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active 4 hours ago

Sebastian Prino

Hi,
My name is Sebastian, a travel agent specializing in France, with a particular focus on outdoor and gastronomic activities. I believe that traveling should be more than just visiting popular tourist destinations; it should be an immersive journey that connects people with the heart and soul of a place. I take pride in crafting itineraries that combine the breathtaking landscapes of France with its rich culinary traditions, ensuring that each trip is a unique and delicious adventure. Whether it's exploring the vineyards of Bordeaux, hiking in the picturesque Alps, or savoring the finest French cuisine in charming bistros, I'm dedicated to creating tailor-made journeys that leave a lasting impression.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I specialize in crafting travel experiences primarily within France.

My expertise extends to the entire country, thanks to my extensive travels throughout its diverse regions. While living in Marseille, I am particularly well-equipped to organize tailor-made trips in the beautiful South of France, which allows me to create unique and personalized itineraries that showcase the culture, landscapes, and hidden gems of the region.

Whether it's the enchanting Provence, the glamorous French Riviera, or the picturesque countryside of the Dordogne, I can design trips that cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.

My aim is to provide the best activities and itineraries for everyone, ensuring that each journey in France is an unforgettable experience."

How did you get involved in travel?

"I was sparked by a life-changing experience. At the age of 20, I embarked on a two-month journey across Europe, and during that trip, I fell in love with the world. The diverse cultures, the rich history, and the breathtaking landscapes I encountered ignited a deep fascination with exploring the globe and it hidden treasures.

This profound connection to travel inspired me to pursue it as a career. After my journey, I decided to formalize my knowledge and commitment to the industry. I enrolled in a program to study tourism, and I dedicated myself to learning the ins and outs of the field. Ultimately, I earned a diploma as both a tour guide and a technical specialist in tourism.

My education and passion have come together to create a career that allows me to share my love for travel with others. I now work as a travel agent, helping people discover France's gems by connecting my clients to great and special experiences led by local people willing to share their culture and secrets.

Travel is not just a job for me; it's a lifelong passion that I'm fortunate to turn into a profession."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"One travel experience I'll never forget is a month-long road trip through Spain with my parents in 2013.
We began our journey by renting a car in Barcelona, and from there, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure. The road led us to some of Spain's most captivating cities, including Madrid, Cordoba, Granada, and Salamanca. Along the way, we explored the rich history and diverse cultures of each place.

From the grandeur of Madrid's royal palace to the mesmerizing beauty of the Alhambra in Granada, the trip was a blend of history, architecture, and culinary delights. What made it truly special was the quality time spent with my parents, sharing stories, laughter, and creating lasting memories.

This road trip remains etched in my heart as an extraordinary and cherished travel experience."

Sebastian is part of the following groups: France Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Favorite experiences

Cruise in the Bay of Marseille & View Château d’If

Enjoy a cruise through the Port of Marseille with a stopover on the island of If to visit the mythical Chateau d'If. For 2,600 years, the Phocean city of Marseille has been the reflection of French history. As you cruise out along the port, enjoy the views of the city's host of monuments,...

Kayak in Calanques National Park

Set just outside of Marseille, you'll find the scenic Calanques National Park. This is one of Europe's newer protected areas, as it was established in 2012. It's unique in that it comprises over 100,000 acres (520 sq km) between Marseilles and the seaside town of La Ciotat, protecting both land...

Verdon Gorge & the Quaint Village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department of southeastern France, an area known for its alpine vistas, limestone mountains, and fields of lavender, is the town of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in the country, it sits at the edge of a rocky peak...

Pastry Tour of Le Marais in Paris

Eating pastries and enjoying art is synonymous with French culture, and you'll get to do plenty of both while in Paris! Start your morning with a tour of the beloved Le Marais neighborhood with a local guide (a neighborhood resident, in fact). Le Marais has played an important part in French...

Loire Valley Wine Tour & Tasting in Vouvray

Explore the Loire Valley wine route and its famed vineyards, full of tradition and passion! Visit two superb estates of the Vouvray Appellation, admire the wonderful vineyard landscapes, and learn how to taste these elegant wines produced from one of the most well-known soils of the Val de Loire...

Discover Lyon on e-Bike

Lyon sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, creating scenic bike paths perfect for city exploration. First, get suited with all your gear, including an easy-to-use e-bike that will allow you to zip up hills without much effort. Then, you'll set off on two wheels to discover Lyon’s...

Recent trip reviews for Sebastian

Trip of a Lifetime-Thanks Sebastian!
France | Apr 18 - May 2, 2024

Kallie
Kallie P.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on May 14, 2024
We had an amazing experience with kimkim, mainly due to our incredible specialist, Sebastian. Sebastian was always quick to respond, was very thorough, and was flexible when we requested adjustments...and even when we decided to extend our trip by a day at the last minute! Particular highlights were our Roman Ruins (Jeremy was the guide) and Best of Provence (Emmanuel was the guide) tours, the Maisons du Monde hotel in Marseille and Cloitre du Saint Louis in Avignon. Additionally, our dinner... Read more

We had an amazing experience with kimkim, mainly due to our incredible specialist, Sebastian. Sebastian was always quick to respond, was very thorough, and was flexible when we requested adjustments...and even when we decided to extend our trip by a day at the last minute! Particular highlights were our Roman Ruins (Jeremy was the guide) and Best of Provence (Emmanuel was the guide) tours, the Maisons du Monde hotel in Marseille and Cloitre du Saint Louis in Avignon. Additionally, our dinner on the Eiffel Tower was magical, every transfer was arranged perfectly, and when minor hiccups occurred (like our daughter left her passport in a hotel!), Sebastian was extremely helpful.

I highly recommend kimkim, and would plan a trip again with Sebastian without hesitation! Thank you for everything!

Hotel Reviews
Cloitre Saint Louis 4*
Avignon

Rooms were lovely and comfortable, the breakfast was delightful, and the hotel itself was stunning. Everyone on staff was very kind, and the entire walled city was within walking distance of the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
The historic beauty was unbeatable.
Location
Everything was walkable!
Staff
Very kind and accommodating
Cleanliness & Comfort
We had a lovely room and a beautiful bathtub!
Maisons du Monde Hôtel Marseille Vieux Port
Marseille

The rooms were romantic and beautiful. The location was ideal with lovely views and easy walking access to everything we wanted to see and do. And the breakfast!! Outstanding!

Authenticity & Character
Luxurious without being pretentious
Location
Beautiful views, walkable to most everything
Staff
So kind and accommodating!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Absolutely spotless with extremely comfortable bedding
Activity Reviews
Half-day guided tour to Nimes, Uzes and Pont du Gard
Half-day guided tour to Nimes, Uzes and Pont du Gard
Avignon

This was a full day tour (not half day), and it was AMAZING! Our guide, Jeremy was incredibly knowledgeable, relaxed, and flexible. He gave us great guidance on where to focus our time, and made sure to share his incredible knowledge of both the ruins and the region as a whole.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jeremy was fantastic!
Transport
Highlight of Provence : Chateauneuf du pape & Luberon
Highlight of Provence : Chateauneuf du pape & Luberon
Avignon

We had so much fun wine tasting and touring the beautiful mountain top villages of Provence!

Quality of Experience
The entire day was amazing!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Emmanuel was so kind and knowledgeable!
Transport
Very comfortable!
2-hour walking tour
2-hour walking tour
Marseille

Marseille has a fascinating history, and this tour was a great way to get oriented and get a feel for what we wanted to explore in more depth.

Quality of Experience
What a fascinating city!
Quality of Experience
What a fascinating city!
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide had some great suggestions and insider tips for restaurants and points of interest.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide had some great suggestions and insider tips for restaurants and points of interest.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
We were great walkers!
Transport
We were great walkers!
Shuttle and tickets to the Mont-Saint-Michel
Shuttle and tickets to the Mont-Saint-Michel
Bayeux

Mont St. Michel is incredible! The drive from Bayeux was absolutely beautiful, and our guide was very knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
It was an incredible site and an incredible day!
Food
Mathew chose a nice restaurant, but there was no food included.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mathew was extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to the preservation of history.
Transport
Very comfortable.
Marais Pastry and Chocolate Tour
Marais Pastry and Chocolate Tour
Paris

This was a very fun - and DELICIOUS - tour! The Marais is a fantastic district for strolling, tasting, shopping, and people watching.

Quality of Experience
Such a fun way to learn about chocolate and many other Parisian delights!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Barbara was a wonderful guide!
Transport
We were strong walkers!
Palace of Versailles Half day trip (Skip the line, audioguided & gardens) by minivan from Paris
Palace of Versailles Half day trip (Skip the line, audioguided & gardens) by minivan from Paris
Paris

Versailles is incredible, and our driver was very nice.

Quality of Experience
Versailles in itself is amazing. There was no food included.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The driver was friendly, but not informative.
Transport
Comfortable vehicle.
Discovery of the Parisian catacombs
Discovery of the Parisian catacombs
Paris

The Catacombs are incredible. We expected a little bit creepy, but instead this was a very stirring experience that gave us much empathy for Parisians of the times.

Quality of Experience
This was a self-guided audio tour, and was very well done. A unique experience.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great audio guide. Very informative.
Transport
We are very good walkers!
Gourmet dinner on the Eiffel Tower - Menu Gustave
Gourmet dinner on the Eiffel Tower - Menu Gustave
Paris

We expected a great view and decent food, but we got a fantastic view, excellent food, and amazing wait staff!

Quality of Experience
The views, the food, the experience were incredible! What a way to celebrate!
Food
A beautiful dinner!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Waitstaff were incredible - fun, fancy, relaxed :)
Transport
The stairs are tough, but worth it!
Transfer from Paris hotel to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
France

This was a beautiful van and a very nice driver.

Local specialist: Sebastian Prino
Sebastian
Sebastian Prino
Local specialist in Marseille | Replied on May 17, 2024
Hi Kallie & family, how are you? Thank you so much for your glowing review! It was an absolute pleasure assisting you with your trip. I'm delighted to hear that you had such an amazing experience with us and that our efforts contributed to making your journey memorable. I'm especially glad that the Roman Ruins and Best of Provence tours stood out as highlights, thanks to the excellent guides Jeremy and Emmanuel. The Maisons du Monde hotel in Marseille and Cloitre du Saint Louis in Avignon... Read more

Hi Kallie & family, how are you?

Thank you so much for your glowing review! It was an absolute pleasure assisting you with your trip. I'm delighted to hear that you had such an amazing experience with us and that our efforts contributed to making your journey memorable.

I'm especially glad that the Roman Ruins and Best of Provence tours stood out as highlights, thanks to the excellent guides Jeremy and Emmanuel. The Maisons du Monde hotel in Marseille and Cloitre du Saint Louis in Avignon are indeed fantastic choices, and I'm pleased they met your expectations. Your dinner on the Eiffel Tower sounds truly magical—I'm so happy we could help make that experience special.

I appreciate your kind words about my responsiveness and flexibility, especially regarding the last-minute extension of your trip and handling the minor hiccup with your daughter's passport. It's always my goal to ensure everything runs smoothly and to provide support whenever needed.
I'm happy to know she got it back :) :) .. can be usefeul!

Thank you for highly recommending kimkim and for your willingness to plan future trips with me. It means a lot! I look forward to helping you create more unforgettable travel experiences in the future.

Safe travels and best wishes,
Sebastian

Mixed experience with Kim Kim
France | Jan 12 - Jan 18, 2024

jane
jane S.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jan 22, 2024
I have many positive things to say about Kim Kim and some questions about the costs of the trip. Sebastian was very responsive and helped us when we needed it. This was especially true about getting in to our hotel early. It was nice that he was from France and knew Paris. In the beginning he sent several possible trip options. It seemed that the these options were not really what we had in mind. Our primary reason for going to Paris was to see the Mark Rothko show. Sebastian recommended... Read more

I have many positive things to say about Kim Kim and some questions about the costs of the trip. Sebastian was very responsive and helped us when we needed it. This was especially true about getting in to our hotel early. It was nice that he was from France and knew Paris. In the beginning he sent several possible trip options. It seemed that the these options were not really what we had in mind. Our primary reason for going to Paris was to see the Mark Rothko show. Sebastian recommended many other types of activities and we were not interested in them. We like to wander around Paris on our own without many tours. I can imagine that this was frustrating for Sebastian. I wonder if somehow that could have been more clearly stated. I had a friend who contacted Kim Kim recently wanting a trip to Paris. She wanted to wander around without many tours and was told by Kim Kim that it wasn't the type of trip Kim Kim planned.
When I inquired about the price break down I was given a vague response, they said they don't give the actual prices. When I look at the cost and what we actually used from Kim Kim its hard for me to reconcile. Kim Kim provided the cost of the hotel, transportation to and from the airport and tickets to 2 events .I am happy to pay for the all that Sebastian did and yet the price seems very high. The cost differential ( to the best of our abilities) was a several thousand dollars higher. If there is a representative from Kim Kim who would like to discuss tis further, please feel free to contact us.

Hotel Review
My Maison in Paris - Louvre
Paris

This place was great. The location was accessible to many things and the staff was helpful. The place was clesan and had all that we needed. Many conveniences are in the neighborhood. Would highly recommend?

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Exhibition at the Louis Vuitton fondation
Exhibition at the Louis Vuitton fondation
Paris

This exhibit was amazing. Having a ticket was important. We provided our own transportation both ways.

Quality of Experience
Covered Passageways of Paris
Covered Passageways of Paris
Paris

This tour was long and heavy on the ancient history of Paris.

Local specialist: Sebastian Prino

Paris, Château de Versaille & Normandy
France | Oct 20 - Oct 26, 2023

C
Carol R.
Bethesda, MD | Reviewed on Oct 27, 2023
The Astotel hotel in Paris was amazing!! Service was great, staff were friendly and very accommodating, rooms were clean, breakfast was wonderful with many selections and complimentary snacks in the comfortable lobby all day was a real plus.
All of the hotels we stayed at were clean and accommodating and made us comfortable.
The guided tour to Normandy was a fantastic experience and the guide (Guton) was friendly, knowleageable and responsive. The tour to Versaille was worth the trip and the...
Read more

The Astotel hotel in Paris was amazing!! Service was great, staff were friendly and very accommodating, rooms were clean, breakfast was wonderful with many selections and complimentary snacks in the comfortable lobby all day was a real plus.
All of the hotels we stayed at were clean and accommodating and made us comfortable.
The guided tour to Normandy was a fantastic experience and the guide (Guton) was friendly, knowleageable and responsive. The tour to Versaille was worth the trip and the Guide (Edwardo) made the experience enjoyable and informative.
Simon from KimKim was readily avilable during the trip and helpful with any questions or asssitance that we needed.

Hotel Review
Hôtel Lorette—Astotel
Paris

Best hotel we stayed at! Staff were friendy and accommodating, rooms were clean, breaksfast was fantastic with many choices, and complimentary snacks in the comfortable lobby all day was a real plus. This hotel is very family friendly and a great place to feel "at home".

Authenticity & Character
Location
close to metro lines and easy to get around in Paris
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Sebastian Prino

Group Normandy Tour
France | Sep 30 - Oct 3, 2023

Karen
Karen F.
Manhattan, NY | Reviewed on Oct 15, 2023
Our group trip to Normandy was perfect. All KimKim guides, drivers, and hotel were excellent. We'd like to particularly call on Manon, who was will us for our D-Day tour and Mont St Michele. Dinner at Le Presbytre was incredible. Thanks for our third trip with KimKim! Read more

Our group trip to Normandy was perfect. All KimKim guides, drivers, and hotel were excellent. We'd like to particularly call on Manon, who was will us for our D-Day tour and Mont St Michele. Dinner at Le Presbytre was incredible. Thanks for our third trip with KimKim!

Hotel Review
Grand Hotel du Luxembourg 4*
Bayeux

Very nice hotel with excellent service in Bayeux. Great central location, helpful staff, and very nice included breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rooms were very clean and serviced each day.
Local specialist: Sebastian Prino