Travel Insights

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

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Florence's iconic skyline and the Ponte Vecchio bridge

Explore Tuscany: Florence, Siena, Pisa & More - 5 Days

Spend five days exploring the art and cuisine of Italy's Tuscany region. Discover Renaissance art in Florence, browse bustling markets for fresh produce and cured meats, and stroll through narrow medieval streets to see the 1,000-year-old Ponte Vecchio bridge. Head to the Tuscan countryside to visit Siena, tour a typical Chianti winery, and see the medieval Monteriggioni fortress. End your visit with a trip to see the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa and Lucca's historic city walls.

Naples & Amalfi Coast - 5 Days

This packed five-day itinerary is perfect for travelers with a thirst for adventure who are on a time crunch. Explore the glass-roofed Galleria Umberto shopping center, enjoy coffee on the medieval Piazza del Plebiscito, and try the seafood cuoppo in Naples. Visit the Pompeii ruins, hike around Mount Vesuvius, and visit the colorful bohemian Positano on the Amalfi Coast. Make sure you try the Naples pizza—the Amalfi Coast's real highlight.

Medieval town of Rovinj in the Istrian Peninsula juts into the Adriatic Sea

Croatia in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Signs of spring are starting to show as the days lengthen, the weather warms, and the snow begins to melt. Tourist numbers are low, and prices for accommodation and flights remain attractive, making this an ideal time to see uncrowded popular attractions or head outdoors to hike and bike. Read this monthly guide for more.

Highlights of Spain's Capital & Andalusia: Madrid, Seville, & Granada - 10 Days

See the jewels of Madrid and Andalusia with this 10-day itinerary. Start off in the capital city with a walking tour including the collection of El Prado Museum, then make your way south with a stop in Córdoba, followed by the cultural scene of Seville and historic palaces of Granada. Take advantage of the combination of private guided tours and free time to make sure you don't miss a beat.

Croatia in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Croatia's first month of the year is also its coldest. But with the chilly weather comes fun snow activities, the start of carnival season, fewer crowds, and lower costs than other times of the year. This is also one of the best winter months for capturing the quiet majesty of Plitvice's frozen lakes and waterfalls. Find out what to do and where to go with this January guide.

Ultimate Guide to Brač: Croatia's Island of Outdoor Pursuits

Brač is Croatia’s third-largest island, the biggest in Dalmatia, and among the closest to the mainland. It's also a great choice for active pursuits: stellar windsurfing, any type of watersport under the sun, cycling, and hiking. Base yourself in the main towns of Bol and Supetar, or venture inland to the ancient stone hamlets at Brač's center—there's plenty to do and see throughout. Learn more about what, when, and how to go below.

Argentina's Lake District near Bariloche

Epic Argentina: El Calafate, Bariloche & Salta - 14 Days

Experience the best of Argentina's north and south over two action-packed weeks. The first half takes place in Patagonia, where you'll marvel at the expansive glaciers around El Calafate and visit the azure lakes of Bariloche. The latter half takes you north to Spanish-colonial Salta, your base for a self-guided road trip through rugged gorges, vast salt flats, and painted desert mountains.

Enjoy the views of Ushuaia from the water

Ultimate Guide to Ushuaia: Gateway to Tierra del Fuego

The southernmost city on earth, Ushuaia is just 600 miles north of Antarctica—Buenos Aires, by comparison, is more than twice as far away. Facing the Beagle Channel and backed by jagged mountain peaks, this remote but welcoming city is the gateway to the dramatic Andean landscapes of Tierra del Fuego. Our guide will help you plan your trip and find the best that Ushuaia has to offer.

Ultimate Guide to Puerto Madryn: Wildlife Hub of Argentine Patagonia

Overlooking the sheltered waters of the Golfo Nuevo, this fast-growing city is the main tourist hub in Argentine Patagonia. It's the perfect base for visiting the internationally renowned Península Valdés marine reserve—famous for southern right whales—and exploring the region’s Welsh heritage. This guide will help you plan your trip and find the best that Puerto Madryn has to offer.

Ultimate Guide to Luxury Travel in Morocco

Morocco has been on the radar of boho-cool celebrities for decades, and the luxury riad scene is booming more than ever—but you don’t need A-lister credentials to be treated like royalty. Upping your budget opens up a world of possibilities, whether that means a bespoke glamping tour of the Sahara or a sunrise hot air balloon ride with the Atlas Mountains on the horizon.

Highlights of Argentina: Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Salta & Iguazú - 14 Days

From world-class wineries to spectacular waterfalls and a dance performance in the birthplace of tango, this 14-day journey around Argentina is filled with unforgettable adventures. Begin in Buenos Aires, exploring the capital and riding horses at a traditional ranch, then fly to Mendoza for a cooking class and wine tastings with views of the Andes. Continue to the colorful cliffs of northwest Argentina, then finish with a few days of hiking around Iguazú Falls, the largest waterfalls on the globe.

Laguna Esmeralda Hiking Trail near Ushuaia, Argentina

Best of Argentina - 14 Days

This adventurous two-week trip combines the best destinations Argentina has to offer with a range of outdoor activities and wildlife. On the itinerary are two cities (Buenos Aires and Ushuaia), a UNESCO-listed peninsula, and two national parks known for glaciers and hiking trails. There's also whale watching, snorkeling with sea lions, and a visit to South America's largest Magellanic Penguin colony for the ultimate photo ops.

Las Torres, Torres del Paine National Park

Best of Argentina & Torres del Paine - 15 Days

Patagonia—located in Argentina and Chile—is, without a doubt, one of the world's most beautiful and undiscovered regions, and this 15-day itinerary includes adventures in both countries. Kicking off with some food, wine, and culture in Buenos Aires and Mendoza, you'll fly south to Argentine Patagonia for glacier trekking in Los Glaciares National Park. Continue across the border in Torres del Paine for a multi-day hike through Grey Glacier, French Valley, and the imposing towers of Las Torres.

Tallinn Song and Dance Festival (July 2019) - 5 Days

Take part as Tallinn becomes the world capital of song and dance from July 4–7, 2019, when they host the XXVII Song and XX Dance Celebrations. This festival takes place every five years and has become a symbol of Estonian culture and identity, with thousands of singers and dancers participating. Pair it with visits to Tallinn's historic Old Town, museums, and culinary hotspots for a five-day cultural excursion you won't forget.

Specialist Interview: Culinary Travel in Spain, Japan, and Peru

Ramen safaris in Tokyo. Underground cava cellars in Basque Country. Traditional cooking classes in the Sacred Valley and haute cuisine in Lima. Culinary travel is an authentic (and tasty) way to experience a destination, and our specialists in Spain, Japan, and Peru shared their favorite regional cuisine, places to eat, and ideas for your next trip in this interview.

Taste of Northern Spain - 9 Days

Experience northern Spain through a series of private gastronomic and cultural experiences over nine days. Get to know the world of Spanish wine in La Rioja, tour modernist architecture in Barcelona, try pintxos in San Sebastián, and dine in beautiful Bilbao. Throughout the tour, you'll see these areas through the eyes of a local with knowledgable private guides.

Food & Culture in Basque Country - 10 Days

Enjoy a gastronomic itinerary from Madrid to San Sebastián and Bilbao, visiting the most famous Spanish vineyards in La Rioja along the way. With a mix of cultural visits and culinary experiences, this trip features Basque Country pintxos tastings, visits to modernist landmarks, and more, all at your own pace.

Classic Argentina: Buenos Aires, Patagonia, & Mendoza - 15 Days

This exciting 15-day itinerary highlights Argentina's top attractions combining urban culture, outdoor activities, and vineyard relaxation. After exploring Buenos Aires with a local guide, you'll fly to Patagonia for glacier trekking and unique excursions in the southernmost city in the world. Finish in high-altitude Mendoza—world-famous for Malbecs—to partake in wine tastings and kayaking in the surrounding Andes.

Urban Australia - 8 Days

Visit three cities of Australia with this eight-day itinerary. You'll start off in Sydney, where you can enjoy both the bustling downtown and coastal cliff walk, then head to Melbourne to explore its artsy alleyways, museums, and cafes alongside the wildlife of the Yarra Valley. Finish off in Hobart, Tasmania, to learn about its history and art scene.

Paros is full of classic Cycladic villages and unspoiled beaches

Off the Beaten Path in the Cyclades: Paros & Naxos - 8 Days

Discover the two largest islands in the Cyclades with this eight-day odyssey across Paros and Naxos. You'll start in Paros, relaxing on golden beaches, hiking to Mycenaean ruins, and venturing inland to sleepy, unspoiled villages. Then hop a ferry to neighboring Naxos to wind your way through its Venetian Old Town and explore its rural landscapes filled with ancient churches, archaeological sites, and local distilleries.

Outdoor activities in Patagonia's Lake District

Classic Argentina: Bariloche, Mendoza, & Salta - 13 Days

First-timers in Argentina will cover a lot of ground with this 13-day itinerary. Starting in Buenos Aires, you'll fly to Bariloche for a series of outdoor activities that capitalize on the views. Then, venture to Medoza's famous Malbec vineyards for wine tastings. Next is the colonial city of Salta—jumping off point for rugged gorges, giant salt flats, and colorful deserts in the country's far north. Spend your last night in a historic estancia and live the life of a real gaucho.

Highlights of Argentina & Rio de Janeiro - 12 Days

This exciting 12-day itinerary combines the best culture and scenery in Argentina and Brazil for a real South American adventure. After a taste of Buenos Aires with a tour and tango performance, you'll fly south to Patagonia to experience massive glaciers. Then, fly to the Brazilian border to hike around hundreds of waterfalls before finishing in Rio de Janeiro for its iconic views and nearby tropical islands.

Yakitori restaurant Tarokichi in Kyoto (photo courtesy of the author)

What to Eat in Japan (and Where to Eat It)

Springy noodles in slow-simmered broth, savory meats grilled medium-rare, and delicate fish for days: Japan is a culinary adventure waiting to be devoured bite by bite. Read on to learn about the diverse flavors (and histories) of Japanese cuisine and the best places to try them.

Argentina for Adventurers – 14 days

Travel from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls with this itinerary filled with Argentina's natural wonders. Start in the cosmopolitan capital with dinner and dancing before traveling south to Patagonia. You'll explore glaciers, hike with views of Mt. Fitz Roy, and finish in the far north—at the Brazilian border—to explore hundreds of waterfalls for a real taste of adventure.

Cruise through the Patagonia's Beagle Channel and look for marine life

Argentina for Adventurers – 13 days

This exciting 13-day itinerary highlights some of Argentina's most impressive natural wonders. Kicking off in Buenos Aires, you'll venture to Patagonia where you’ll get close to massive glaciers and partake in a range of outdoor activities in the southernmost city in the world. Finish in the far north—at the Brazilian border—to explore hundreds of waterfalls in both countries for a real taste of adventure.

Argentina FAQ

Argentina extends from its remote northern deserts to the furthest reaches of Patagonia, with wine regions, mountain ranges, and the big city of Buenos Aires in between. With so many options of where to go and what to see, you can design any kind of trip that suits your fancy. Here are some answers to common questions to help you do just that.

Chile FAQ

Chile is a world-renowned destination, filled with scenic high-altitude deserts, culturally rich cities, and vast expanses of Patagonian wilderness. This list answers the most common questions asked by travelers to Chile, from what to pack to how to get around.

7 Best Active Adventures in Argentina

To appreciate everything Argentina has to offer, you have to get moving. Try glacier-trekking (and picnicking) in Patagonia or horseback riding on a traditional ranch in the Andean foothills. Other options include hiking around the famed waterfalls of Iguazú, cycling through the remote northwest, and fly-fishing the streams of idyllic Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Dine on delish vegan options in Peru's capital

The 6 Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in Lima

Peru may be famous for its ceviche, but vegetables are a way of life here too—after all, it's home to 3,800 varieties of potatoes alone. Combine this bounty with Lima's renowned food scene, and it's no surprise that vegetarian and vegan eateries abound. Here's a list of the best spots to grab a raw taco, quinoa burger, or a big bowl of cashew pesto pasta, in the trendy Miraflores neighborhood and beyond.

Patagonia's Tierra del Fuego National Park

Patagonia & Iguazú Falls - 13 Days

This adventurous 13-day itinerary combines Argentina's most spectacular scenery in the far north and south. After getting to know Buenos Aires with a local guide, you'll head to the Brazilian border to hike around hundreds of waterfalls. Then, fly to Patagonia, where you'll get up close to glaciers and partake in a range of outdoor activities. Finish back in the capital for a tango dance and hands-on culinary experience.

Colorful desert landscapes outside of Salta

Classic Argentina: Buenos Aires, Mendoza, & Salta - 13 Days

Experience the best of Argentina's culture, wine, cuisine, and Andean scenery on this 13-day tour. Begin by exploring the vibrant city of Buenos Aires and then fly to high-altitude Medoza for wine tastings and kayaking. Next, head to the colonial city of Salta—your jumping off point for rugged gorges, salt flats, and more vineyards in the country's far north before returning to the capital for horseback riding with gauchos.

Classic Argentina: Buenos Aires, Mendoza, & Salta - 12 Days

Experience the best of Argentina's culture, wine, cuisine, and Andean scenery on this 12-day tour. Begin by exploring the vibrant city of Buenos Aires and then fly to high-altitude Mendoza for Malbec tastings. Next, head to the colonial city of Salta—your jumping off point for rugged gorges, giant salt flats, and more vineyards in the country's far north before returning to the capital for horseback riding with gauchos.

High-altitude scenery outside of Mendoza

Classic Argentina: Mendoza & Patagonia - 12 Days

This 12-day tour of Argentina includes some of the country's most spectacular scenery for an unforgettable adventure. After exploring Buenos Aires, you'll fly to Mendoza for Malbec vineyards and high-altitude Andean peaks. Then, head to Patagonia's Los Glaciares National Park for access to the Perito Moreno Glacier before finishing in Ushuaia—the southernmost city in the world.

Drive into the mountains outside of Mendoza on a high-altitude tour

Classic Argentina: Mendoza & Patagonia - 11 Days

This 11-day trip combines urban culture, outdoor excursions, and vineyard relaxation for a real Argentinian adventure. After exploring Buenos Aires, fly to Mendoza (world-famous for Malbecs) for wine tastings, before heading to El Calafate—the jumping-off point for Los Glaciares National Park—and trek along a massive glacier that is actually advancing.

Explore Rome - 5 Days

Discover historical and modern highlights of the Eternal City in this five-day tour. Hear stories of gladiators in Rome's ancient Colosseum, tour the iconic Pantheon, and visit the Vatican Museum to see the world-famous Sistine Chapel. Explore the Galleria Borghese to see works by Rafaello and Caravaggio, then stroll around the peaceful gardens of Villa Borghese. Enjoy a quiet cup of coffee in the Piazza Navona and unwind at night with a homemade Italian pizza and a glass of wine.

Mont-Saint-Michel Countryside Cycling Tour - 6 Days

Imagine cycling across expanses of farmland as you spot something floating in the distance—a spire reaching toward the sky, extending above tiers of weathered stone resting on a rocky island. The towering island of Mont-Saint-Michel, its ancient abbey, and its serene bay are the major highlight of this six-day cycling tour, but the rest of the region has plenty to recommend it. You'll start and end in the walled port city of Saint-Malo, making your way through the countryside of Brittany and Normandy to destinations including the fishing port of Cancale and the village of Dinan.

Tuck into paella, cooked in a traditional paellera

Culinary Tour of Spain: Madrid, Bilbao, San Sebastian & Barcelona - 12 Days

Travelers who want to experience Spain's legendary culinary scene won't want to miss this 12-day food-forward tour filled with tapas, wineries, olive oil tastings, and more. Start with a gourmet tour of Madrid, enjoy a homecooked meal in the Cantabrian Mountains, dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant on the Cantabrian Coast, taste txakoli wine in San Sebastián, and end with an architecture and market tour in vibrant Barcelona.

Biking the Dordogne - 8 Days

Discover the countryside towns and historic landmarks of the Dordogne River region as you bike along its banks on this eight-day itinerary. You'll pass by prehistoric dwellings, Roman ruins, medieval castles, and some of France's officially designated most beautiful villages, accompanied by picturesque natural landscapes and rich cuisine.

Northern Argentina Road Trip - 14 Days

This two-week adventure celebrates northern Argentina, a lesser-visited but no less stunning region of the country. After touring the highlights of Buenos Aires you'll fly north to colonial Salta, which will be your base for road trips to highlights like the Quebrada de Humahuaca and Puna de Atacama. Rounding out the journey are visits to historic villages, wine tours at Cafayate, visits to national parks, and more.

Bergen to Trondheim Outdoor Adventure -14 Days

This road trip starts and ends in two of Norway's biggest cities, with outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking and rafting along the way. Designed for active travelers, this is a perfect excursion for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Norway's great outdoors.

Bicycles are a great way to get around Florence and the surrounding region

Cycling Tuscany: Florence to Siena - 5 Days

Take a quick spin through the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance with this five-day Tuscan cycling tour. This challenging bike route will take you through the medieval villages and cypress-spotted hills of the Tuscan wine region . Go from Florence to Siena as you take in the region's food, historic castles, and sun-kissed landscapes, accompanied, of course, by a good glass or two.

Sail through the Geirangerfjord on the Hurtigruten

Discover Norway's Cities & Fjords - 14 Days

This zealous (yet relaxing) scenic 14-day trip checks off Norway's three biggest cities by train, ferry, and fjord cruise. Start in Norway's buzzing capital with its waterfront promenade before you take one of the steepest trains in the world to the village of Flåm. You'll ferry through Norway's longest fjord and explore Bergen independently and with a local guide. From here, board the Hurtigruten—a mighty coastal steamer—stopping in Ålesund for a night. Back on the Hurtigruten, you'll sail to Trondheim by way of the Geirangerfjord and then return to Oslo by train.

Trolltunga's rewarding vantage point over Lake Ringedalsvatnet

Norway Hiking & Kayaking Adventure - 7 Days

Get to the heart of Norway's spectacular scenery via trail and watercraft with this outdoorsy 7-day itinerary. Tour Bergen and catch a boat to the beautiful Hardangerfjord. Hike to the Trolltunga overlook, with views of Lake Ringedalsvatnet, and kayak in a section of Norway's longest and deepest fjord. Finally, jump on the Flåm Railway and make your way to Oslo for a taste of the fastest-growing capital in Europe.

Take in a spring sunset, like from the foothills of Carrauntoohil, MacGillycuddy's Reeks mountains

Best Time of Year to Visit Ireland

Ireland has mild temperatures and plenty of rain, no matter when you choose to visit. Summer is warmest, with long days perfect for road trips and village-to-village walks. Spring wildflowers burst through cracks in glacial limestone and fall bedecks the national parks in dazzling foliage. Chilly, quiet winters offer fewer options, though travelers will love the cheerful holiday festivities in Dublin. Read on and choose the season that's right for you.

Experience Uluru in Central Australia's outback

Highlights of Australia: Sydney, Uluru & Cairns - 9 Days

If you've got limited time to tackle the vast Australian continent, this may be the itinerary for you. You'll start in cosmopolitan Sydney under the eaves of the famous Opera House, then fly out to the Red Centre to experience the dramatic rock formations of Uluru. Top it off with a visit to Cairns to explore the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, with plenty of free days in between to add your own twist.

Photo courtesy of Palace Judita Heritage Hotel

The 6 Best Boutique Hotels in Split

Split is the kind of city you'll want to take in at your leisure, and that means spending a few days here. Luckily, there's a hotel for every taste, often in the historic center—and even within Split's most famous attraction, Diocletian's Palace. This list has your best options, from pretty boutique hotels in town to contemporary seaside escapes.

7 Unique Places to Stay in Nepal

Planning a trip to Nepal? The country offers much more in the way of accommodation than just hotels. Consider spending a night or two in one of these unique alternatives: a trailside teahouse, traditional homestay, Buddhist monastery, or luxury mountain lodge at 13,000 feet.

Hiking Ireland's highest mountain, Carauntoohil

Best Active Experiences in Ireland

Ireland is a wild corner of Europe, with many ways to explore. Long-distance trails make the country perfect for village-to-village walks, with terrain for every fitness level. The quiet roads are great for cycling, and a rugged Atlantic coastline lends itself particularly well to kayaking. Ireland's magical scenery will appeal to adrenaline junkies everywhere—here are some ideas for your active trip.

Girl taking surfing lessons in Co. Donegal

Family Travel in Ireland

Ireland is full of kid-friendly outdoor adventures, fun ways to interact with ancient history, and cultural activities from falconry to farming. Chase the leprechaun legend in Carlingford, hang out with Ireland's favorite dolphin off the Dingle coast, or learn to surf on beginner-friendly beaches. The best part? Driving distances are short, with plenty of ways to keep little ones engaged along the way.

Kayak among karst islands in Ha Long Bay

Active Vietnam Adventure - 12 Days

Over 12 days you'll travel from the mountains of northern Vietnam down to the southern Mekong Delta and enjoy outdoor adventures every step of the way. It begins with two days of cycling through nature reserves followed by a cruise along the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay. Then visit historical sites in the ancient cities of Hue and Hoi An before ending the trip on the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City and rafting down the Mekong River.

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