Travel Insights

Spain or Portugal: Which Is Best for You?

With its vibrant cities like Barcelona and historic jewels like Granada, Spain offers a diverse travel experience that spans from mountains to coastlines. Meanwhile, Portugal, anchored by the maritime allure of Porto and the bustling streets of Lisbon, provides a unique blend of culture and coastal beauty. As you plan your next Iberian escape, here's a breakdown to help you decide which destination is right for you with the help of kimkim local specialists.

Mexico's Natural Beauty & Ancient Marvels in the Yucatán - 14 Days

This self-drive adventure takes you through Mexico's natural and ancient wonders. Based along the Yucatán Peninsula's northeastern coast, you'll split your time exploring coral reefs and ancient Maya ruins. Active travelers will enjoy archaeological parks, such as Ek' Balam, Cobá, and Chichén Itzá, touring a sustainable pearl farm, and sailing in Lake Bacalar. Round off your trip with an expedition to the Maya underworld along the Río Secreto and diving in the crystalline waters of Cozumel Island.

Mexico's Natural & Archaeological Wonders: Chiapas to the Yucatán - 14 Days

Two weeks in Mexico is ideal for discovering the Chiapas and Yucatán regions' natural and archaeological treasures. Your route traverses the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula and finishes in Isla Holbox on the paradisical Caribbean Coast. Along the way, boat through natural wonders like the Sumidero Canyon, a brilliant pink lake in Ría Lagartos Reserve, and unspoiled beaches at Cabo Catoche. You'll also swim in cenotes and tour archaeological sites like Palenque, Uxmal, and Chichén Itzá.

Nature Tour of Northern Thailand & Cambodia - 7 Days

This brisk, outdoor-oriented itinerary combines inspiring landscapes with the rich cultural heritage of northern Thailand and Cambodia. Start in mountainous Chiang Mai, where you'll head into the clouds for a trek through Doi Inthanon National Park and spend time with the residents of a jungle elephant sanctuary. Move on to Siem Reap next to delve into the Khmer Empire at Angkor Wat and explore the lush forests and hidden waterfalls of Kulen Mountain.

Nature & History in Thailand & Cambodia: Temples, Waterfalls & Lakes - 7 Days

Embark on a whirlwind week in Southeast Asia, combining the vibrant streets of Bangkok with the ancient treasures of Siem Reap. It kicks off with a mouthwatering street food tour in the Thai capital, giving you the fuel you need to visit the city's many temples. Take a day trip to the River Khwae for World War II monuments and waterfall swims, then fly to Cambodia, where you'll delve into the ancient temples of Angkor Wat and cruise among the biodiverse mangroves and floating villages of Tonlé Sap.

Temples & Markets of Northern Thailand & Cambodia - 7 Days

With a week to spare, you can combine the mountainous north of Thailand with a glimpse into the ancient wonders of Cambodia. Walk the sacred temple grounds of Doi Suthep and dive into Thai cuisine on a foodie tour in Chiang Mai, then catch a flight to the Cambodian city of Siem Reap. Explore modern life in its bustling markets, and step back in time at the vast temple complex of Angkor Wat. End at the colorful floating villages of Tonlé Sap Lake, where you'll learn about the daily lives of its residents.

Thailand & Cambodia Highlights Tour: Chiang Mai, Bangkok & Siem Reap - 7 Days

Explore the history and culture of Thailand and Cambodia on this seven-day adventure that starts in mountainous Chiang Mai. Tour the region's ancient temples and play with friendly elephants at an eco-sanctuary, then it's off to Bangkok for a stroll through the Grand Palace complex and a visit to the renowned Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Hop over to Cambodia for a walking tour of vibrant Siem Reap and end among the temples of Angkor Wat—once the epicenter of the Khmer Kingdom.

Island Hopping in the Philippines: Cebu City & El Nido - 5 Days

Pack a whole lot into just five days in the Philippines with this thrilling tour of Cebu City and the picturesque El Nido region. You'll start off in big Cebu City, enjoying an intriguing heritage tour and stopping off at all the big landmarks, from Cebu Cathedral to Magellan's Cross. From there, you'll leave urban life behind to enjoy beach time, snorkeling, and island-hopping fun in El Nido, home of white sands and turquoise lagoons.

Luxury Adventure in Portugal: Lisbon & the Algarve - 7 Days

Savor the best of Lisbon and the Algarve, Portugal's southern coast, with this luxurious weeklong adventure. This luxe itinerary steps it up to make your Portugal escape extraordinary, with stays in 5-star hotels and plenty of private experiences, from an exhilarating e-bike tour of Lisbon's historic streets to a boat excursion to the famous Benagil Cave. Discover the hidden coves of Ponta da Piedade while kayaking, relax by the beach, or play golf with plenty of free time.

2 Weeks in Vietnam & Thailand - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Thanks to frequent regional flights, two weeks is enough time to visit 4-5 areas of Vietnam and Thailand. First-timers can combine city tours in Hanoi and Bangkok with a beach getaway in Phuket. Architecture enthusiasts will enjoy a Chiang Mai temple tour and a stroll through Hoi An's historic streets. Those keen on culture can learn about Northern Thailand hill tribes and meet Mekong Delta artisans, while foodies treat their taste buds to street eats in Chinatown and a cooking class on a Ha Long Bay cruise.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip in Spain & Italy - 21 Days

Embark on an epic three-week road trip around Spain and Italy, visiting highlights that tourists rarely see. It begins in captivating Madrid, followed by a drive to Galicia and the Basque Country to indulge in rich culture and delicious cuisine. Next, fly to Italy to enjoy the highlights of Rome, and then drive to picture-postcard regions like Lazio and Umbria to visit historic villages and enjoy outdoor adventures.

Mekong River Cruise & Angkor Wat - 7 Days

This weeklong tour puts you in touch with some of the most beautiful and ancient sites in Vietnam and Cambodia. There's no time to waste, as right when you arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, you'll transfer to Vietnam's legendary Mekong Delta for a relaxed, multiday cruise amid floating markets and palm groves. Then, hop over to Cambodia for an adventure at Angkor, one of the world's most stunning archaeological parks.

5 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Itinerary Ideas

Five days in Costa Rica is the right amount of time to focus on an off-the-beaten-path region. Travelers eager to experience the unspoiled landscapes of the Caribbean Coast should set their sights on Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, while those seeking a mix of beach time and culinary delights will find Manuel Antonio National Park the perfect fit. Other options include an activity-packed trip in Rincón de La Vieja National Park or a wildlife adventure on the lesser-visited Osa Peninsula.

Mekong Reflections: Journey Through Vietnam & Cambodia - 7 Days

Over a brisk seven days, you'll see a side of Vietnam seemingly lost in time as you travel up the Mekong River. After learning about wartime history in Ho Chi Minh City, board a riverboat and cruise amid fishing villages, floating markets, and local farms on your way into Cambodia. There, you'll visit the gleaming palaces of Phnom Penh before traveling to Siem Reap and Angkor, an archaeological site of unrivaled majesty.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip in Spain & Italy - 14 Days

Venture off the tourist trail in two of Europe's most popular countries, from the Iberian coast to the wilds of central Italy. Start with a road trip on Spain's epic pilgrimage route through Galicia and the Basque Country, stopping for tours in León and Bilbao. The excitement continues in Italy, where after enjoying the best of Rome, you'll travel north to Lazio, famous for its ancient fairy-tale villages.

Landmarks & Local Color in Vietnam & Cambodia - 7 Days

Get ready for a week-long adventure in two of Southeast Asia's most beguiling nations. First up is Vietnam, where you'll marvel at French colonial landmarks and learn about wartime history in Ho Chi Minh City before taking a boat ride down the Mekong Delta. Then, travel next door to Cambodia, where you'll lace up your hiking boots and explore the ruins of the Ancient Khmer Kingdom.

Signatures of Vietnam & Cambodia: Da Nang, Hanoi & Siem Reap - 7 Days

Clear a week on your schedule and embark on a cultural tour of Vietnam and Cambodia. The Vietnam portion begins in Da Nang, a coastal gem famous for its beaches, mountains, and otherworldly theme parks. After a city tour of Hanoi and the Red River Delta countryside to experience its thousands of years of history, you'll wind up in Cambodia for a tour of Angkor, the greatest temple ruins of them all.

Cultural Traditions in the Philippines: Rice Terraces & Hanging Coffins in Luzon - 5 Days

Explore the verdant rice terraces and rich cultural traditions of Luzon's remote Ifugao province with this five-day Philippines adventure. With an active itinerary of guided treks and tours, you'll seek out misty mountain villages in Banaue, witness the daily life and unusual burial rituals of the island's Igorot people in Sagada, and discover both colonial and Indigenous history in the "Summer Capital" of Baguio.

Luxury Portugal Flavors & Culture Tour - 7 Days

This Portugal itinerary combines the best gastronomy and culture into a luxurious weeklong trip. Explore two of the country's most captivating cities, Lisbon and Porto, with food and culture walking tours, Michelin-starred dining, and 5-star hotels. You'll stop at the charming village of Óbidos and the surf town of Nazaré between the two and take exclusive day trips to fairy-tale Sintra and the enchanting Douro Valley.

10 Days in Vietnam & Thailand - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Vietnam and Thailand, you can experience the cultural wonders of Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bangkok on a highlights tour or swap in Phuket for beach and jungle-themed activities. Foodies can taste their way through each country's colorful markets and bustling street food hotspots on a culinary adventure while nature-loving adventurers opt for a trip that includes Ninh Binh and Chiang Mai.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Road Trip in Spain & Italy - 10 Days

Spend 10 inspiring days road-tripping around some of the hidden gems of Spain and Italy. Start by seeing the highlights of Madrid from its rooftops before heading to León to marvel at awe-inspiring Gothic cathedrals. Next, turn north for food tours in the famous Basque Country. In Italy, stroll amid Rome's ancient landmarks, then drive north to discover the natural beauty (and local wines) of Lazio and Umbria, with gorgeous hilltop towns and picturesque lakes.

Highlights of Italy & Spain - 10 Days

There's nothing quite like a classic tour of beautiful European cities to reinvigorate the soul. Not only will you see the major sights in Rome, like Vatican City and the Colosseum, but the same goes for the highlights of romantic Florence, including a wine tour in Tuscany. And that's not all—you'll also hop over to Spain for tapas, art, and architecture in Barcelona and Madrid.

Luxury Portugal Escape: Lisbon, Serra da Estrela & Madeira - 10 Days

Experience Portugal's cities, mountains, and volcanic islands on this luxury 10-day trip. Discover the capital, Lisbon, with private city tours and fado performances, then drive yourself to a retreat in Serra da Estrela Geopark, home to glacial valleys and Portugal's highest mountains. Finally, fly to the tropical island of Madeira, where you'll sail the coast in a lavish catamaran, travel across the rugged interior by 4WD, and hike UNESCO-listed laurel forests on the famous 25 Fontes Trail.

Luxury Portugal Escape: Lisbon & Madeira - 7 Days

Get a taste of Portugal on this luxury, weeklong escape. Touch down in the vibrant capital, Lisbon, where you'll take a private city tour before jetting to the "Garden Island" of Madeira. Stay at a lavish ocean-view hotel, enjoying sunset cruises and a 4WD tour of the volcanic island, from mountain viewpoints to rum distilleries. The adventure ends with a guided hike along the famous 25 Fontes Trail, which takes you through emerald laurel forests dotted with waterfalls.

1 Week in Italy - 6 Food & Wine Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Italy, you can visit 2-3 culinary regions. Wine lovers and honeymooners will enjoy sipping reds in the Chianti Hills and sampling white varietals in Cinque Terre. Aspiring chefs can join a pizza workshop in Naples, prepare a farm-to-table meal in Sorento, go truffle hunting in Alba, and make cannoli in Taormina. History buffs will appreciate the castles of Piedmont and a VIP tour of Rome, and those eager to experience Sicily can visit the ruins of Agrigento and try street food in Palermo.

Highlights of Italy & Spain - 14 Days

This ultimate highlights tour covers the best of both Italy and Spain over the course of two weeks. In Rome, you'll walk in the footsteps of history, visiting landmarks like the Colosseum and Pantheon while indulging in tasty food tours. The adventure continues north to Florence and Venice for trips on the Grand Canal and wine tours in Tuscany before heading to Spain for more culture and delectable cuisine in Barcelona, Madrid, and the southern region of Andalusia.

Highlights of Italy & Spain - 21 Days

This three-week adventure traverses Italy and Spain, two countries whose thousands of years of history will leave you awestruck. In Rome, hit all the highlights, from the Colosseum to Vatican City, before heading to the twin pillars of romance known as Venice and Florence. Then, hop over to Spain to discover its rich culture with art, history, and guided food tours in Barcelona, Madrid, and Andalusia.

Turkey's Top Landmarks Tour: Cappadocia, Pamukkale & İstanbul - 8 Days

From the "fairy castles" of Cappadocia to the Ottoman wonders of Istanbul, eight days in Turkey gives you enough time to check off a few of its greatest highlights. Start in the valleys of Cappadocia, where you'll watch the sunrise by hot-air balloon and explore underground cities and rock-cut fortresses. Stop over at the travertine cliffs of Pamukkale and ancient Hierapolis, then end in the city that spans two continents—cruising along the Bosphorus Strait and getting lost in the raucous bazaars of Istanbul.

Turkey Active Adventure: Cappadocia, Antalya & Adrasan - 8 Days

There's never a dull moment on this active, eight-day adventure through two of Turkey's most spectacular natural landscapes. Start by diving into the surreal valleys of Cappadocia with an itinerary of biking, horseback riding, and a scenic hot-air balloon flight. Then it's on to the Mediterranean coast, where you'll hike to legendary peaks, discover mythical sites and ancient ruins, and save a little time on your final day for swimming in the turquoise waters off an uninhabited island.

Explore Turkey's Turquoise Coast By Land & Water - 8 Days

Discover Turkey's Turquoise Coast in style on this eight-day journey by land and sea. After a day exploring the bustling energy and UNESCO landmarks of Istanbul, fly to the picturesque Mediterranean port city of Fethiye. Here you'll set sail on a gulet (wooden yacht) as you seek out the coast's loveliest islands, beaches, and villages. Your relaxed itinerary of swimming, scuba diving, and sunbathing ends in Antalya, where you'll tour Greco-Roman ruins and dine alongside a scenic waterfall.

Turkish Food & Culture Tour: İstanbul & Cappadocia - 8 Days

Turkish cuisine is a delicious melting pot of flavors, spices, and influences from Asia, Europe, and beyond. Enjoy the very best dishes and desserts the nation has to offer with this eight-day culinary tour that focuses on Istanbul and Cappadocia. You'll visit leading restaurants and street food areas (tasting everything from traditional meze and baklava to spicy stews, seafood, and steaks) while witnessing some of Turkey's most famous landmarks and natural wonders along the way.

From Istanbul to the Aegean: Discover Turkey's Greco-Roman Sites & Splendors - 8 Days

This eight-day expedition through Turkey begins in Istanbul, where you'll get acquainted with the city's mosques and bazaars and take a boat ride down the Bosphorus. Next, head south down the Aegean coast to tour some of the most important archaeological sites of the ancient world, from the myth-laden ruins of Troy and Assos to the Greco-Roman wonders of Pergamon and Ephesus. Your trip ends in the village of Sirince, with wine tasting, souvenir-haggling, and plenty of Turkish coffee.

Turkey Active Adventure: Cappadocia, Antalya & Adrasan - 9 Days

Outdoor adventurers will thrive on this action-packed nine-day tour of Turkey's natural and cultural highlights. See Cappadocia by bike, foot, and hot-air balloon, then fly to the Mediterranean coastal city of Antalya to sightsee via e-bike. Head south to Adrasan to traverse mythical lava fields, hike Mount Musa, explore ancient ruins, and relax on the idyllic island of Suluada. End your action-packed tour with one final adventure by hiking part of the famed Lycian Way to Cape Gelidonya.

Turkish Food & Culture Tour: İstanbul & Cappadocia - 9 Days

Foodies will savor this nine-day introduction to two of Turkey's most popular destinations. Dine at world-renowned restaurants and embark on a street food tour of Istanbul's Asian and European sides, then fly to Cappadocia to learn how to cook traditional dishes and dine on local fare. Take to the skies to see the scenic region by hot-air balloon before descending to an ancient underground city to discover the treasures below. End back in Istanbul with a farewell meal of Turkish classics.

Explore Turkey's Turquoise Coast By Land & Water - 9 Days

This memorable nine-day Turkish adventure starts in vibrant Istanbul and ends along the sparkling Turquoise Coast. Enjoy an action-packed day visiting Istanbul's UNESCO World Heritage sites and bazaars, then fly to the picturesque port city of Fethiye on the Mediterranean coast. Here you'll set off on a four-day cruise by traditional wooden yacht, visiting untouched islands, serene beaches, and ancient ruins. End your trip back on dry land in Antalya, exploring the Greco-Roman wonders of Perge and Aspendos.

Turkey at a Glance: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Ephesus & Pamukkale - 9 Days

Get a perfect overview of Turkey's wonders in just one week, from Istanbul's iconic sites like the Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar to the valleys and underground cities of Cappadocia and the archaeological treasures of Ephesus. You'll also join an Anatolian cooking class, relax in Pamukkale's thermal waters, and haggle for souvenirs in one of the many markets, all while getting to know the country's people, culture, and history.

Indonesia's Culture, History & Natural Wonders for Families - 14 Days

Introduce your family to Indonesia's cultural and natural highlights with this exciting 14-day tour. Bike to the sacred temples of Prambanan and ride a horse-drawn cart to local villages near Yogyakarta, then it's off to Candidasa for snorkeling excursions in crystal-clear waters, a walk among the pools of Tirtagangga Water Palace, and Balinese cooking classes. Take a mud bath with elephants in Ubud, see hidden rice fields in Seminyak, and end with an enthralling performance by professional kecak dancers.

Relaxed Indonesian Family Vacation: Ubud, Senggigi & Jimbaran - 14 Days

This two-week family tour of Indonesia blends culture, history, and outdoor fun. It kicks off in Bali, where you'll learn about sea turtles at a local hatchery and explore the art of Balinese dance with a family dance lesson. Meet curious monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest, tour (and taste!) at a local chocolate factory, then hop over to the island of Lombok to see lush rice fields and ancient temples. End back on Bali with an e-bike ride through the UNESCO-listed site of Jatiluwih and sun and fun in Jimbaran Bay.

Indonesia Land & Sea Family Adventure - 14 Days

Chart a course for family adventure on this two-week exploration of Indonesia by land and sea. It starts in Bali, where you'll tour Ubud's lively art markets, visit the Sacred Monkey Forest, and see lush rice fields and local villages via bicycle. Then it's off to Komodo National Park for a week of cruising and island hopping. Meet prehistoric-looking Komodo dragons on Rinca, hike the ancient volcanic rocks of Padar, and snorkel through brilliant coral reefs and colorful fish in the Linta Strait.

Family Fun in Indonesia - 14 Days

This two-week trip will take your family to four of Indonesia's most popular destinations on two of its main islands. Start in Java and enjoy the bustle and multicultural vibe of friendly Jakarta before heading to the cultural center of Yogyakarta and its spectacular temples. Then it's off to Ubud and Seminyak in Bali, where you and the kids will relax with classic beach days, wildlife encounters—and just a smidge of chocolate.

2 Weeks in Patagonia - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Patagonia with your family, you can visit 4-5 regions. Active families can trek in Torres del Paine National Park, ice hike at Perito Moreno Glacier, and kayak to the Marble Caves. Those keen on culture can experience gaúcho life on a Patagonian ranch and treat their aspiring chefs to a Santiago tasting tour and Buenos Aires cooking class. Animal-loving kids will enjoy the penguin walk at Isla Magdalena, dolphin-spotting at Agua Fresca Bay, and bird-watching in Alerce Andino National Park.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Panama - 10 Days

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy this 10-day journey through Panama, exploring national parks, secluded villages, and Caribbean islands. Starting in Panama City, you'll venture to three national parks for luscious rainforest hikes and dinners with a view. Then, cruise to the southern Golfo de Chiriquí to island hop via sailboat before visiting the mountainous Boquete region for coffee and honey tastings. Conclude your trip on Bocas del Toro's Caribbean islands to snorkel off the white sandy coasts.

Luxury Costa Rica Wildlife Tour - 14 Days

Encounter Costa Rica's extraordinary animals on this luxury two-week wildlife adventure. Begin in Tortuguero to spot manatees and caimans by boat. Head inland for private rainforest hikes and bird-watching trips in Sarapiquí and Boca Tapada, and end in Corcovado to glimpse biodiverse marine life while snorkeling at Isla del Caño. Along the way, you'll settle into a succession of luxury hotels and exclusive wildlife lodges, chosen for their unique locations and wildlife-watching opportunities.

Luxury Costa Rica Discovery: Forests, National Parks & Beaches - 14 Days

This memorable two-week adventure in Costa Rica will take you both on and off the tourist trail as you explore the country's most spectacular national parks and nature reserves. See the highlights of San José, then venture south to the rugged paradise of Corcovado. After hiking, surfing, and boat trips along the southern coast, you'll enjoy the beaches of Manuel Antonio, followed by the cloud forests of Monteverde, finishing with more outdoor adventures in the shadow of the Arenal volcano.

10 Days in Sri Lanka - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days, your family can visit at least four regions in Sri Lanka. Crafty kids can create souvenirs in a Tangalle mask-making workshop, while aspiring chefs will learn the secrets of Sri Lankan cuisine in a Kandy cooking class. Take your budding wildlife photographers on a safari in Yala National Park and your little historians to ancient sites such as Sigiriya Rock. Families looking for a relaxed pace should head to Dikwella for snorkeling, a countryside bike ride, and a walk in Sinharaja Forest Reserve.

City Culture & Outdoor Adventure in Spain & Italy - 10 Days

Embark on a 10-day mountaineering adventure and conquer two of Europe's most famous ranges: the Pyrenees and Dolomites. Besides the rewarding hiking trails, you'll enjoy city and food tours in Barcelona, plus visit medieval villages and monasteries. The same goes for Italy, where you'll experience the best of romantic Venice and relax your hiking muscles in natural hot springs around Lake Garda.

Luxury Birding Adventure in Costa Rica - 14 Days

Encounter a kaleidoscope of exotic bird species on this luxury, two-week Costa Rica tour. The self-drive adventure takes you from the Central Valley's rainforests to the Pacific coast, with stays in chic eco-lodges along the way. You'll enjoy private bird-watching tours, hikes, and boat trips, spotting everything from hummingbirds to toucans and endangered scarlet macaws. Other wildlife highlights include bat tours, a crocodile safari, and visiting a sloth sanctuary.

City Culture & Outdoor Adventure in Spain & Italy- 14 Days

Spend two epic weeks in Europe, alternating between outdoor adventures at famous mountain ranges and enjoying tours of beautiful cities. It starts in Spain with top-notch food and culture in Barcelona before heading to the Pyrenees for day hikes and foraging for wild mushrooms. Then, travel to northern Italy for tours of romantic Venice and more mountaineering in the spectacular Dolomites.

Turkey Active Adventure: Cappadocia, Antalya & Adrasan - 6 Days

This short but action-packed adventure takes you from Turkey's arid valleys to its sparkling Mediterranean shores. Cycle among Cappadocia's famous rock formations, then float above them with a sunrise hot-air balloon ride. It's off to the coast next for an e-bike exploration of Antalya and a rugged hike along the Lycian Way to the pine forests and ancient ruins around Adrasan. Wind down with a cruise to nearby Saluada, where you can swim around the island's turquoise bays and sun-soaked beaches.

2 Weeks in Spain - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Indulge in a luxury two-week Spain getaway and discover 4-5 destinations. Experience historic cities and charming villages on a classic tour for first-time travelers, or focus on Madrid's rich cuisine and Andalusia's idyllic coastlines. Those eager to soak up the Mediterranean sunshine should include a stay on the serene Balearic Island of Menorca in their itinerary, while Porto and Lisbon are ideal destinations for travelers seeking a multicountry trip.