Travel Insights

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

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Fishguard seascape on a summer day, Pembrokeshire

Wales in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Summer has properly arrived in Wales by June, bringing a welcome dose of sunshine to the country. As the weather perks up, the outdoors is more enticing than ever, whether you want to seek out a secluded beach, hit hiking trails in the mountains, watch coastal wildlife, hang out in pub beer gardens or catch one of the many music and food festivals happening this month. This is a great time to visit to sidestep the big crowds that descend on the beaches and cities in July and August.

Hay Bluff in the Black Mountains near Hay-on-Wye

Wales in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is a glorious month to visit Wales: the countryside is sprinkled with wildflowers and parks and gardens are in full bloom. Calmer, sunnier days make this a terrific time to hit the coast and mountains. Though summer is now definitely on its way, it’s still easy to give the crowds the slip if you so wish. The country is in high spirits and festival season is in on its way: from the literary cachet of Hay to classical concerts at St David’s Cathedral.

A murmuration of starlings above Aberystwyth's pier

Wales in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

As Wales slips quietly into the new year, January can be an incredibly peaceful time to explore. Yes, this is one of the wettest, coldest months, but if you wrap up warm, there’s a lot to love: from hunkering down in historic country inns to days spent roaming galleries in cool coastal cities and star-spangled nights in the country’s Dark Sky Reserves.

Munich's Christmas market in the courtyard of the Rathaus is one of many

Germany in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December in Germany is that special time of year when charming outdoor markets, or Christkindelsmarkt, pop up across the country. You won't have to travel far to find gingerbread and Glühwein from Hamburg down to the Austrian border in the shadow of the mighty Zugspitze (Germany's tallest peak). While you're in the Bavarian Alps, head to the lively ski resorts, which open this month just in time for the holidays.

Germany in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is a quieter, colder time in Germany, but that doesn't deter intrepid visitors who put on an extra layer to explore uncrowded cities and historic sights on foot. By the end of the month, things start picking up again when Christmas markets open all over the country (especially Berlin) for warm mugs of Glühwein.

Visit the Eltz Castle in October for prime autumn colors

Germany in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Fall in Germany quiets down after Oktoberfest—a great time for scenic road trips that prioritize leaf-peeping and outdoor activities that may combine hiking and wine tasting. The cities, for their part, have plenty going on, from Berlin's festival of lights to an international book fair in Frankfurt. Read on for more on what to expect in Germany in October.

Harvest time in the vineyards around Stuttgart, Germany

Germany in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

There's more to early autumn in Germany than liters of beer and oompah bands. September is a lovely time to explore the country's quieter natural environs once the summer crowds have dissipated, with meandering drives in the Black Forest and 13 wine regions and activities in the Alps before the snow arrives.

Cobbled streets in the historic town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Germany in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is in the thick of Germany's high season when many Europeans are on holiday, putting an extra fun (and busy) spin on city activities and events, like a two-week music festival in Berlin. Or, opt for peace and quiet at any of the numerous outdoor attractions and national parks, from the Bavarian Alps to the Baltic coast.

Melting sea ice and sea level rise are a major risk of climate change

Kimkim Climate Initiative

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Tel Aviv & Jerusalem - 8 Days

From Mediterranean beaches to the shores of the Dead Sea, this compact 8-day itinerary is the perfect introduction to Israel. Splitting your time between modern Tel Aviv and ancient Jerusalem, you'll tour the cities' cultural landmarks and historic highlights before embarking on a series of fascinating day trips into the surrounding landscapes. Take a cable car to the breathtaking hilltop fortress of Masada, wander the colorful markets of Acre, and look out over the Bay of Haifa from the fabled Hanging Gardens of Mount Carmel.

Nordic & Baltic Gems: Finland, Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania - 12 Days

Discover a different side of Europe on this 12-day journey through Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. From Helsinki, you'll make your way south through the capitals, countryside, and rich cultural heritage of the Baltics. Tour Tallinn's medieval streets, spot rare wildlife in Lahemaa National Park, stroll the windswept shores of Lake Peipus, and explore the castles of Sigulda and Turaida. After sampling the specialties of Riga's famous covered market, your adventure ends in ancient Vilnius.

Family hiking on North Seymour Island in the Galápagos

Family Trip to Ecuador & the Galápagos Islands - 14 Days

Spend two weeks with the family, beginning in colonial Quito. Ascend to the top of a volcano by cable car and bond over a cooking class. Then, a nature hike through misty cloud forests sets the stage for your great Galápagos adventure. Here, you'll cruise the archipelago by speedboat, snorkel with sea lions, and visit uninhabited islands. Other memorable experiences the whole family will love include visiting giant tortoises, hiking up a volcano, and lazing on white-sand beaches.

Exploring scenic terrain with the family in the Galapagos Islands

Ecuador Family Trip: Quito, the Amazon & Galapagos Islands - 11 Days

From the colorful wildlife of the Amazon rainforest to the underwater playground of the Galapagos, this family-friendly journey around Ecuador offers adventure and education for all ages. Start in Quito, where you'll take a hands-on cooking class and set foot on both halves of the equator at Mitad del Mundo. Then delve into the Amazon rainforest, spotting exotic insects on a nighttime jungle tour and canoeing to a parrot habitat — bring your binoculars for the best views! Finish the itinerary in the Galapagos Islands with several days of wildlife viewing, snorkeling, and so much more. Keep your eyes open for giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies!

Galapagos Island Hopping in Style: Santa Cruz & Isabela - 10 Days

White-sand beaches, secluded lagoons, and a spectacular array of wildlife await on this luxurious 10-day adventure in the Galápagos. It begins in Quito with sightseeing in the colonial center. Then fly to Isla Isabela, where you'll stay in high-end lodgings and enjoy daily hikes, cycling, and snorkeling excursions. The journey continues on Isla Santa Cruz, where you'll walk with giant tortoises and visit uninhabited islands. Here you can observe rare wildlife and relax on the beach before heading home.

Spot marine iguanas on nature hikes along the coast of Isla Isabela

5 Days in the Galápagos Islands - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With five days to spend in the Galápagos Islands, travelers have a variety of options. Choose a land-based tour that takes you to the archipelago's highlights for outdoor adventures and bird-watching, or go on a cruise that focuses on a particular interest area, like nature or wildlife. If you're certified, opt for a diving trip with daily excursions underwater to see reef sharks, sea turtles, seahorses, and more. Whichever itinerary you choose, you're sure to enjoy the natural beauty of this magnificent island chain.

Peru & Bolivia Adventure - 9 days

Divide your time between two of South America's most beautiful countries — Peru and Bolivia — on this thrilling 9-day itinerary! Begin in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, an ideal jumping-off point for exploring ancient ruins, the Sacred Valley, and the mysterious "lost city" of Machu Picchu. Then cross the border to La Paz, sightseeing in the lively Bolivian city before day-tripping to the majestic Uyuni Salt Flats. You'll spend two days exploring Lake Titicaca, cruising in a catamaran and touring floating islands, before having one last night out on the town in the foodie hot spot of Lima.

The "Blue Mosque" overlooking the city of Amman

Islamic Jordan: Amman, Petra & Wadi Rum - 8 Days

Take a journey through Jordan's Islamic history on this spiritual 8-day itinerary. Start in the capital of Amman, where you'll tour the city's grand mosques, see the Cave of the Seven Sleepers, and take day trips to important sites like the Al-Sahaba Tombs and the shrine of Shoaib. Then set out down the King's Highway towards Petra, where you'll explore the ancient city before traveling into the red sands of Wadi Rum for a night of Bedouin-style camping.

Bolivian Culture & History - 7 Days

Delve into Bolivia's cultural history on this weeklong adventure that takes you from the bustling streets of La Paz to the calm waters of Lake Titicaca to the dramatic mountain scenery of Potosí. Begin the tour with a cable car ride from La Paz to El Alto, taking in sweeping views of the Andes, then spend the day sailing around Lake Titicaca. You'll enjoy a day exploring picturesque Sucre before touring the old silver mining town of Potosí. Learn about the country's salt-harvesting history in Colchani, then move onto the UNESCO-honored ruins of Tiwanaku before heading back to La Paz for one last night.

Discover La Paz, Lake Titicaca & the Uyuni Salt Flats - 5 Days

In just five days, this exhilarating itinerary takes you to three of Bolivia's top destinations. Start the journey in La Paz, where you'll ride a cable car to the adjacent city of El Alto, taking in incredible views of the Andes. Visit the UNESCO-honored ruins of Tiwanaku before boarding a catamaran cruise around Lake Titicaca. Visit the Island of the Sun and ride on a traditional Totora raft, then catch a quick flight to Uyuni. You'll spend the last full day of the trip exploring the famous salt flats — one of the most photographed places in South America — before circling back to La Paz for one last night on the town before the trip ends.

Go on a three-hour hike in the lush Mujib Nature Reserve

Hike Jordan's Valleys & Canyons: Amman, Dana, Petra, Wadi Rum & Dead Sea - 11 Days

Get off the beaten path and into some of Jordan's most spectacular scenery on this adventurous 11-day itinerary. Scramble along the sandstone cliffs of Wadi Numeira, explore the ecosystems of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, trek the back route to the sandstone city of Petra, and climb desert dunes to watch the sunrise over the Wadi Rum. After some soothing soaks in the Dead Sea, you'll be ready to hit the trails one last time with a memorable hike through the soaring river canyon of Wadi Mujib.

Gourmet Tour of Colombia: Bogota, Medellin, Cartagena & Isla Barú - 12 Days

Hike around a coffee farm, take a cooking class in Cartagena, and dine in the finest restaurants of Bogotá and Medellín—these are just a few of the gourmet experiences you can look forward to on this 12-day tour around Colombia. Featuring stops in the country's most popular destinations, plus off-the-beaten-path places like the idyllic island of Isla Barú, this trip offers an appealing mix of cultural sightseeing, outdoor activities, and culinary adventures.

Discover the Highlights of Peru - 14 Days

This wide-ranging two-week tour leads you around Peru's most exciting destinations, from the cobblestoned streets of Cusco to the colorful landscapes of Rainbow Mountain and the world-famous ruins of Machu Picchu. Kick off the adventure in Lima, exploring the city's food scene on a gourmet walking tour. Then climb aboard a small plane for a ride high over the world-famous Nazca Lines, spot condors in beautiful Colca Canyon, and explore Lake Titicaca on a traditional boat. You'll base yourself in Cusco for the latter part of the trip, enjoying excursions to Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and the region's vibrantly hued mountains. With a mix of cultural sightseeing and outdoor adventures, this 14-day journey around Peru is unforgettable!

How Many Days to Spend in Guatemala

Guatemala's relatively small size allows you to comfortably visit its iconic volcanoes, colonial cities, and Maya ruins in around seven days. But even in as few as five days, you can still see its most famous sights. Clear two weeks on your calendar, however, and you'll have a wide array of cultural excursions and active adventures from which to choose.

Panama in December: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

December is the start of the dry season in Panama, so combine that with the major holiday of Christmas and it's a busy time of year to visit. But with great weather, you might find the peak season worth it anyway. Read on to learn more about visiting Panama in December.

National Theatre of Panama in Casco Antiguo, Panama City

Panama in November: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

With relentlessly wet weather and a series of national holidays that close things down, November isn't a favorite month for travelers to visit Panama. However, if you can only visit the tropical Central American country during this month, you can still have a great time. Here's what to know about traveling to Panama in November.

Panama in October: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

One of the wettest months of the year in Panama, October isn't every traveler's ideal time to visit the tropical country. However, you can still enjoy certain activities and sights in October, despite the rain. Read on to learn more about visiting Panama in October.

Starfish Beach on Bocas del Toro, Panama

Panama in September: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

September is the wet season in Panama, but if you can put up with the humidity and rain showers, there are good reasons to visit this tropical country in September—lower prices and whale watching among them. Read on to find out more about visiting Panama in September.

Panama in August: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

August is the middle of the rainy season in Panama, and while most travelers won't want to spend much time lounging on a beach during this month, there are other compelling reasons to visit this tropical country in August. Read on to learn more.

Panama in July: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Right in the middle of the rainy season, July is a quiet and cheaper time to visit Panama City. While you might not want to lounge on a beach, cultural sightseeing activities are worthwhile in any weather. Read on to learn more about visiting Panama in July.

Panama in June: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

June is the rainy season in Panama, with soaring humidity and rain showers, but periods of clear weather too. If you're on a tight budget, it's not a bad time to visit the tropical country. Read on to find out more about visiting Panama in June.

Panama in May: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

May is the start of the rainy season in Panama, which stretches for about half the year. If you don't mind getting a bit wet, May is a more affordable time to visit. Read on to learn more about traveling to Panama in May.

Views over Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives

Jordan & Israel Panorama - 14 Days

This comprehensive two-week itinerary takes you on an unforgettable journey through the history and holy lands of the Middle East. Spend your first week immersed in the antiquities and archaeology of Jordan, from the ancient capital of Amman to the sandstone city of Petra, the red deserts of Wadi Rum to the shores of the Dead Sea. Then it's on to Israel to discover Biblical and cultural landmarks between Tiberias, Tel Aviv, and Jerusalem.

Palms along the Red Sea beaches of Aqaba

Classic Jordan: Aqaba, Wadi Rum, Petra & Amman - 5 Days

This quick, 5-day getaway is the perfect introduction to Jordan's Golden Triangle—a region rich with stunning scenery and ancient wonders. Start at the Red Sea port of Aqaba for some laid-back beach time and watersports, then transfer deep into Wadi Rum for an off-road adventure among the desert dunes. After a day exploring the mysteries of Petra, head north along the historic King's Highway to end your trip in the vibrant capital of Amman.

Women walking along the ancient amphitheater of Amman

Jordan History & Heritage: Amman, Petra & Wadi Rum - 7 Days

From the earliest human settlements to thriving modern cities, you'll delve deep into the cultural history of Jordan on this fascinating, week-long itinerary. Tour Roman ruins and modernist mosques in Amman, then head south to explore the archaeological wonders of Petra. After a night of Bedouin hospitality in the rugged deserts of Wadi Rum, you'll make your way back to the capital—stopping off for a quick dip in the Dead Sea along the way.

The Golden Gate at Jerusalem's Temple Mount

Jordan & Israel Panorama - 13 Days

Explore some of the most important cultural and religious sites of the Middle East on this 13-day journey through Jordan and Israel. After checking off Jordanian highlights like Amman, Petra, and the Dead Sea, you'll cross the border into Israel to gaze across the Sea of Galilee in Tiberias, stroll through ancient olive groves in the Garden of Gethsemane, and discover historic and holy landmarks throughout Jerusalem's Old City.

Explore the ancient Nabataean city of Petra

Jordan & Israel Panorama - 9 Days

This 9-day tour starts in Jordan, where modern meets ancient in the capital of Amman. Visit Greco-Roman ruins and medieval castles, then make your way south to Petra to wander the carved canyons of the "Rose City." After a day of downtime on the tranquil Dead Sea, hop over to Israel to explore Biblical sites like Nazareth and Tiberias, see the magnificent Hanging Gardens above Haifa, and explore the cultural and religious highlights of Jerusalem's Old City.

End your trip floating in the soothing waters of the Dead Sea

Ancient Jordan & the Golden Triangle - 9 Days

Culture and history meet beach vacation on this nine-day journey through Jordan. Start in Amman and make your way south along the King's Highway toward Petra—visiting museums, mountains, and castles en route. After touring the temples and canyons of the "Rose City," venture into the desert of Wadi Rum for off-road explorations and Bedouin-style camping. Transfer to Aqaba to soak up some sun on the Red Sea, then head north to the Dead Sea to end your trip floating in its blissful waters.

Panama in April: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

Panama's dry season comes to a soggy end later in April, but you can enjoy some idyllic beach time earlier in the month. Read on to learn more about making the most of your trip to Panama in April.

Panama in March: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

March is one of the hottest and driest months of the year in Panama. Combine this with the major festival of Easter, and March is a busy time to travel to Panama. Read on to learn more about visiting Panama in March, including where to go and what to do.

Panama in February: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

February falls right in the middle of the dry, high season in Panama. It's an ideal time to hit the beaches on both the Pacific or Caribbean coasts, but you won't have the country to yourself. Read on to learn more about traveling to Panama in February.

Panama in January: Travel Tips, Weather, & More

January is peak season for travel to Panama, and with (mostly) clear skies and hot temperatures, who can blame vacationers for flocking to Panama's beaches at this time? Read on to learn more about traveling to Panama in January.

Hohenschwangau Castle in the Bavarian Alps

Germany in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

In July, summer is in full force in Germany, beckoning visitors with warm sunshine and fun activities. This is a great time to plan a city break, while those looking to skip the crowds can head for smaller towns and lesser-known destinations—especially those near beaches and lakes (and there are plenty of both).

Head to Leipzig this month for classical music at the Bach Festival

Germany in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

June is a spectacular time to visit Germany, with great weather and the longest days of the year—which means more time for exploring city attractions and scenery in the form of mountains, rivers, forests, and lakes. Summer tourists begin to trickle in this month, but you're still ahead of the peak crowds, especially in the first half of the month.

Island-Hop Around South Croatia- 5 Days

Island-hop around southern Croatia on this action-packed five-day tour. The itinerary starts and ends in Dubrovnik, the so-called "Pearl of the Adriatic," where you'll have plenty of time to walk around the city's charming OId Town. You'll spend two nights in the medieval city of Ston, the perfect jumping-off point for exploring the rugged Peljesac Peninsula. Then it's onward to Koločep Island and Lopud Island, where you'll hike on coastal trails overlooking the Adriatic Sea, dine on fresh oysters and mussels, and sample Dingac— the region's renowned red wine—at a local winery. Enjoy one last night on the town in bustling Dubrovnik before the trip ends.

Follow your guide down the Siq Trail in the Mujib Nature Reserve

Jordan's Natural Wonders: Amman, Dana, Petra, Wadi Rum, Aqaba & Dead Sea - 11 Days

Outdoor adventures abound on this 11-day exploration of Jordan's most spectacular deserts, forests, and canyons. Go bird-watching in the wetlands of Azraq, hike through the unique ecosystems of Dana and Ajloun, camp on the red sands of Wadi Rum, and trek along the river canyon of Wadi Mujib. In between active excursions, you'll tour iconic cultural sites like Petra, Jerash, and Umm Qais—then relax and unwind on the beaches of the Red and Dead Seas.

Ancient Jordan & the Golden Triangle: Cities, Deserts & Seas - 15 Days

From Amman to the Dead Sea, this 15-day grand tour immerses you in the incredible culture, history, and hospitality of Jordan. Tour the ancient cities of Jerash and Umm Qais, climb through sandstone canyons to Petra's Monastery, and watch the sunrise over the desert from a Bedouin camp. After some free time on the beaches of Aqaba, you'll head back to the capital via the otherworldly shores of the Dead Sea.

Ancient Jordan & the Golden Triangle - 11 Days

Discover Jordan from north to south on this eventful, 11-day itinerary. Start in Amman to tour ancient cities and desert fortresses, then head south into the Golden Triangle, where cultural antiquities and breathtaking landscapes abound. Stroll through the hidden wonders of Petra and take an off-road adventure into the Wadi Rum, then switch gears for some relaxing downtime on the shores of the Red and Dead Seas.

Jordan & Jerusalem - 8 Days

Combine two countries and countless ancient wonders on this 8-day exploration of Jordan & Israel. Stroll the bustling markets of Amman, explore the rose-colored canyons of Petra, camp among the shifting sands of Wadi Rum, and go for a dip in the salty waters of the Dead Sea. After checking off Jordan's greatest hits, you'll hop over to Jerusalem to visit iconic cultural and religious sites like the Garden of Gethsemane, Temple Mount, and the Wailing Wall.

Trek along the Jordan Trail towards Petra

Trek the Jordan Trail: Dana to Petra & Wadi Rum - 13 Days

Check one of the world's greatest trekking routes off your bucket list with this 13-day adventure along the Jordan Trail. Setting out from the lush valleys of the Dana Biosphere Reserve, you'll hike your way along the scenic route to Petra—spending your evenings surrounded by nature in comfortable Bedouin-style tents. After an epic climb to the hidden back entrance of the sandstone city, transfer into the red sands of Wadi Rum to end your adventure with an unforgettable desert experience—camping, hiking, and riding camels across the "Valley of the Moon."

Iguazú Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil

Explore Iguazú National Park, Rio de Janiero & Búzios- 9 Days

In just nine days, this exciting itinerary introduces you to some of Brazil's most awe-inspiring landscapes, from massive waterfalls to pristine beaches. The itinerary starts in Argentina — Iguazú Falls span the border between Argentina and Brazil — with a few days of hiking and boating around the spectacular cascades. Then you'll catch a flight to Rio de Janeiro, where world-famous sights like Corcovado and Sugar Loaf Mountain await. Detour to Búzios for a few days of sailing, sunbathing, and fun on the beach. Then wrap up the itinerary with one more full day in Rio before catching a flight out.

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