Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 16,729 ratings
Read 16,729 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.

Rich, rewarding trip
Myanmar | Oct 17 - Nov 11, 2019

Rebecca
Rebecca W.
Jackson, WY | Reviewed on Nov 22, 2019
From start to finish, in country operator Myanmar Pure made our 26-day trip to Myanmar a seamless, rewarding experience. Passing off logistical arrangements allowed us to focus on all this geographically and ethnically diverse country has to offer. Our requested itinerary included the well known "don't miss" sites and a peek into the often unseen "real" life of Myanmar people. Myanmar Pure delivered. Owner Anne's relationship with her local guides brought us into homes for meals, tea, and... Read more

From start to finish, in country operator Myanmar Pure made our 26-day trip to Myanmar a seamless, rewarding experience. Passing off logistical arrangements allowed us to focus on all this geographically and ethnically diverse country has to offer. Our requested itinerary included the well known "don't miss" sites and a peek into the often unseen "real" life of Myanmar people. Myanmar Pure delivered. Owner Anne's relationship with her local guides brought us into homes for meals, tea, and conversation. We were even serendipitously invited to join wedding receptions in two small villages, an opportunity missed if our guides had not been there to translate. More often than not, we were the only foreign visitors in places off the standard tourist trail.

While the known sites were certainly worthwhile, the overall best part of the trip for us was the brush with day-to-day life. The depth of that experience we owe to Myanmar Pure. Anne chose well when she selected local guides Zayyar, Lu Wine, Thinzar She and Aung Naing Thu. They were our gateway to rewarding interactions with the people we met on the course of our travels. And, they were just plain fun to be around.

We recommend "the kimkim team" for anyone considering Myanmar. Your pre-trip questions will be answered promptly, courteously and completely, and in-country logistics will, if our experience is an indicator, run smoothly.

Local specialist: Anne Cruickshanks
Anne
Anne Cruickshanks
Local specialist in Mandalay, Myanmar | Replied on Nov 25, 2019

Dear Becky & Rich,
Thanks for sharing your feedback of your recent Myanmar journey - I'm glad we were able to design a rewarding, smooth trip for you! The unexpected experiences (like weddings!) and interactions are magical and delighted that our guides were able to bring you a bit closer to their local culture through these events.
All the best to you and we hope 2020 brings many more rich travel experiences,
Anne

Incredible Manaslu
Nepal | Nov 5 - Nov 19, 2019

Nicky
Nicky K.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Nov 22, 2019
We had the most incredible Manaslu trek! It was brilliantly organised by Amanda who was incredibly informative and remained undaunted by our endless questions and changes to the itinerary. Our guide Sonem was just amazing and could not have been more caring and supportive. She really looked after us, trying so hard to secure the best accommodation and manage our expectations, checking the food and the kitchen at the tea houses, often cooking for us herself. She was so full of energy fun... Read more

We had the most incredible Manaslu trek! It was brilliantly organised by Amanda who was incredibly informative and remained undaunted by our endless questions and changes to the itinerary. Our guide Sonem was just amazing and could not have been more caring and supportive. She really looked after us, trying so hard to secure the best accommodation and manage our expectations, checking the food and the kitchen at the tea houses, often cooking for us herself. She was so full of energy fun and warmth: we all loved her. Her team of porters and sub guide were also so cheery warm and positive. Watching over us cheering us on and never complaining.
The trek was more of a challenge than anticipated and the altitude punishing, but the scenery was spectacular as we climbed from rivers to jungle stunning open plains and the majestic awe inspiring mountains. The villages, people we met on the trail, mountain mules and Yaks were fascinating: new wonders every day. We all loved it: there were highs and lows, times spent huddled frozen in our sleeping bags hugging hot water bottles, cold showers and seriously basic accommodation but our spirits always lifted when we were walking and we all feel a huge sense of achievement. We are so looking forward to the comforts of home but will never forget Nepal and Manaslu.

Local specialist: Amanda Delecca
Amanda
Amanda Delecca
Local specialist in Kathmandu and USA | Replied on Nov 24, 2019
Hi Nicky and everyone, We did have some back and forths in the lead up, I'm so glad how it all worked out in the end. It was such a pleasure to meet all of you when the time finally came for you to arrive: 8 strong, caring and adventurous women full of questions and enthusiasm. Then when we saw each other at the end, you all with so many stories to tell about your trip, I just love the 'high' you get at the end of a trek and I really saw that in all of you. I know there are going to be some... Read more

Hi Nicky and everyone,

We did have some back and forths in the lead up, I'm so glad how it all worked out in the end. It was such a pleasure to meet all of you when the time finally came for you to arrive: 8 strong, caring and adventurous women full of questions and enthusiasm. Then when we saw each other at the end, you all with so many stories to tell about your trip, I just love the 'high' you get at the end of a trek and I really saw that in all of you. I know there are going to be some very jealous partners/husbands and families once you get to show them your photos and tell a story or two.

It was truly a pleasure to meet all of you, to be able to introduce you to some of the special people who showed you around and to play our small part in your Nepal story. Congratulations on not only completing a tough trek, but doing it in style! We'd have you back, if you're game! :)

All the best,
Amanda and Team

Ecuador was amazing but don’t hike during electrical storm
Ecuador | Nov 14 - Nov 20, 2019

Anne
Anne O.
New Albany, IN | Reviewed on Nov 22, 2019
Pedro was great and shared lots of interesting facts. He was very accommodating with some of the changes we made at the beginning of the journey. He picked us up at the airport and then the next morning arrived to take us to Otovalo and the leather town and a good place to eat On the way back we stopped to buy roses on the side of the road. What a treat. On Monday, Santiago was on time to pick us up. His car was also very clean and he was interesting to talk to. We drove to the Cotopaxi park... Read more

Pedro was great and shared lots of interesting facts. He was very accommodating with some of the changes we made at the beginning of the journey. He picked us up at the airport and then the next morning arrived to take us to Otovalo and the leather town and a good place to eat On the way back we stopped to buy roses on the side of the road. What a treat. On Monday, Santiago was on time to pick us up. His car was also very clean and he was interesting to talk to. We drove to the Cotopaxi park to walk 5 km around a lagoon. It was a nice hike. We noticed that the volcano top was storming and it has turned to snow within the hour around the lake. It started to sleet just as we got to the car. We headed up the volcano road which was very slippery for his car. I suggested if he was not comfortable we could skip the hike. He drove us up to the parking lot of Cotopaxi to walk the 400m to the refuge. The weather was extremely bad with snow and sleet. I trusted his judgement since he is a local guide. However, he should never have let us hike up Cotopaxi in an electrical snow storm. I didn’t realize the danger and he did not seem concerned. We got up halfway to the refuge in the storm and my husband and I immediately started to pick up an electrical charge which I did not understand at the moment what was happening. I knew it was bad and as I was being shocked and in pain he ignored these dangerous signs of an imminent sign of being struck by lightning. I immediately turned to run down the mountain screaming help me. Then I got a shock or was actually struck by lightning. My husband then got to me and rushed me down the mountain as fast as we could. I don’t know how I survived. Everything I’ve read about this situation that I now understand this to be is that it is rare to survive this type of electrical phenomenon and most people do not survive to tell their story. I know I would not survived if I’d had a heart problem because there was no phone signal or medical training by our guide. After my horrifying experience we drove to the hacienda and enjoyed the rest of our journey as much as we could. El Porvenir was awesome. The last day was supposed to be hiking on Quilotoa. In addition to not feeling well and the fear of hiking in the rain again, we asked to change our journey and went to the cloud forest to see hummingbirds and at lunch at Papallacta. We stopped at an amazing Rose plantation I found a brochure for in Papallacta. We appreciate all the last minute changes but my experience prompts me to ask a lot of questions about the knowledge of safety that these free lance guides are expected to have. We never knew the risks of hiking at high altitudes while it is snowing and with poor weather but our guide should have. When I did some research on the internet and mentioned to my guide that we shouldn’t have gone and that I was lucky to be alive he blew it off and said I should’ve unzipped my jacket? What? I expected an apology and for him to do additional research into this subject of hiking in an electrical storm. For the 2 days we stayed after, I remained in a short of shocked state unsure of my emotions and physical well being although I felt mostly well. We were so far from anywhere and I didn’t want to go to an Ecuadorian medical facility. I pushed the incident to the back of mind so as to enjoy my life since it was spared and the rest of our trip. I visited my doctor a few hours after my arrival home and have been given a bill of health which I am grateful for. My doctor had only seen a few patients who have been electrocuted/shocked/struck by lightning and told me how lucky I was to not have had any damage or death. most don’t live to tell the tale.

Local specialist: Edwin Vega
Edwin
Edwin Vega
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Nov 25, 2019
Hi Anne! Thanks so much for your feedback! First of all, I´m glad that the overall trip experience was positive. With regards to the hike at the Cotopaxi National Park, I´m very sorry that you experienced this beautiful place in such a negative way. I´d like you to know that all the guides that work with us are professionals and certified and under no circumstances would they put the lives of our tourists in danger. We already sat down with Santiago and agreed that he should have taken the... Read more

Hi Anne!

Thanks so much for your feedback!

First of all, I´m glad that the overall trip experience was positive. With regards to the hike at the Cotopaxi National Park, I´m very sorry that you experienced this beautiful place in such a negative way. I´d like you to know that all the guides that work with us are professionals and certified and under no circumstances would they put the lives of our tourists in danger. We already sat down with Santiago and agreed that he should have taken the situation more seriously and will definitely do so in the future. On a company level, we are establishing some new standards in operations in order to increase the security and feeling of comfort of all our travelers. We will be receiving reports from the national climate and weather agency, so that we can always give proper information on expected weather conditions at each destination, especially in the mountains.

Please know, that we take your comment very seriously and will do everything to be able to avoid such situations. I hope that all in all you returned home with good memories! If I can help you with anything else in the future, please let me know!

Take care,
Edwin

Pikey Peak Trek Nepal - November 2019
Nepal | Nov 4 - Nov 13, 2019

P
Peter h.
Australia | Reviewed on Nov 21, 2019
We are a group of 3 from Australia that completed the Pikey Peak trek in November in 2019. Sangita was very helpful in organising our trip and answered all our queries. It was our first visit to Nepal and the trek was fantastic. We were lucky to have some good weather and had fantastic views of the Everist region and surrounding country. Our guide Bhim was extremely knowledgable and went out of his way to impart his knowledge and to ensure we had a good trip. Our porter Pemba (who is also a... Read more

We are a group of 3 from Australia that completed the Pikey Peak trek in November in 2019. Sangita was very helpful in organising our trip and answered all our queries. It was our first visit to Nepal and the trek was fantastic. We were lucky to have some good weather and had fantastic views of the Everist region and surrounding country. Our guide Bhim was extremely knowledgable and went out of his way to impart his knowledge and to ensure we had a good trip. Our porter Pemba (who is also a guide) did a great job and was a pleasure to walk with. All in all the trip was a great success and I would be happy to recommend Sangita and Bipin for those considering a treking trip in Nepal

Local specialist: Sangita Bajracharya
Sangita
Sangita Bajracharya
Local specialist in Kathmandu | Replied on Dec 01, 2019

Dear Mr. Peter & family,

Thank you for the wonderful feedback. It was indeed our pleasure to organize your trek in Nepal and we are glad to hear you enjoyed all our arrangements and the company of our team members. We look forward to seeing you back in our country someday :)

Best Regards from Nepal
Sangita and HNB team

Jordan visit November 2019
Jordan | Nov 10 - Nov 16, 2019

Daniela
Daniela G.
Newburgh, NY | Reviewed on Nov 21, 2019
Sarah was amazing through this whole process from beginning to end! She mentioned doing 2 extra things while visiting Petra. We had dinner with a local family which was quite nice. We also went to Petra at night. Petra during the day was amazing too. We took full advantage of both days. On the first afternoon we saw the treasury for the first time. We took pictures from a scenic overlook. Then explored a little further and would up at the high place of sacrifice. Day 2 we started super early... Read more

Sarah was amazing through this whole process from beginning to end! She mentioned doing 2 extra things while visiting Petra. We had dinner with a local family which was quite nice. We also went to Petra at night. Petra during the day was amazing too. We took full advantage of both days. On the first afternoon we saw the treasury for the first time. We took pictures from a scenic overlook. Then explored a little further and would up at the high place of sacrifice. Day 2 we started super early and went to the monastery. On the way back we went to see some of those other tombs on the hill and saw a sign for a trail to go see the treasury from the highest point. This was so worth the extra couple miles of walking. On the first day, the tour of Amman and Jerash...I had no idea what to expect of the sites we would see. The biggest surprise was the Aljoun Castle. On our way to Wadi Musa our driver, Ahmad, took us to “little Petra” and joked about a surprise and it was a stop to see a boulder formation that looked like an elephant. Ahmad had snacks for us in the car along with water. That was fun. Both drivers stopped at rest areas so we could get out, use the restrooms, grab a snack, and maybe a souvenir. The short stay in Wadi Rum was great. We had a desert tour (also suggested by Sarah) that was so much fun. Our guide for this was fun with his driving and taking us on a route that gave us quiet time from other tourists at some of the stops. Mt Nebo and the Baptism site were well worth it also. For the Dead Sea day, Sarah has booked us a room at a hotel that had a private beach and that made everything so easy. This was the thing I had been looking forward to the most. I have been intrigued by the Dead Sea since I was a small child when I saw it in a book of natural wonders of the world. I know I missed a thing or two, but Jordan, our drivers, the locals, and the sites we saw all exceeded our expectations. This was an absolutely amazing experience!!

Local specialist: Sarah Eaton
Sarah
Sarah Eaton
Local specialist in Taybeh, Jordan | Replied on Nov 22, 2019

Dear Daniela,
I am so glad that you both had a great experience here in Jordan and that the trip was what you had been hoping for! I will pass along your kind review to the team here at In2Jordan. Thanks for letting us be a part of making this trip special for you!
-Sarah

Amazing Trip
Sri Lanka | Oct 27 - Nov 9, 2019

Dineia
Dineia P.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Nov 21, 2019

We had plan to visit Sri Lanka this year, however after the events at Easter time we almost gave up this trip. We are glad we have done it. Just spend 2 weeks in Sri Lanka with Kimkim and I totally recommend it.
We had a great time here and we have visited amazing places. Sri Lanka is an amazing destination that combines awesome nature, landscapes, history, beach and food.
Anoj was great, always helpfull during the trip, making this a wonderful experience.

Local specialist: Ikshula Weerasinghe
Ikshula
Ikshula Weerasinghe
Local specialist in Sri Lanka | Replied on Nov 22, 2019

Hi Dineia,

We are so glad that you enjoyed your stay in our beautiful island.

Thank you very much for your lovely comments and we are very grateful you visited Sri Lanka as planned.

Please spread your words and lovely experience among your friends and family too.

Thanks again,
Shalindra

Fil-Am Girls in Morocco!
Morocco | Nov 7 - Nov 14, 2019

Kathleen
Kathleen M.
Italy | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2019
Megan has been extremely helpful with the planning and booking processes of our Moroccan trip. She's very organized and responds to all my questions in a very timely manner. She's very patient with my 0 knowledge about the country. I highly recommend her expertise to all others who plan to visit Morocco. Thank you Megan!
To our driver/guide, Omar, my friends and I couldn't be more grateful for his professionalism and compassion for his craft. He welcomed us with a big smile on his face. He's...
Read more

Megan has been extremely helpful with the planning and booking processes of our Moroccan trip. She's very organized and responds to all my questions in a very timely manner. She's very patient with my 0 knowledge about the country. I highly recommend her expertise to all others who plan to visit Morocco. Thank you Megan!
To our driver/guide, Omar, my friends and I couldn't be more grateful for his professionalism and compassion for his craft. He welcomed us with a big smile on his face. He's always on time. Made sure we are all safe and comfortable. He treated us as his family (where he welcomed us to his humble abode in Rose Valley - much respect for this Berber family, such a beautiful one! ). He was very patient with our last minute requests. Even if he already dropped us off at our riad, he kept sending messages throughout the night just to make sure we are doing great. Our stay wouldn't be this awesome if not with him. With that, Omar, we are extremely grateful!
We would also want to commend, Emily from the private riad at the desert for being the nicest and caring and hospitable. She welcomed us with open arms, cooked good food for us, chitchatted with us during our stay. We love that she's so cool and sweet that we feel like we could have stayed longer and enjoyed her company and that of the serenity of the desert.
All riads and hotel we stayed at were all superb. There were a few mishaps but doesn't outweigh its beauty and the staff's professionalism. The riads will absolutely make you feel like you are in a different place and era.
Overall, the experience was one for the books. Something me and my friends will definitely treasure for the rest of our lives. Thanks to Kimkim and Wanderlust Voyages! Kudos to all! Keep it up!

Local specialist: Megan Lower
Megan
Megan Lower
Local specialist in Massachusetts | Replied on Dec 09, 2019

Hi Kathleen!
So glad to hear you guys had a fabulous trip to Morocco! Thank you so much for leaving a trip review and for your kind words! I will definitely pass along the kudos to Omar and also to Emily. It's our sincere pleasure to have helped you create such a memorable trip!

Amazing Trip! Once in a lifetime!
Brazil | Sep 15 - Sep 27, 2019

J
Jamie A.
Canada | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2019

Our trip to Brazil was truly incredible! We asked kimkim to provide us with fun adventures, as well as time for relaxation and they sure did deliver!
Luciana was so helpful and knowledgeable and was quick to respond to our questions. She took care of any issues that arose and made our vacation run smoothly. We highly recommend this service as they provide access to local adventures that you wouldn't normally come across on your own and every part of our vacation was better than the last!
This is the only way we will be booking our travel in the future!

Local specialist: Luciana Almeida
Luciana
Luciana Almeida
Local specialist in Rio de Janeiro | Replied on Dec 10, 2019

Thank you very much for taking the time to write such a nice review, Jamie.
We are passionate about travel and so we designed each itinerary with such care and dedication!
So happy that you enjoyed all the experiences. Another dream came true. 😍
It was a pleasure to organize your trip and you are welcome here again at any time!
All the best, Luciana Almeida

Had a wonderful time on our 13 day Columbia t...
Colombia | Nov 4 - Nov 17, 2019

N
Nafisa T.
Brooklyn, NY | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2019

Had a wonderful time on our 13 day Columbia tour . Yuliana who coordinated everything was wonderful .
All our guides - Viviana in Bogota, Claudio in Amazon, Jaime in Medellin & Roberto in Cartagena were excellent & very informative.

Nafisa

Local specialist: Juan Ortiz

Wonderful Sapa trip with Local Guide Ms May
Vietnam | Oct 25 - Oct 28, 2019

S
Su-Lin T.
Singapore | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2019
We had a wonderful trip to Sapa with Ms May who picked us up from Lao Cai Train Station.
Ms May was helpful and took good care of us throughout the trip. She was with us from the start of our Sapa tour till the end where she sent us off at the Lao Cai Train Station for us to take our overnight train back to Hanoi.
During our tour in Sapa, she showed us the ways of the local and we went to the less crowded spots to have a splendid view of rice terraces. As it is very crowded to queue for the... Read more

We had a wonderful trip to Sapa with Ms May who picked us up from Lao Cai Train Station.
Ms May was helpful and took good care of us throughout the trip. She was with us from the start of our Sapa tour till the end where she sent us off at the Lao Cai Train Station for us to take our overnight train back to Hanoi.

During our tour in Sapa, she showed us the ways of the local and we went to the less crowded spots to have a splendid view of rice terraces. As it is very crowded to queue for the cable car at Fansipan, she made sure we got in and prebought tickets for us.

Overall the tour is to our pace and we didn't feel rushed- which we appreciated. As she knows we like to visit markets, we made additional stops to see "pop-up" weekend/Sunday markets set up by local farmers and traders selling their produce.

She also brought us around Bac Ha market so that we didn't miss anything out. The Sunday buffalo sale is quite a sight not to miss!

Hanoi portion:

1) The pick up from the airport to the "cafe" (to take the train from Hanoi to Lao Cai) to wait for our tickets was frustrating at least. We were given a piece of paper (which apparently can be exchanged for train tickets) and with no instructions whatsoever. Do we wait for our tickets to be collected? Or do we collect them ourselves? In fact we walked out of the cafe and suddenly a kind gentleman told us to wait and have a seat whilst he collect our tickets. Then he disappears for quite a while- leaving us confused again.

But fortunately he returns in time for us to trolley our bags to the train station to board the overnight train to Sapa.

2) The pick up from Hanoi Station was at the same meeting point as we waited (see 1)) Unfortunately at wee hours in the morning 5am meant we had to exit the Hanoi Station at the other end of the block. In order to get to the same cafe (1), we had to make a huge detour around the block, in darkness. But luckily our driver was looking for us in the dark and we finally found each other and he drove us safely to the airport for our onward journey.

Local specialist: Camellia Nguyen

Our Spartan adventure
Greece | Oct 31 - Nov 14, 2019

Doug
Doug A.
Nampa, ID | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2019
I don't know where to start , but wow! Harris knocked it out of the park. We have done trips with zero planning, and done trips where we tried to book all the things ourselves but this trip was nearly perfect. Harris and his group in Greece know what they are doing. They matched us with the right tour guides and hotels, planned transfers and connections perfectly. Our tour in Delphi with Penny was so informative, her ability to weave all the layers of information together was exceptional. ... Read more

I don't know where to start , but wow! Harris knocked it out of the park. We have done trips with zero planning, and done trips where we tried to book all the things ourselves but this trip was nearly perfect. Harris and his group in Greece know what they are doing. They matched us with the right tour guides and hotels, planned transfers and connections perfectly. Our tour in Delphi with Penny was so informative, her ability to weave all the layers of information together was exceptional. Our Naxos food tour with Katarina was just as nice, local recipes supplied and additional places to visit for us was perfect. Thanos guided us around Santorini with a tour of the other side of the island, it was such a pleasant day, very interesting and the connections with our group to make sure we felt a connection to the island was nice. Popi was our guide on another tour of Santorini and we got to see the cave houses and a whole different perspective from her. This was not just a vacation tour but a personally selected vacation that fit our group. The interaction with Harris, questions asked and ideas that he had all made sense. The security of having local contacts and agents that have actually searched out the best local talent, from drivers to guides and hotels is worth the extra money spent. Book the trip! Thanks again, we will be back for more soon.
Doug and Dixie

Local specialist: Harris Bitsounis
Harris
Harris Bitsounis
Local specialist in Athens | Replied on Nov 20, 2019

Dear Doug,

Thank you very much for your time to write this review and of course I cannot thank you enough for your kind words. The whole team is more than happy that you enjoyed your time in our country and and we appreciate the positive feedback for our partners as they were part of a great experience for you.

Looking forward to work again together in the future so we can plan your next trip to Greece!

I wish you the best!

King regards,
Harris

Incredible experience to Southern Africa!
Zambia | Oct 28 - Nov 7, 2019

A
andrew y.
Midlothian, VA | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2019
The trip planned for us by Deborah and Tara at Elgin Africa was amazing. We came up with a base plan and they took it from there. From the boutique hotel in Cape Town to the Victoria Falls Hotel with its incredible history to the tented safari camp in Zimbabwe, everything was well organized and came through without any glitches whatsoever. All in country land transfers were pre-arranged and were always on time (or early). We did 3 private day tours in Cape Town; Stellenbosch, the Cape... Read more

The trip planned for us by Deborah and Tara at Elgin Africa was amazing. We came up with a base plan and they took it from there. From the boutique hotel in Cape Town to the Victoria Falls Hotel with its incredible history to the tented safari camp in Zimbabwe, everything was well organized and came through without any glitches whatsoever. All in country land transfers were pre-arranged and were always on time (or early). We did 3 private day tours in Cape Town; Stellenbosch, the Cape Peninsula, and shark cage diving (highly recommended). The safaris in Zimbabwe and Botswana were nothing short of incredible. The safari guides and drivers were all top-notch professionals and we enjoyed spending time with them and learning about their countries. They all had stories to tell. The food was also amazing; we were always surprised at the quality of the meals that were prepared for us.

We would highly recommend Elgin Africa and Deborah for anyone looking to spend time in Southern Africa.

Local specialist: Deborah Smook
Deborah
Deborah Smook
Local specialist in Cape Town | Replied on Dec 02, 2019

Dear Andrew and Chisty

Thank you so much for choosing us and I am super happy that you had such a great experience. It was really nice meeting you as well!

I hope to see you again soon in SA!

All the best,
Deb

50th Wedding Anniversary Trip
Italy | Oct 26 - Nov 6, 2019

R
Richard S.
Ashland, MA | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2019
Our Guides Alessandro in Florence was excellent. Ricardo in Rome was excellent also. They were also very helpful . I was. Dis appointed in Matthew. On our second he asked us how our cooking class was? We said no one showed or called. Matthew said he would call us back. We never heard another word from him all week! We waited around all day prior to his call, alerted the front desk and no one came. My husband was really looking forward to this. Loves to cook. Communication was a definite... Read more

Our Guides Alessandro in Florence was excellent. Ricardo in Rome was excellent also. They were also very helpful . I was. Dis appointed in Matthew. On our second he asked us how our cooking class was? We said no one showed or called. Matthew said he would call us back. We never heard another word from him all week! We waited around all day prior to his call, alerted the front desk and no one came. My husband was really looking forward to this. Loves to cook. Communication was a definite issue with the trip, until we took the initiative and asked what time we could expect some one. Andrew was our main driver and was very nice ,. He was on the phone with Matthew 2-3 at least when we were we with him. I use say in higher voice , we are waiting for him to call back. When I asked Matthew if we could go to the isle of Capri, I thought he said it would be to far away. My husband walks around in the morning while we were in Sorrento and what were staring at was Capri from our Bacolony! Our off day we went to for a twenty minute boat ride to Capri and had a wonderful day.

Local specialist: Matthew Altieri
Matthew
Matthew Altieri
Local specialist in Rome, Italy | Replied on Jan 16, 2020
Thank you for your message. I am sorry to hear there was a small issue with communication! Apologies, but mistakes happen, and we are here to fix it! In fact, I did call the hotel that day; once I could not reach your cell phone after we first spoke in the morning, and they had reported to me, that you had left. I was under the assumption that the cooking class had taken place and that it was the pick-up which was a little confusing and or delayed. Sorry for this!
Please, let Richard know I...
Read more

Thank you for your message. I am sorry to hear there was a small issue with communication! Apologies, but mistakes happen, and we are here to fix it! In fact, I did call the hotel that day; once I could not reach your cell phone after we first spoke in the morning, and they had reported to me, that you had left. I was under the assumption that the cooking class had taken place and that it was the pick-up which was a little confusing and or delayed. Sorry for this!
Please, let Richard know I would love to make this up to him, and you as well. I feel awful for this mix-up and will send you a full refund for the cooking class! (I will send you the refund today!)
As for the Island of Capri, it was not the distance that I brought up as a concern. Having lived in Sorrento area for many years; It was the late October early November weather (high tides, wind, and rain) that I averred could be problematic. Prior to your trip, we had a conversation and I mentioned that this excursion could easily be taken from the port near your 5 Star Hotel in Sorrento, and better to choose the day when you were physically there, rather than to pre-book something that could not be changed, and possibly cancelled due to inclement weather.
I am happy that all the other exclusive 5-Star hotels, Private tours, Meals and Luxury Vehicle Transfers went well, and you had an overall fantastic trip!

Wonderful trip!
France | Nov 14 - Nov 18, 2019

Jessica
Jessica Z.
Philadelphia, PA | Reviewed on Nov 19, 2019

Stephen's planning was exactly what we were looking for! Each of the guides/tours he booked for us were excellent - we learned a lot and had a blast the whole trip. Our hotel was also outstanding. Could not recommend his services more!

Local specialist: Stephen Molloy
Stephen
Stephen Molloy
Local specialist in Lyon | Replied on Jan 06, 2020

Hi Jessica

Thanks very much for your feedback and kind comments. I will use your validation of this hotel, to continue using it for some upcoming trips. Thanks for that!

13 Day Peru trip was FANTASTIC!
Peru | Oct 29 - Nov 10, 2019

S
Shari G.
Hilo, HI | Reviewed on Nov 19, 2019

Our 13 day trip to Peru was fabulous! This is the first time I have used any kind of travel service and I will use one again. The activities planned were exactly what we wanted, the multiple, multiple transfers were seamless, the guides were wonderful, and the entire experience was great.

Liz made all the arrangements and the few times that I had questions she was available to answer. A welcome surprise that she arranged for us was a cooking class. That is not something I would have done on my own and it was fun and the food was fantastic.

I highly recommend Kimkim and Liz!!!

Local specialist: Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca

Morocco - Fes, Marrakesh and the Agafay Desert
Morocco | Oct 21 - Oct 27, 2019

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Sania M.
Shaw, DC | Reviewed on Nov 19, 2019

We visited Morocco in October for 1 week and had an amazing time! Megan was professional, responsive and always willing to help us with last minute adjustments to the trip. Our tour guide while on the trip, Omar, was wonderful and always went above and beyond to make sure the trip was special and memorable for us - he has a great playlist which made even the long-drives enjoyable,
and he was always a willing photographer to help capture every moment. The highlight of the trip was definitely the day we spent glamping in the desert driving ATVs and riding camels during the sunset.

Local specialist: Megan Lower
Megan
Megan Lower
Local specialist in Massachusetts | Replied on Dec 09, 2019

Hi Sania!
So glad to hear you had a great trip to Morocco! Thank you so much for leaving a trip review and for your kind words! It's our pleasure to help you create a memorable trip!

2 hikes while in Nepal
Nepal | Nov 1 - Nov 17, 2019

Sascha
Sascha S.
Vietnam | Reviewed on Nov 19, 2019

In general we think that the guides here are less professionell than in other countries. We had two different guides (Dawa and Pemba) and both experience were simillar. The guides here only give you information when you ask.

However it was always easy to communicate with Kripa. So with her we made good experiences.

We did like both treks so from the nature it was worth to visit Nepal.

Local specialist: Kripa Sunuwar
Kripa
Kripa Sunuwar
Local specialist in Kathmandu, Nepal | Replied on Nov 25, 2019

Hi Sacha, I'm very sorry to hear that both of our guides were not able to meet your expectations. Your experience is one that we are not proud and as you may see from other reviews quite atypical.

Even though your experience was not great with our guide I'm happy to know that you were very much satisfied with the alternatives we have provided to you in return.

We appreciate your helpful and constructive feedback, which will help our service become better in the future and we hope you return soon!

Best,
Kripa

Surprise, a good one
Sri Lanka | Oct 26 - Nov 1, 2019

José
José B.
Brazil | Reviewed on Nov 19, 2019

I didn't have any expectations about it, and the whole trip surprised me, specially my driver: what a good mood, i have to say. Since we had to drive for several hours almost every day he truly made the difference. Hotel and food were good as well, so the tours, the places; its entire history. I believe this opened my mind about Sri Lanka, and that's one of my favorite feelings about a trip.

Local specialist: Yasantha Kuruvita Arachchi
Yasantha
Yasantha Kuruvita Arachchi
Local specialist in Colombo | Replied on Nov 19, 2019

Hi Jose,
Thank you very much for your feedback on your experiences here in Sri Lanka with us. It was a great honour to serve you, hope you will surely visit Sri Lanka again.
Thank you very much
Best Regards,
Yasantha

Wonderful Desert Experience
Morocco | Nov 5 - Nov 7, 2019

A
Anuj D.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Nov 18, 2019
We had a great time working with Sharon in planning our desert experience in Morocco. We were even more fortunate to have an amazing driver, Sallam, who took us through our trip. We could not have asked for a better driver/guide. Sallam was extremely warm and personable. He was flexible when we wanted to change plans. Sallam did a remarkable job of knowing when to share stories/sights while also knowing when to give us time to relax. He adjusted his driving based on our comfort level. ... Read more

We had a great time working with Sharon in planning our desert experience in Morocco. We were even more fortunate to have an amazing driver, Sallam, who took us through our trip. We could not have asked for a better driver/guide. Sallam was extremely warm and personable. He was flexible when we wanted to change plans. Sallam did a remarkable job of knowing when to share stories/sights while also knowing when to give us time to relax. He adjusted his driving based on our comfort level. Sallam was not only a wonderful guide but he is now a friend that we plan to keep in touch with. He made the experience much more enjoyable especially given how long of a drive it was.

Overall, the desert experience was very fun. The camel ride was very nice and the sand dunes were beautiful. The camp was very nice and we were looking forward to enjoying the experience under the stars at night. However, unfortunately the high winds caused us to have to stay inside. The amenities were above expectations with the nice toilet and shower. We were a bit disappointed to not have more time at the camp in the morning. After breakfast, we were quickly pushed to pack up and leave the site. We expected more time in the morning to enjoy the desert in peace.

Overall it was a very nice experience. The driving time was a bit much but the Camp was quite nice. Sallam made the experience so much more enjoyable for us. He was the best driver/guide we could have asked for.

Local specialist: Sharon Louthian
Sharon
Sharon Louthian
Local specialist in US and Morocco | Replied on Nov 20, 2019

Hi Anuj - Thanks for the great review. We are thrilled that you had a fantastic time with Sallam. Sorry to hear that the weather didn't quite cooperate with your overnight stay in the desert, but glad that you enjoyed the camp none-the-less.

I will be sure to share your review with Sallam and just want to say thanks on behalf of the entire Morocco Immersion team for choosing us to be a part of your Moroccan adventure.

Keep in touch!'
Sharon

Our trip to Peru was marvelous, in particular...
Peru | Nov 6 - Nov 15, 2019

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Paul B.
FL | Reviewed on Nov 18, 2019
Our trip to Peru was marvelous, in particular because our needs were catered for in every way beforehand by Jesus. Careful questions and answers resulted in an itinarary that proved to be well put together and balanced. The guides, in both Lima and Cusco, were very knowledgable re the local history and cultures informing us each step of the way what to look for and why. All the hotels were well managed, clean and comfortable. All transport went smoothly and on time; Air, Rail, Road and... Read more

Our trip to Peru was marvelous, in particular because our needs were catered for in every way beforehand by Jesus. Careful questions and answers resulted in an itinarary that proved to be well put together and balanced. The guides, in both Lima and Cusco, were very knowledgable re the local history and cultures informing us each step of the way what to look for and why. All the hotels were well managed, clean and comfortable. All transport went smoothly and on time; Air, Rail, Road and horseback!
Difficult to single out highlights from so many but; the three lunch locations on the cycle tour with Luis, the day at Machu Picchu with Julio and a days horse ride with Javier were voted the top three by us. Julio in particular gave us so much insight to Peruvian culture for which we will forever be grateful.

Local specialist: Jesus Martel
Jesus
Jesus Martel
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Nov 18, 2019
Hi Paul!
Thanks so much for such a nice and detailed review.
During these years, we´ve been working a lot in order to improve our services and thus provide the best possible trip experience for our clients, this is why we feel very happy to know the positive results and the nice comments you have regarding all the good job our staff has done!
We all thank you so much for trusting us and for your kindness from the day we met up at Lima hotel until I said goodbye at Lima airport hotel It was a...
Read more

Hi Paul!
Thanks so much for such a nice and detailed review.
During these years, we´ve been working a lot in order to improve our services and thus provide the best possible trip experience for our clients, this is why we feel very happy to know the positive results and the nice comments you have regarding all the good job our staff has done!
We all thank you so much for trusting us and for your kindness from the day we met up at Lima hotel until I said goodbye at Lima airport hotel It was a great pleasure to talk to you pre/post tour!
I hope you come back to Peru at another time so you can explore more of the highlights of our country and can horseback to the Apu Wanakaure, which, unfortunately, you could not do. Good reason to come back! Luis, Julio, and all the staff are really glad to have offered you a great time!
Stay in touch and wish you all the best to you!
Kind regards,
Jesus, Kim Kim & Peruvian Soul team

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