Travel Insights

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

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Search for the rare Sri Lankan leopard in Yala National Park

Active Sri Lanka: Rivers, Mountains, Wildlife & Beaches - 9 Days

Raft, hike, abseil, and snorkel your way around Sri Lanka on this nine-day outdoor adventure. Winding through the island's central and southern regions, you'll start with a week of adrenaline-fueled fun—paddling through whitewater rapids, rappelling down waterfalls, and hiking to dramatic mountain peaks. After heading into the wild to search for leopards and elephants on safari, wind down with snorkeling and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Tanzania in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is shoulder season for travel in Tanzania, with a busier peak around the Christmas and New Year period. Although there's some rain about, it's still a lovely time to enjoy the beaches of Zanzibar, to go on safari in the glorious national parks, or even to have a go at scaling Africa's tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro.

Swim with the whale sharks around Tanzania's Mafia Island in November

Tanzania in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is the start of Tanzania's "short rains" season and a shoulder season for travel. It tends to only rain for a short time each day, and it's still a great time to go birdwatching or see the start of the Great Migration of wildebeest in the north. Find out more about where to go and what to do in Tanzania in November.

Zanzibar's Sultan Palace Museum in Stone Town

Tanzania in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is the end of the peak season in Tanzania. Earlier in the month, the weather will be dry, but by late October, the rains of the short rainy season begin, and trade winds blow. It's still a good time to spot a variety of animals and birds around the country, as long as you're prepared for more changeable weather. Find out more about where to go and what to do in Tanzania in October.

White-sand beaches of Zanzibar (photo courtesy of Humphrey Muleba)

Tanzania in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September is peak season for travel to Tanzania. Drier, cooler conditions make it a great time to go on safari, while clear skies and waters make Zanzibar an appealing destination for beach lovers and divers. Active travelers may want to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru. Find out more about traveling to Tanzania in September below.

A flock of lesser flamingos wade for food on the mineral-rich red water of Lake Natron

Tanzania in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is peak season for travel to Tanzania. Drier, cooler conditions make it a great time to go on safari in many regions of the country. Active travelers can also attempt Mount Kilimanjaro, while those seeking a more chilled-out vacation will love Zanzibar's beaches. Read on for more information about travel to Tanzania in August.

Lion cubs sunning in Serengeti National Park

Tanzania in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is peak season for travel to Tanzania because the conditions are perfect for spotting wildlife on a safari. The Great Migration occurs across the plains and up toward Kenya, so you can see the Big Five (and many other species) on the move. July is also an excellent time for a beach vacation in Zanzibar. Find out more about travel to Tanzania in July.

Spot giraffes in a wildlife park in Tanzania

Tanzania in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The wet weather of the long rainy season draws to a close in early June when Tanzania's peak season for travel begins. Drier conditions are excellent for a range of outdoor activities, from wildlife-spotting safaris to climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest mountain. Read on to learn more about traveling to Tanzania in June.

View of the Usambara Mountains from a wooden staircase

Tanzania in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the low season for travel to Tanzania as it's part of the long rainy season. Visitors in May should expect heavy rain and difficulty getting around the country. However, if you're a keen bird watcher, this is an ideal month to visit as birdwatching is said to be at its best in Tanzania in the long rainy season. Find out more about traveling to Tanzania in May below.

Tuck out of the rain on a cultural discovery tour in Dar es Salaam

Tanzania in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

April is the low season for travel to Tanzania, as the heavy rains of the long rainy season set in. While travelers wanting to spot the Big Five on safari or lounge on a Tanzanian beach might want to choose a different month to travel, lovers of birds are in luck. April and May are the best months for birdwatching. Read on to find out more about traveling to Tanzania in April.

A lilac-breasted roller bird (photo courtesy of Bradley Feller)

Tanzania in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

March is the start of one of Tanzania's low seasons for tourism, with increasing rain and humidity. But if you visit earlier in the month and hone in on particular national parks and wildlife-viewing activities, you can still have a great time in Tanzania this month. Read on to find out where to go and what to do in March.

See calving wildebeest in Ngorongoro Conservation Area in February

Tanzania in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

February is shoulder season for travel to Tanzania, so this month offers a comfortable mix of thinner crowds, lower prices, and great sights and activities. The weather is generally hot, and although there's a chance of rain, this is more common at night. From seeing baby wildebeest in the parks of the north to blooming orchids in those of the south, beach vacations to mountain climbing, there are many good reasons to travel to Tanzania in February.

Sunrise view from Uhuru Peak on Mt. Kilimanjaro

Tanzania in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January is shoulder season in Tanzania, meaning you can expect thinner crowds at popular safari spots and some good deals on accommodation and flights. The weather is generally hot, and although there will be a chance of rain, this is an excellent month to visit if you'd like to see baby wildebeest and have fair conditions for safari activities.

10 Days in Turkey - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days, you can mix and match adventures to create the perfect vacation in Turkey. A highlights tour will take you from the Ottoman monuments of Istanbul to the fairy tale valleys of Cappadocia and down to the sun-kissed Aegean and Mediterranean coasts. Make a road trip out of it; visit ancient cities that predate the Bronze Age, and follow that with hikes around more "modern" archeological sites from the Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras.

Elephants in Amboseli National Park, with Mt. Kilimanjaro in the distance

How Many Days to Spend in Kenya

If you have two weeks to spend in Kenya, you can visit several wildlife reserves and national parks, devote time to beaches and learn about the local people and their culture. Most travelers come to Kenya to go on safari, and this can be done comfortably, however, in as few as five days by sticking to the places closest to Nairobi. With longer in Kenya, you can visit a great range of parks or fit in other activities.

Standard hotels with Alhambra views in Granada (Photo courtesy of Palacio de Santa Ines)

The 4 Best Standard Hotels with Alhambra Views in Granada

In Granada, the city's most famous site is the Alhambra Palace. If you're traveling on a budget and want to fully enjoy this architectural and historical gem, consider our list of the best standard hotels with Alhambra views in Granada. These budget-friendly properties offer views right from your room or cozy rooftop terraces.

Mid-range hotels with Alhambra views (Photo courtesy of Hotel Casa 1800 Granada)

The 3 Best Mid-Range Hotels with Alhambra Views in Granada

Many travelers set their sites on Granada for the city's famed Alhambra Palace, an architectural and historical haven worth exploring. To fully enjoy this masterpiece, you might want to pick from our list of the best mid-range hotels in Granada with Alhambra views, a category that offers this perk along with plenty of comforts.

Hotels with Alhambra views in Granada (Photo courtesy of Palacio de Santa Ines)

The 7 Best Hotels with Alhambra Views in Granada

A trip to Granada allows you to explore the city's most famous site, the Alhambra Palace. Opt for accommodation overlooking the Alhambra to truly appreciate this architectural and historical gem. Our picks offer vistas of the palace from common areas like lounges and rooftop terraces or even from your own room.

Standard family-friendly hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of Palacio de Santa Ines)

The 3 Best Standard Family-Friendly Hotels in Granada

If you're planning a family trip to Spain and have your sights set on Granada, know that you can find some of the best standard family-friendly hotels within walking distance of all the historical sites. Some of our top picks sit perfectly between Alhambra and the city center, making it easier for kids to explore the city.

Mid-range family-friendly hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of La Bella Granada)

The 4 Best Mid-Range Family-Friendly Hotels in Granada

Spain is an excellent destination for families who love to explore historical monuments, and Granada has one of the most famous sites: the majestic Alhambra Palace. But the city's unique history goes beyond its Nasrid palace, including the streets of the Albaicín neighborhood. You'll find plenty of the best mid-range family-friendly hotels within walking distance of all these famous sites.

Luxury boutique hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula)

The 3 Best Luxury Family-Friendly Hotels in Granada

Granada, with its compact Old Town, is a walkable and interesting city—a perfect place for a family trip. Enjoy wandering the historic streets of the Albaicín, learning about the city's unique past, and touring the grounds of the Alhambra, then relax in one of our picks for the best luxury family-friendly hotels in Granada.

Family-friendly hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of Hotel Alhambra Palace)

The 7 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Granada

As a city filled with history, Granada is an excellent destination for a family trip. Adults and kids alike love exploring the streets of the Albaicín, walking the grounds of the Alhambra, and discovering the city's unique history. On top of excellent locations, the best family-friendly hotels in Granada offer perks that kids love, such as extravagant breakfast buffets, spacious rooms, on-site restaurants, and rooftop terraces.

Standard boutique hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of Hotel Casa Morisca)

The 5 Best Standard Boutique Hotels in Granada

Boutique hotels offer a quieter, more personalized experience that allows you to understand the city's history a bit better. The best standard boutique hotels in Granada have unique characteristics like charming historical elements, views of the Alhambra, and central locations in the Albaicín neighborhood and city center.

Mid-range boutique hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of Hotel Casa 1800 Granada)

The 5 Best Mid-Range Boutique Hotels in Granada

Some of the best mid-range boutique hotels in Granada repurpose buildings like 16th-century Arabic houses, 19th-century palaces, and those with facades covered in Neo-Pompeian. The city's history runs deep, and you can enjoy it starting with your accommodation.

Luxury boutique hotels in Granada (Photo courtesy of Hotel Alhambra Palace)

The 4 Best Luxury Boutique Hotels in Granada

In a city as historic as Granada, you can easily elevate your experience with luxury accommodation. But you can still keep your stay personal and intimate by booking one of the best luxury boutique hotels in Granada, all set in ideal locations and with perks like on-site gourmet restaurants and rooftop terraces with views.

Views across the Sri Lankan highlands from Little Adam's Peak

Sri Lanka Highlights: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Yala & Galle - 9 Days

From the UNESCO-listed ruins of the Cultural Triangle to the historic Indian Ocean fortress of Galle, this nine-day introduction to Sri Lanka rounds up all the highlights of the island's south and central regions. Explore the ancient civilizations of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, tour the sacred temples of Kandy, take a breathtaking train journey through the tea fields of Ella, and head off-road in search of rare wildlife in Yala National Park.

See how tea is picked in the highlands of Sri Lanka

A Taste of Sri Lanka - 9 Days

This nine-day itinerary takes you on a flavorful journey through Sri Lanka's culture and cuisine—from the beaches of the Indian Ocean to the heart of the Cultural Triangle. Alongside an itinerary of ancient temples, wildlife spotting, and countryside cycling, you'll learn the secrets of a perfect curry in Galle, take afternoon tea among the lush gardens of the Hill Country, and embark on a fascinating and fragrant tour of Kandy's Spice Garden.

Boys trekking in the jungle to waterfalls

Family Trip to Costa Rica's Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Coral Reefs - 10 Days

From crocodile spotting to frolicking in volcanic mud, this family-oriented 10-day trip features thrilling adventures for kids and adults alike. Start by hiking to waterfalls and spotting wildlife in Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Then move on to the Gulf of Papagayo, where you and the kids will witness sea turtles nesting, snorkel around a coral reef, and visit a working coffee farm. Get up close with vibrantly colored birds at a scarlet macaw refuge, then finish the trip with a day of hiking in the Werner Sauter Biological Reserve.

Run and play with the kids on Costa Rica's beaches

10 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

From natural landscapes to wildlife experiences and adventure sports, Costa Rica has much to offer families. Travelers with younger children might opt for a 10-day itinerary with easy guided hikes and visits to wildlife refuges. And those with older kids may choose a trip plan that features zip-lining, whitewater rafting, and surf lessons. Whether you focus your time around Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest, base yourself in the surf town of Tamarindo, or go further off the beaten path on a trip to coastal Sámara, these family-friendly itineraries offer outdoor education and thrills for all ages.

Turkey Off the Beaten Path: Adrasan, Pamukkale, Urgup & More - 10 Days

Forgo the major cities and focus on Turkey's natural beauty and historic landmarks. This unforgettable 10-day adventure combines hikes along the famous Lycian Way with tours of ancient ruins and road trips to natural wonders like the thermal pools of Pamukkale and the lunar valleys of Cappadocia. It's an active adventure that showcases a side of Turkey most tourists never get to see.

From Yogyakarta to Bali - 14 Days

Chock-full of fun activities, this two-week sojourn through Java and Bali is perfect for adventure-minded travelers who also want to check off the top sights and cultural experiences. From the ancient Buddhist complex of Borobudur to the artist studios of Ubud, in-between, you'll hike to the summit of Mt Ijen Volcano, snorkel around Menjangan Island, cycle through the Jatiluwih rice paddies, learn the art of Balinese cooking, and much more.

Honeymooner's Secret Escape to Bali - 14 Days

You don't have to be a newlywed to enjoy this romantic itinerary ideal for adventure-loving couples with two weeks to spend. Together, you'll immerse yourselves in Bali's scenic beauty, hike to a hidden waterfall for a picnic lunch, receive a honeymooner's holy blessing ceremony, and indulge in sunning and snorkeling while savoring being romantic on tiny, heart-shaped Pulo Cinta, the "magical Island of Love."

A rainbow hovers above Ashford Castle, a luxury resort near Galway

How Many Days to Spend in Ireland

For a solid itinerary that covers Dublin or Belfast, plus outdoor activities in a few different counties, a 10-day trip is a great choice. With less time, you can still cover a lot of ground with a well-planned road trip. And lucky travelers with two weeks or more can hit several highlights around the entire island at a more relaxed pace. Check out some possible itineraries from 5 to 14 days below.

Sunrise views from the summit of Adam's Peak

Sri Lanka Outdoor Adventure: Dambulla to Unawatuna - 10 Days

On this thrilling 10-day itinerary, you'll hike, raft, and zipline your way across Sri Lanka's most dramatic and diverse landscapes. Explore the fortresses and rock temples of the Cultural Triangle, brave waterfalls and whitewater rapids in the Hill Country, and go off-road to search for elephants in Udawalawe National Park. Your adventure ends on the south coast with some well-earned downtime on the tropical beaches of Unawatuna.

The golden statue of Shiva at Trincomalee's oceanfront Koneswaram Temple

Family-Friendly Sri Lanka: Kandy to Negombo - 11 Days

This relaxed, 11-day family vacation combines Sri Lanka's classic highlights with some lesser-visited gems. Bouncing between the Hill Country, the Cultural Triangle, and the quiet northeastern beaches of Trincomalee, you'll embark on a series of hands-on experiences and excursions for all ages. Learn to play the Sri Lankan drums, take a forest walk with the island's last indigenous tribe, cycle through country villages, and snorkel amid tropical fish and reef sharks.

Paddle across the peaceful lagoons of Kalpitiya

Sri Lanka Off the Beaten Path Family Adventure - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary is perfect for adventurous families looking to get off the beaten path and introduces you to some of Sri Lanka's quieter corners and undiscovered gems. Paddle across the biodiverse lagoons of Kalpitiya, search for rare Sri Lankan leopards on safari in Wilpattu National Park, hike to waterfalls in the lush countryside of Mahiyanganaya, and travel deep into the jungle to meet the island's last indigenous tribe.

Luxury boutique hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Gran Hotel Inglés)

The 5 Best Luxury Boutique Hotels in Madrid

You'll find much of Madrid's glamorous past in its luxury boutique hotels, many set on or near the city's famous boulevard, Gran Vía. Besides excellent locations, some of the best luxury boutique hotels in Madrid offer unique perks like rooftop terraces and in-house spas, so you get both a personalized and elegant experience.

Mid-range boutique hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Only You Boutique Hotel)

The 6 Best Mid-Range Hotels in Madrid

Boutique hotels offer a slightly elevated atmosphere that feels personal, cozy, and historical at the same time, but you don't need to spend a lot to enjoy this type of stay. Some of the best mid-range boutique hotels in Madrid offer similar amenities to those in the luxury range, plus they're centrally located, making it easy to explore the city on foot.

Watching the waves roll in on Unawatuna Beach

Sri Lanka for Families: Cultural Triangle & South Coast - 7 Days

With a mix of cultural highlights, hands-on activities, and plenty of beach time, this 7-day Sri Lankan itinerary is perfect for families. Go for a gentle cycle through the countryside of the Cultural Triangle, spot elephants on safari in Minneriya National Park, and learn the beats of traditional drumming in Kandy. After picking tea leaves in the lush mountains of the Hill Country, it's time to transfer to the coast to enjoy the warm, turquoise seas around Unawatuna.

Standard hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Room Mate Alba)

The 5 Best Standard Boutique Hotels in Madrid

Madrid is a beautiful and diverse city with plenty of accommodation options that don't require you to splurge. Some of the best standard boutique hotels in Madrid are in our favorite neighborhoods, including the historic Literary Quarter, the central Sol, and the hip Lavapies. All our picks put you within walking distance of numerous city sites and still provide amenities like breakfast buffets and cozy lounges.

Family-friendly hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid)

The 6 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid

Madrid is an excellent city for family trips, with so many activities that kids will love, such as rowing boats in Retiro Park, exploring the royal palace, and eating churros at Chocolatería San Ginés. At the end of the day, you'll find several hotels that support families with amenities like pools, restaurants with kid-friendly grub, and spacious rooms (some with bunk beds).

Luxury family-friendly hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of URSO Hotel & Spa)

The 3 Best Luxury, Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid

Some of the best luxury family-friendly hotels in Madrid offer those necessary perks that make it a little easier to travel with your brood. With these amenities, you can explore the city, then return to your comfy hotel for plenty of entertainment, like splashing around in the pool, eating conveniently at on-site restaurants, and hanging out on a rooftop terrace.

Mid-range family-friendly hotels (photo courtesy of (Photo courtesy of CoolRooms Palacio de Atocha)

The 3 Best Mid-Range Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid

When traveling with family, those kid-friendly perks that make the trip a little easier can be worth it, such as convenient restaurants right on the property and a swimming pool to keep everyone entertained. Some of Madrid's best mid-range family-friendly hotels offer those amenities, plus an excellent location.

Mid-range hotels in Madrid (Photo courtesy of Only YOU Boutique Hotel)

The 3 Best Standard Family-Friendly Hotels in Madrid

Madrid is an excellent choice for a family trip, as this diverse city offers plenty to see and do, plus a few accommodation options that don't require a splurge. Some of the best standard family-friendly hotels in Madrid are in our favorite walkable neighborhoods, meaning even shorter legs can enjoy all the sites. Our top picks are affordable, keep you centrally located, and still provide family-friendly amenities like breakfast buffets and cozy lounges.

Sri Lanka Family Vacation: Safaris, Temples & Beaches - 14 Days

Plenty keeps the little ones entertained on this two-week, family-friendly adventure through Sri Lanka. Tour the temples and shrines of the Cultural Triangle by tuk-tuk, take a scenic train journey high into the tea fields of the Hill Country, and head out on safari in the savannah-like wilds of Yala National Park. After ticking off the highlights, wind down with plenty of playtime on the tropical beaches of Weligama.

The archaeological site of Palenque in the state of Chiapas

Archaeology & Culture in Mexico - 15 Days

Discover Mexico, a country home to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites (35) than any other nation in the Americas. Over 15 days, you'll tour many of these archeological marvels, like the ancient cities of Teotihuacán, Palenque, Chichén Itzá, and more. Beyond that, you'll visit natural highlights like the majestic Sumidero Canyon, the waterfalls at Agua Azul, and the marine reserve at Puerto Morelos.

Take the kids to splash around the Catalina Islands of Costa Rica

Active Family Adventure in Costa Rica - 10 Days

Offering an exciting mix of rainforest expeditions, wildlife encounters, and underwater adventures, this active 10-day trip around Costa Rica is popular with families. Explore the volcanoes and waterfalls of Arenal before heading off to the surf town of Tamarindo for a boat trip around an estuary and snorkeling with tropical fish offshore. After spotting sloths, monkeys, and exotic frogs in the wild, you'll learn about wildlife conservation at a scarlet macaw rehabilitation center in Sámara.

Snap pics of the Quespos wildlife during a boat tour in the Damas Island Mangrove forest and water canals

Costa Rica for Families: Outdoor Adventures & Wildlife - 10 Days

Discover Costa Rica's rushing waterfalls, colorful rainforests, and vibrant wildlife habitats on this 10-day tour that's perfect for families. After sightseeing in San José, you'll continue to Arenal to spot sloths in the wild and soak in natural hot springs. Then explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest and visit a wildlife rehabilitation center. Finish up the adventure in Manuel Antonio National Park, where you'll hike, snorkel, sail, and at the Damas Island Estuary, explore mangroves on a boat tour.

Join a guided horseback riding tour (photo courtesy of Nat Fernández)

Family Adventure in Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & the Ocean - 10 Days

Featuring thrilling outdoor activities, vibrant wildlife viewing, and hands-on experiences, this 10-day itinerary through Costa Rica is tailor-made for families. Kick off the trip with a hike through a sloth habitat and a visit to a local farm. Then move on to the Monteverde Cloud Forest for jungle hikes, zip-lining adventures, and horseback riding. Finish up in Tamarindo, where kids can learn to surf, witness sea turtles hatching their eggs, snorkel with tropical fish, and cruise down a jungle river.

Playing in the tea fields around Nuwara Eliya

Family Adventure in Sri Lanka: Pasyala to Tangalle - 14 Days

Equal parts fast-paced adventure and laid-back beach holiday, this two-week itinerary hops around central Sri Lanka with family-friendly tours of cultural landmarks, national park safaris, and a scenic train journey into the mountains. Then it's time to slow down with a week on the south coast beaches of Tangalle, where a private oceanfront villa serves as your base for fun day trips, family watersports, and plenty of beach time.

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