only there for 1 night. It is close the the main city area.

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Tivoli Lagos

Lagos

This was a resort property that was very nice. Breakfast was yummy every day. The staff were very helpful

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Dear Lisbon Bordalo House

Lisboa

Excellent location. Rooms were generous and we had a double balcony view of our area

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Porto Charming Hotel

Porto

Breakfast was nice every day. The hotel staff was nice and the property was very clean. Also the location was convenient to everything

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3 blocks from the main area

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Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

4X4 Algarve Sunset Experience

Portugal

This was the perfect end to our trip! Site’s beautiful and our guide great

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Catamaran Boat to Benagil Caves

Portugal

The trip was great and views amazing. Crew of catamaran was super nice. Had drinks and snacks available and provided water activity equipment as well

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Get to Know Lisbon with a Local

Lisbon

A bit quick and could have been a little more time seeing sights. It was a good overview of the old city but could have been a little more in depth.

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The Soul of Lisbon: Fado Dinner Experience

Portugal

Very nice dinner and Fado. Room was a little warm

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Private Transfer {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} via Coimbra

Portugal

Our driver was great!

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Day Excursion to Douro Valley: Wine Tasting & River Cruise

Porto

Wow! Is all I can say. An absolute must do! Our guide was fantastic!

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Hands-On Cooking Class with a Local Chef

Porto

What a great activity! Our chef was fantastic and we had a great time

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Foodie Experience in Porto

Porto

Our guide was great and the stops were fantastic. We got a great overview of the food and wine of Portugal

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Fantastic trip to Morocco, we chose luxury accommodations and loved every one. Our driver Ali became part of our family and we had a fantastic guide in Fez. Fez and chefchaoen were our favorites and Tangier was a fantastic modern city. I would skip asilah as the accommodations were not up to par so we moved on. I would definitely use Kim Kim again.

Our 8 day trip to Vietnam was an action packed adventure. We got to do a tour of Hanoi, an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay, a trip to Hoi An and to spend a few nights in Ho Chin Mhin. We found our quides Cuong, Ly and Tony to be very personable and friendly and very informative. The Pandora cruise ship had a very high standard of accommodation. My advice to anyone with children who may be fussy eaters to bring some food staples like bread etc as there isn’t much alternative choices to the Vietnamese food on board the cruise. I thought the Vietnamese food provided was of high standard and loved the cookery demonstration on board. The accommodations chosen in Hanoi ( Somerset Grand Hanoi) , Hoi An ( Riverside resort and Spa) and Ho Chin Mhin were very suitable for a family of 5 and we were happy with them overall. The breakfast facility in the Somerset Chancellor Court in Ho Chin Mhin was not great although the 3 bedroom apartment itself was spacious and very comfortable. I found the whole trip very good, the highlights for me were the visit to the Ethnology museum in Hanoi, the Hoi A memories show, the Cu chi tunnels and the war museum in Ho Chin Mhin. Dat worked with us and provided us with the tailor made itinerary. He provided short notice assistance when we needed it which was a great reassurance to us. The transfers and pick ups were always on time and of very high standard. Overall we were very happy with our KimKim experience and we would use them again.

Hotel Reviews

Somerset Chancellor Court Ho Chi Minh City

3 bedroom Apartment was spacious and very comfortable. Shop on ground floor. We didn’t get a chance to try out swimming pool and gym. Breakfast provided by adjacent diner on ground floor was not to the same high standard as the apartment.

Laluna Hoi An Riverside Hotel & Spa

Boutique type hotel , nice comfortable rooms, quaint. Lovely breakfast, nice swimming pool, very good location.

La Pandora Cruises

Hai Phong

Beautiful cruise ship. High standard accommodation. Good food. Enjoyable activities.

Somerset Grand Hanoi

Great central Location. 3 bedroom clean and comfortable apartment with nice swimming pool. Good base for Hanoi tour. Good breakfast.

Activity Reviews

Day Trip to the Mekong Delta (Ben Tre)

Ho Chi Minh City

An amazing day on the Mekong delta with Tony our guide. Very interesting to see the industries on the delta, how coconuts are used to make sweet treats, sampling the honey tea and having lunch.

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Ho Chi Minh City Half-Day Tour

Ho Chi Minh City

Great tour with Tony our guide. We loved the war museum. One of the highlights of our trip.

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Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels

Ho Chi Minh City

Amazing trip with Tony our guide. Very knowledgable and friendly and personable. One of our highlights of our trip.

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Hoi An Half-Day Sightseeing

Hoi An

Ly was a great guide, friendly personable and flexible.

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Enjoy Hoi An Memories Show

Hoi An

Brilliant. Highlight of trip

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Hoi An Biking And Fishing Experience

Hoi An

Ly was a fun and friendly guide and we really enjoyed our day. Loved the crab fishing, our tour and the memories show.

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Dark and Bright Cave - Ha Long Bay (La Pandora)

Vietnam

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Ha Long Bay - Lan Ha Bay (La Pandora)

Vietnam

Luxury cruise boat. Fantastic accommodation. Enjoyable activities. Vietnamese food good but set menu. Advice bring some food staples such as bread if bringing children who might not eat the food on board. Can purchase drinks.

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Hanoi Evening Walking Street Food Tour

Hanoi

Very interesting providing unique insights to Hanoi

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Explore The Beauty of Hanoi - Full Day Sightseeing

Hanoi

Cuong was a brilliant friendly and informative guide. Loved the Ethnology museum in particular and the Temples and Pagodas.

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We enjoyed our trip to Scotland very much. Jane found lovely hotels for us and recommended the train between Glascow and Oban and then Fort William which was a lovely ride. Our experience with Jane and the High Pointe travel team was excellent. Would highly recommend!

Activity Reviews

Evening cruise on Loch Linnhe

Fort William

Very nice cruise along Lake Linnhe. although The weather was spotty with rain there was seating inside and we we were able to still see the beauty and hear the captain speak about the scenic surroundings

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Oban Distillery Tour

Oban

We really enjoyed this tour. Mary, our tour guide was knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor.

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This was my first overseas trip in 21 years and my husband's first ever! Dalia was so amazing planning the absolute perfect 2 week long honeymoon in Spain. She listened to our wishes and connected us with the most amazing guides. There was the perfect amount of scheduled tours and free time. I'm so glad we listened to her recommendations for guided tours of the Alhambra and Barcelona especially.
Carlos Fuentes was an outstanding guide at the Alhambra. Migüel with Walk tours made our Gaudí tour of Barcelona unforgettable.
Our trips to Antequera, El Torcal, Ronda, and Grazalema with Alfredo Carrasco were the highlights of the trip. Cannot recommend him enough - and his driver Alejandro.
Joselú was amazing and he took us to some hidden vistas we never would have seen on our Rioja wine tour.
Best honeymoon EVER!

Amazing Andean Vacation

Hotel Reviews

Crowne Plaza

Lima

Good hotel in Milaflores, Lima. Conveniently located and good amenities

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Staff

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Hatun Inti Classic Machupicchu

Machu Picchu

Very good hotel in a busy location and easy access to the train and bus.

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La Casona de Yucay

Cusco

Fantastic hotel, great bar and food. Idyllic location. The best hotel in our trip

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Inkarri

Cusco

The only negative of the entire trip was Inkarri Hotel. The location was great and the staff were excellent and friendly but the hotel itself was not well kept. The sleeping quarters were okay although the room stayed cold despite the heaters. The bathroom was very small, the showers were cold to lukewarm and unfortunately periodically the bathroom smelled like sewage.

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Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Cold rooms and the bathroom left much to be desired

Activity Reviews

Good-Bye Peru!

Peru

Dropped us off at the airport in time and off we head back home and to reality.

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Lima sightseeing

Peru

Arturo was great. Went to the local markets and indulged in the wares. Saw central Lima and ate at a local restaurant. Amazing experience compresses in 6-7 hrs. Arturo dropped us off at the beach front and we walked back to the hotel for some Pisco sours and the dinner. Sad to be leaving this amazing and friendly country.

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Bye Cusco!

Cusco

Flew to Lima. Plane was delayed so our evening in Lima was rather short. We did walk around Milaflores.

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The South Valley!

Cusco

Was a slower day as we were fairly exhausted from the previous days. The morning we relaxed and walked around in Cusco and the afternoon was spent visiting couple of locations and we visited a Shaman who "read" our fortunes using Coca leaves.

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Machu Picchu!

Peru

What can I say? Breathtaking! Otherworldly !! Justino was a kind guide as well, paced it well taking into account our kids pace.

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So Justino is just awesome!!!

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Lamay village life!

Sacred Valley

Truly enjoyed it. A short immersion into the village life in Peru.

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Stunning scenery in the Sacred Valley, wildlife rescue center and more!

Peru

Was great with Paul driving and Justino riding shotgun and being our personal guide. We learned so much about Peruvian and Andean culture. Was exhilarating. Kids loved the anomal experiences tremendously.

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Welcome to Cusco!

Cusco

Was great. Justino was fantastic and took great care of us. Very professional, yet with a charm and friendliness that was very endearing.

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Eleni and Afroditi planned the trip very thoroughly for us. Everything that they planned was on time, as described, and just what we wanted. The hotels were all wonderful. All of our guides were organized, knowledgeable, and fun. All of our drivers were helpful and on time. The recommendations we followed on our own were great too. We were given a full itinerary, and in addition a bunch of helpful information about the culture, logistics, and some helpful Greek phrases. Couldn’t have asked for a better travel planner.

Our tour guides were amazing. Very knowledgeable. Patient spoke perfect English kind. I highly recommend them.