Travel Insights

Ecuador's Pacific Coast for Families: Culture, Nature & Beaches - 10 Days

This family tour of Ecuador showcases the country's wild Pacific coast with an itinerary full of nature, beaches, and kid-friendly adventure. Start in the colorful port of Guayaquil to see historic landmarks and basking land iguanas, and head north to Manta for snorkeling, whale watching, and a trip to the Pacoche Wildlife Reserve. Take to the high seas in Puerto López with sailing and fishing day trips, then learn about Indigenous Ecuadorian culture with a visit to the local Agua Blanca community.

Self-Drive & Discover New Zealand’s Landscapes: Winelands, Glaciers, Fjords & Geothermal Wonders - 20 Days

Explore New Zealand's diverse landscapes on this 20-day tour. Start on the North Island, where the lush vineyards of Waiheke and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua await. Wander Hawke's Bay's beaches and spot kiwi birds at Zealandia before sailing to the South Island. Here, you'll discover the mighty Tasman and Franz Josef glaciers by helicopter and boat, then cruise UNESCO-listed Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. End with a ride on the TranzAlpine, one of the world's most spectacular railway journeys.

Arenal/La Fortuna, Monteverde & Tamarindo: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Costa Rica typically plan a trip for nine to 10 days when combining Arenal/La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Tamarindo with San José. For travelers wanting to visit Arenal/La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Tamarindo exclusively, plan seven to nine days for a well-paced trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as five or six days. Check out the below favored Arenal/La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Tamarindo itinerary options.

Buenos Aires & El Calafate: Best Itinerary Ideas

Twelve to 13 days is the most popular trip length for Argentina travelers interested in visiting both Buenos Aires and El Calafate, especially when including Ushuaia and Puerto Iguazú. If you're only headed to Buenos Aires and El Calafate, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in five to eight days. See the below favored Buenos Aires and El Calafate trips.

Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate & El Chaltén: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Argentina typically plan a trip for about 15 days when combining Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén with Puerto Natales. If you're only headed to Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén, you can enjoy a well-paced trip in 10 to 14 days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as eight or nine days. Check out the favored Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and El Chaltén trips below.

Buenos Aires & Bariloche: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting both Buenos Aires and Bariloche spend about 10 to 14 days in Argentina, which usually includes some time in Mendoza and Puerto Iguazú. If you're only headed to the capital and Bariloche, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in six to eight days. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as five days. For the best itineraries, including Buenos Aires and Bariloche, keep reading below.

Torres del Paine, El Calafate, Puerto Natales & El Chaltén: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, about 10 days is the perfect amount of time for a trip to Argentina, with stops in Torres del Paine, El Calafate, Puerto Natales, and El Chaltén. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in nine days, making for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Ushuaia. Get inspired with our Torres del Paine, El Calafate, Puerto Natales, and El Chaltén trip ideas below.

Buenos Aires: Best Itinerary Ideas

A week to 10 days is the most popular trip length for travelers interested in visiting Argentina's capital city, Buenos Aires, especially when also including Mendoza. For travelers wanting to visit Buenos Aires exclusively, plan about four days for a well-paced trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as three days. Check out kimkim's favorite Buenos Aires trips below.

Ultimate Family Trip to the Galápagos: Santa Cruz, Isabela & San Cristóbal - 14 Days

Embark on the family adventure of a lifetime with this two-week, multi-island exploration of the Galápagos. Hop between the archipelago's three main islands, discovering the unique ecosystems of each with an itinerary of fun wildlife encounters, kid-friendly active excursions, and plenty of laid-back beach time. Kayak alongside friendly sea lions on Isla Santa Cruz, hike to volcanic craters and cycle the backroads of Isla Isabela, and snorkel through the underwater wonders of Isla San Cristóbal.

Buenos Aires, Bariloche & El Calafate: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 8 to 10 days are the perfect amount of time for an Argentina trip, with stops in Buenos Aires, Bariloche, and El Calafate. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in a week, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Mendoza, El Chaltén, or Puerto Iguazú. Keep reading for more inspiring Buenos Aires, Bariloche, and El Calafate itineraries.

Buenos Aires, Ushuaia & El Calafate: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Argentina's Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, and El Calafate spend about 12 to 13 days, which usually includes some time in Puerto Iguazú. If you're not interested in Puerto Iguazú, nine to 10 days is enough for your Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, and El Calafate trip. With less time, it's still possible to see the highlights in as few as eight days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and beyond.

Auckland to Christchurch Road Trip: Food, Wine & Nature Trail - 20 Days

Get a taste of New Zealand's rich food, wine, and natural wonders on this 20-day adventure. Travel from Auckland to Christchurch, stopping to enjoy food tours and cooking classes, feast on barbecue at a Queenstown farm, and visit Kumeu's world-famous vineyards. Natural highlights include captivating glowworm caves, Rotorua's geothermal landscapes, and the mighty Franz Josef Glacier. You'll also take an overnight cruise across the serene waters of Doubtful Sound.

New Zealand North to South Road Trip: Local Food, Wine, Culture & Nature - 19 Days

Get ready for an authentic road trip exploring New Zealand's charm, natural beauty, and local food and wine scene. Over 19 days, you'll wind your way through the North and South islands, stopping at the finest vineyards in Hawke's Bay and Queenstown, cruising across serene Lake Taupo and the UNESCO-listed Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and exploring geothermal wonders in Rotorua. You'll also work up an appetite on mountain hikes and sample world-class cuisine in Auckland, Napier, and Christchurch.

1 Week in the Galápagos Islands - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With one week in the Galápagos Islands, you and the family can visit a mainland city and at least two islands. Active families will appreciate urban exploration in Quito and outdoor adventures, such as snorkeling at Los Túneles on Isla Santa Cruz and Isla Isabela. Those traveling with little ones or seeking a leisurely pace can opt for a relaxed trip on Isla Santa Cruz. Families looking for a boating holiday and eager to visit several islands, including Isla Genovesa and Isla Plaza Sur, should choose the cruise option.

New Zealand's Ultimate Self-Drive Tour in the North Island - 18 Days

Immerse yourself in spectacular beauty, rich Maori culture, and geothermal wonders with this 18-day journey around New Zealand's North Island. Begin the drive in vibrant Auckland before you chase scenery through the Waitakere Ranges, Coromandel Peninsula, and Bay of Islands. Then, venture to Lake Taupo and Rotorua, followed by relaxed coastal towns like Tauranga, Whakatane, and Raglan. Make your way back to Auckland for a sunset cruise to finish this epic road trip.

Ultimate Ecuador Family Trip: From the Andes to the Pacific Coast - 14 Days

If your family is having trouble deciding between a mountain or a beach-focused vacation, this two-week tour of Ecuador ticks both boxes. Starting in the high-altitude capital Quito, you'll embark on a kid-friendly adventure through the Andean highlands, skirting the edge of the Amazon rainforest in Baños before ending up on the Pacific coast for some beach time and wildlife-watching fun.

3 Weeks in Spain, Portugal & Morocco - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With three weeks to explore, you can discover Portugal, Spain, and Morocco's must-see sights on a highlights tour or opt for an activities-focused trip and admire iconic cities and landscapes from an e-bike, kayak, and on foot. If you're all about the food, opt for a culinary itinerary filled with cooking classes and foodie tours, while history buffs can focus their time on 2,000-year-old relics and beach lovers spend uninterrupted days on the Algarve coast and tour down Morocco's west coast.

Ecuador's Pacific Coast for Families: Culture, Nature & Beaches - 14 Days

This family-friendly Ecuadorian adventure starts in historic Guayaquil, where you'll take a guided tour of the city's most notable landmarks before heading to the coasts of Manta. Visit howler monkeys at Pacoche Wildlife Refuge and kayak the Pacific coast, then continue to Puerto López for snorkeling with colorful fish (and maybe some curious sea turtles!) at the islands of Isla de la Plata and Isla Salango. Return to Guayaquil in time to canoe through the greenery of Churute Mangrove Reserve.

The 6 Best Hotels Near the Acropolis

Athens is an exciting city for different reasons, but for many travelers, the Acropolis pulls them in the most. While numerous hotels have fantastic views of the Acropolis, a handful have the added benefit of being close to the site. These include features like rooftop pools overlooking the Parthenon, romantic atmospheres for couples, and spacious rooms for families, and all are within 10 minutes walking distance of the Acropolis.

3 Weeks in Spain & Portugal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Three weeks is the right amount of time to visit at least six regions of Spain and Portugal. First-timers will find a mix of activities on a cultural highlights tour, while those who prefer flexibility should opt for a road trip that includes self-driving. Foodies will enjoy pastry-making in Ávila and more on a culinary-focused trip, while outdoorsy travelers will appreciate the abundance of nature-based activities in the Azores. And honeymooners and beach lovers can soak up the sun on the Iberian Peninsula.

New Zealand South Island Road Trip: Christchurch to Dunedin - 20 Days

This fast-paced 20-day road trip takes you through the best of New Zealand's South Island for travelers who want to see it all. Tram through Christchurch, relax at a spa in Hanmer Springs, explore the Marlborough wine region, and kayak in Abel Tasman National Park. Then enjoy some trekking at Franz Josef / Waiau Glacier, go skydiving in Wānaka, and try out bungee jumping in Queenstown. You'll also visit Stewart Island, Dunedin, and the Otago Peninsula, before returning to Queenstown.

The 11 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Athens

When looking for a mid-range hotel in Athens, the options are as diverse as the city's 3,400 years of history. These accommodations offer different experiences and amenities for all types of travelers without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort. Experience the past in landmark buildings, take in Acropolis views from rooftops, private Jacuzzis, and terraces, or taste a variety of Greek cuisine in these mid-range hotels that bring you the best Athens has to offer.

Mainland Ecuador for Families: Andes to the Amazon - 14 Days

Compact but diverse, Ecuador is a perfect destination for an epic two-week family vacation. This fun-filled itinerary begins and ends in Quito, with adventures in the Andean highlands and the Amazon rainforest in between. Along the way, you'll keep the kids busy as you horseback ride at a hacienda in Cotopaxi National Park, brave suspension bridges over the waterfalls of Baños, spot monkeys and capybaras at your jungle ecolodge, and barter with the locals at the colorful markets of Otavalo.

10 Days in Peru - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

You can cover four to five Peru destinations traveling with kids in tow. First-timers will want to hit the highlights of Lima and Cusco, while more active families can add the Palomino Islands and hike part of the Inca trail. Families with older kids will enjoy an Amazon River cruise and a cliffside stay at the Sky Lodge. Add standup paddleboarding in Maras and riding ATVs in the Sacred Valley for fast-paced activities and adventure. For a more cultural experience, stay with a Uros family on the island of Amantani.

Active Family Fun in Ecuador: Quito, Baños, Cuenca & Guayaquil - 14 Days

This two-week family adventure starts in Quito, Ecuador's capital city. Explore local cuisine in a family cooking class, climb volcanic slopes via cable car, then depart for Baños, where you'll hike and bike to the Pailón del Diablo waterfall and relax in the town's healing hot springs. Continue to Cuenca for traditional pottery-making classes and hikes along the alpine lakes of El Cajas National Park, ending your tour in the vibrant city of Guayaquil with its stunning architecture, culture, and family parks.

Buenos Aires & Puerto Iguazú: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Argentina typically plan a trip for 12 to 13 days when combining Buenos Aires and Puerto Iguazú with Ushuaia and El Calafate. For travelers wanting to visit Buenos Aires and Puerto Iguazú exclusively, consider five to eight days for a well-paced trip. For the best itineraries, including Buenos Aires and Puerto Iguazú, read on.

Relaxed Family Trip to the Galápagos Islands: Santa Cruz, Isabela & San Cristóbal - 10 Days

Rally your mini explorers and head to the Galápagos for a leisurely-paced 10-day tour of three of the archipelago's best-loved islands. Start on Isla Santa Cruz, where the kids can get a primer on the archipelago at the Charles Darwin Research Center, come face-to-face with giant tortoises, and set sail to an uninhabited island. Hop over to Isla Isabela to snorkel with marine wildlife, and while away your days at the beach, then head to Isla San Cristóbal for more aquatic fun with a family kayaking adventure.

Iguazú Falls, Buenos Aires & Mendoza: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 7 to 11 days is the right amount of time for a trip to Argentina, with stops in Iguazú Falls, Buenos Aires, and Mendoza. Those with less who are okay with a fast-paced option can hit the route's highlights in six days. Alternatively, if you have more time, you can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Bariloche or Puerto Iguazú.

Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Mendoza & Puerto Iguazú: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten days to two weeks is an excellent length for a trip to Argentina, with stops in Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Mendoza, and Puerto Iguazú. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop. Keep reading for more inspiring Buenos Aires, Bariloche, Mendoza, and Puerto Iguazú itineraries.

Buenos Aires, El Calafate & Puerto Iguazú: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 8 to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Argentina trip with stops in Buenos Aires, El Calafate, and Puerto Iguazú. Those with less time can hit the route's highlights in a week for a faster-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Ushuaia, El Chaltén, or Mendoza. Get inspired with the below Buenos Aires, El Calafate, and Puerto Iguazú trip ideas.

Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate & Puerto Iguazú: Best Itinerary Ideas

Twelve to 13 days is a great length for an Argentina trip, with stops in Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and Puerto Iguazú. It's also possible to hit the highlights in 10 or 11 days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each location or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Iguazú Falls, El Chaltén, or Puerto Madryn. See below for more ideas for Buenos Aires, Ushuaia, El Calafate, and Puerto Iguazú itineraries.

Lisbon, Porto, Lagos & Sintra: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most, 9 to 10 days is ideal for a Portugal trip, with stops in Lisbon, Porto, Lagos, and Sintra. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each location or a few days in another region, like Évora in the Alentejo. Read below for more inspiring Lisbon, Porto, Lagos, and Sintra itineraries.

Lisbon, Porto & Nazaré: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that eight to nine days are perfect for a well-paced Portugal trip with stops in Lisbon, Porto, and Nazaré. It's possible to hit the highlights in as few as six or seven days if you're okay with a faster-paced journey. Though with more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like the Algarve, Sintra, or Coimbra. Get inspired with the Lisbon, Porto, and Nazaré trip ideas below.

Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, Évora & the Algarve: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Portugal typically plan a trip for about 15 days when combining Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, Évora, and the Algarve with Douro Valley. If you're not interested in Douro Valley, 13 to 15 days is enough for your Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, Évora, and Algarve trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as 11 or 12 days. For the best itineraries, including Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, Évora, and the Algarve, read below.

Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto & the Algarve: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Portugal typically plan a trip for 14 to 15 days when combining Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, and the Algarve with the Alentejo region. For travelers wanting to visit Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, and the Algarve exclusively, plan 10 to 14 days. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible for travelers with limited time in eight or nine days. Keep reading below for the best itineraries that include Lisbon, Coimbra, Porto, and the Algarve.

The Algarve: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting the Algarve spend about 9 to 11 days in Portugal, which usually includes some time in Lisbon and Porto as well. For travelers wanting to visit the Algarve exclusively, plan five days to a week for a well-paced trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as four days. For the best itineraries, including Algarve, keep reading below.

New Zealand Self-Drive Loop in the South Island - 20 Days

Spend 20 unforgettable days driving around one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world: New Zealand's South Island. You'll begin the loop in Christchurch, then continue to scenic Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki for stargazing and outdoor adventures. Visit the Scottish-style city of Dunedin before moving on to the island of Te Anau. Enjoy urban sightseeing in adrenaline-fueled Queenstown before exploring glaciers and hot springs on the island's north end to finish the itinerary.

Buenos Aires, El Calafate & El Chaltén: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, seven to eight days is the perfect amount of time for an Argentina trip, with stops in Buenos Aires, El Calafate, and El Chaltén. It's also possible to hit the highlights in five or six if you don't mind a brisk-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Puerto Iguazú, Ushuaia, or Puerto Madryn. Get inspired with the Buenos Aires, El Calafate, and El Chaltén trip ideas below.

The 8 Best Luxury Hotels in Athens

In a city as historic as Athens, it's not surprising to discover that many of the best luxury hotels bring the past to life. Each hotel incorporates the city's offerings in different ways that will appeal to couples, families, and groups alike. Time travel to the 19th century with a stay in an opulent neoclassical landmark building, take in Acropolis views from your room or a rooftop pool, or engage in a lively discussion in a philosophy-inspired hotel.

12 Days in Patagonia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 12 days in Patagonia, you can explore the highlights of Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares national parks on a highlights tour or get deeper into the landscapes and hike between W Trek "refugios" on an ultimate Patagonia trekking adventure. Those who prefer to explore with a paddle in hand should opt for a Chilean Patagonia for kayakers trip. Meanwhile, those looking for a more well-rounded itinerary will delight in an active Patagonia experience that encompasses Santiago, Puerto Natales, El Calafate, and El Chaltén.

The Dominican Republic from North to South - 14 Days

Lose yourself in the spectacular beauty and natural wonders of the Dominican Republic. The highlights of this two-week adventure are many, beginning on the north coast with relaxing beach days, waterfall hikes, horseback rides, zipline adventures, and more. Then head south and finish the trip in the capital of Santo Domingo, a bastion of colonial history unrivaled in the Americas.

Explore the Beaches, Mountains & Waterfalls of the Dominican Republic - 14 Days

Get ready for two weeks of adventure and excitement in the Dominican Republic. It starts with tours of the colonial landmarks in Santo Domingo, followed by a trip to the highlands for horseback riding in Jarabacoa. Continue to the north coast and the tropical paradise of Samaná, where you'll laze on white-sand beaches, go snorkeling at offshore islands, and spot humpback whales.

Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip & Tekapo Trek - 20 Days

From glaciers and natural pools to kayaking and whale watching, this epic 20-day road trip through New Zealand has something for everyone. Discover the country's best from north to south, beginning in Auckland and finishing on the island of Te Anau. Highlights along the journey include wineries, wildlife tours, a three-day mountain trek, glowworm caves, lake and fjord cruises, stargazing excursions, and so much more!

Family Fun in Ecuador & the Galápagos - 14 Days

Make a dent in your family bucket list with this two-week trip that combines fun and relaxation in Ecuador with plenty of wildlife excursions and beach time in the Galápagos. Your mini conservationists will adore their voyage of discovery through treetop canopies, flamingo-filled lagoons, and sea lion-packed islands. Along the way, you'll learn the art of Ecuadorian cuisine, snorkel the archipelago's best spots, and relax in picture-perfect thermal pools.

2 Weeks in Spain, Portugal & Morocco - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, you can hit the must-see sights of bustling capital cities on a highlights tour or let your tastebuds lead the way and opt for a culinary and cultural discovery itinerary. Those who dream of traveling back in time will delight in a two-week history tour packed full of relics dating to the Roman Empire, while beach lovers should opt for an epic coast tour complete with time on the Algarve, in Málaga, and along Morocco's west coast.

Galápagos Multi-Island Family Adventure - 14 Days

Take your family on a comprehensive tour of the Galápagos with this two-week adventure that spans three islands. Arrive on the Ecuadorian mainland and kick off your trip with a kid-friendly cooking class and a visit to the equator—then it's off to the islands! Tour Isla San Cristóbal via standup paddleboard, kayak around volcanic islets and bike along quiet backroads on Isla Isabela, and snorkel with colorful marine life and see giant tortoises and blue-footed on Isla Santa Cruz.

Family Cruise of the Galápagos Islands - 14 Days

This 14-day Galápagos family adventure sets off from Quito, Ecuador's historic, high-altitude capital. Enjoy a guided city tour and a day trip into the mystical Mindo Cloud Forest before flying to Isla Santa Cruz and boarding your cruise ship. Take excursions to Isla Isabela and Isla Rábida, swim and snorkel at the former pirate lair of Buccaneer Cove, and visit giant tortoises at the Charles Darwin Foundation—ending your tour back on the mainland with visits to Cotopaxi National Park and Laguna Quilotoa.

Experience the Azores: Nature & Adventure on São Miguel Island - 7 Days

Partake in a week of adventure by land and sea as you get to know the remote Azorean island of São Miguel. Based in the historic capital of Ponta Delgada, you'll join guided excursions to whale watch along the coast, snorkel among underwater lava formations, and explore the geysers and hot springs of the Furnas Valley. Then it's time to strike off on your own as you lace up your walking shoes and hike into the island's interior—discovering a volcanic landscape of crater lakes, lush valleys, and steep hillsides.

Discover the Flavors of Spain & Morocco - 14 Days

Combine hands-on cooking classes, tapas tours, and street food safaris during this two-week culinary journey through Spain and Morocco. Your gastronomic adventure starts in Barcelona, where you'll squeeze in pintxos in Bilbao and flamenco in Seville before ferrying to Morocco. From Tangier, make your way to exotic medinas and souks in cities like Fes, Rabat, Marrakesh, and Essaouira for a tasty trip of a lifetime.

The 11 Best Acropolis View Hotels

For many, Athens is synonymous with the Acropolis, an epic point of reference to orient yourself in Europe's second oldest city. While many hotels are focused on the famous landmark, a select few have the best and most unforgettable views of this 2,500-year-old Temple of Athena. These include rooftop terraces with panoramic vistas, lush gardens that add a respite from the bustling city life, and rooms with direct views of the Parthenon.