Kimkim Trip Reviews

Katsu and KimKim provided helpful and interesting recommendations that helped make our Japan journey amazing! In addition, the detailed service on ground transportation and tour reservations allowed us to spend our time learning and enjoying, not trying to figure out a new country's systems and processes. We would definitely work with Katsu and KimKim for another vacation. Arigato gozaimashita!

Everything worked out very smoothly. Great communication, putting something together for us. Last minute was pretty miraculous. Highly recommend! Beautiful place and saw and did almost everything we wanted to do..

Just returned from Belize and had an amazing adventure. Juan and Catherina put together an action packed trip which is exactly what I wanted.
Even though my first flight was delayed by Delta and I arrived a day late I was still able to get to all my tours except one because they rearranged my itenary @10pm the night before when I notified them after receiving an email from Delta that my early morning flight was delayed and I would miss my Belize connection and have to spend my day and night in Atlanta! Bummer!
The Belizean hotels they picked were very nice, inexpensive and not touristy. I appreciated
that.
The guides they selected for all my tours were professional fun and extremely knowledgeable.
I spent 3 days in the jungle and 4 days in San Pedro. I also spent 2 part days on Caye Caulker which is a laid back island 30 minutes from San Pedro and has a cool vibe.
While in the jungle I did the ATM cave tour which was incredible and I also did a cool hike to a beautiful waterfall which I was able to swim under.
On San Pedro I did the Hol Chan marine reserve tour and swam with Sharks, Sting rays turtles and Barracudas which have very gnarly teeth!
They also arranged a fly fishing lesson with Marco who is very patient. By the end of the 8am-12pm experience I was able to catch two bonefish.
All my arranged connections between tours and travel to the different islands went seamless.
I could have never planned such a great trip on my own.

Francesco helped me arrange my 60th birthday Trip of a Lifetime to Italy. The time difference was a brutal 12 hours, but he worked around that with me to plan. He was so patient with my dithering, gently urging me to book before everything sold out. He listened to me when I said that since I was traveling alone and did not speak Italian, I was going to need boots-on-the-ground help. He arranged for transfers and basically just someone to be there to guide me. It was truly worth the extra cost of using Kimkim as to have them there for me when I needed it.

Thank you also to Luca, Giovanni, and someone else whose name I can't remember .... probably the whole Italian team! They were there for me when I couldn't find my driver, couldn't find and therefore missed the boat on Burano, missed my train, fell down and missed my gondola ride. I'm sure I was just their worst client ever, but they never made me feel stupid (although I certainly did), and were so nice while I was freaking out. And, yes, they helped me get myself out of the situation I was in.

As for the trip itself, I was very pleased. The hotels were all small boutique and in the city central. I hadn't known of any of them, but now that I've been there, I realized they are where I would have chosen to stay. They were also helpful when I lost my cell phone in a taxi and when I forgot my camera after checking out. The trains were comfortable and efficient. The personal drivers were great and, except for the poor fellow in Rome, extremely kind. In Sorrento he even stopped to pick flowers for me!

The only thing that wasn't pleased with was one of the vendors. They advertised their tour as including a location but then it wasn't part of the tour. Kimkim basically just told me that they had been informed of the change but neglected to pass it on to me. I wish they would have because I would have changed tours. It was disappointing to watch other tours go into the location while I had to figure out how to do it on my own. I eventually was able to go in, but without a guide, it was much less seamless and less informational than is should have been.

All in all, I loved every minute of it and am trying to plan a return trip in the next couple of years. Maybe I'll take my family this time since everyone was astonished that I was traveling alone. And, I did miss them terribly since I was gone for over a month.

Grazie mille, Francesco!! I hope that you don't get another client like myself for awhile. I know I was a handful. But I so so appreciate you helping me to plan and execute the trip I've been dreaming of for over 45 years!

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Nazionale

Rome

Such a central location, everything was a "10 minute walk". The staff was very kind and helpful. Breakfast had a large selection but I had hoped for some cut fruit pieces. I loved the automatic espresso/cappuccino machines. Spacious room. The bathroom tub/shower had issues.

Authenticity & Character

Location

I was able to walk everywhere. Felt very safe since it shares Montecitoria Square with the Italian Parliament. One day a military band marched into the Square and played music. It was lovely.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Lovely room with a lot of space. The bathroom was large enough but the bathtub/shower was hard to manage. The water temperature and volume was not adjustable. It was just ok.

Grand Hotel Riviera

Sorrento

AWESOME location. Great view of the volcano from my room. The breakfast was extensive [there was an omelet station on my last morning] and the view alone was worth searching the hotel for the breakfast room. Staff was so kind and helpful, especially at 5am.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Right on the sea with such lovely views. Also the tours I had were all able to drop me off there instead of the meeting place, so that saved me walking even more after a long day.

Staff

I had to check out at 5am. The staff arranged for me to get a cappuccino and some breakfast to go when I had forgotten to do so the night before. Very appreciated.

Cleanliness & Comfort

I didn't utilize the small terrace, except to take photos. But it was charming. Bathroom was large and easy to move in.

Albergo Rossini 1936 Small & Charming

Bologna

I DID NOT STAY HERE. I STAYED AT THE ART HOTEL COMMERCIANTI. This review is for the ART HOTEL COMMERCIANTI. Awesome location. Very helpful staff. Breakfast had variety and was worth stopping in the morning. Both the room and the bathroom were clean and spacious, easy to move around in.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Right at the heart of the town. The piazza was very busy with music and performers.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Large room and comfortable bathroom.

Hotel Canaletto

Venice

3.5 Stars: Superb location. Breakfast was very nice. The hotel main floor was modern and clean, but the room I was given was run down. Apparently they are redoing the rooms [they look fabulous on line], but mine room was obviously still on the to-do list. It was dingy, the furniture didn't work well (doors either wouldn't stay shut or you had to fight to open them), and it was just dark. The bathroom was a struggle. The shower stall was so small that I literally had to open the door when I wanted to raise my arms up or turn around. Considering I am 5'4", that's just too small.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Nice but not at the front desk at times. They require that you leave your room key with them. But multiple times I had to just leave it and go since they were not there and I could no longer wait.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The room I got did not match the lobby. Very run down. The updated rooms look really nice online, but that is not what I got.

Clerici Boutique Hotel

MILAN

Good location. Lovely room, spacious and well appointed. GREAT STAFF!! They were so very helpful and accommodating.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

So very helpful. I had forgotten my cell phone in a taxi and they helped me track it down. Also chased down the taxi after I checked out to give me my camera that I had left somewhere!

Cleanliness & Comfort

Very clean. The room was relaxing and well spaced. Bathroom was a great size and had a nice large shower.

Alla Marina Affittacamere

Riomaggiore

Small and cozy. SPECTACULAR view! The host/staff were so very nice.

Authenticity & Character

Location

THE VIEW!!

Staff

Very helpful.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Room was spacious. Bathroom was large enough but the shower on the small side and hard to maneuver in.

FH55 Hotel Calzaiuoli

Firenze

Perfect location and it was extremely nice. Loved the fact that it had an elevator. Staff was friendly and helpful. The breakfast was fantastic and worth making the effort to stop by each morning.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Very clean. The bathroom was well laid out.

Il Chiostro del Carmine

Siena

Hotel is charming and well placed in the city. No elevator, so that was a bummer. I could see that the outside seating location would be fabulous but it was too cold when I was there so it wasn't open. The room and bathroom were very spacious, but the layout was not optimal. All this extra space in the bathroom, but the shower was very small and hard to navigate. I'm only 5'4" and struggled. The included breakfast was not appealing and I skipped it.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Helped me with my luggage both arriving and departing. That was so appreciated since there was no elevator.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Oddly small shower in an otherwise huge bathroom. Of course it's older which shows.

Activity Review

Chianti and Castles tour

Siena

What a fun tour! There were only 2 of us (both single travelers) and the guide, so I am grateful they still ran it. Being such a small "group" made it just that much more enjoyable. Marco, our guide was so very personable. We stopped at a castle, 2 wineries, and 2 towns. The castle had the most impressive views. Videos for days! The 2 wineries were small and family owned. The first one served us a delicious homemade lunch. Oh so good! The towns were interesting to walk around and take photos. Overall I enjoyed every minute and highly recommend this tour.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Marco was funny and personable. He made the tour seem like hanging out with a friend.

Transport

A newer vehicle that was clean and comfortable.

Giulia was phenomenal! I had so many places and things I wanted to see and Giulia ensured we got to hit every single one. The entire VERY packed schedule was seamlessly organized and we had the trip of a lifetime!

Hotel Reviews

Terrace Pantheon Relais

Rome

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Orto de' Medici

Florence

Amazing service!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Maison Venezia | UNA Esperienze

Venice

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

DBH – Boutique Hotel Lake Como

Como

Loved our room! Very spacious and great location

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Palazzo Marziale Boutique Hotel Sorrento

Sorrento

Beautiful property and friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour

Rome

Rome by night in Golf Cart

Rome

Explore Pompeii Walking Tour

Italy

If you are a history person this is a must.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Loved our guide! Very knowledgeable and shared so many fun facts!

Transport

Capri in a Day by boat

Italy

If you have time go to the upper island. We did not but I did before and wished we would have. The water was choppy and the boat ride over was quite rough!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Sorrento Farm and Food Experience including Olive Oil, Limoncello, Wine tasting

Sorrento

My personal favorite! Loved this place and am planning to order from them to shop to the US. I was very impressed with the whole experience and the care they put into their farm and products.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

One Day on the Amalfi Coast with driver (Amalfi, Positano, Ravello)

Italy

Loved this and wish we had more time to spend in the other towns. We skipped Amalfi as it was SO crowded but our driver knew the best places to go! He even recommended a lunch spot and made reservations for us, Germano was our favorite guide/driver!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Pizza cooking class

Italy

Fun for all ages! My kids teen and preteen had a great time. The staff was amazing!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Florence Food Tour

Florence

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Evening at the Duomo: VIP After-Hours Tour with Dome Climb & Private Terrace Access

Florence

Great experience and worth the steps but be ready for a work out and know it can be hot and steep stairs.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Small Group Dolomites & Cortina Day Tour from Venice

Venice

Beautiful area and I had not thought of this but it was added by Giulia and we are so thankful to have done it. A much quieter and peaceful part of the busy trip.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Venice Walking Tour with guide

Italy

Loved our guide. Very knowledgeable and it was great to have the private tour to answer all our questions.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Gondola ride

Venice

I have done this one other time, but would recommend one of the other locations. We were in a main boating area with choppy waters and not the best views/canals

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Boat Tour on Lake Como - from Como

Italy

One of the highlights for sure

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Vicky arranged an absolutely memorable trip for my family across Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, and I can confidently say it was one of the most seamless and enriching travel experiences we’ve ever had.

From start to finish, everything was immaculately organised — from travel logistics to accommodation and local tours. Vicky’s thoughtful suggestions, attention to our preferences, and expert handling of travel considerations made the entire journey feel effortless. The way she managed the itinerary and costs without compromising on quality or comfort was nothing short of perfection.

We were able to explore all the key highlights — from the natural wonders of Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef to the scenic beauty of Queenstown and the serenity of Vomo Island in Fiji — each with fun, engaging, and informative guides who added so much value to our experience.

Thanks to Vicky, this wasn’t just a holiday; it was a journey we will remember for life. Her personal touch and dedication truly set her apart. Highly recommended!

Our trip was really planned well, Thanks to Anita. She detailed all our needs and tailored specific accommodation, food, transportation and sightseeings.
On the other hand, there were great people on the ground who facilitated our journey with great knowledge and support i.e Rita, Paulo, Emanuel, João, and Carlos. In addition to great support team on the Trip Plan App answering all our inquiries who were accessible at anytime and anywhere.

The trip Erin planned for us was wonderful! She was very easy to communicate our ideal trip. The personal transfers m, train tickets and rental car that was set up made travel so much more enjoyable and less stressful. This is our third trip we planned using KimKim and all have been great!!!

Our trip to Iceland was fantastic! We let Eric know what our goals were, and he put together a well-thought-out and well-arranged plan.
1) The day we landed in Keflavik we had a day to reorient due to the 5 hour time change. Driving was not too different from the US so that part was fairly easy.
2) The idea of doing snorkeling and hiking excursions the first 4 days of our trip was a great idea as we had the most energy to do these adventures at the beginning of the trip.
3) The food and drink recommendations were also great! The food in Iceland was superb!
4) The climbs the participants needed to perform on the Solheimajokull glacier hike turned out to be too much physically for me as I have asthma. I was able to get on the glacier yet not able to complete the climb which was disappointing. My daughter and others in the group completed successfully. I was able to complete all our other adventures.
5) We had specific excursions that Eric arranged and tickets purchased. He also included self guided things to look at and do which we did most of. This was very helpful to have these additional things to do that were discretionary.
6) My favorite and the reason I chose Iceland was to snorkel between the tectonic plates in the Silfra fissure. This was amazing! My daughter's favorites were the snorkeling and the Solheimajokull glacier hike.
7) When we arrived in Reykjavik for our last 3 nights, we didn't account for time to go to any museums. It would have been helpful to have an estimated time to allow for the self guided things to do.
8) I would not recommend the Fosshotel Nupar. It had mold in corners on the outside door and the bathroom. The Greenhouse Hotel in Hveragerdi and the Exeter in Reykjavik were wonderful.
9) We were well prepared for the weather with the suggestions we received for clothing needed for our trip.
10) We were charged for car rental which was not expected as it is not listed in the Excludes section of the itinerary. Is this correct?
10) We cannot say enough how impressed we are with the arrangements Eric made for us. There were no surprises...other than the car rental charge.

Activity Reviews

Sky Lagoon

Iceland

I liked the Sky Lagoon for the additional features of the salt rub and showers.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

we drove

Hvammsvik Hot Springs (& Nature Reserve)

Iceland

The hot springs and the cold plunge need to be experienced!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

there were really no guides

Transport

we drove

Katla Ice Cave Superjeep tour

Iceland

This was also amazing to learn about how the caves are formed and that they don't last long in their present form.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Agnes was our guide. She was very knowledgeable in how the caves are formed and explained how fast they change. I also enjoyed her talk on the way out about nature in Iceland; how from a lava flow slowly grow into green again. It was inspiring.

Transport

Very cool in the transport vehicle and how they have to deflate/inflate the tires.

Solheimajokull Glacier Walk

Iceland

It was amazing to actually be on a glacier.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The guide from Belgium was exceptional. He was very knowledgeable about the geology of the glacier and in general Iceland.

Transport

we drove

Rye Bread tour (Geothermal bakery)

Iceland

The bread was so delicious! I wish they would share the recipe!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The gal who was our guide told stories about the thermal ovens in the ground and about the visit from Zac Efron.

Transport

we drove so no transport

Silfra Snorkeling

Iceland

Jenny was a great guide and took wonderful pictures!

Quality of Experience

just the though of swimming between tectonic plates is amazing.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We drove so there was no transport.

My 13 year old granddaughter and I returned 2 days ago from a once in a lifetime trip that Vicky orchestrated for us in Australia. We started our trip in Sydney, then Cairns and finished in Melbourne. Each of our destinations were unique and magical in their own way. In Sydney we toured the Opera House, enjoyed a wonderful tour of the Darling Harbor area and finished with an outstanding tour in the Blue Mountains with Kat through Anderson Tours. Kat was truly amazing - she was full of information and history and told us entertaining stories and facts all day long - she was truly awesome. We then proceeded to Cairns where we did a tour in the Kuranda, visited the Great Barrier Reef and had a wonderful Daintree and Cape Tribulation tour, even a swim in the Mossman River! Our last leg was the fascinating city of Melbourne where we had a superb Yarra Valley Local Produce tour with Bree from Go West tours - another fabulous guide with lots of information and made each person feel very special. The next day we went to Phillip Island and saw the Penguin Parade - it makes for a long and late day but was so worth it when the Penguins came flocking in from the sea! Our last day was a walking tour in the Laneways of Melbourne - so interesting to see the local art and eateries in the downtown alleys of Melbourne. We had a limited amount of time for this trip and Vicky maximized our experience - she listened and orchestrated everything that we wanted to see and accomplish in the timeframe that we had. Vicky had all of our private airport transfers, domestic flights, hotels and tours lined up perfectly with walking directions to meet our tours and restaurant suggestions. She checked in on us regularly during the trip as well to make sure everything was going as expected. We did have a fabulous dinner on our last night in Melbourne at the Rare Steakhouse Midtown where we dined on a Kangaroo skewer, wonderful filet mignon and creme brûlée! This was a truly special experience for my granddaughter and me. I can't recommend both Australia and Vicky's travel services highly enough!

Hotel Reviews

Rydges Melbourne Hotel

Melbourne

This hotel was in a great location for navigating Melbourne. The staff were awesome and very helpful The breakfast was good but could use a bit more variety. I did upgrade to a larger room at this hotel. I would definitely stay here again.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Cleanliness & Comfort

Crystalbrook Riley

Cairns

This hotel is in an excellent location for navigating tours and walking in Cairns. The breakfast was great and the staff was friendly and helpful. I would upgrade my room the next time I stayed here - fairly small, overlooking rooftops - would have been nicer to have a slightly larger room with a view of the lovely pool area.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Novotel Sydney on Darling Harbour

Pyrmont

Nice hotel in good area for navigating tour and ferry's. The breakfast was excellent.

Location

Staff

The front desk people were very helpful and accommodating.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Laneways of Melbourne

Melbourne

I wasn't sure what this tour actually entailed but am very happy we did it - it's all about the art and eateries that are in the alley ways of Melbourne - very interesting.

Phillip Island Penguin Parade Small Group Eco Tour

Melbourne

It is a very long and late day and worth it to see the Penguin Parade - wonderful.

Yarra Valley Grazing Tour

Melbourne

The Yarra Valley is incredibly beautiful and interesting. Loved this tour with Bree of Go West Tours - it was inclusive of wine, coffee, cheese, gin distillery and a chocolate factory!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Premium Daintree & Cape Tribulation Day Tour

Australia

Very interesting tour and a great experience to see the crocodiles that live on the Daintree River banks. The rainforest is an amazing place.

Sunlover Reef Cruises Cairns Great Barrier Reef Experience (departs Cairns)

Australia

The Great Barrier Reef is always amazing. Although we were not seasick getting there, may people did - highly recommend taking Ginger pills before and during this trip. I also recommend taking the private snorkeling tour that they have available - great opportunity to see and learn more than if you snorkel on your own.

Classic Kuranda

Cairns

This was a good tour and we are happy we did it.

Blue Mountains All-Inclusive Small Group Day Tour

Sydney

Kat with Anderson Tours was amazing - fun, entertaining and full of information about everything that we saw and visited! Highly recommend this tour.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Panoramic Sydney Sights - Half Day Tour

Sydney

Good tour and information about the history of Sydney and the neighborhoods. We enjoyed Karyn and the information that she shared with us.

Sydney Opera House Tour

Sydney

This is a good and comprehensive tour of the Opera House.

Trip originally planned by Anna and executed to perfection by Yuqqa and Laura. Easy WhatsApp communication and all members of the team very helpful. Trip organisation was brilliant. Given WhatsApp contact of drivers and tour operators which made it a streamlined experience.

Joao did an amazing job planning our two week adventure and was very patient and accommodating of all our requests and revisions. While we were sad not to meet him in person, he was great about checking in with us throughout our trip.
Highlights in Lisbon were Casa Balthazar, dinner with locals, cooking class and shopping the open air market on Avenida da Liberdade.
Highlights in Porto were dinner at Cantinha de Avillez, the food tour and gelato! Unfortunately we didn't have the intel that we needed to purchase tickets to the Lello bookstore way in advance, and Cafe Magnifico had too long a line to wait.
We had high expectations for Nazare and Obidos, and sadly, because of the number of tourists and a Renaissance Fair, respectively, these two stops were the most disappointing of the trip.
Highlights in Monsaraz were the beautiful Montimerso Skyscape (though we were there when the famed restaurant was closed) and the cork tour. The olive oil tour was good, but not exceptional because the oil wasn't being produced at that time, and the ceramics class was good but frustrating, for we couldn't take home our creations.
The Algarve highlight was by far the sailing excursion with Skipper Rob and spending time in Lagos. The Aldeia de Pedralva is great for a family with children, but not super conducive for a couple looking for privacy and quiet.
We visited a friend in Setubal and getting there by ferry was an awesome suggestion. The 34 Guest House was lovely.

We learned some important things to consider when planning our next trip:
1. We were interested in learning about the Portuguese culture overall, but many of the recommended stops and sights centered on visiting castles, palaces, monasteries, convents and fortresses. While we understand that they are deeply rooted in the history of the country, we completely tired of them mid-trip. We found out during our ceramics class, for example, that that part of the country is famous for making pottery, with many, many pottery shops. We would have loved to explore those, but found out about them too late.
2. When renting a car, we need to request a mid-size vehicle since my husband is very tall and could barely fold himself in and out of the Kia Stonic.
Overall, we had an amazing adventure and certainly plan to use Kim Kim again in the future.

Hotel Reviews

34 Guesthouse Setúbal

Setúbal

Great hotel with very accommodating staff. Parking was difficult.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Aldeia da Pedralva - Slow Village

Vila do Bispo

This was an interesting choice for a couple, as this village is more geared to families with children that stay up late and are very loud. There is no privacy - the windows need to stay open for air circulation (no AC) but the windows, including in the bedroom, are at eye level, so passers by can look straight into the bedroom and living area! The restaurants in the village are good, but breakfast was not - it was cold and they did not replenish the food during serving hours, so we were frequently left with very few choices.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Our room was never cleaned during our stay and there is a severe lack of lighting.

Montimerso SkyScape

Monsaraz​

Beautiful location and accommodations. We would have loved to try their famed restaurant, but sadly it was closed during our stay. Good breakfast!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Pousada Castelo de Óbidos

Óbidos

Dark, dingy room with musty, mildew smell and a terrible, cold breakfast. Accessibility and parking were very difficult, especially in the middle of a Renaissance Fair.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Tomas and Pedro went above and beyond. If it weren't for them, we wouldn't have ended up staying there.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Maintenance, updating and a more comfortable bed. Serve pancakes and waffles hot, rather than ice cold.

Torel Palace Porto

Porto

Over the top hotel in a great location with a good breakfast. Our room had some maintenance issues: broken lamp and towel bar and electrical sockets falling off the wall in the bathroom. Surprisingly they updated us to a room with jacuzzi on the balcony, which we definitely took advantage of, but could not figure out how to drain

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Thomar Boutique Hotel

Tomar

Great hotel and location. Loved the free parking and the roof deck.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Casa Balthazar

Lisbon

Fantastic hotel and the most delicious breakfast of the trip. Concierge Ruth went above and beyond and was amazing.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Half Day Sailing Tour

Portugal

Skipper Rob and first mate Anatoli were incredible! They made this trip an absolute pleasure, and even served us tapas! A true highlight of our two week vacation.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Gorgeous, beautifully maintained boat!

Pottery Workshop

Portugal

This was a fun activity with an awesome instructor, but we couldn't take home our creations.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Olive Oil Tasting

Monsaraz

We learned a lot about olive oil and had even more fun tasting it! Unfortunately they weren't producing the oil when we visited.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Cork Farm Visit

Portugal

We learned so much about this local resource and it was super interesting to visit and learn about the forest and estate.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

He was very knowledgeable but a bit pompous.

Transport

Food Tour

Porto

Loved beginning at the market and having the opportunity to walk the city and sample such a great variety of food typical to the region. Ricardo was exceptional about his knowledge of the region and the food/wine. Very highly recommend!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Dinner With Locals

Portugal

Sofia and her husband Carlos welcomed us into their home with warmth and grace and served us a deliciously authentic meal, from appetizers to dessert with wine pairings throughout. We had a wonderful meal with awesome people who we can now call friends!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Market Visit & Cooking Class

Lisbon

A great way to learn about the local cuisine and meet others!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The chef ended up being great, but he started off surly and nasty

Kristina was fantastic to work with! We bounced ideas and thoughts aback and forth and she came back with an itinerary that met 100% of our expectations…. Even more importantly, it provided us an amazing experience during our trip. Her suggestions for activities were outstanding and provided us alternatives to work around weather or time of day. Her app recommendations for EV network, parking, etc etc. made the trip seamless. Jacob supported with all of the bookings and prearranged activities - hotels were incredible, the activities were built around missing the “cruise ship crowds”, and as I mentioned earlier - proved to be seamless in execution during our trip. We worked with them to stay 2 nights in each hotel/location which was perfect for blending hiking, activities, and relaxation. The room selection/class was top notch.

Overall - first time user of Kimkim… didn’t disappoint and will certainly use them for future trips!

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Brosundet

Ålesund

Old whse converted to boutique family owned hotel…. AAA+++. Rooms were comfortable & well appointed. The staff was incredibly friendly, helpful, and there to meet any need or question. Great location to explore Alesund

Authenticity & Character

Location

Right on canal, easy walking to all the attractions, activities, restaurants

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Alexandra

Gorgeous facility, restaurant was excellent, views were stunning - highly recommended upgrading to the deluxe 7 rooms (a little extra cost, but worth every penny)

Authenticity & Character

Location

Views of the fjord and valley were incredible

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Clarion Hotel Admiral

Bergen

Stately hotel right on the harbor across from Bryggen. Bed was amazingly comfortable, service was great. Well positioned to hit all that Bergen has to offer

Authenticity & Character

Location

Directly across from Bryggen

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Flåm Railway & Cycling Adventure

Norway

It was amazing … what topped it off was there was not a cruise ship in Flam when we did the train, hike, & bike

Quality of Experience

Views, quality of bikes,

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Limited interaction with people… pretty much on your on pace and pleasure. The bike pick up was easy and efficient.

Transport

Our Summer trip to Costa Rica in 2025 was truly amazing. I took my two adult kids as a celebration for them graduating high school and moving on to the next chapters in their lives. We made amazing memories and had 10 days of bonding time. Holden, Wilman, Nancy and the whole KimKim and Serendipity Adventures team were helpful from start to finish...beginning with the first day I started planning this trip a full year ago. Their attention to detail, patience with my endless questions and quick responses put my mind at ease and made planning and ultimately enjoying the trip totally seamless. Once in Costa Rica, any questions or needs we had were met promptly. Communication while there was a breeze. We even ended up adding some last minute excursions and they did all the leg work and set everything up. Everything we did was so fun!!! We visited La Fotuna/Arenal, Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio. Each place we equally amazing with a totally different experience

Hotel Reviews

The Falls at Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio

We liked this place. We stayed in the "apartment" and it was nice to have so much extra room and two full bathrooms. The only thing we missed about this room was having a patio where we could sit and enjoy the beautiful grounds and listen to the rain. We did see a group of squirrel monkeys out our window one morning though! The food at the Medusa restaurant is AMAZING! We loved the breakfast (free) and ate lunch and dinner there several times. The staff went above and beyond, everyone is so friendly and helpful. Finally, the location is good. Walking distance to a couple close restaurants and a quick bus or shuttle ride to the beach, Manuel Antonio park or in to town in Quepos.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Luna Llena

Tamarindo

This was a quirky place. We didn't hate it but we didn't love it. Pros: The bungalows were cute and funky and clean, and it was nice to have a full kitchen. And the extra space was for nice for our family. The complimentary breakfast was good and staff was very friendly. Also, you can't beat the location...a quick, easy walk to the fun town of Tamarindo and the main beach. Cons: Pool is kinda dirty and the hot tub isn't functioning. Also, the appearance of a swim up bar was a sad tease...as there is no poolside service at all, and the 'bar' is non-functioning. The worst part was the water pressure in the room. This was a strange one...it was truly hit or miss if any water would come out of the faucet at any given time. There were times the pressure was great, and other times literally nothing came out and we couldn't shower, wash our hands or flush the toilet. Every time we asked about it we got a different answer about what the issue was. A couple times in the 3 nights we were there, we had to use the pool to get clean.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs

Fortuna

This was our favorite hotel of the trip. Everything was really amazing. Top notch staff and service, gorgeous grounds, a couple great restaurant options, two large pools with swim up bar and SEVERAL private smaller hot spring tubs. Quick taxi ride in to town for shopping and other restaurant options and close to lots of great excursions.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Canopy Zipline Tour

Costa Rica

This was super fun! Not real challenging but a fun adventure. Loved propelling down the little waterfall, and we even saw a sloth! Staff is super friendly too!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Catamaran Sailing Adventure with Barbecue

Costa Rica

This was a favorite activity of the whole trip. Everything from the staff, the drinks, the food, the VIEWS! and just the whole vibe.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Arenal Hanging Bridges & La Fortuna Waterfall Guided Hikes

Arenal/La Fortuna

This was REALLY a cool experience. We enjoyed every minute. The lush rain forest is breathtaking and filled with wildlife. The bridges are so cool with spectacular views. And walking across and see the Arenal volcano was truly magical.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We had a wonderful trip to Norway! Krista was a fabulous trip planner, who helped us figure out a great itinerary, and made really helpful suggestions. It would have been very time-consuming and complicated for us to book all our transportation, activity vouchers, and hotels ourselves. Krista, and the Booking Team, made it easy for us, and everything went off very smoothly. We're happy to recommend KimKim and Krista!

Activity Review

Stegastein Viewpoint by Bus

Norway

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our trip to England, Scotland, and Wales could not have been better! The itinerary, lodging, and activities that Tetiana planned were perfect for us as a group including a mom and dad, 2 children 7 and 12, and a grandmother.
We enjoyed all the tours Tetiana booked for us, but especially the private tours in Oxford with Samuel, in Cardiff with Dylan, in Edinburgh with Zander, and the world of sheepdogs demonstration outside Edinburgh with Julie Hill.
The group tour in Liverpool about Beatles history was also outstanding.
Our lodgings were all wonderful,, but I think our overall favorite was the Bear and Ragged Staff near Oxford.
Tetiana was also available for us the entire time we were there. She helped with navigating the tube lines in London to get to Starlight Express and to reschedule a lake cruise in Windermere when a flat tire forced us to miss the originally scheduled one. Thanks, Tetiana!!
Marsha Ramey

Katie did a fantastic job of organizing and coordinating our trip -if we could give more than a 5 star rating, we would! In the past we have planned trips on our own -Australia (trips to Tasmania and to the main island), New Zealand, Canada, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and England, but we could never have managed as complex of an literary as this in a non-English speaking country without Katie's expertise, guidance, and attention to detail. She listened, she heard us, and planned accordingly and created a custom experience we will never forget.

Every new place we visited seemed to be our favorite, but we think Geiranger will be the place we remember most fondly for its amazing beauty, raging waterfalls, fine dining, and views of the fjord.

If we ever return, we would choose Katie again. She has our lasting gratitude for a wonderful trip and for taking such good care of us!

All the tour guides were excellent and the family enjoyed the tours and other activities related to this visit. One tour guide we would like to highlight was Marta, the tour guide for the Alhambra. She took the time to answer all the questions my two little grandchildren had. It was a four hour class for them. The transportation services were excellent, always on time, and very courteous driver. Special kudos to the driver that took us to Malpica de Tajo. This was a four hours excursion in this little town we thought was the birthplace for our family name. There was nothing to do there except to look at a castle. We asked the driver to see if it was possible to go to Toledo. He called the company and accommodated us to this excursion that was not planned. The hotel locations and facilities were superb. We enjoyed all three cities visited, but Malaga was our favorite. We might return again.

He or provided excellent services throughout the planning process. We are extremely happy with him. He is a keeper for our next big family vacation.

We had a wonderful vacation! Our daughter commented several times that this was her favorite trip. All of the accommodations that were reserved for us were great and in ideal locations where we were able to easily walk to everything we wanted to see and do. All of our transportation connections between our different stops were seamless and the instructions and maps provided made it easy to make those connections. Katie’s communication and assistance along the way was awesome and very helpful. We would definitely recommend Katie to others as a travel specialist to use when planning trips. Thank you for everything!

The trip was enjoyable. The guides were ok,