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active 8 hours ago

Ruth Grau

I grew up in small outback towns in South Australia before starting in the travel industry in Adelaide. After working many years in Sales & Marketing with tour companies, wholesalers and airlines, I headed off to the United States in 1994 for a ‘brief stint’. I started the US operation of an Australian tour company, and was Vice President of a South Pacific wholesaler for 7 years. I am married to and working with co-owner Warren Grau, a mother of 2 and am both a US and Australian citizen. We started Springboard Vacations in 2001.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in creating customized itineraries throughout the South Pacific for singles, couples, families and small groups. I like to find unique and interesting ways for travelers to get to know our destinations. So instead of a coach city sights tour, I like to offer a guided bike riding tour, or a walk with an indigenous guide, a pub crawl through historic pubs, a progressive dinner to the hottest new restaurants or a surfing lesson with a local. We like to include romantic moments, family bonding experiences, a chance to meet locals in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, Vanuatu, the Cook Islands, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and New Caledonia. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"I was an exchange student in Germany when I was 15 years old. It changed my life and set me on a path to travel the world. When I started working as a professional photographer, I traveled as often as I could. By age 22 I had moved into the travel industry and started exploring the globe seriously. As the song says... no matter how far I roam, I still call Australia home! I am passionate and excited about discovering new and interesting experiences within the South Pacific and creating unique and authentic experiences for my clients."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I was in New Zealand traveling through the north east of the country. It had been a long day and I had not eaten much so I was hungry and in a pretty bad mood. I just wanted to eat and go to bed but I had committed to doing a night kayaking trip. As I get kitted out and organized with my co-kayaker I was not in a good place and the thought of paddling upstream in the growing dark was not improving my mood. We struggled to coordinate our paddling and wound up in frustrating circles. Eventually we got it together and headed up stream. It has hard work and the night grew dark. Then it came time to paddle into a cave grotto. It was pitch dark and you could not see your hand in front of your face. Our group of kayakers were all silently entered the small cave and sat in the pitch dark. The guide then turned on a red right which caused thousands and thousands of glow worms to... well glow! It was magical! It felt like we were inside Christmas! It was truly awesome to sit in the blackness and be surrounded by the sparkle of these tiny creatures. Mother Nature is so awesome and unpredictable. It was so incredibly captivating and unexpected. No-one uttered a sound but it was an emotional and spiritual experience. As we left the cave some time later to head back, the moon had risen and cast an ethereal silver light across the water as we floated downstream and back home. In the silence we absorbed the display that nature had provided. It was truly an amazing and humbling experience, in a little known area of New Zealand that almost no-one visits. I will never forget it.
Its these life changing moments that I love to find for my clients. "

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Recent trip reviews for Ruth

Sydney & Cairns Australia
Australia | Mar 27 - Apr 7, 2025

Greg
Greg A.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Apr 14, 2025
*QTBondi- Sydney trendy hotel & area
*Majestic Express Dinner Cruise- go early & enjoy the harbor boardwalk! Upgraded to a different cruise - lovely experience- best views are from the upper outdoor deck! Dining room was quite noisy- outdoor was quiet and comfortable!
*Pacific Hotel- Cairns Australia
Excellent! Lovely hotel right in the heart of the area. Walking distance to markets, restaurants & the harbor!
*Full Day-Ocean Free- sailing & snorkel!
Ocean free is the best! ...
Read more

*QTBondi- Sydney trendy hotel & area
*Majestic Express Dinner Cruise- go early & enjoy the harbor boardwalk! Upgraded to a different cruise - lovely experience- best views are from the upper outdoor deck! Dining room was quite noisy- outdoor was quiet and comfortable!

*Pacific Hotel- Cairns Australia
Excellent! Lovely hotel right in the heart of the area. Walking distance to markets, restaurants & the harbor!

*Full Day-Ocean Free- sailing & snorkel!
Ocean free is the best! The crew was exceptional- the sail was exceptional! Sail out 1.5 hours to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling (safe & fun) ! Tour Green Island- beautiful! Sail, snorkel & island exploration are at your own pace - excellent! Crew encouraged everyone to do what they felt most comfortable with. We are 69 years old and did everything with ease! This is a trip not to be missed! Definitely a highlight!
Note: snorkeling water was a little murky & the current was strong but worth every minute !

*Daintree Cape Tribulation- full day tour.
Hotel pick up- small group- this tour has it all!
Scenic route- beautiful! Guided rainforest tour! Cape tribulation - where the rainforest meets the reef- short walk & beautiful view!
Lunch, ice cream, ferry ride, river cruise!
The highlight of this tour is the rainforest tour & the people you will meet! Your guide stays with the group all day and is very knowledgeable about the area! Go & enjoy!

**ALL private cars and transports were on time & exceptional vehicles & drivers!
**ALL flights were on time!

Kim Kim did a good job planning & providing us with the adventure we wanted. Definitely would use them again for future trips!

Hotel Review
Pacific Hotel Cairns
Cairns
Authenticity & Character
Location
Walking distance to everything we did!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day Ocean Free (from Hotel)
Full Day Ocean Free (from Hotel)
Cairns
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great crew!
Transport
Full Day Daintree Cape Tribulation (was & 4WD Bloomfield)
Full Day Daintree Cape Tribulation (was & 4WD Bloomfield)
Australia
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was very well informed and shared his knowledge about the area !
Transport
Sydney Private Transfer Airport to  Hotel
Sydney Private Transfer Airport to Hotel
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cairns Private Transfer Cairns Hotel to Airport
Cairns Private Transfer Cairns Hotel to Airport
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Magistic Express Dinner Cruise
Magistic Express Dinner Cruise
Sydney

Views are incredible! Dining room is a bit noisy - go to the upper deck to enjoy the quiet and exceptional views of the harbor!

Quality of Experience
Food
Sydney Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cairns Private Transfer Airport to Cairns Hotel
Cairns Private Transfer Airport to Cairns Hotel
Australia
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau

Trip to New Zealand and Australia
Australia | Mar 8 - Mar 27, 2025

Sonya
Sonya B.
Gadsden, AL | Reviewed on Apr 04, 2025
The trip eventually worked out fine, but the response time for my questions in the planning stage was much much slower than I had experienced with KimKim in the past. I had sent very detailed information as to what places we wanted to visit and what tours we wanted to have. But I don’t think they were ever read in detail because the trip plan kept having tours listed, I didn’t want and hotels in locations such as near the airport instead of the city center as I had requested. But eventually... Read more

The trip eventually worked out fine, but the response time for my questions in the planning stage was much much slower than I had experienced with KimKim in the past. I had sent very detailed information as to what places we wanted to visit and what tours we wanted to have. But I don’t think they were ever read in detail because the trip plan kept having tours listed, I didn’t want and hotels in locations such as near the airport instead of the city center as I had requested. But eventually everything came together, I just had to spend much more time reviewing the plan than I had on our past trips to get things corrected. Also, we were not informed that we would have to find transportation from our hotel to our tour in Rotorua and would not be able to walk from our hotel as with our other tours. The tours were all fine but we were not informed about things such as being able to take the tour to Phillips Island without having dinner included, which we would have chosen had we been given the option. Most the hotels were fine. Out of the 9 hotels we stayed in on our trip only 2 were places we would never stay at again and wish we had not stayed at this time. I guess the most important thing is everything turned out fine in the end but with the price we paid I guess I expected to not have to put as much work into the planning as I did.

Hotel Reviews
Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre
Auckland

They would not allow us to check in early after arriving from a long international flight but when we were able to check in they upgraded us to room on a higher floor with a great view.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing in looks that was special but was a nice and clean hotel we enjoyed staying in.
Location
Very centrally located in the downtown area.
Staff
They were helpful when we needed to make a call or needed help with directions when we checked in but the check out person was very unfriendly. We had breakfast included but had an early departure before it started so they packed us a breakfast. They shouldn't have bothered. Not much in it, nothing to drink, not even water. When we asked at the desk if they could give us something to drink, we were told no.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The day we were able to have breakfast at the hotel it was more than we expected with lots of selection. Which is why we were so disappointed with the packed breakfast they supplied us the next day when we had an early check out.
Millennium Hotel Queenstown
queesntown

Room was fine but we had a long walk to our room from the registration desk with lots of luggage to carry.

Authenticity & Character
Everything was fine but nothing special.
Location
We were able to walk to places we wanted to see.
Staff
Friendly enough but nothing stands out.
Cleanliness & Comfort
I guess someone has to stay in the rooms far from the front desk and breakfast area but it wasn't nice for seniors.
Regent of Rotorua
Rotorua

Nice hotel with convenient location.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing really special but clean and nice enough.
Location
In the downtown area so convenient for walking to most places.
Staff
Nothing stood out as special.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everthing was clean and comfortable.
Crowne Plaza Christchurch
Christchurch Central

Nice hotel with good location. The upgraded us to an upper floor with a city view.

Authenticity & Character
Very nice with good location.
Location
Convenient for walking around to see things.
Staff
Very friendly and helpful staff. They upgraded us to a room on a higher floor with a city view.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room was very clean and spacious.
The Hermitage Hotel
Mount Cook Village

The view from our room was amazing. Breakfast was very good with lots of selection.

Authenticity & Character
It has a beautiful view from the hotel.
Location
Close to the visitor's center but wish it had been closer to some of the trailheads.
Staff
Staff was friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean room with two queen beds which was very comfortable, and a amazing view.
Adina Apartment Hotel Melbourne on Queen
Melbourne

We had a one bedroom apartment that had a washer and dryer but it didn't feel like the room was very clean. I found trash in the area to make tea and coffee. It was a convenient location.

Authenticity & Character
Room could be cleaner and dryer didn't work well. It took all night to dry one load of laundry. Had to put in just a few pieces at a time and leave for a long time.
Location
Good location for walking around the city.
Staff
Not very friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Not very clean. Wouldn't stay again or recommend.
Desert Gardens Hotel
Yulara

The registration area was very nice but the rooms could have been better. Also the landing outside our room was never sweep while we were there and had lots of leaves. There were no elevators and they put my 83 year old husband and myself on the second floor. We broke the handle on one suitcase trying to drag it up and down the stairs. Also we were told our room was not ready at the check in time.

Authenticity & Character
Nothing special just alright.
Location
Close enough to walk to things that were available.
Staff
Most were friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
It was clean enough but without an elevator it was difficult for us to manage our luggage.
Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns
Cairns

Very nice hotel with a beautiful view from our room.

Authenticity & Character
There was a beautiful view from the hotel.
Location
Able to walk around to the places we wanted to go.
Staff
All the staff were very friendly and very helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The room was very comfortable with a beautiful view from our room.
Rendezvous Hotel Sydney The Rocks
The Rocks

This was supposed to be a 4 star hotel but it could barely be called a 3 star at best. The carpet looked dirty, the bathroom needed an update, and you had an overall feeling it was not clean. We were suppose to have a harbor view but 90 percent of the time we were there it was blocked by cruise ships and we couldn't see anything. The one time for a few hours at night the cruise ships were gone it was a beautiful view of the harbor and opera house. The only thing good about the room.

Authenticity & Character
Not a very nice hotel. Wouldn't stay again there.
Location
Location was good and we were able to walk to the opera house.
Staff
All the staff were very nice.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Did not feel clean so we were not very comfortable.
Activity Reviews
Full Day Daintree Cape Tribulation (was & 4WD Bloomfield)
Full Day Daintree Cape Tribulation (was & 4WD Bloomfield)
Australia

Nice but a long day so I probably could have skipped.

Quality of Experience
Alright but nothing outstanding.
Food
Lunch was alright not great.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was good.
Transport
Long drive.
Full Day Akaroa & Harbour Cruise
Full Day Akaroa & Harbour Cruise
Christchurch

Our guide Peter was very nice. Our tour information said we would have either morning or afternoon tea, but it didn't happen. The lunch that was included was very good at Akaroa. Harbor Cruise with George was nice. We saw hector dolphins, seals and albatroses.

Quality of Experience
Cruise was nice and lunch was very good.
Food
Our lunch was excellent.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Peter was very good and very nice.
Transport
Comfortable.
Skyline Gondola Ride
Skyline Gondola Ride
Queenstown (NZ)

It is a beautiful view from the top.

Quality of Experience
It was an awesome view from the top that shouldn't be missed.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. One of the girls working walked us all the way to the top to show us how to take pictures that we could download on our phone or computer.
Transport
The trip up to the top was fun.
Full Day Marine World Outer Great Barrier Reef
Full Day Marine World Outer Great Barrier Reef
Australia

Enjoyed that you could experience the reef without getting wet.

Quality of Experience
Enjoyed that we could enjoy the reef without getting wet with the semi-submersible, and underwater observatory.
Food
Buffet on the pontoon was good.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The staff on the boat and pontoon were outstanding.
Transport
The trip out to the reef was comfortable.
Half Day Mount Cook Tour (Christchurch to Mt Cook)
Half Day Mount Cook Tour (Christchurch to Mt Cook)
Christchurch

Nice trip with beautiful views.

Quality of Experience
Views were very nice.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Joseph was very good. We were suppose to have bottled water and a picnic lunch which we had and was very good. But our guide also gave us snacks at every stop, such as chips, cookies and chocolate.
Transport
Transportation was comfortable.
Afternoon Tour (Mount Cook/Queenstown) (Shared Small Group Tour)
Afternoon Tour (Mount Cook/Queenstown) (Shared Small Group Tour)
Aoraki / Mount Cook Village

Maary our guide and driver was very good. We were supposed to have water and snacks and we did. We were supposed to get back at 6:30 but it was 7:30 before we reached.

Quality of Experience
Nice trip.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was nice.
Transport
Reached an hour late which wasn't expected.
Auckland Private Transfer Domestic Airport to Hotel
Auckland Private Transfer Domestic Airport to Hotel
New Zealand

Driver was not inside airport but texted where he was an parked so we didn't have to walk at all. He also helped with the luggage and was very friendly.

Quality of Experience
Driver helpful and friendly.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was very friendly and helpful.
Transport
Vehicle was comfortable.
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Queenstown (NZ)

It was a long day. We were supposed to meet at a bus stop that was not marked. Picnic lunch was very bad. Nature cruise had nice views but only saw a few seals on a rock, no penquins, dolphins or any other animals that were mentioned we would see. Straight 4 hour drive back with one 15 minute stop for coffee.

Quality of Experience
A long day. If I did it again I would not do it as a day trip.
Food
Picnic lunch was bad.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was nice.
Transport
It was comfortable but too long a drive.
Morning SEIT Uluru Highlights
Morning SEIT Uluru Highlights
Uluru

Herman our guide was good. Enjoyed getting lots of views of Uluru.

Quality of Experience
Small group tour which was nice.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Herman was very good.
Transport
Van was comfortable.
Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise
Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise
Auckland

Captain was very friendly and nice. We were told we would get tea or coffee and a cookie. We did not get that but were offered water or juice.

Quality of Experience
Fun to be on a sail boat.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Captain was friendly and nice.
Transport
Was easy to walk to from our hotel.
TE Puia:  Te Ra Guided Experience 90 minutes) + Cultural Performance
TE Puia: Te Ra Guided Experience 90 minutes) + Cultural Performance
New Zealand

Was a nice tour but not anything special.

Quality of Experience
Nothing to improve but not a top experience on our trip.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hotel staff and drivers were fine.
Transport
Would have liked to have transportation provided from our hotel to Te Puia.
Full Day Phillip Island & Moonlit + Penguin Plus with Dinner
Full Day Phillip Island & Moonlit + Penguin Plus with Dinner
Melbourne

Guide was nice. We enjoyed Moonlit feeding the kangaroos and seeing the other animals. Penguin Plus was fun getting to see the penquin parade. Sad we couldn't take pictures, but were happy they had pictures and videos you could download. We were the only ones on the tour with dinner included. We were not told that it was an option to not have dinner included and would have liked to have had the option.

Quality of Experience
Enjoyed seeing the animals.
Food
Food was fine, but should have been told we didn't have to pay for it as part of the tour package but could have purchased what we wanted on our own.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was nice and spent time finding penquins we could see in the wild.
Transport
Confortable trip.
Auckland Best of Both World:  Bush and Beach  - Full day
Auckland Best of Both World: Bush and Beach - Full day
Auckland

Was a fun day. Saw lots of places. Guides were good.

Quality of Experience
Saw lots of places and enjoyed.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides were very good. They offered juice and cookies in the afternoon.
Transport
Transportation was comfortable.
Evening Field of Light Pass
Evening Field of Light Pass
Uluru

It was very beautiful and I would recommend.

Quality of Experience
It is very beautiful and I would recommend.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The drivers were efficient dealing with a large bus of people.
Transport
It was a large bus, but it was fine since the drive was close.
Full Day Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves (Auckland to Rotorua)
Full Day Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves (Auckland to Rotorua)
Auckland

Driver was nice enough. Tours alright especially for Lord of the Rings fans. Were not able to take pictures at the Waitomo caves which was a disappointment.

Quality of Experience
If you can't take pictures in the caves they should have some you can download.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Nice enough.
Transport
Comfortable.
Welcome to Rotorua
Welcome to Rotorua
Rotorua

Worth a visit. We were not told that our tour of Te Puia was not within walking distance of our hotel and we had to figure out how to use uber (we are seniors and had not used before).

Quality of Experience
Nothing to suggest for improvement but not the best thing we did on our trip.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Staff at hotel was fine as were drivers to Rotorua.
Transport
Would have liked transportation already arranged for our trip to Te Puia.
Afternoon/Evening Wintjiri Wiru Twilight
Afternoon/Evening Wintjiri Wiru Twilight
Uluru

Very nice experience. Enjoyed the drinks and snacks while watching the show. Wish we had been allowed to take pictures or videos.

Quality of Experience
Nice show but wish they had had pictures and videos of the show we could download since we were not allowed to take our own.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was nice.
Transport
Large bus but only a short way from the hotel.
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights
Sydney

I didn't really feel that we saw much of Sydney.

Quality of Experience
Alright but could probably spend time better doing something else.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was informative.
Transport
Comfortable but didn't feel I saw much.
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney

Great tour would recommend.

Quality of Experience
Nice tour.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great guide.
Transport
Close enough from our hotel to walk.
Full Day Blue Mountains Deluxe Day
Full Day Blue Mountains Deluxe Day
Sydney

I would recommend. Calmsley Hill Farms was great. Really enjoyed getting close with the animals. Beautiful lookouts. Lunch was alright not great. Tour said we would get wine or OJ in the afternoon but only wine was offered, so nothing for people who don't drink alcohol.

Quality of Experience
Calmsley Farms was the best part.
Food
Lunch was alright and nothing was offered for people who don't drink wine.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was nice.
Transport
Comfortable trip.
Local specialist: Ruth Grau

Induction to Australia
Australia | Jan 28 - Feb 6, 2025

Barbara
Barbara B.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Apr 02, 2025

Ruth planned a fabulous itinerary based on my interests. Details were well-planned and communicated. Transportation and excursions went smoothly with no snafus. I especially enjoyed the Kuranda Skyrail and Rail Adventure from Cairns and the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gold Coast. Brisbane and Sydney are clean and beautiful cities. I felt completely safe throughout my solo and small group travels in Australia. Breathtaking scenery and friendly locals!

Local specialist: Ruth Grau

Great Customized Australian Trip.
Australia | Feb 26 - Mar 9, 2025

Rich
Rich A.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Mar 29, 2025
We asked Ruth our advisor to developer a customized two week trip in Australia. She suggested cities to visit, number of days in each along with activities to make our visit memorable. We were not disappointed. Our trip included the cities of Sydney, Uluru, Port Douglas and Melbourne. All provided a variety of sights, culture and adventure. The hotel accommodations were fabulous, the tours came off as planned while action packed as we requested. We’ll definitely be using KimKim again in... Read more

We asked Ruth our advisor to developer a customized two week trip in Australia. She suggested cities to visit, number of days in each along with activities to make our visit memorable. We were not disappointed. Our trip included the cities of Sydney, Uluru, Port Douglas and Melbourne. All provided a variety of sights, culture and adventure. The hotel accommodations were fabulous, the tours came off as planned while action packed as we requested. We’ll definitely be using KimKim again in the future.

Hotel Reviews
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour
Sydney

Great location, friendly staff, newly renovated.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Desert Gardens Hotel
Yulara
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Villa San Michele
Port Douglas
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Vibe Hotel
Melbourne
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day Unchartered Blue Mountains
Full Day Unchartered Blue Mountains
Sydney

Beautiful views … a bit long, but lots to see and do.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Sydney Classic Tour (Bike)
Half Day Sydney Classic Tour (Bike)
Sydney

Fun way to visit sights and learn the history of Sydney.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Magistic Express Dinner Cruise
Magistic Express Dinner Cruise
Sydney

Nice harbor views at sunset with a great dinner and entertainment to end the evening.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney

Great informative tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Full Day Phillip Island + Penguin Plus  with Dinner
Full Day Phillip Island + Penguin Plus with Dinner
Melbourne

A long day or touring that culminated in the Penguin Parade. Worth the time Lots to see and do. The animal zoo we visited in the morning seemed a bit sparse compared to another we visited outside of Sydney.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner
Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner
Uluru

Beautiful evening adventure.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Uluru Sunrise & Kata Tjuta Visit
Uluru Sunrise & Kata Tjuta Visit
Uluru

Love the sunrise, history and traditions shared.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A Night at Field of Light
A Night at Field of Light
Uluru

Beautiful presentation …. Nice meal.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay (from Port Douglas Hotel)
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay (from Port Douglas Hotel)
Port Douglas

Snorkeling was fun…. Was hoping for more aquatic fish, creatures, etc. Lunch was good.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Mossman Gorge Adventure Day
Full Day Mossman Gorge Adventure Day
Australia

Fun while exploring the outdoors. A good combination of river floating, hiking and culture.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Lanes and Arcades Tour - Shared tour
Morning Lanes and Arcades Tour - Shared tour
Melbourne

A walking nice tour our many sights and attraction in Melbourne.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Port Douglas
Welcome to Port Douglas
Port Douglas
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Apr 01, 2025

Thank you Rich! It was great working with you on your trip!
Ruth

Amazing trip to Australia and New Zealand
Australia | Dec 21 - Jan 5, 2025

R
Ryan W.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jan 16, 2025
We took a large group of 13 people to Australia and New Zealand. Our group consisted of two brothers, our families (each with 4 kids ranging from age 8 to age 16) and our mother (grandma). A group that large created some logistical issues, but kimkim was fantastic in taking care of all of the details in booking our accommodations, transportation, and activities. In Australia, the highlights were the penguin parade on Philip Island (doing the Penguin Plus seats was a must), and our road... Read more

We took a large group of 13 people to Australia and New Zealand. Our group consisted of two brothers, our families (each with 4 kids ranging from age 8 to age 16) and our mother (grandma). A group that large created some logistical issues, but kimkim was fantastic in taking care of all of the details in booking our accommodations, transportation, and activities.

In Australia, the highlights were the penguin parade on Philip Island (doing the Penguin Plus seats was a must), and our road trip on the Great Ocean Road. Seeing wildlife in the wild was important to us, and we were able to see koalas, wallabies, kangaroos, and many birds -- all in the wild! We were also very impressed with the sights: Loch Ard Gorge, Bay of Islands, London Bridge, and 12 Apostles were stunning.

In New Zealand, we visited both North and South Islands. In Queenstown, we loved our accommodations at Break Through: the Point. Day trips to Milford Sound and Walter Peak Farm were great. But the absolute best was the Shotover Jet. It is an absolute must-do in Queenstown.

On the North Island, we really liked Hobbiton, Glow Worm caves, and a night time treetop walk in the Red Woods in Rotorua. My family absolutely loved ziplining with Canopy Tours in Rotorua. Our guides there were the best.

Overall great trip and kimkim helped make it all happen!

Hotel Review
BreakFree The Point
Queenstown

Spacious accommodations with absolutely stunning views. Our family of 6 fit very comfortably and loved our stay here. It is located right on the lake front and the views cannot be overstated. It also has easy access to biking/walking trails. The only downside is that it is about a 30 minute walk from downtown. But it is a beautiful walk!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Beautiful lake side location, but far from downtown, restaurants, shopping, etc
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Jan 20, 2025

Thanks Ryan, Richard and Eileen
It was fun to design a trip for your extended family and I am so thrilled that you enjoyed your trip! There was a lot packed into your time and I am most happy that everyone seemed to have a different favorite thing! Thanks for booking with me!
Ruth

5 stars to everybody involved
New Zealand | Oct 22 - Nov 15, 2024

Nikola
Nikola J.
Vietnam | Reviewed on Nov 16, 2024
I went with the idea to explore the nature of New Zealand and boy did it deliever. I am extremely happy with how things were organized; with all the guides involved and Ruth and Sherry for helping to put everything together and help with the glitches.
I do suggest to anybody doing the same trip to leave some days extra for added exploring on the scene, some things will amaze you on the way, and to leave some extra time to reschedule tours that unfortunately don’t happen due to unforeseen...
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I went with the idea to explore the nature of New Zealand and boy did it deliever. I am extremely happy with how things were organized; with all the guides involved and Ruth and Sherry for helping to put everything together and help with the glitches.
I do suggest to anybody doing the same trip to leave some days extra for added exploring on the scene, some things will amaze you on the way, and to leave some extra time to reschedule tours that unfortunately don’t happen due to unforeseen reasons.
I missed a few things due to weather conditions and had no time to reschedule, but I also found some things on the way that were a surprise.

Activity Reviews
Half Day Black Abyss Trip
Half Day Black Abyss Trip
Waitomo

Unbelievable experience. A friend recommended me this and she was spot on for this. One of the highlights of the whole trip was going back on the tubes, looking at the lighted ceiling and listening to history of the cave and glow worms.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
New Zealand

When I first booked this, I was a bit skeptical, but I was very wrong. The tour is well organized, the village is really beautiful and the scenery does get you to Hobbit/Lord of the rings mood.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Cultural Food Tours City Meander
Morning Cultural Food Tours City Meander
Christchurch

Really nice city tour with a local. She showed us small, easy to miss details of the city that were very interesting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Nov 17, 2024

Yah!!!! I am so happy to read your review and hear that you loved all your experiences!! New Zealand really is an awesome place (even if the weather does not always do what we want 100% of the time!) Welcome home and thanks for booking with me.

Ruth

Perfect trip!
Fiji | Jul 29 - Aug 19, 2024

Ashley
Ashley B.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Aug 22, 2024
Perfect trip! Hopped around to a couple of the islands and had zero troubles with any of the transfers or resorts. Awesome, thanks! Read more

Perfect trip! Hopped around to a couple of the islands and had zero troubles with any of the transfers or resorts. Awesome, thanks!

Hotel Reviews
Fiji Gateway Hotel
Nadi

We stayed in 4.5 star hotels around Fiji and for some reason the Gateway just hits different! We loved our two stops here while breaking up the trip between different islands. The food was great, bed comfy, rooms cold, the chai tea was to die for and the music was awesome. My hubby and I joked we would be back and just stay and hang at the Gateway!

Authenticity & Character
Location
walking to airport
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fiji Gateway Hotel
Nadi

We stayed in 4.5 star hotels around Fiji and for some reason the Gateway just hits different! We loved our two stops here while breaking up the trip between different islands. The food was great, bed comfy, rooms cold, the chai tea was to die for and the music was awesome. My hubby and I joked we would be back and just stay and hang at the Gateway!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Matamanoa Island Resort
Mamanuca Islands, Nadi

Healthy, breath taking reef! For those new or in love with snorkeling you couldn't pick a better location. Shallow, gorgeous coral surround the island. We loved the massages and walking around the island. Rooms were amazinggggg. Only downside is no dogs on the island. Silly I know but we loved playing with the dogs on the other islands :)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Navutu Stars
Yaqeta Island

If my husband ever goes missing, I know to look for him at Navutu stars. Yes, I loved the resort too, but he said of all the places we have traveled around the world, this place just felt different. The people are authentic. Yes, they are in hospitality and you can tell but they were also just genuine and kind. I have worked in hospitality and nothing from them felt forced. Just great people. AND GREAT DOGS! If you love dogs, just stay here your entire vacation. I was about to pack Elsa in my suitcase, Dolly, Rocky and Snow White could come too. If you don't like dogs, they will leave you alone. I can say, of the 10 bures... those dogs had 9 of us fighting over them. Excursions were fun and adventurous. We hold very fond memories of this place, the people and the pups!

Authenticity & Character
What amazing people. I wish I would have went to the village to meet more of them.
Location
wow! Worth the long boat ride.
Staff
Authentic
Cleanliness & Comfort
Note, there is no air conditioning however the breeze is strong and the rooms were comfortable
Matangi Private Island Resort
Matangi Island

So much fun. Daily free snorkels and meals included. The BEST food we have had around Fiji by FAR and we stayed at many nice resorts. Everything was yummy. The ridge hike kicked our A$$ in the best way. (don't do it if you're scared of spiders, they do give you sticks). The shoreline hike was peaceful. The village singers and dancers were awesome and the little dance part after was a blast. Even the people who said they wouldn't participate were dancing and having a great time. How could you not. The massage was amazingggggggg and all the animals were awesome. Give Missy, Mary and Lucky some pats for me! I also loved that the visitors all enjoyed the friendly game of stealing the orange cat off of each others front porches. Such a friendly little sweetie! All the staff were great but we definitely enjoyed our free diving chats with bartender Jon, Dan telling us his story and about his time here in Colorado and our snorkels with the activity shack boys. The private time on the bay is a MUST for those who love snorkeling. Well done.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Jons the man!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Navutu Stars Complimentary Activities
Navutu Stars Complimentary Activities
Yasawa

Honestly everything was perfect and the dogs were great adventure buddies if you wanted them there. Hiking, kayak or laying on the beach. They would hang if you asked them to :)

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Navutu Stars Charged Activities
Navutu Stars Charged Activities
Yasawa

ADVENTURE! So fun! Loved the cave but long, wet, boat rides. Snorkeling tends to not be from a beach but a boat so check with them about that if you are scared of deep water. Beautiful reef!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Taveuni
Welcome to Taveuni
Taveuni

Wow that was a small plane (but safe and fun!). The views were awesome!!!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Sep 01, 2024

I really enjoyed working with Ashley on this trip and I am so pleased that you loved everything! Thanks also for your great feedback! Anytime the South Pacific calls to you again I am here for you! I loved that you knew the feel of what you wanted the trip to be so I could match locations that suited you!

Overcharged& Poor Communication
Fiji | May 21 - May 31, 2024

Heather
Heather G.
West Point, VA | Reviewed on Jun 07, 2024
This was our 2nd international trip with Kimkim. The first was in Greece- exceptional communication & tours were exactly as described. We had a couple of things that concerned us this time. First- our first tour - we (& another couple at a different resort) were told by Rosie that the transportation to the tour was a 40min drive. It was 3hours each way! Due to another stop for another party- 6 hours on a bus-longer than the tour. Also- ended up with car sickness.
Second: we knew the surfing...
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This was our 2nd international trip with Kimkim. The first was in Greece- exceptional communication & tours were exactly as described. We had a couple of things that concerned us this time. First- our first tour - we (& another couple at a different resort) were told by Rosie that the transportation to the tour was a 40min drive. It was 3hours each way! Due to another stop for another party- 6 hours on a bus-longer than the tour. Also- ended up with car sickness.
Second: we knew the surfing needed to be booked on & paid on site. We were told to book dives onsite with due to levels & sites- BUT we were led to believe it 2dives 2 days were paid for in our price. This was even listed under “The included” section in our itinerary. We were approached to pay upon check-out. Ruth then stated she explained we had to book onsite to the owner & said she told us more than once- Not the case- we did not know it wasn’t paid for. Super disappointed & pretty sure with the amount of money we have spent on this trip - I would not recommend Kimkim again.

Hotel Reviews
InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
Natadola, Fiji
Authenticity & Character
Too American like
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Malolo Island Resort
Nadi Airport
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Paradise Taveuni
Waiyevo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Transportation guide was a bit uncomfortable- personal truck that was very dirty & smelled very bad-just needs to be cleaned -
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beds were super hard
Activity Reviews
Jewel of Fiji Tour
Jewel of Fiji Tour
Fiji
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Was told 40 min drive was 3 hours each way
Welcome to Fiji !
Welcome to Fiji !
Fiji
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Cave Tour
Half Day Cave Tour
Fiji
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Taveuni
Welcome to Taveuni
Taveuni
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Diving in Taveuni
Diving in Taveuni
Taveuni
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Jun 25, 2024
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and for choosing Kimkim for your travels once again. I was so sorry to hear about the challenges you faced during your trip to Fiji as I so enjoyed planning this trip with with Carrie, although I'm glad you enjoyed yourself overall. We pride ourselves on a high level of service so I really do appreciate the opportunity to address these issues. Regarding the extended travel time on your first tour, it seems there was an unusual delay due to... Read more

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and for choosing Kimkim for your travels once again. I was so sorry to hear about the challenges you faced during your trip to Fiji as I so enjoyed planning this trip with with Carrie, although I'm glad you enjoyed yourself overall. We pride ourselves on a high level of service so I really do appreciate the opportunity to address these issues.

Regarding the extended travel time on your first tour, it seems there was an unusual delay due to additional time spent picking up another group. While this isn't typical of the tours we book for our travelers, I understand how unexpected delays like this can impact your experiences. We're in discussions with our local tour provider to better understand what happened and see what we can do to prevent such occurrences in the future.

For the dive tours, it appears there was some confusion regarding the booking and payment process when I mentioned you would need to "book" them upon arrival due to Fiji hotels' requirements—I understand now that it was misunderstood that they had been prepaid. We aim for utmost clarity in our communications, and I apologize if the details provided were not as clear as they could have been. I'm reviewing how we present this information in our itineraries to ensure everything is much more straightforward and transparent. We do not get rates for booking diving as the resorts like to book this directly with the guests so they can ensure all the proper documentation is right and confirm experience etc.

I truly appreciate your feedback, as it helps me improve our service for all our travelers. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or need additional clarification.

Ruth

The trip was great!
New Zealand | Mar 24 - Apr 6, 2024

C
Carlos R.
Puerto Rico | Reviewed on Apr 07, 2024
The trip was great! Is was our honeymoon and it will be unforgettable for both of us. Organization was great. Accommodations were great. Transportation was great and always on time. All tours were excellent and provided the experiences that we were looking for in all cities. Our planner Ruth did an amazing job!!! Read more

The trip was great! Is was our honeymoon and it will be unforgettable for both of us. Organization was great. Accommodations were great. Transportation was great and always on time. All tours were excellent and provided the experiences that we were looking for in all cities. Our planner Ruth did an amazing job!!!

Hotel Review
Garden Court Suites & Apartments
Queenstown

Great space. Amazing view from the balcony. Had a washer and dryer which was helpful for our trip. Very close to the city center.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Morning  Best of Melbourne by Bike
Morning Best of Melbourne by Bike
Melbourne

Great way to see the city in a timely and fun fashion. Our tour guy Craig was excellent!!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full-Day Jet-Boat Adventure & Funyak River Safari
Full-Day Jet-Boat Adventure & Funyak River Safari
Queenstown (NZ)

Very very fun!! Must do if you go to Queenstown. They provide all equipment: wetsuit, jacket, boots, etc... Staff was great.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Evening Food & Wine Walk
Evening Food & Wine Walk
Melbourne

Must do if you go to Melbourne. This city has so many great restaurants that was very difficult for us select which one to go. Luckly this tour helped us go to 3 great restaurants and taste lots of food in each one along with different wines. Great experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay
Port Douglas

The tour was one of the most amazing things I have ever done. To be able to see the corals close was spectacular. We saw turtles, rays and lots of different fish. The staff is excellent. The full day is an awesome experience. The food was descent. They provide you with all equipment. Never felt safer.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Wildlife, Waterfalls & Wine Trip
Full Day Wildlife, Waterfalls & Wine Trip
Sydney

Great tour. We were able to touch and being very close with Kolas. Took lots of pictures close with them. Also we were able to feed Wallabies and Kangaroos. Wine tasting was great. The lunch was great as well. The tour guide was excellent.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Mossman Gorge Adventure Day
Full Day Mossman Gorge Adventure Day
New Zealand

Guy was a great tour guide! You start with a river tour seeing lots wild life and then you ride the river which was very fun. The lunch was great!! Then the afternoon you go to the forest and can dive into the river which was also cool.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Apr 11, 2024

I am thrilled that you loved your honeymoon! Thanks for booking with me! It was a fun trip to put together and you were really lovely to work with.

Excellent South Australian Trip
Australia | Mar 20 - Apr 3, 2024

Annette
Annette F.
New Zealand | Reviewed on Apr 04, 2024
This is the second time that Ruth has organised an amazing trip for us. We cannot recommend her Australian trips enough. Read more

This is the second time that Ruth has organised an amazing trip for us. We cannot recommend her Australian trips enough.

Hotel Reviews
Barossa Shiraz Estate
Lyndoch

Fantastic place to stay, great location and beautiful surroundings in a private vineyard. Wonderful local provisions provided and super comfortable bed.

Authenticity & Character
Stand alone period villa
Location
5 minutes out of a small country town and local eating places
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything immaculate and very comfortable
Wilpena Pound Resort
Flinders Ranges

Great staff, excellent food. Really good value for food and drink. Good family place. Loved the tours on offer

Authenticity & Character
Very suited to the location,
Location
50 kms from the nearest town, stunning scenery. Set in the bush
Staff
Staff in the restaurant and bar were really accommodating. And the local tour guides excellent
Cleanliness & Comfort
We struggled with the ants in our room.
Clare Country Club
Clare

Lovely hotel, it was a shame that the hotel restaurant was closed over a holiday weekend.

Authenticity & Character
Sited by a lake and a golf course. Lots of birdlife
Location
Not far from Clare town and surrounded by excellent wineries
Staff
Loved the barmaid but can't remember her name!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very comfortable bed and very clean
Crowne Plaza Adelaide
Adelaide

Fantastic room on the 15th floor, beautiful night views of Adelaide

Location
Lots of eating and drinking places close by if you're not going to eat in the hotel restaurant
Staff
Very helpful and polite reception staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wonderful bed and bedding. Beautiful restful room and a decent shower
Activity Reviews
Drop off Rental Car
Australia

Easy to find for pick up and drop off

Guides, Drivers and Staff
All the guides on the tours at Wilpena outdoor do a wonderful job explaining the geology and cultural aspects of their environment
Morning Time Travel & Gorgeous Gorges Tour
Morning Time Travel & Gorgeous Gorges Tour
Flinders Ranges

Jackie was our guide and we thought she was really informative and interesting.

Afternoon Sacred Canyon - Yura Mulka - Cultural Walk
Afternoon Sacred Canyon - Yura Mulka - Cultural Walk
Flinders Ranges

Excellent tour with a local guide who explained the significance of the drawings in the canyon and told stories about his people in a quiet way. Really enjoyed this tour

Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Apr 06, 2024

It was my absolute pleasure working with you again!