Travel Insights

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

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Relax in sun-kissedBacalar in the Yucatán

Yucatán Road Trip: Tulum, Bacalar, Valladolid, Mérida, Holbox & Puerto Morelos - 12 Days

Get ready for a 12-day road-trip adventure across Mexico's famed Yucatán Peninsula, known for its Caribbean beaches, underground cenotes, and ancient Maya ruins. You'll see all of it, starting at the fortress ruins in Tulum and then visiting biosphere reserves and exotic turquoise lakes. Next, you'll venture north to enjoy cultural exchanges in Indigenous communities, visit Spanish-colonial heritage cities, and descend into underground caves sacred to the Maya people.

Siem Reap to the Coast: Battambang, Phnom Penh, Koh Kong, Kampot & Kep - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary covers the bases for a complete Cambodian experience, combining top sites, fun activities, insights into local life, and sampling authentic dishes from rice cakes to pepper crab. Over 14 days, you'll explore Angkor's temples, boat among Tonlé Sap Lake's floating villages, cycle the countryside, meet landmine-sniffing rats, and enjoy glamping in Cardamom Mountains National Park. Plus, there's time to relax by the beaches of Kep before rounding out your adventure in Phnom Penh.

A massive stone face at Bayon Temple, Angkor Thom

Best of Cambodia: Temples, Beaches & Nature - 14 Days

You can experience every facet of Cambodia in two weeks, from exploring its ancient culture and archaeological treasures to off-the-beaten-path rainforest adventures and a relaxing beach idyll. Spend several days exploring the ancient sites and rural culture of Siem Reap, the Royal Palace and markets of Phnom Penh, and the wildlife-rich rainforest of Botum Sakor National Park. Top it off with four days kicking back by sunning and snorkeling on the beaches of Koh Rong.

10 Days in Wales - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Wales offers a reasonable amount of time to make eight stops within the country or to make three and cross into England or Scotland. First, spend time getting to know the culture and castles in Cardiff and Conwy, then explore the natural beauty of Pembrokeshire, the Brecon Beacons, and Snowdonia. A crossover into England allows time in Oxford, the charming Cotswolds, and Bath while splitting time between Scotland can take you to Edinburgh, the Highlands, and Balquhidder.

Best of Wales & Scotland: Brecon Beacons, Snowdonia, Edinburgh, Inverness & More - 10 Days

Explore the best of Wales and Scotland on this 10-day adventure through nature, castles, coasts, and capital cities. Begin in Cardiff and head into the Brecon Beacons to see the stunning mountains, followed by two days exploring the Pembrokeshire Coast. Then, explore spectacular Snowdonia and the Cambrian Coast before crossing into Scotland. Next, go sightseeing in Edinburgh, tour the highlights of the Highlands, and visit the lochs and native wildlife.

England & Wales: Oxford, Cotswolds, Bath, Brecon Beacons & Llandudno - 10 Days

Enjoy everything from champagne afternoon tea to a twilight spa visit on this relaxing 10-day trip from England to Wales. Begin with punting and a picnic in Oxford and tour the historical sites before embarking on two discovery trails and a horse trek in the charming Cotswolds. Then, head to Bath for a literary tour and some pampering. Next, cross into Wales to explore an ancient abbey, the mountains of Brecon Beacons, and ride the Snowdonia Mountain Railway while touring the stunning coasts and castles.

Mid-range rooftop pools in Málaga (Photo courtesy of Molina Lario Hotel)

The 4 Best Mid-Range Hotels with Pools in Málaga

A pool is a necessity in Málaga, as an afternoon dip is a perfect reprieve in this Andalusian city. Some of the best mid-range hotels with pools offer this perk on lively rooftops or surrounded by palm trees and incredible views.

Luxury hotels with pools in Málaga (Photo courtesy of Only YOU Hotel Málaga)

The 3 Best Luxury Hotels with Pools in Málaga

The best luxury hotels with pools in Málaga offer this incredible perk in a unique way, placing pools on rooftops or outside, surrounded by palm trees, and across from the beach. You can easily cool off and enjoy the city and/or beach views simultaneously.

A view of the cliffs and beach of Cabo de Roca or the "edge of the world"

Self-Drive Portugal: Lisbon, Évora & the Algarve - 11 Days

Adventurous and independent travelers will love this 11-day itinerary that takes you on the road through Portugal's fascinating history and epic landscape. You'll spend some time exploring Lisbon, one of the oldest cities in the world, before driving north to Évora, where you will find prehistoric sites and towns fit for queens. You'll then head back down south to the Algarve, where you'll be blown away by the wild ruggedness and incredible beaches of southern Portugal's famous coastline.

Hotels with pools in Málaga (Photo courtesy of Hotel Gran Hotel Miramar)

The 6 Best Hotels with Pools in Málaga

With Málaga as one of the biggest cities in Spain's Andalusia region, and since it's known for high temperatures year-round, it's nice to have a refreshing pool to help you cool off in the afternoons. The best hotels with pools in Málaga offer this reprieve, plus central locations and plenty of other amenities.

Standard boutique hotels in Málaga (Photo courtesy of El Museo Living & Experience Club)

The 4 Best Standard Boutique Hotels in Málaga

If you're traveling to Málaga on a budget, you can still enjoy a beautiful boutique property with amenities like onsite eateries, rooftop terraces, and cozy rooms. Plus, some of the best standard boutique hotels in Málaga put you next to major sites, like the Teatro Romano and Alcazaba.

Mid-range boutique hotels in Málaga (Photo courtesy of Palacio Solecio)

The 6 Best Mid-Range Boutique Hotels in Málaga

The best mid-range boutique hotels in Málaga are some of our favorite properties, as they offer perks you might expect to find at higher-tier properties. Enjoy central locations and amenities like onsite eateries, rooftop terraces with pools, and/or rooms with private balconies and soaking tubs.

Luxury boutique hotels in Málaga (Photo courtesy of Hotel Gran Hotel Miramar)

The 4 Best Luxury Boutique Hotels in Málaga

Boutique hotels make your stay in any city a little more memorable, and you can elevate your experience by combing that personalization with a posh property. The best luxury boutique hotels in Málaga offer unique stays and elegant perks, like fine onsite dining, rooftop terraces with pools, and plush rooms with views.

Mid-range boutique hotels in Ronda (Photo courtesy of Parador de Ronda)

The 4 Best Mid-Range Boutique Hotels in Ronda

The best mid-range boutique hotels in Ronda still offer perks you might expect to find in luxury accommodation, like onsite restaurants, outdoor pools, and terraces, all with incredible views. These amenities can enhance your stay in Ronda, especially when it comes to highlighting the town's famous vistas of El Tajo Gorge and its sprawling valley.

Standard boutique hotels in Ronda (Photo courtesy of Soho Boutique Palacio San Gabriel)

The 4 Best Standard Boutique Hotels in Ronda

Even smaller budgets can enjoy the appeal of Ronda's boutique accommodations, which give you a more personal experience in this truly charming city. The best standard boutique hotels provide perks like unique history, central locations, onsite restaurants, and terraces to enjoy the area's famous views.

Hotels with views in Ronda (Photo courtesy of Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria Wellness & Spa)

The 5 Best Hotels with Views in Ronda

Views of the city's bridges, El Tajo Gorge, and surrounding valley are Ronda's biggest appeals. You can enjoy those iconic views day and night with our picks for the best hotels with views in Ronda, which include properties that fit a range of budgets.

Beautiful hotels outside of Ronda (Photo courtesy of Hotel La Fuente de la Higuera)

The 4 Best Hotels Outside of Ronda

Though you'll find plenty of hotels in Ronda's city center, part of the area's appeal is its surrounding environment of rolling hills, olive groves, white villages, and vineyards. The best hotels outside of Ronda offer a bit more privacy and an authentic experience while still being no more than a 15-minute drive from the city center.

Drive the Llanberis pass in Snowdonia National Park

Self-Drive Wales from London: Llangollen, Conwy, Aberystwyth, Cardiff & More - 10 Days

From incredible coasts to stunning castles, this 10-day road trip begins and ends in London, England. Drive to Llangollen to see the hills along the River Dee before exploring the best of Conwy, Llandudno, and historic Great Orme. Next, take a guided adventure through Snowdonia and drive the Pembrokeshire Coast. Then, explore a few waterside towns—including Aberystwyth and Tenby—visit the Gower peninsula, and go sightseeing in the capital city of Cardiff.

Historic standard hotels in Seville (Photo courtesy of Hotel Boutique Casa de Colón)

The 3 Best Historic Standard Hotels in Seville

Staying in a beautifully preserved property is an option for all budgets. The best historic standard hotels in Seville offer renovated houses and mansions from the 16th to 19th centuries. They provided ways to enjoy the property's past with inner courtyard patios, wood-beamed ceilings, and stained glass windows.

Historic mid-range hotels in Seville (Photo courtesy of Corral del Rey)

The 5 Best Historic Mid-Range Hotels in Seville

To truly experience Seville's incredible history, you can sleep in accommodations that channel the city's past. Our picks for the best historic mid-range hotels are set in historic buildings while still offering those unique elements in beautifully preserved buildings from the 17th to 19th centuries.

Historic luxury hotels in Seville (Photo courtesy of Hotel Alfonso XIII)

The 3 Best Historic Luxury Hotels in Seville

Some of the best historic luxury hotels in Seville are the city's top properties. You can stay in old palaces commissioned by the king or elegantly preserved buildings from the Middle Ages with unique historical elements. With such fascinating history, Seville allows you to experience it day and night in posh accommodation with cushy perks.

Historic hotels in Seville (Photo courtesy of Hotel Alfonso XIII)

The 8 Best Historic Hotels in Seville

Seville has a fascinating history, and you can bring its past into your accommodation. The best historic hotels in Seville make their homes in buildings from the 16th to 20th centuries, allowing you to sleep in old palaces with unique elements paying homage to the city's heritage.

Standard boutique hotels in Seville (Photo courtesy of Hotel Zenit Sevilla)

The 5 Best Standard Boutique Hotels in Seville

Travelers with a smaller budget can still enjoy unique and chic accommodations with all the perks. Some of Seville's best standard boutique hotels offer central locations, cozy rooms, and amenities like historic buildings, rooftop terraces, outdoor pools, and on-site eateries.

Mid-range boutique hotels in Seville (Photo courtesy of Hotel Gravina 51)

The 5 Best Mid-Range Boutique Hotels in Seville

If you'd like a more intimate or personalized accommodation experience, consider one of the best mid-range boutique hotels in Seville. These properties have renovated unique historic spaces while still offering amenities like rooftop terraces, on-site eateries with tasting menus, and rooms with private pools.

Luxury boutique hotels in Seville (Photo courtesy of Hotel Alfonso XIII)

The 4 Best Luxury Boutique Hotels in Seville

The best luxury boutique hotels in Seville are also some of the city's top properties, offering a unique and personal experience with amazing perks. You'll be within walking distance of Seville's main sites, and while at your hotel, you can enjoy amenities like rooftop terraces, outdoor pools, and luxurious dining.

The 3 Best Historic Standard Hotels in Córdoba

Sticking to a budget is pretty easy in this charming city, as the best standard historic hotels in Córdoba offer affordable rates, central locations, and amenities like breakfast buffets, outdoor patios, and onsite cafés.

Historic mid-range hotels in Córdoba (Photo courtesy of Las Casas de La Juderia)

The 4 Best Historic Mid-Range Hotels in Córdoba

With so much unique history spanning the centuries, you might want to choose one of the best mid-range historic hotels in Córdoba, set in historic buildings while still providing perks. You'll be centrally located and can enjoy amenities like onsite eateries, Hammam baths, swimming pools, and rooftop terraces.

1 Week in Wales - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A week in Wales will leave you with unforgettable memories—visit ancient ruins, climb towering mountains, and eat incredible food. It just comes down to a matter of your traveling tastes. If a five-stop stay that starts in Cardiff and ends in Manchester is too fast-paced, simply center your trip around three beautiful areas like the Brecon Beacons, Pembrokeshire, and Snowdonia.

Historic luxury hotels in Córdoba (Photo courtesy of Balcón de Córdoba Hotel)

The 3 Best Historic Luxury Hotels in Córdoba

It doesn't get much better than staying in one of the best luxury historic hotels in Córdoba, as you get to sleep among the city's unique history while still enjoying those plush perks, like gourmet eateries, spas, and rooftop terraces.

Historical hotels in Córdoba (Photo courtesy of H10 Palacio Colomera)

The 8 Best Historic Hotels in Córdoba

Córdoba's historic core has four different UNESCO World Heritage, one being the neighborhood around the Mezquita-Catedral. To make the most of your stay, you can opt for one of the best historic hotels in Córdoba in that same district, making it easy to explore all of the city's sites.

Guided Drive of Wales: Brecon Beacons, St Davids, Portmeirion, Conwy & Manchester - 7 Days

A private driver will guide you on this week-long adventure through Wales, beginning with a tour of Tintern Abbey en route to the stunning mountains of Brecon Beacons. Then, stop in the small harbor town of Tenby and tour Caldey Island. Next, spend a free day enjoying the Italian-inspired village of Portmeirion before exploring the northern coasts and castles around Conwy. The finale is a tour of Old Trafford Stadium, home to Manchester United.

Standard boutique hotels in Córdoba (Photo courtesy of Posada de Vallina by MiRa)

The 5 Best Standard Boutique Hotels in Córdoba

Córdoba is the perfect city for charming boutique accommodation, and, surprisingly, the more affordable options are in the best locations. With a smaller historic Old Town filled with twisting cobbled streets, you'll find some of the best standard boutique hotels in Córdoba right next to the old Synagogue, across from the Mezquita-Catedral, and around the corner from the Puente Romano.

Mid-range boutique hotels in Córdoba (Photo courtesy of H10 Palacio Colomera)

The 5 Best Mid-Range Boutique Hotels in Córdoba

What we love about mid-range boutique hotels in Córdoba is that they're very historical yet still offer perks like rooftop terraces, outdoor dining, and swimming pools. Plus, they're all centrally located, so you can easily walk to all the main city sites.

The 3 Best Luxury Boutique Hotels in Córdoba

The best luxury boutique hotels in Córdoba offer the opportunity to elevate your stay in this charming little city. Add perks like rooftop terraces overlooking the Mezquita-Catedral, outdoor dining, and spas, making your stay in Córdoba a little more unique.

Hotels near Plaza Mayor in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid)

The 5 Best Hotels Near Plaza Mayor in Madrid

One of the best places to stay in Madrid is near the city's historic and central Plaza Mayor. There are many perks to the area around this 16th-century square, including beautiful architecture, plenty of shops and eateries, and regular events and activities. You'll be within walking distance to nearly all the main city sites and find plenty of accommodation options that fit any budget.

Historical Standard Hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Room Mate Alba)

The 4 Best Historical Standard Hotels in Madrid

Madrid is a city that lends itself to any budget, providing plenty of genuinely incredible hotels in the standard category. One thing will love about these hotels is that they preserve the city's amazing history. In fact, one of the best historical standard hotels in Madrid is over 400 years old. Plus, you'll find our picks throughout the city center, so you'll be within walking distance of nearly all the sites.

5 Days in Wales - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In just five days, you can still explore the best of south, north, central, and coastal Wales. For a more well-rounded Welsh tour, you can visit up to four destinations, while a more focused vacation allows for time in two areas. Choose between cultural exploration and castle visits from Cardiff to Caernarfon or hiking and good eats from the Brecon Beacons to the Pembrokeshire Coast. There's even time to cross into England for beer tastings and culinary tours.

Best of Wales: Cardiff, Brecon Beacons, Llandudno & Conwy - 5 Days

This trip covers the best of Wales from the south, central, and north destinations. Begin by exploring a historic abbey before discovering the Brecon Beacons. Then, get acquainted with the fantastic castles in Central Wales. Next, tour the northern coast, ride an iconic railway, and visit a Middle Age castle before discovering the history of Conwy and ending with a toast at a craft beer experience in Chester, England.

Wales & England: Coastal Culture, Cuisine & Castles - 5 Days

This quick-yet-eventful trip takes you from the south to the north coast of Wales, with a delicious ending in England. Start with a culinary and cultural tour in Cardiff and stop in quaint Hay-on-Wye before discovering the stunning Brecon Beacons. Take a wildlife tour of the Gower Coast, a ghost walk in Tenby, visit Caldey Island, and get to know Italian-inspired Portmeirion. Next, tour the famed Caernarfon Castle, take the Llangollen Railway, and land in Manchester, England, for two craft beer and food tour experiences.

Hike Wales' Pembrokeshire Coast path for stunning views over Caerfai Bay

Hike Wales: the Pembrokeshire Coast - 5 Days

Hike through the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast for a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path view of Wales, where you'll spend the first few days anchored in Fishguard. Explore the coastal town and hike to see the fantastic vistas of Dinas Island and the curved beach of Pwll Gylog. Next, trek through the volcanic landscape of Pwll Deri, and visit the port town of Goodwick before hiking around cliffs in Trefin and the coastal plateau of Whitesands. Finally, land in St Davids for a last hike to Solva and a boat trip.

See captivating sights like Santuario de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios in Cholula, Oaxaca

Discover Central Mexico: Morelia, Guanajuato, Acaxochitlán, Cuetzala, Cholula & Oaxaca - 12 Days

This 12-day exploration of the heart of Mexico will take you to its most historic locales. This includes stops at the 16th-century cities of Morelia and Querétaro, where you'll enjoy horseback riding through the rugged Guanajuato mountains. Then immerse yourself in the region's culture with visits to indigenous workshops, tours of coffee plantations, and outings to the most incredible sights in Puebla and Oaxaca.

The rocky coast of Lagos in Portugal's Algarve region

Portugal from North to South: Porto to the Algarve - 11 Days

Mix vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and a dash of gastronomy for the ultimate 11-day Portuguese adventure. From the cobblestone alleys of Porto to the golden beaches of the Algarve, you'll wind your way south with an itinerary full of curated excursions. Sip world-class wines in the Douro Valley, browse the Baroque library of Coimbra, experience live fado music in Lisbon, and admire 2,000-year-old Roman ruins in Évora.

5 Days in Scotland - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

From touring ancient castles to sampling local whisky to walking along serene beaches, there's plenty to do on a five-day trip to Scotland. You can keep things basic with a three-stop tour that takes you from the beautiful city of Edinburgh to the mountainous region of Glencoe. Or, make the most of your stay by visiting five destinations, including the Highland capital of Inverness and the coastal village of John O'Groats.

Whisky & History in the Scottish Highlands - 5 Days

This 5-day tour of Scotland is designed for history and whisky enthusiasts. Begin with a private walking tour in Edinburgh. Next, a driver accompanies you to the Highlands to enjoy your first toast at Dalwhinnie Distillery and a tour of the renowned Culloden Battlefield, followed by more distillery stops in Dufftown. Then, embark on the Skye & Raasay Whisky Trail—accompanied by stunning scenery—a beautiful architecture tour of Glasgow, and a final historical stop in Bannockburn.

Wind your way through Glen Coe on a self-drive tour

Scenic Scotland Road Trip: Edinburgh, Inverness & Fort William - 5 Days

This five-day road trip through scenic Scotland gives you a great taste of the highlights. Begin in Edinburgh to do some sightseeing between Old Town and New Town before heading into Stirling and the Highlands to visit plenty of small towns, castles, abbeys, and historic sites. Then, head to Inverness, home of Loch Ness, and board the Jacobite Train—popularly known as the "Hogwarts Express." The grand finale is a visit to the majestic Glen Coe mountains.

Learn how Mary Queen of Scots was crowned at Stirling Castle in 1542

10 Days in Scotland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Scotland is a great amount of time to delve into the country's diverse beauty and deep history. Opt for a fast-paced self-drive tour and explore the dramatic Isle of Skye and the bustling cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow on a highlights tour. Or, embrace serene landscapes as you island-hop through Oban, Mull, and Skye. Leisurely travelers will love exploring by train, while those eager to see it all can whizz around on an itinerary featuring the North Coast 500.

Jacobite Train on Glenfinnan Railway Viaduct

Best of Scotland by Train: Glasgow, Inverness, Isle of Sky & Edinburgh - 10 Days

Take a scenic, 10-day journey through Scotland by train. Begin with two days of sightseeing in Glasgow before boarding your first train to the Highlands. Stop in Stirling en route to Inverness, home to Culloden Battlefield, Urquhart Castle, and the famed Loch Ness. Then, it's on to the stunning Isle of Skye to take in the dramatic coastline and mountain scenery. Finally, board the Jacobite Train to reach Edinburgh to experience the best of the Scottish capital city.

Urquhart Castle at sunset beside Loch Ness

Signature Scotland: Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, Isle of Skye, Glencoe & Glasgow - 10 Days

This eventful 10-day trip through Scotland invites you to experience it all! Start in Edinburgh to sightsee and take a delicious local food tour before heading to Aberdeen to explore Dundee and visit a historic golf course in St Andrews. Next, spend time in Inverness and the Isle of Skye, visiting historic sites, distilleries, and castles. Then, transfer to Glencoe to walk the beautiful scenery, cruise around Loch Katrine in a famed steamship, and embark on a memorable architecture tour in Glasgow.

Admire the east London skyline on a 2-week trip to England

2 Weeks in England - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A two-week trip to England transports you back in time, putting you in touch with the country's rich history and culture. With 14 days to explore, you can travel at a quicker pace to approximately six destinations—like London, Oxford, the Cotswolds, and the Lake District. Or, you can move slower to visit fewer places and spend more quality time in cities like Liverpool and Manchester. Plus, thanks to their proximity, you can cross into Wales or France if you'd like to make the most out of your Eurotrip.

England to France: London, English Countryside, Paris & Lyon - 14 Days

This action-packed, two-week tour spans from England to France. Start by enjoying the best of London—from Buckingham Palace to high tea to a private tour of the Tower of London—along with day trips to the southeast coast and countryside. Then, head to Paris to explore the Eiffel Tower at night, cruise the Seine, and have a Euro-Disney adventure. Finally, end the trip in Lyon with a tour of the city center, delicious Lyonnaise eats, and a visit to the Beaujolais wine region for a farewell toast.

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