Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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Hokkaido in Winter: Lake Akan to Shiretoko - 7 Days

Discover the pristine natural landscape of Hokkaido on this 7-day winter itinerary. Japan’s second-largest main island is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers, with snow-capped mountain ranges, serene forests, and deep crater lakes. Starting in Kushiro on the east coast, you’ll travel north, heading into the winter wilderness of Akan-Mashu National Park. Visit UNESCO World Heritage nature reserves, experience spectacular snow-covered landscapes, and spot rare wildlife unique to Hokkaido before ending your adventure on the magnificent Shiretoko Peninsula.

Discover Tenerife's volcanic Roque Cinchado in Teide National Park and marvel at Pico del Teide

Wild Canary Islands Road Trip: Tenerife, La Gomera & Madrid - 8 Days

Escape to an unspoiled island paradise on this 8-day exploration of Spain's remote Canary Islands. Start on Tenerife, where lush rainforests and towering mountains welcome you to a unique ecosystem. Hike through ancient woodland, climb Spain's tallest volcano, and discover idyllic Canarian villages. End your stay on the neighboring island of La Gomera, where you'll venture deep into its volcanic landscapes and spot whales along its northern coast.

16 Days in Croatia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Sixteen days gives you plenty of time to see the best that Croatia has to offer. Drive along the Dalmatian Coast and hit all the highlights between Zagreb and Dubrovnik, opt for an adventurous itinerary that includes hiking, biking, and canyoning on Cetina River, or fulfill your foodie dreams of truffle hunting and fine dining in Rovinj. Another option is to combine your trip to Croatia with a visit to Slovenia to see Lake Bled and the Julian Alps. Learn more with the following unique itinerary ideas.

10 Days in Slovenia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With ten days in Slovenia, you'll have time to discover much of what this beautiful country has to offer, including postcard-perfect lakes, emerald rivers, vast underground caverns, and rolling hills covered in vineyards. Choose a hiking itinerary to explore from the mountains to the coast, or road trip through Slovenia and into Croatia along the Istrian Peninsula. Get inspired by these following unique itinerary ideas.

6 Days in Slovenia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With six days to spend in Slovenia, you'll have just enough time to see the country's highlights. Opt for a hut-to-hut hiking tour through the Slovenian Alps, bike all the way to the Adriatic Sea, or go on a self-guided road trip around the country to Ljubljana, Lake Bled, the Goriška Brda wine region, and more. Check out the following itineraries to help plan your Slovenian adventure.

9 Days in Slovenia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days to spend in Slovenia, you'll have plenty of time to explore the country, from the Alps to the Adriatic, with lots in between. Head deep underground at the UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves, sample fresh seafood in Piran and hike through the most beautiful scenery the Julian Alps have to offer with these unique itinerary ideas.

The lush landscapes and turquoise waters of Tenerife

Wild Canary Islands Road Trip: Tenerife, La Gomera & Madrid - 7 Days

Get lost in the wild beauty of Spain's Canary Islands on this adventurous seven-day itinerary. Explore ancient forests, rural villages, black sand beaches, and the towering Mount Teide on Tenerife, before journeying to the smaller island of La Gomera to discover lush volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Your final day takes you back to the mainland, where you'll depart from the capital of Madrid.

Drive to the old town of Rovinj on the Istrian peninsula

Slovenia & Croatia Scenic Road Trip: Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Soča Valley & the Istrian Peninsula - 10 Days

Experience Slovenia and Croatia's coastal and culinary scenes with this ten-day road trip that goes from sprawling vineyards to seaside towns. You'll start and end in Ljubljana, doing a circuit through the Slovenian rivers and lakes to the cypress hills of wine country. From there, approach the Istrian peninsula for both a taste of one of the best-known culinary scenes on the Adriatic and a dip into its waters.

Alps to the Adriatic: Inn-to-Inn Walking Adventure - 10 Days

This inn-to-inn walking itinerary gives you a chance to explore some of the most beautiful scenery in Slovenia independently. Start off on the fairytale shores of Lake Bled to explore the rugged alpine landscape and crystal clear lakes of northwestern Slovenia. Then, hike through Karawanks mountain range, on the border between Slovenia and Austria. Then, walk through Triglav National Park and follow the beautiful Soča River downstream to Tolmin, before crossing the border into Italy to visit Cividale del Friuli.

Road Trip through Slovenia and Istria - 9 Days

This nine-day road trip includes stops at all of Slovenia and Croatian Istria's best spots. Explore both countries with the help of a local guide who will take you to the best locations and introduce you to the local culture. Discover the rich history of Ljubljana, then head to the rugged alpine landscape of the country's northwest to see the Julian Alps, crystalline lakes, and high limestone peaks. Then, make your way to the underground depths of the Škocjan Caves and go truffle-hunting near Rovinj. Finish your tour at the historic Roman city of Pula.

Best Walks of Slovenia: Ljubljana, the Julian Alps, Goriška Brda & Piran - 9 Days

This nine-day adventure includes the best walks and hikes around Slovenia, from the stunning views in the Julian Alps to peaceful strolls on beautiful lakefronts and down lush green valleys. Climb limestone mountains and sink to underground depths in the Škocjan Caves, then go wine tasting in the rolling hills of Goriška Brda before taking in a beautiful sunset on the Adriatic Coast on this nine-day walking itinerary.

Slovenian Hiking Adventure: Lake Bled, the Julian Alps, Goriška Brda, and Piran - 9 Days

This self-guided hiking tour explores Slovenia's most beautiful scenery, from the capital to the Julian Alps, the coast, and the wine country. Trek through Slovenia's highest pass, wind your way through the Soča Valley, explore the hidden depths of the UNESCO-protected Škocjan Caves and more on this nine-day tour.

8 Days in Morocco - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With eight days in Morocco, you can take a grand tour of big-ticket cities like Casablanca and Fes or spend your time exploring off the beaten path, hiking through villages in lush countrysides, and enjoying cultural experiences, including cooking lessons and homestays. Of course, the iconic Sahara awaits: incorporate a desert adventure into a Tangier-to-Marrakech road trip or soar above the dunes on a luxury Morocco tour. Learn more about the best ways to spend eight days in Morocco below.

Combining Arenal/La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde - Recommended Itineraries from 8 to 14 Days

A trip to Costa Rica that includes Arenal, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde takes around 8 to 10 days. If you don't have that much time it's possible to see the highlights in 6 or 7 days, but your trip will feel quite fast-paced. If you have more time, or want to pack more places into your trip, you can add Tortuguero, Tamarindo, or Puerto Viejo to your itinerary. Read on for the best itineraries to explore Arenal, Manual Antonio and Monteverde.

Kenya Wildlife Safari - 10 Days

This exciting 10-day itinerary allows you to truly discover Kenya's diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Your trip will start in the bustling central city, Nairobi before you depart for the countryside and visit Amboseli National Park, which is home to Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Over these 10 days, you will also see the most famous Kenyan parks, including Hell's Gate, Mount Longonot, Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, and Maasai Mara, which are home to thousands of wildlife species as well as incredible hiking trails and viewpoints.

Portugal: The North & Douro Region - 5 Days

Discover the unparalleled beauty and charm of Portugal's North and Douro region on this beautiful five-day itinerary. You'll start in iconic Porto, where you'll taste your way through the city and learn about its history, culture, and landmarks. Then you'll hit the road for the Douro Valley, which is perhaps the most beautiful wine region in all of Europe. Taste local Ports, learn about the olive oil pressing process, or glide along the Douro River on a relaxing boat ride. You'll end your trip with stops in gorgeous Braga and Viana do Castelo, a charming town with access to fantastic beaches.

Combining Arenal & Manuel Antonio - Recommended Itineraries from 6 to 10 Days

Most people visiting both Arenal and Manuel Antonio spend about 8 to 10 days in Costa Rica, usually with some time in Monteverde as well. For travelers wanting to visit Arenal and Manuel Antonio exclusively, plan 6 to 8 days for a well-paced trip. With less time it's possible to see the highlights in as few as 4 days. Read on for best itineraries to explore Arenal and Manuel Antonio.

Treasures of the Yucatán Peninsula with Beach Stay - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary starts and ends in Cancún. In between, you'll enjoy a journey through the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, learning about Mayan history at Chichén Itzá, visiting colorful seaside villages, relaxing on the beach, snorkeling around the coral reef off Puerto Morelos, and taking a boat to Holbox Island for a few days away from civilization.

Self-Driving Highlights of Slovenia: Ljubljana, Lake Bled & Piran - 9 Days

Start your adventure in Ljubljana, then explore northern Slovenia's rugged alpine landscape and crystal clear lakes before continuing south to wine country for a dazzling culinary experience that includes wine fine dining and wine tasting. For a change of pace, visit the underground depths of the Škocjan Caves before finishing your trip in the coastal town of Piran.

Parque Labastida in the historic center of Oaxaca, Mexico

Magical Oaxaca & the Pacific Coast - 10 Days

Explore the cultural and natural highlights of Oaxaca on this ten-day itinerary around the region. You'll explore colorful marketplaces, see a 2,000-year-old tree, feel the spray of crystal-blue waterfalls, visit traditional villages in the Northern Highlands, learn how to make mole in a private cooking class, and spend the last few days on Oaxaca's idyllic Pacific beaches.

Highlights of Slovenia: Bled, Bovec, Ljubljana, & More - 9 Days

Discover the highlights of Slovenia on this road trip that includes the country's most popular sights. Start off on the shores of Lake Bled, then drive through the Julian Alps and down to the Adriatic Coast, before heading to Ljubljana, the country's capital. From the heights of Vršič Pass to the depths of the Škocjan Caves, Slovenia has so much to offer visitors.

Highlights of Chiapas - 10 Days

Experience the best of Chiapas with this 10-day itinerary. Start with a mix of nature and culture in San Cristobal de las Casas with a walking tour of the city and day trips to Sumidero Canyon and Montebello Lakes National Park. From there, spend four nights in Palenque, where you’ll visit craft markets and archeological sites, and learn about the indigenous Tzotzil people.

Experience London, Windsor Castle, and the White Cliffs of Dover - 6 Days

This tour covers the key London experiences, as well as popular day tours to Kent, The White Cliffs of Dover, and Windsor Castle. Explore this bustling city with a private guide and tick off all the major sites, including Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral, and more. Watch the changing of the guard, stroll through Hyde Park, and discover the foodie scenes at Camden and Borough Markets.

Slovenia Multisport Adventure - 6 Days

This self-guided six-day adventure covers Slovenia's highlights and gives you the chance to discover the country in a short time. Start at Lake Bled in northwestern Slovenian to see rugged alpine landscapes, crystal clear rivers, and peaceful lakes. Hike through Triglav National Park and sleep in a cozy mountain hut, then explore the emerald Soča River and the surrounding valley, before finishing up with a tour of Ljubljana, the country's capital.

Views from Incahuasi island over the Uyuni Salt Flats

Discover Bolivia's Landscapes - 10 Days

Take in the glorious natural landscapes of Bolivia on this 10-day trip. From the otherworldly rock formations of the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) to massive dinosaur footprints in Torotoro National Park, and from the white expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats to underground caves that stretch on for miles, there's so much to explore. Bring your hiking boots and make sure your camera battery is charged up; you'll be overwhelmed with once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities on this active adventure.

Bolivian Landscapes, Cultures, and Communities: Cochabamba, Torotoro, Uyuni, La Paz & More - 14 Days

Take in the ever-changing landscapes and culture of Bolivia on this two-week itinerary. You'll start with a trip out to Samaipata, an archaeological and geological site in the Andean midlands. Explore the city in Cochabamba, then return to nature with canyon treks and caverns in Torotoro National Park. Scope out historical architecture in Sucre and Cayara before you finish your trip with the famed Uyuni Salt Flats.

Culture & the Great Outdoors on the Yucatán Peninsula - 7 Days

On this colorful trip plan, you'll experience Mexican culture in an authentic way. See the highlights of the Yucatán Peninsula, visit the archaeological sites of Chichen Itzá, Cobá, and Xcambó, and view flamingos at Río Lagartos before finishing up in Mérida, where you'll go on a kayak tour and relax on the beach.

Best of Bhutan - 9 Days

Until 1961, Bhutan could only be entered on horseback. Now, the "Land of the Thunder Dragon" is emerging from the mists of its self-imposed isolation. Bhutan offers high mountains and lush valleys, pristine ecology and an incredible wealth of wildlife—and on this nine-day tour, you'll get a taste of it all. From hiking trails to monasteries, views of the snow-clad Himalaya to rolling valleys and fluttering prayer flags, this comprehensive tour will introduce you to Bhutan's gentle pleasures.

Bhutan Trails, Wildlife & Culture - 10 Days

Bhutan is often considered the last Shangri La, a land of high mountains and lush valleys, snow-clad peaks with clear-running springs, pristine ecology, and an incredible wealth of wildlife. Experience the best of Bhutan on this comprehensive ten-day tour that includes hiking, wildlife spotting, mountain vistas, unbelievable architecture, and more.

Scout local eats at popular vendors throughout Mexico City, like these street tacos

Culinary Tour Through Mexico City, Puebla & Oaxaca - 7 Days

On this food-focused tour, you'll discover authentic Mexican cuisine at marketplaces, family-run restaurants, street food stands, and Indigenous farms. The itinerary isn't only about food, though: the schedule features visits to archaeological sites and other places of interest, including the pyramids of Teotihuacán and the colonial city of Puebla.

Mayan Culture & Beaches of the Riviera Maya - 8 Days

Enjoy this getaway to the Riviera Maya with a mix of cultural experiences and relaxing on the beach. Base yourself in lively Playa del Carmen as you explore Mayan ruins, swim in picturesque cenotes, and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea along the white sandy coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Slovenia Cycling Trip: From the Alps to the Adriatic - 6 Days

Explore Slovenia by bicycle on this intense but rewarding six-day tour that takes you from the Alps to the Adriatic. Start off in Ljubljana, the country's capital, before popping over to Italy and down to the shores of Lake Bled, through the Julian Alps and into Goriška Brda, the country's wine region. Finish your tour in Piran, a charming city on the Adriatic Coast.

Hut-to-Hut Hiking in the Slovenian Alps - 6 Days

Explore the beautiful landscapes of the Slovenian Alps with this six-day hiking tour of the country that includes staying in cozy mountain huts, trekking through Triglav National Park, visiting famous Lake Bled and its less-famous but equally-dazzling neighbor, Lake Bohinj, discovering the Soča Valley, and lots more.

Hiking in Ireland: Dingle Way & Slea Head - 14 Days

Explore truly breathtaking scenery on this walking tour that covers the Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head, including famous Ventry Beach and Great Blasket Island. Walk through grassy bogs, thick forests, rocky coastlines, and empty beaches as you enjoy views of seal colonies, historic "beehive" huts, mountain ranges, and bright blue lakes. Climb Mount Brandon, listen to traditional Irish music, relax in local pubs, and kayak Dingle Bay: it's all part of this active adventure.

Views across the Northern Japan Alps from the Shinhotaka Ropeway cable car station.

Winter in the Japan Alps: Mountains, Villages & Hot Springs - 6 Days

Explore mountain villages, snowcapped peaks, and Onsen hot springs on this 6-day winter journey into the heart of Japan’s Northern Alps. Start in the feudal castle town of Matsumoto, venture into the Oku-Hida Mountains to find biodiverse highlands and secluded Ryokan inns, and end your stay in Hida-Furukawa and Takayama for an unforgettable winter experience.

Cultural Tour of Mexico - 7 Days

The largest pyramid in the world is in Mexico, as are some of the world's mysterious pyramids—at Cholula and Teotihuacán, respectively—and you'll visit both places on this wide-ranging cultural tour. Learn about pre-Hispanic, Maya, and Aztec cultures as you explore Mexico City, Mérida, Puebla, and Chichén Itzá, and take a break for a refreshing dip in a cenote. And a taco or two, of course.

Color and History in Mexico City - 7 Days

On this itinerary, you'll dive into Mexico City and explore everything from its historic center to the canals of Xochimilco. Travel back in time to learn about the history of pre-Hispanic people at the Museum of Anthropology, discover the mysterious temples of Teotihuacán, relax in the wilderness of Jungapeo, see a wide variety of butterflies at the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, and get inspired in the bohemian neighborhood of Coyoacán, where Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera used to live.

Visit Cape Reinga during the summer months for long daylight hours

Best Time of Year to Visit New Zealand

Spring and fall are the smartest times to visit New Zealand—fewer crowds, lower prices, and surprisingly warm weather in many bucket-list destinations. Summer draws heavy local and international visitors, so expect booked-out campsites and busy roads. Winter is best left to skiers or those heading south, as the North Island gets drenched. Yet, whenever you plan to go, there will be parts of New Zealand that offer great conditions—find helpful information below on weather, crowds, costs, and more.

Best Time of Year to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a long, skinny country bookended by extremes: the northern areas bordering China are mountainous, while the Mekong Delta in the south is tropical. In between are vibrant cities, temperate highlands, and a huge range of natural attractions. While you can visit at any time of year, it's important to plan where you go around the country's climatic differences—you won't want to hit the beaches in summer, for example, or the northern mountains in winter. Read on for more tips on when to visit Vietnam.

Best Time of Year to Visit Thailand

Thailand is a long country, with mountains in the north and beautiful beaches in the south. It's almost uniformly hot, but some times of year are much hotter (and wetter) than others. Thailand is busiest (unsurprisingly) when the weather is at its best, from November to March. During low season, you should expect heavy rain, but that doesn't mean you can't have a good time—you just need to know where to go. Here are some tips to know about the best time of year to visit Thailand.

Sunset over New Zealand's Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown

2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in New Zealand, you can experience the natural wonders of the North and South Islands on a highlights tour. Alternatively, narrow your focus to one region and choose between a beach-filled trip on the North Island and a journey through the South Island's Southern Alps, glaciers, and fjords. Travelers who enjoy keeping active should set their sights on Franz Josef, Te Anau, and Mount Cook, while those visiting during winter can embark on an epic road trip from Queenstown to Auckland.

10 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can comfortably explore four to five different destinations with ten days in New Zealand. Spend up to two days in each city, including the "Big Little City" of Auckland, geothermal Rotorua, and scenic Wanaka. There are also several opportunities to discover settings from the Lord of the Rings films in Matamata, Tongariro National Park, and Wellington. The itineraries below cover the North and South Islands with ideas for every traveler—from family-friendly excursions to hardcore outdoor adventures.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 8 Days

If you've got eight days to spare and want to explore the South of France in a creative way, this itinerary is perfect for you. You'll ride along quiet countryside roads on an electric bike, so you can let the bike do most of the work! Experience the Provence way of life as you follow the lavender roads at the heart of the Provence hinterland.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 9 Days

Bike through the heart of Provence on electric bikes on this nine-day tour. Explore the quiet country roads as you ride about 30 miles per day, stopping at night in peaceful accommodations. From the endless lavender fields of Sault to the blue-green waters of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, this itinerary delivers plenty of local experiences.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 10 Days

If ten days spent exploring the quiet countryside roads and medieval villages of Provence sounds like a dream come true, this itinerary is perfect for you. From Paris to Avignon, ride a comfortable e-bike along off-the-beaten-path roads across two nature reserves the land of endless lavender fields as you experience the Provence way of life.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 11 Days

Follow the lavender roads at the heart of Provence and experience the French way of life on this 11-day e-bike tour. Explore Paris’s cozy cafes and wide boulevards, savor Provence flavors like olive oil, Picodon (provencal cheese), & thyme, and see Roussillon’s famous ochre cliffs. Spend a day in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse & see the springs, then explore history & architecture in Avignon.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Sault, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 12 Days

If you've got twelve free days and adventure on your mind, head to romantic Provence for an e-bike tour you'll never forget. Ride along secured off-the-beaten-path roads across two nature parks as you visit small medieval towns, browse Provençal food markets to find local specialties, and visit the landscapes that inspired famous French painter Cezanne.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 13 Days

This thirteen-day adventure through Provence's quiet countryside roads is just shy of two weeks, but it's certainly not shy about delivering experiences. From the Rhône Valley with its endless vineyards and lavender fields to Roussillon’s famous ochre cliffs, you'll enjoy the "douceur de Vivre" with the electric assistance pedaling system on your e-bike.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Sault, Roussillon, Avignon, & More - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring Provence the best way we know how: by e-bike! Enjoy the "douceur de Vivre" and let the electric assistance pedaling system do all the work for you. Browse Provençal food markets to find local specialties, see Roussillon’s famous ochre cliffs, spend a day in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse & see the springs, and more!

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 15 Days

Follow the lavender roads through the heart of Provence and explore medieval villages on this 15-day e-bike itinerary. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the medieval Avignon, browse Provençal food markets to find local specialties, and see Roussillon’s famous ochre cliffs. Soak in the "douceur de Vivre" and let the electric assistance pedaling system do all the work!

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