Travel Insights

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

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Enjoy a sunset sail on the Gulf of Papagayo

Volcanoes and Pacific Beaches For Families - 8 Days

On this family-oriented 8-day adventure, you'll explore Costa Rica's top natural attractions, from the towering Arenal Volcano and its nearby hot springs to the beautiful beaches of Guanacaste. The itinerary takes you to three distinct regions: Arenal and La Fortuna, the Monteverde cloud forest, and the pristine Gulf of Papagayo. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities along the way, including waterfall hikes, wildlife viewing tours, and a jungle canopy adventure, plus optional excursions to try kayaking and whitewater rafting.

Romance in the Jungle - 9 Days

This 9-day Costa Rican itinerary is ideal for adventure-loving couples. Starting and ending in San José, the two of you will ford the scenic Río Pacuare (one of the best white-water rafting rivers in the world), explore lush jungle, and enjoy downtime together in a luxury eco-lodge.

Hermit crab on the beach of Corcovado National Park

Arenal and Osa Peninsula Luxury Getaway - 8 Days

In this eight-day luxury itinerary, you'll travel in style to southwest Costa Rica and the Osa Peninsula. Here you'll embark on excursions in Corcovado National Park, a veritable Lost World preserving one of the country's few lowland rainforests. You'll then fly to Arenal Volcano National Park, where even more active adventures await.

Snap pics of the Terrace of Lions on Delos

Historic Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades & Crete - 21 Days

Travel through the rich mythology and history of Classical Greece from the mainland to the islands and back. You'll start and end in Athens, beginning by taking in the city from above from the Acropolis and its famous Parthenon. Then down into the islands, with stops at the sacred site of Delos off of Mykonos, prehistoric Akrotiri in Santorini, and the Palace of Knossos on Crete. Return to the mainland to see the Cyclopean walls of Mycenae, stroll the stadium grounds at Olympia, and more before your return to the modern era.

Historic Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades and Crete - 14 Days

Get up close and personal with ancient Greece on this two-week trip. Begin at the Acropolis and its famous Parthenon before ferrying to the beautiful Cycladic Islands. Archeological stops include the sacred site of Delos, prehistoric Akrotiri, and the Palace of Knossos on Crete. End your trip on the mainland with visits to mythical Mycenae, the original Olympic stadium, and more.

Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific Coast is known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful beaches

San José and Manuel Antonio - 4 Days

This 4-day quick getaway allows you to experience a taste of the diversity of Costa Rica. Start off in the bustling capital of San José, you'll have time to explore the history and culture of the city for an evening before heading on to Manuel Antonio, a national park boasting some of Costa Rica's most pristine white sand beaches and coastal jungles.

Hanging bridge in Monteverde National Park

Monteverde Cloud Forest - 4 Days

Costa Rica's mountainous Monteverde region is a traveler favorite, topping lists for its distinct cloud forest ecosystem, abundant wildlife, and options for hiking and zip-lining. In this 4-day quick getaway, you'll head northwest of San Jose to explore this unique destination. Perfect for a long weekend or just a quick middle-of-the-week getaway.

The Guanacaste region on the Pacific Coast is known for its arid landscape and beautiful beaches

Explore Guanacaste from Liberia - 4 Days

Great for travelers flying in and out of the Liberia airport, this 4-day beach getaway takes you to the heart of Guanacaste. You'll have plenty of time to relax and soak up the unique landscapes and beaches of the region, with just the right amount of adventure thrown in.

Caribbean Coast Adventure Tour - 11 Days

On this 11-day trip, you will experience the best of the country's tropical flora and fauna. From rainforest hikes to snorkeling in coral reefs. This itinerary is ideal for travelers going to Costa Rica during the "green season" (May - November), as the Caribbean coast stays relatively dry during these rainy months. It's also the best time to see turtles nesting on the beaches in Tortuguero National Park (July-October).

A beach near Puerto Viejo on Costa Rica's Caribbean side

Caribbean Coast Adventure - 9 Days

On this 9-day trip, you will experience the best of the country's tropical flora and fauna. From rainforest hikes to snorkeling in coral reefs. This itinerary is ideal for travelers going to Costa Rica during the "green season" (May - November), as the Caribbean coast stays relatively dry during these rainy months. It's also the best time to see turtles nesting on the beaches in Tortuguero National Park (July-October).

Luxury Family Adventure in Colombia - 10 Days

There are few countries in Latin America that offer a more well-rounded, culturally immersive travel experience than Colombia. A great benefit is that nearly all of this nation's highlights—be it the beaches, cities, islands, and mountains—make perfect outings for the entire family. The best way to enjoy them is by abdicating all the stress that often accompanies planning a family vacation and giving yourself over to a luxury itinerary like this one. From private beaches to comprehensive city tours, and sampling gourmet chocolates, this itinerary is all about perfecting the details of what makes a family vacation truly unforgettable.

Ultimate Guide to Nikko: Japan's Urban Escape

Just a two-hour train ride from the bright lights of Tokyo, you'll find the urban escape of your dreams. Nikko offers centuries-old shrines to explore, natural hot springs with views of brilliant fall foliage, and Japan's first Western-style hotel. Get out of the city and dive into historic Nikko with this ultimate guide.

Scenery on the banks of the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord

Multi-Fjord Adventure in Norway - 7 Days

This week-long adventure checks off several fjords and two cities using a variety of travel modes. Start with a day in Bergen on the Sognefjord before driving to the heart of the Hardangerfjord. Enjoy free time for kayaking and hiking to waterfalls, and then ferry through the Nærøyfjord to Aurlandsfjord. Finish the trip with a scenic train ride to Europe's fastest growing capital for cultural sites and sophisticated dining options.

Get plenty of fjord-side scenery in the Hardanger region

Oslo, Bergen & the Hardangerfjord - 8 Days

Check out spectacular Norwegian scenery via the nation's efficient network of ferries, trains, and buses on this 8-day tour. Start with a day in Oslo before making your way to Eidfjord, a village right on the Hardangerfjord. Then, ferry to Utne (another beautiful town on the fjord) for more outdoor activities before finishing the week in seaside Bergen—a UNESCO-listed city known for its seven surrounding mountains.

Ultimate Guide to Crete: An Island for All Seasons

Crete is a great island to visit at any time of year. The southernmost Greek isle has beaches, ancient archaeological sites, throwback villages, and myriad nature hikes—not to mention the pleasant winter temperatures. Find out what to do, where to stay, and more in this ultimate guide.

The ancient city of Cusco, center of the Inca Empire

Sacred Valley & Amazon Grand Tour - 16 Days

From metropolitan cities and ancient Inca ruins to remote jungle lodges, this 16-day exploration of Peru's history and nature is perfect for the adventurous traveler. Start in Lima, Peru's capital city, then continue to the Amazon rainforest. Spend a few days deep in the Amazon exploring the jungle and seeing rare wildlife. Next, head to the imperial Inca capital of Cusco to explore narrow cobblestone streets and 15th-century archaeological sites. Then, embark on the Salkantay Trek to get some breathtaking views of the Sacred Valley. End your trek at Machu Picchu, and spend a day immersed in the beauty and history of its ancient ruins. Reward your hard work with two relaxing days exploring the villages and historical sights of the Sacred Valley. Finally, head back to Cusco and summit the colorful Rainbow Mountain.

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Plaza Bolivar in Colombia's capital city of Bogotá

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Medellín & the Andes - 4 Days

This fun four-day jaunt spotlights one of Latin America's most exciting cities—perfect for travelers who love urban energy and culture. Set against the Andes mountain range, Medellín is a scenic metropolis fast on the rise with walkable neighborhoods, a free gondola, and year-round spring weather. After a few days exploring the city, you'll drive into the lush green countryside and visit an authentic coffee finca (farm) before returning to Medellín's fantastic bars and restaurants.

4 Day Colombia Highlands Tour

The images you see in many publications advertising Colombia typically feature virgin rainforest and windswept Caribbean beaches. But in the center of the country, you'll find an entire highland region abounding with colonial villages, ancient archeological sites, and other unique landmarks. The best part is that these highlights are invariably located within day-tripping distance of the nation's capital, Bogotá. So pack your cold-weather clothing and prepare for a quick jaunt to Colombia's highlands region.

Colonial Cartagena and Island Adventure - 4 Days

Like pairing a gourmet meal with a fine wine, the best way to complement a trip to the Spanish-colonial fortress city of Cartagena is to include an excursion to nearby Caribbean islands. This short and sweet four-day itinerary offers just that: colonial culture and a relaxing beach holiday wrapped into one.

Colorful streets of Getsemaní in Cartagena

Cartagena's Magic and Culture - 6 Days

Anyone who thinks you can't get to the heart of Cartagena, Colombia in six days is obviously not familiar with this itinerary. In a little less than a week, you can discover every inch of this well-preserved Spanish colonial metropolis, from the most off-the-beaten-path street markets to the trendiest cocktail lounges. You'll visit ancient fortresses and learn to dance like a local in a professional salsa class. You'll even be able to work in a little Caribbean beach time, too.

Wildlife, Rainforest & Beach Adventure - 12 Days

Go from coast to coast as you encounter wildlife, swim under jungle waterfalls, and unwind on magnificent beaches on this well-rounded Costa Rican adventure. You'll start in the rugged Osa Peninsula on the remote southwestern coast, where you'll find untouched shores and a plethora of tropical animals. Then explore the rainforests of Monteverde and Arenal before embarking on a two-day whitewater rafting trip down the famous Pacuare River. End your unforgettable stay in the Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo, where you'll snorkel, surf, and enjoy the pura vida.

Ancient and Modern Cultures in Colombia - 11 Days

This all-encompassing itinerary combines Colombia's popular attractions with some roads less traveled. You'll begin your journey on the Caribbean coast. This leg will take you to Tayrona National Park, and the colonial fortress of Cartagena. Then fly to Medellín, and visit El Peñon de Guatape before heading to Colombia's mountainous Coffee Region. Here you'll hike, mountain bike, and birdwatch through sub-Andean forests. Next, it's off to the archeological site of Tierradentro, with its ancient underground burial chambers before ending your stay in the colonial town of Popayán.

Ancient and Modern Cultures in Colombia - 12 Days

With this itinerary, you'll see the best of Colombia in 12 days. Begin on the Caribbean coast with a visit to Tayrona National Park, where you'll snorkel and hike to your heart's content. From there, hop a flight to the Coffee Region for mountain biking, birdwatching in sub-Andean forests, and a tour of a working coffee farm. End your journey in colonial Popayán and Tierradentro, an archeological site famous for its underground burial chambers.

Paramillo del Quindío, PNN Los Nevados, Colombia

Colombia's Urban Cities & Zona Cafetera Trek - 11 Days

This itinerary starts and ends in two of Colombia's most exciting cities, the capital of Bogotá and the "city of the eternal spring," Medellín. In between, you'll embark on a high-altitude trek into Los Nevados National Park. In Bogotá, you'll get to know the food scene of the city before heading to the Coffee Region. You'll visit a working coffee farm and set off on a four-day trek through the central Andes. After your trek, you'll relax in the thermal pools outside of Manizales, with the still-active Nevado del Ruiz volcano as a backdrop. Then it's off to Medellín, where you'll get to know this dynamic city as you ride its Metrocable network of gondolas.

Colombia's Caribbean Coast & Islands - 11 Days

An enticing draw of visiting Colombia's northern coast is close proximity to culture, mountains, beaches, and islands for the ultimate tropical adventure. On this 10-day itinerary, you'll start off in Santa Marta with two days of hiking around Tayrona Park. Make an overnight stop in Minca to visit a coffee finca before continuing on to Cartagena where you'll explore the city's quaint narrow streets with historic palaces, churches, and mansions painted in pastel colors. Then speedboat to the Rosario Islands for swimming and snorkeling before finishing the trip with one more night in Cartagena's romantic Old Town.

Iconic skinny wax palms in Colombia's coffee region

Colombia's Cities & Coffee Region - 11 Days

Travelers who like to be on the move can check off three cities on this whirlwind 11-day tour starting with Bogotá's Spanish colonial sites and buzzing nightlife. You'll then fly to the heart of Colombia's Zona Cafetera for an overnight at a coffee farm and hiking through the famous Cocora Valley. From here, head to Medellín—a city with a rising culinary and art scene, as well as constant spring-like weather. End the trip on the Caribbean coast where you'll take a day trip to the Rosario Islands and explore the narrow streets of Cartagena's inner-walled city.

Explore Colombia's Caribbean Coast - 12 Days

This 12-day itinerary is for those eager for some aquatic adventure. It covers major highlights along Colombia's Caribbean coast and affords plenty of opportunities to dive, snorkel, swim, and frolick in the water. You'll begin in the colonial city of Cartagena, then head east to the Santa Marta. Afterward, take a 4x4 to the remote Guajira Peninsula, home of the northernmost point in South America. Circle back to Santa Marta and enjoy a few days hiking around Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona.

Discover the Peruvian Amazon - 5 Days

Discover the hidden rainforest in this 5-day exploration of northern Peru. Transfer from Lima to Iquitos and continue your journey into the Amazon by boat. See hundreds of colorful birds flock together at dawn, spot nocturnal wildlife on a night hike, and visit indigenous communities to learn sugar making and fishing techniques.

The one-horn rhinoceros found in Chitwan are an endangered species

Best Things to Do in Chitwan

Chitwan showcases another side of Nepal, where the landscape and culture are completely different from what you'll find in the Himalaya. Spending two or three days in Chitwan is a great way to complement your trek, and here are a few of the best things to do during your time there.

Panchase Trek - 9 Days

This tour is a great way to explore the Pokhara Valley in a short amount of time and ideal for those who are relatively new to trekking. You'll get some amazing views over the surrounding mountains and experience the village life. Your trek starts with a boat trip across Phewa Lake, then takes you on a trail up to the World Peace Pagoda through the forest and past villages where you can experience the daily lives of the local people.

Discover Athens, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete - 10 Days

Experience some of the greatest aspects of Greece and its islands on this itinerary. You'll start in Athens, traveling back in time with a visit to the Acropolis and other key ancient sites around the city, viewed through the lens of Greek mythology. Then head into the islands, starting with a tour of Mykonos and its neighboring mythological island of Delos. Off to Santorini next for sunsets and sightseeing, followed by the historic sites and traditional villages of Crete before you return to Athens.

Look out at the glittering sea and colorful buildings in Oia

Discover Athens, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete - 16 Days

Experience some of the greatest aspects of Greece and its islands on this 16-day tour. You'll start in Athens, traveling back in time with visits to the Acropolis and the Archaeological Site of Delphi. Explore the Cycladic islands next with a tour of Mykonos and neighboring Delos. Then it's off to Santorini for sunsets and a Caldera cruise, followed by the historic sites and traditional villages of Crete before you return to Athens.

Colonial Colombia - 11 Days

If you want to experience the heart and soul of colonial Colombia, you can't do better than this 11-day itinerary. Leaving no cobblestone unturned, you'll venture from the epicenter of Spanish colonialism in the Andes—the capital city of Bogotá—to the expansive central plaza of Villa de Leyva, a gem of the Andean highlands. Then it's off to Barichara, a throwback pueblo so charming that it was named a National Monument of Colombia. Last but not least you'll visit the granddaddy of them all, Cartagena de Indias to walk its ancient ramparts.

Explore Tayrona National Park - 4 Days

If you only visit one place on Colombia's northern coast, make sure it's Tayrona National Park. You'll pack a lot of activity into this short itinerary—arrive in the colonial city of Santa Marta before spending two days hiking to some of Tayrona's most secluded beaches and the Pueblito Ruins.

Rio Verde Adventure - 4 Days

If you have an adventurous spirit and a thirst for natural beauty then you're going to love this brisk four-day itinerary. You'll experience Medellín like few others, traveling outside the city for an overnight rafting expedition on the Río Verde. This vivid emerald waterway cuts through untouched Colombian rainforest and carves its way through jungle canyons, featuring miles and miles of nail-biting whitewater and class IV rapids. After your rafting adventure, return the city and enjoy a gourmet dinner and smart cocktail in one of the city's upscale restaurants and cocktail lounges.

Colombia's Cities and Nature - 12 Days

This robust 12-day itinerary eliminates the hard choices travelers often face regarding a visit to a country as diverse as Colombia. The journey begins by enjoying Bogotá's Spanish colonial plazas and pulsing nightlife. Then jet to the heart of Colombia's Zona Cafetera for an overnight stay on a working coffee farm. Then it's off to the reinvented city of Medellín and its rising culinary and art scene. End the trip on the Caribbean coast where you'll explore the beaches and mountains of Tayrona National Park and the narrow streets of Cartagena's walled city.

Discover Bogotá & Medellín - 6 Days

For travelers who love urban energy and metropolitan culture, this six-day jaunt is for you. It highlights two of Latin America’s most exciting cities—Bogotá and Medellín. You'll kick things off in the capital, Bogotá, where you can explore cobbled colonial streets, visit Pre-Columbian museums, and enjoy a thriving nightlife scene. Then, fly to Medellín, a revitalized metropolis best viewed from above—by scenic gondola car. Due to its mid-range altitude, the city enjoys a perpetual spring-like climate, so count on some delicious weather. Then there's all those hip bars and restaurants in the trendy El Poblado district that are begging to be enjoyed. Yes, six days is enough to live it all.

Bogota and Cartagena - 6 Days

Six days is just long enough to experience the energy and culture of Colombia's most exciting destinations—with a bit of beach time thrown in for good measure. You'll start off in the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá where you can indulge in the thriving food and art scene, then jet off to Cartagena to explore Old Town—the inner-walled city that abounds with colonial architecture and history. Throw in a day trip to the Caribbean Rosario Islands and you have a vacation worth its weight in gold.

View of lower Pangboche village with Ama Dablam in the background

Everest, Chitwan, & Lumbini - 18 Days

This tour takes you into the heart of the Everest region, staying in Sherpa villages along the way, including a spectacular helicopter flight by Mt. Everest. Then, you'll head south to Nepal's jungle and to Buddha's birthplace in Lumbini. To break up the drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan, you'll take a short rafting trip and overnight at a cozy resort in the village of Kurintar.

Colombia Nature and Culture Tour - 10 Days

This all-encompassing itinerary combines Colombia's popular attractions with some roads less traveled. You'll begin your journey in the "city of the eternal spring," Medellín, and visit El Peñon de Guatape, a landmark granite rock jutting hundreds of feet out of the ground. If you're a caffeine lover, get ready to visit Colombia's mountainous Coffee Region. You'll embark from this area and hike, mountain bike, and birdwatch through the adjacent sub-Andean forests. Next it's off to the indigenous archeological site of Tierradentro, with its ancient underground burial chambers. Learn about the civilization who built them, then end your stay in the southern colonial town of Popayán.

5 Places to Go in Zagori : Greece's Remote Wonderland

Tucked into a remote part of Epirus, Greece’s northwest region of Zagori is an off-the-radar slice of wild beauty and ancient tradition. Its wilderness is a great place to escape the summer crowds, and the Pindos Mountains ski resorts are a top draw in winter. Here are our highlights not to miss.

Near the Tizi n'Tichka pass in the Atlas Mountains sits Taddert

Tangier to Marrakech via the Desert - 8 Days

Enjoy a perfect mix of culture, history, and adventure in just over a week in Morocco. Starting in Tangier, wander the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen, navigate the maze-like alleyways of Fes, and ride a camel into the shifting sands of the Sahara. Finish your trip in Marrakech among museums, medieval inns, and the many souks where you can pick up an authentic souvenir before heading home.

View from the Merenid Tombs overlooking Fes

Northern Morocco Loop from Tangier - 4 Days

This quick 4-day itinerary highlights several cities in northern Morocco: Tangier, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, and Rabat. You'll navigate 11th-century medinas, browse wares in souks and markets, wander pretty blue-washed streets, and explore the well-preserved remains of the once prolific Roman Empire.

Imperial Cities & Desert Grand Tour - 11 Days

Discover imperial cities and desert landscapes on this 11-day circuit starting in Casablanca. Experience culture and history in historic Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech as you navigate their ancient medinas. You'll ride a camel over shifting sands in the Sahara, explore mud-brick cities, and cross the high rocky peaks of the Atlas mountains.

Morocco Grand Tour: Tangier to Casablanca via the Desert - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary combines culture, history, and adventure. Begin in northern Morocco in Tangier and Chefchaouen before working your way south to Fes, through the desert, and over the Atlas mountains to Marrakesh. Finish in the commercial capital of Casablanca with a trip to the Hassan II Mosque.

Moroccan Cities: Tangier to Marrakech - 6 Days

This quick trip takes you through Morocco's best cities. Start in the north in Tangier and work your way south to the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen, pass Roman ruins in Volubilis, and through the medieval medina in Fes. Carry on the west to Morocco's capital, Rabat, before reaching modern Casablanca and finishing in lively Marrakesh.

Wander the blue-hued streets of charming Chefchaouen in the north of Morocco

Moroccan Cities of the North - 6 Days

This six-day itinerary offers a nice balance of historical and modern cities in northern Morocco. Start and end in urban Casablanca before exploring Rabat and the "blue city" of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains. Continue south to explore Meknes, the well-preserved Roman ruins at Volubilis, and the cultural capital of medieval Fes.

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