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High Point Holidays and Randonnees Outre-Manche

15 years on from taking our first bookings, High Point Holidays has grown from small beginnings in the Beaujolais region of France to cover active holidays across the UK France, and elsewhere in Europe.

We specialise in active holidays including hiking and cycling trips, mainly self-guided, where travellers immerse themselves in the local way of life, through our careful choice of accommodation, location, and routes.

We are a truly independent tour operator; not part of a large company. The majority of our holidays are set up or created by us based on our principles, so we have full control of all aspects of the trip from the choice of the guest house and transfers to the smaller key details.

The philosophy of the company has been clear from the beginning; to provide good quality, active holidays with a commitment to personal and flexible service. We create unique walking holidays with authentic local experiences.

We are here to help you every step of the way. You can contact us always, before, during and after your holiday, to ensure your satisfaction.

High Point Holidays and Randonnees Outre-Manche is part of the following groups: France Travel Agents, Ireland Travel Agents, United Kingdom Travel Agents

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Recent Trip Reviews for High Point Holidays and Randonnees Outre-Manche

Thank you Jane for arranging a very nice trip...
Ireland | May 12 - May 18, 2024

C
CHRISTINE E.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on May 19, 2024
Thank you Jane for arranging a very nice trip! We had a great time on the Emerald Isle.
Here's some thoughts/feedback:
- Transportation to and from the airport was on time both ways. The drivers were friendly and easy to find.
- The Maldron Hotel Shandon was in a great location. The breakfasts were good and beds comfortable.
- We did have a bit of a glitch getting to the train station on Tuesday morning. I had arranged a taxi from the hotel the night before, but they didn't show up in...
Read more

Thank you Jane for arranging a very nice trip! We had a great time on the Emerald Isle.
Here's some thoughts/feedback:
- Transportation to and from the airport was on time both ways. The drivers were friendly and easy to find.
- The Maldron Hotel Shandon was in a great location. The breakfasts were good and beds comfortable.
- We did have a bit of a glitch getting to the train station on Tuesday morning. I had arranged a taxi from the hotel the night before, but they didn't show up in time due to rain. The hotel's general manager drove my dad and sisters to the train station - my daughter and I had a mad 1 mile dash through the rain to make the train in time. We really appreciated the general manager stepping in to help! The mad dash made for a good story once we dried out.
- The Cork City History Tour City Ramble was pretty good. Don't know that I'd recommend it again, although it did give us the lay of the land.
- We did have a night at Sin e listening to Irish music. This was a real highlight!
- We did go to St Anne's church and ring the bells. Another highlight.
- The Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin was a very nice place to stay, too. Comfortable and busy. Good breakfasts. It would have been a different experience to stay in a smaller place, but this worked well for us. The location was good!
- The Hidden Homes of Dublin was good! Ruth was very accommodating of my dad, making sure to stop in places where he could sit. We had a very nice cup of tea with her in a fancy tea shop! She gave us the lay of the land.
- The Literary Pub tour was a real highlight, too. Perfect! The actors were very entertaining - loved it!
- The EPIC Interactive Museum was a real highlight, too. We spent a lot of time in here. Every visitor to Dublin should stop here. We all learned a lot! Great museum.
- The Famine Ship was also another real highlight. Would recommend this one to everyone too. The guide provided us with a lot of history - and walking on the ship - below deck - really gave us a sense of what the journey across the Atlantic.
- Another highlight - the Irish Dancing & House Party. Real highlight, too! Wonderful to see the unusual instruments.
- Trinity Trails and Book of Kells Guided tour - this was a bit underwhelming. The guide was just ok. She walked us around Trinity's beautiful campus. Once we got into to see the Book of Kells, we were on our own. We were expecting a guided tour through the exhibits.
- For the Dublin Castle, we did pay for the guided tour instead of the self guided tour. I'd highly recommend the guided tour - EXCELLENT! - We saw the original Viking fortress walls and the Chapel Royal, which wasn't on the self-guided tour. We ended up spending a couple hours there.
- Didn't make it to St Patrick's Cathedral! A reason to return someday.
- Highly recommend Theresa, who took us on the Guinness & Jameson Irish Experience Tour. Jameson was small and intimate. Guinness was like Disneyland. On the walk from Jameson to Guinness, Theresa provided all kinds of Irish history, a stop in John's Lane Church, and the oldest pub in Ireland ;). I loved the walk!

All in all, we had a wonderful time. Thank you, Jane, for setting all this up. I will definitively use kimkim again!!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin
Dublin

Busy hotel in a great location. Good breakfast and comfortable beds.

Authenticity & Character
Busy city hotel.
Location
Central location. Within walking distance to Trinity College and Temple Bar.
Staff
Very helpful!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Comfortable beds, nice bathroom
Maldron Hotel Shandon
Co. Cork
Authenticity & Character
Location
Central location. Within walking distance to English Market.
Staff
General manager drove us to train station when taxi didn't show up! Thank you!!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Jane Davey

We had a wonderful time on our way-too-short ...
Wales | May 5 - May 11, 2024

M
Melinda W.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on May 16, 2024

We had a wonderful time on our way-too-short Wales trip...visited the seaside resort of Tenby, saw Puffins on Skomer Island, did a day hike along the beautiful Pembrokeshire Coast out of Fishguard, which is a wonderful town spend a day meandering. Our transfers went off without a hitch, the drivers were all prompt and professional. We ended the trip in central London with an evening walk around Big Ben, Westminster, Buckingham Palace. Such a wonderful experience all around and many thanks to Jane and Marine-Héloise for shaping this trip for us.

Local specialist: Jane Davey
Jane
Jane Davey
Local specialist in United Kingdom | Replied on May 17, 2024

Thank you Melinda for taking the time to review your wonderful time with us. It was our absolute pleasure to plan your family time in Wales and London. The Puffins were a delight I am sure. Thank you for traveling with us and we hope to see you again soon!.
All the best from myself, Marine-Héloise & The Team :-)

Overall, happy with service. Would have lik...
Scotland | May 3 - May 11, 2024

Jishnu
Jishnu G.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on May 13, 2024

Overall, happy with service.

Would have liked faster responsiveness to last minute inquiries or issue identifications.

Appreciate that response times depend on staff availability and local public holiday schedules. Suggest retaining backup coverage for these types of “real time” issues.

Best,

Local specialist: Neil West

Amazing Trip to Ireland
Ireland | Apr 13 - Apr 27, 2024

Eric
Eric D.
Florence-Graham, CA | Reviewed on May 13, 2024
The trip was fantastic. Justine did a wonderful job with the itinerary including all the necessary details. We enjoyed the cities of Dublin, Cork, and Galway and the towns of Kinsale, Dingle, Doolin and Killarney. Too many highlights to mention them all but a few of them are The Guinness Storehouse, the Middleton Distillery tour and premium tasting, Kinsale, the Perryville House and Don and Barry‘s walking tour, Inasheer Island and Ollies Tours with Phil, the Pax Guest House in Dingle, the... Read more

The trip was fantastic. Justine did a wonderful job with the itinerary including all the necessary details. We enjoyed the cities of Dublin, Cork, and Galway and the towns of Kinsale, Dingle, Doolin and Killarney. Too many highlights to mention them all but a few of them are The Guinness Storehouse, the Middleton Distillery tour and premium tasting, Kinsale, the Perryville House and Don and Barry‘s walking tour, Inasheer Island and Ollies Tours with Phil, the Pax Guest House in Dingle, the music at Sin E bar in Cork, the Irish dancing in the Dingle Bar, the Galway Food Tour, the Cliffs of Kerry and our final night at Ballyfin.
Also, the people in Ireland were so nice and accommodating.

Local specialist: Justine Stewart
Justine
Justine Stewart
Local specialist in England/France | Replied on May 15, 2024

Eric!
Thank you so very much for your wonderful review. You, Russ, Heidi & Janis were ever so much fun to work with and I am so happy that I got to share some of my favourite places with you all.
We have some wonderful guides we love to work with and I think its just great that you loved them as much as we do (Ollies Tours we are looking at you!)...and of course incredible hotel experiences too (John at PAX can do no wrong!). It was lovely working with you all!
Justine & The High Point Holidays Team

Our trip was just as we expected - Wonderful!
United Kingdom | Apr 18 - May 2, 2024

Derek
Derek M.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on May 09, 2024
Our trip was just as we had been told. All of the big details had been taken care of, and things worked as they should. Every hotel was ready for us when we arrived, even though we arrived early. Each of the small tours which had been booked was ready for us. All details (loc ations, times, etc.) turned out to be on target. We went a couple of places on the recommendation of our kimkim staff, and were very pleased. We experienced a smooth, entertaining, and enjoyable trip, due to the... Read more

Our trip was just as we had been told. All of the big details had been taken care of, and things worked as they should. Every hotel was ready for us when we arrived, even though we arrived early. Each of the small tours which had been booked was ready for us. All details (loc ations, times, etc.) turned out to be on target. We went a couple of places on the recommendation of our kimkim staff, and were very pleased. We experienced a smooth, entertaining, and enjoyable trip, due to the work done by Jane and Cecilia.

We had a small scheduling issue during the planning stage which was resolved to our satisfaction. Once on the trip, things were just as we had been lead to expect.

Hotel Reviews
Hampton by Hilton Bath City
Bath

Pretty standard Hampton Inn hotel. Pleasant staff, details handled properly. Location well suited for wandering about the old city of Bath. Breakfast was the exact same menu every day, which got a bit old (we were there 5 days), but that was the only complaint we had.

Authenticity & Character
New building, no real character to it -- standard Hampton property.
Location
Easy walking around Bath sites
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Malmaison Oxford
Oxford

Neat rooms (in an old prison). Restaurant was quite good. Great breakfast options.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Galtres Lodge Hotel
York

Older hotel, so no lift. Very nice staff, very accomodating. Excellent breakfast. Great location, right in the middle of old city York. Easy walk to Yorkminster, Shambles, city wall, etc. You may have difficulty getting dropped off at hotel -- no cars allowed 10 am - 5:30 pm (city ordinance). You get dropped off and half to walk a few blocks with your suitcases if you arrive during those hours.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
No.32 Hotel
Edinburgh

HUGE room! Quiet, comfortable hotel. Not really close to old town Edinburgh, but only 5 minutes from the tram stop which takes you right there. Older building, no lift. Manager went out of his way to be accomodating during our stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Herriot and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York
Herriot and Yorkshire Dales Day Trip from York
York

Really enjoyed riding through the Dales. Our guide stopped several times just to let us get out and view the scenery (not just stopping at tourist traps).

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day tour to the Cotswolds from Bath
Day tour to the Cotswolds from Bath
United Kingdom

We had read about the Cotswalds in various books, so it was great to actually get to see them. Very beautiful stonework. Got a real sense of what a small English village can be.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tickets to Cardiff Castle
Tickets to Cardiff Castle
Cardiff

Cardiff Castle is pretty amazing. From old Roman fort to Norman construction to 19th century rebuilding in what they thought was medieval fashion, there was plenty to see. The site is quite large, with plenty to see and enjoy. We did the audio tour only, which was quite interesting.

Quality of Experience
Yorktour Evening Express: Small Group Early Evening Walking Tour
Yorktour Evening Express: Small Group Early Evening Walking Tour
York

This was a great little walking tour! Our guide was very knowledgeable and quite pleasant. We enjoyed getting to know some of the history of York and its buildings. She also gave us several ideas for where to go over the next days.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Half Day Guided Tour to Glastonbury
Half Day Guided Tour to Glastonbury
Bath

Dan was an excellent guide. he took time to learn what type of things interested us, and then shaped our tour accordingly Glastonbury attracts folk interested in history -- or in New Age spirituallity -- or in architecture -- or in whatever. I appreciated we did nto have to hear all about things which did not interst us, but could focus on what we liked. Climbing the Tor provided amazing views! The Chalice Well Garden was very pretty, and the Glastonbury Abbey ruins were something to see.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Dan was informative and easy to be with.
Local specialist: Jane Davey
Jane
Jane Davey
Local specialist in United Kingdom | Replied on May 13, 2024

Thank you for taking the time to share your wonderful experiences with us. The photos look lovely too.
We are constantly striving to improve our traveler experiences and we value your feedback. It was a pleasure working with you both and we wish you many more happy travels.
All the best from Jane, Celina and The Team

Amazing trip to England and Scotland
Scotland | Apr 14 - Apr 29, 2024

Leonard
Leonard B.
Florence-Graham, CA | Reviewed on May 07, 2024
My wife and I started planning this trip in Dec 2023. A friend told me about KimKim and I reached out and relayed where we wanted to go: England and Scotland. Within a day or so Jane reached out to us. We gave our constraints to Jane and places we wanted to visit. We let her know we were both senior citizens, we were not going to drive, and what places we definitely wanted to see. We left Los Angeles April 13 and returned May 2. Jane and her team set up hotels, train rides, tours and... Read more

My wife and I started planning this trip in Dec 2023. A friend told me about KimKim and I reached out and relayed where we wanted to go: England and Scotland. Within a day or so Jane reached out to us. We gave our constraints to Jane and places we wanted to visit. We let her know we were both senior citizens, we were not going to drive, and what places we definitely wanted to see. We left Los Angeles April 13 and returned May 2. Jane and her team set up hotels, train rides, tours and recommendations for other tours and restaurants. Jane and her team came up with a fantastic itinerary starting in London going to Bath (day trip to Oxford University) to York to Edinburg (day trip to Glasgow) to Stirling to Inverness and then back to London on the Caledonia Sleeper Coach Besides our own walking tours we visited Jane Austen Museum, Roman Baths, Stonehenge, Avebury, York Minster, North York Moors, Whitby, Edinburg Castle, Afternoon Tea at the Edinburgh Castle, The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting, in Glasgow a 2 hour day tour of street art murals , Fishing Villages of St Andrews & Fife from Edinburg, St Andrews Golf Course, Stirling Castle, The Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle. Our return to London from Inverness was on the Caledonia Sleeper Train. That was a great experience. something we had never done. Our last three days in London were on our own where we did London eye, St Paul's Cathedral, Windsor Castle, five hour on off London Tour.
This trip was phenomenal to see all the beautiful landscapes and countryside plus historical sites. This was a personalized tour for my wife and myself agreed upon by us and created expertly by Jane and her team. Jane is now our benchmark for other travel Planners.
This is our first time using a travel planner for a personalized tour in this fashion. We are glad we did this.

Hotel Reviews
Park Plaza London Riverbank
London

Park Plaza London Riverbank – This was a very nice hotel part of the Radisson chain. 1. Reception/Check in – Check in was very easy. Everyone was welcoming and friendly. Our room was available right away since we got there at about 1800. 2. Service – Was excellent service throughout hotel and very friendly. 3. Room – Was a nice room and comfortable. Lighting was a little dim. A lack of outlets on one side of the bed required me to use an extension cord that I always carry . 4. Location – Wonderful location. On Sunday we walked to the British Museum for a tour. 5. Breakfast – Had a very good buffet breakfast. 6. Local restaurants – We ate at the Hotel Restaurant Chino Latino. We enjoyed some delicious tapas. 7. Hotel Recommendation – I would stay there again happily

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
everyone was friendly and welcoming
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything in its place.
The Grand, York
North Yorkshire

Grand York Hotel - This was by far our number one hotel. It was previously headquarters for the Railway. Only been a hotel for 12-13 years. It is beautiful inside and out. We so enjoyed it. 1. Reception/Check in – What a pleasant check-in. Beth was so friendly and welcoming as was everybody we interfaced with. We saw her a couple of times and she always stopped to say hello. Room was available right away. 2. Service – Stellar service throughout the hotel 3. Room – The room was perfect. Very spacious room. Well lit. The ceilings were 5 meters high. We were on the ground floor. Could not have asked for a better room. The porter said it was previously the office of the Railway Manager. Had a beautiful large fireplace. 4. Location – Perfect. We walked with our luggage from train station to the hotel and back and were warmly greeted as we arrived. 5. Breakfast – Not only is this the number one hotel we stayed at but it is the number one breakfast. Grand York has a spectacular buffet breakfast plus you can also order specialty eggs - omlettes fried eggs etc. Service was excellent. 6. Local restaurants – 1. Cote Restaurant we happened to find after visiting York Minister. Delicious Price Fixe menu and very reasonable. We thoroughly enjoyed it. 2. Delrios Italian Restaurant was simply delicious Italian food. Concierge, Matteo, called ahead for us. They were packed and we waited about 20 minutes and had some wine at the bar while waiting. Well worth the wait. Recommend make a reservation. 7. Hotel Recommendation – I would stay there again happily

Authenticity & Character
That it was a converted Railway station office building
Location
Close to everyrhing.
Staff
Friendliness and welcoming
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was in its place
Glen Mhor Hotel
Inverness

Glen Mhor Hotel Inverness – This was a very nice hotel. 1. Reception/Check in – Check in was easy but room was not available. Hung around in the bar and had lunch and waited around until room was ready. Maria from reception was so helpful and kind and was a wonderful face for the hotel. 2. Service – Was excellent service throughout hotel and very friendly. 3. Room – Room was very nice and a good size with high ceilings. We were on ground floor thankfully because there was no lift. 4. Location – Wonderful location. River Ness directly across the street. Lots of restaurants close by. Lots of walking possibilities, We taxied to and from the railway station. Not close enough to walk from station. 5. Breakfast – Breakfast was very good buffet but could also order eggs your way along with buffet items. Was at the Wayside Restaurant 6. Local restaurants – Wayside Restaurant at the hotel was good for breakfast. Also we had a early Sunday roast dinner there and it was quite good. After tour on Saturday we walked into town and found a nice Italian Restaurant called Bella Italia that had delicious Italian food. 7. Hotel Recommendation – I would stay there again happily

Authenticity & Character
The hotel was not laid out in separate buildings. Our room was like a small apartment
Location
Excellent location close to mid town
Staff
Every one was so friendly. Maria stood out for her friendliness and helpfulness.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was in its place and property was very clean
The Stirling Highland Hotel
Stirling

The Stirling Highland Hotel – This was a very nice hotel. It was previously a high school. 1. Reception/Check in- Check in was easy but room was not available. We walked up to the castle to do our tour that was very nice. 2. Service – Was excellent service throughout hotel and very friendly. 3. Room- Room was very nice and a comfortable size. Had a nice welcome basket with some chocolate bars, crisps, two half bottles of wine plus one full bottle of wine. 4. Location – We taxied to and from the hotel to Railway station. It was a little far and uphill. Hotel was close to the castle. We were there only one nite so did not go into town. We did do some walking around the hotel. 5. Breakfast – Breakfast was good. It was a smaller buffet breakfast but adequate 6. Local Restaurants - Since we were only there for one nite we had dinner there at hotel and it was quite delicious. 7. Recommendation – I would stay there again happily

Authenticity & Character
Very quaint. It was a high school previously
Location
Good location close to castle
Staff
All the staff were friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything was clean and in its place
Malmaison Edinburgh City
Edinburgh

Malmaison Hotel Edinburg – This was a nice hotel. It was previously a prison at some point. Very awkward getting to our room. Had to go up or down some stairs to get to the lift. 1. Reception/Check in – Check in was fine and reception personnel were friendly and welcoming.. Room was not ready so we went to the Castle to do the Castle tour then the Afternoon Tea then the Whiskey Tasting. All three were great. 2. Service - Was excellent service throughout hotel and very friendly. 3. Room – Room was nice but a little on the small size and dimly lit. Served its purpose though 4. Location – Very good location, We walked to and from Railway Station with luggage. 5. Breakfast –Breakfast was good. Combination buffet and could order eggs, sausage and bacon, 6. Local Restaurants – Ate at the Amarone Italian Restaurant less than a block away from the hotel and on the right. Meal was quite good. Gordon Ramsey Restaurant across from the park. Very close. Food was very good 7. Hotel Recommendation - I would stay there again

Authenticity & Character
Hotel was a prison at one time.
Location
Close to lots of restaurants, stores and walking distance to RAILWAY STATION
Staff
All the staff were friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel was clean throughout
Henrietta House, a member of Radisson Individuals
Bath

Henrietta House Bath – I give this hotel a generous 3 star because of the downstairs niceness and friendliness of staff with the exception at check in. Our room was TERRIBLE 1. Reception/Check in – The gentleman at reception upon arrival was the most unfriendly and unwelcoming individual we had met at any Hotel on this trip. He was the only one because everyone else at the hotel were very friendly and provided good service. We left our bags in the lobby area and went off to do the Jane Austen and Roman Bath tours. When we came back there was a young woman, Kosmina, who was the most friendly and welcoming at the front desk. She was simply delightful. Direct opposite of the earlier encounter with the gentleman. She gave us necessary keys for our room. 2. Service – With the exception of our first encounter at afternoon check in everyone was so friendly. 3. Room - TERRIBLE! . Very small and low ceiling. I am short but when I lifted my arm up I could touch the ceiling. There was no closet just some hooks on the wall with hangars on them. The room was at an incline. The sliding bathroom door did not shut all the way. The bathroom was the size of a postage stamp. The shower space was so tiny. Taking a shower caused such a puddle that my wife could not wash her hair for fear of flooding the bathroom. I should have asked for another room but because of the sour reception we received at check in we just lived with it for the three days. Do not know what was charged our travel company but it was not worth it because of the poor room. I am sure there must be other rooms in much better condition and bigger. 4. Location - Location was good and close to restaurants and center of town. Taxied to and from the Railway Station. 5. Breakfast – Breakfast was good and from a menu. Breakfast did not start till 8:00 am though. 6. Local restaurants – Scallop Shell was delicious and had the most delicious Fish and Chips. A Tour driver said these Scallop Shell Restaurant Fish and Chips were the very best in England. They were indeed best Fish and Chips we had on the whole trip. Clayton’s Kitchen was delicious for dinner also. 7. Hotel Recommendation – Would stay there only in a completely normal room with a larger bathroom otherwise not,

Authenticity & Character
Hotel is beautiful inside and decorated nicely
Location
Good location and close to different sights
Staff
I only give 4 stars because of the sour reception at first check i. However Kosmina took care of us in the late afternoon and she was welcoming and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
I give a generous three stars because our room was very small, bathroom was small, bathroom door did not close, teeny tiny shower, and no closet, This room should not be used until improved,
Activity Reviews
Stonehenge, Avebury and Cotswolds Villages Small Group Tour
Stonehenge, Avebury and Cotswolds Villages Small Group Tour
Bath

This was an incredible tour to see historical sites and the country side as these. Stonehenge was breathtaking as well as Avebury, and Cotswold Villages

Quality of Experience
Everything stood out. Stonehenge was the most spectacular of all.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The director/driver was wonderful. So friendly, engaging, and knowledgeable.
Transport
The smaller coach was nice and it was comfortable
Divinity School, Old Bodleian Library - 60 Minutes
Divinity School, Old Bodleian Library - 60 Minutes
Oxford

The tour of the Divinity School, Old Bodleian Library was so interesting and educational. Being at Oxford University was an exciting experience. It was simply beautiful to tour the grounds. The surrounding made you feel you were in a Harry Potter movie

Quality of Experience
This was an exciting side trip and so glad we went.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The tour guide for the library had passio, knowledge, and a love of the library.
Transport
We took a train there and back. Train was fine.
Afternoon Tea at the Edinburgh Castle
Afternoon Tea at the Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh

This was simply delightful. The tea and sweet and savory food was delicious. Our service was stellar

Quality of Experience
This was something we do not do ordinarily so the experince was nice
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The servers for the tea were exceptional and friendly
Transport
We walked to the Castle it was close to our hotel
The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting
The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting
Edinburgh

This Whiskey Tour was fabulous. They have this down perfectly. It was so enjoyable and informative.

Quality of Experience
The presentation was spot on. The tasting was memorable. The building is set up perfectly for the Scotch Tasting Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The presenter was so knowledgable on Scotch Whiskey and the process. He was engaging and made it very interesting.
Transport
We walked to the tour from hotel
The Caledonian Sleeper (Scotland Version)
The Caledonian Sleeper (Scotland Version)
Scotland

Caledonia Sleeper - This was an interesting experience on the twelve hour overnight train ride. 1. Passenger Assistance - Passenger Assistance was great and recommend it for seniors who are taking trains.. In Inverness the individual took us to our cabin and then I went with him to drop off luggage in another coach that had lots of space for luggage. So friendly and helpful. In London we were met right at our coach by a young woman who had a motorized style golf cart where she loaded our bags and drove us out to the exit where we then saw driver from Pinkberry. Driver was very friendly and we got to the hotel fairly quick considering traffic. 2. Caledonia Lounge _ This lounge was not in railway station but just across the street. Because of luggage we did not walk over there. It was raining a little bit too. I checked it out myself though and it was small but nice with some soft drinks and snacks. 3. Sleeping Cabin – was very small. I can see why doubles sell out so fast. We were both able to sleep in the bunk beds. I am glad we had this experience though. 4. Club Car – We went to club Car immediately upon boarding because it filled up so quickly. Breakfast was just ok. My wife had a sausage sandwich and I had a bacon sandwich. Both very small. 5. Recommendation – we would do it again but really trying to have a double.

Quality of Experience
My wife and i are not used to train rides especially 12 hour ones. It was a nice experience.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Passenger Assistance in Inverness and London was stellar
Transport
Train ride was very smooth. Key was being able to get to sleep. Club car was nice to go and unwind for a bit however if fills up fast.
Small Group tour of Glasgow
Small Group tour of Glasgow
Glasgow

This tour was given by a graduating college student who had a lot of passion for the subject. the tour was of the street art murals both sanctioned and non sanctioned. It was a wonderful two hour tour.

Quality of Experience
The experience gave us an insight to the street mural art in downtown Glasgow. There are some beautiful murals.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The tour guide really had passion for the street art and was able to inform us about the artists.
Transport
We did the tour walking. Tour guide made sure we crossed streets in safe locations.
Private transfer to your accommodation. Then check-in or bag-drop
Private transfer to your accommodation. Then check-in or bag-drop
London

After a long trip having a driver and a car waiting for you is a good start to the vacation. Drive in to London gave us the realization of the amount of congestion and traffic in London

Quality of Experience
No
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was very friendly and knowledgeable
Transport
Car was adequate for our luggage and two people to sit comfortably
Visit to York Minster
Visit to York Minster
York

York Minster is a sight to behold. it is incredible and the history that it has. My wife and i did a self tour. We missed the last tour of the day by 20 minutes.

Quality of Experience
Walking in York Minster at your own pace was a delight. It is so impressive inside with the stain glass windows, statues, art, and ceilings.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We did a self guided tour.
Transport
We walked to the York Minster from our hotel. Walk gave us chance to see some of the town.
Fishing Villages of St Andrews & Fife from Edinburgh
Fishing Villages of St Andrews & Fife from Edinburgh
Edinburgh

This was a great tour. The highlight for me was visiting the OLD Course of St Andrews Golf Course. Walking the streets of St Andrews was quite interesting seeing the different buildings and arceitecture.

Quality of Experience
Did not know what to expect on this tour but it did not disappoint. The beauty of the countryside and beauty of the Old Course were phenomenal.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide/drive was excellent. He was funny, engaging and very knowledgeable.
Transport
Transport was fine. Coach was comfortable
The Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle
The Isle of Skye & Eilean Donan Castle
Inverness

This was a spectacular tour. Very disappointed we did not see Nessie though. The beauty of the countryside and mountains plus Donan Castle were wonderful.

Quality of Experience
Everything was so spectacular to view. Donan Castle was quite interesting and a very nice self guided tour.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our tour guide/driver was amazing. She was so knowledgeable and had a passion for Inverness.
Transport
Coach was larger than I thought. Back coach row could be a little more comfortable by making it only four seats across instead of crowding into five seats
Stirling Castle Tickets
Stirling Castle Tickets
Stirling

This was very nice self guided tour of the castle. We were able to take our time. The Stirling Heads were a sight to see the intricacy of the carving. We were able to walk around the castle and walk through the cemetery and look at a spectacular view

Quality of Experience
Beautiful Castle and nicely set up for tours. The Stirling Heads were amazing to look at.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We walked to the Castle from our hotel. Staff at the castle were friendly and would answer any questions.
Transport
We walked to the Castle from our hotel.
Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York
Steam Trains, Whitby, and the North York Moors Full-Day Tour from York
York

Wonderful Tour. Whitby was a charming port town. Had a delicious lunch there. Scenery on the tour was spectacular. The steam train was a nice addition. This has a bridge goign over the train tracks used in a Harry Potter movie as well as the 9 3/4 wall he comes through. If you want to see 9 3/4 wall go to Kings Crossing Railway Station in london

Quality of Experience
The experience was quite nice. Whitby was a wonderful place to visit and walk around plus have lunch. The Steam Train was a nice experience to do.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The tour guide/driver was very knowledgeable and engaging. He provided good commentary and information.
Transport
The coach was comfortable. Tour took off on time
Local specialist: Jane Davey
Jane
Jane Davey
Local specialist in United Kingdom | Replied on May 13, 2024

Thank you for your wonderful resume of your trip. This sure was a delight for myself and the team to work with you both.

It is super helpful for us to receive such detailed feedback and it gives us a great sense of pride to know that you appreciated our assistance.

This is a delight to read the travel experiences you both had.

Thank you for choosing to travel with us and we wish you many more happy travels.

All the best, Jane, Sarah and the Team

We had a wonderful trip!
United Kingdom | Apr 10 - Apr 17, 2024

M
Milbert P.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on May 06, 2024
Jane and her team planned a wonderful trip to England! We experience the beautiful countryside villages of the Cotswolds and London including the British Museum, Kew Gardens and Windsor Castle. The roadmap gave us personal time to enjoy the British culture and food while allowing us to explore beyond our scheduled activity. Read more

Jane and her team planned a wonderful trip to England! We experience the beautiful countryside villages of the Cotswolds and London including the British Museum, Kew Gardens and Windsor Castle. The roadmap gave us personal time to enjoy the British culture and food while allowing us to explore beyond our scheduled activity.

Hotel Reviews
Henrietta House, a member of Radisson Individuals
Bath

Fun historical site!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Kings Arms
Stow-on-the-world

Very intimate and historical

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Noel Arms Hotel
Chipping Campden

A great place to rest and enjoy!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Tower Hotel
London

Wonderful amenities and service!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hilton Garden Inn London Heathrow Airport
London
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Hop-on, Hop-off Bus
Hop-on, Hop-off Bus
London
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private transfer
Private transfer
United Kingdom

Cookie was great!! He was very flexible and helpful!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hidcote Gardens  Visit - Arts and Crafts inspired intricately designed spaces
Hidcote Gardens Visit - Arts and Crafts inspired intricately designed spaces
United Kingdom

Just a beautiful place!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tickets to British Museum
Tickets to British Museum
London

Wow what a historical and important museum! It requires more time than we had planned!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Simply Windsor Castle - Afternoon Tour with transport
Simply Windsor Castle - Afternoon Tour with transport
London
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Entry tickets to historic Kew Gardens
Entry tickets to historic Kew Gardens
London

A world renowned garden! Unbelieveably beautiful.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jane Davey
Jane
Jane Davey
Local specialist in United Kingdom | Replied on May 06, 2024

Hi Milbert

Thank you for taking the time to review your wonderful trip. We are delighted that you entrusted our team with your delightful trip to the UK.

Your feedback is also extremely helpful to myself and the team to enable us to continue to strive towards ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ service.

Hope to see you again in the future.

All the best, Jane & The Team

Three countries in 11 days .
England | Apr 18 - Apr 28, 2024

Liz
Liz H.
Orlando, FL | Reviewed on May 05, 2024
A big shout out to Marianna! She was amazing specialist and worked hard to make this Trip my family. I went back-and-forth with her on the phone and email so many times and she was patient and kind with all my revisions when we got the final draft she made sure we understood everything sending us a video on how to use the itinerary truly amazing!
Each person in our family had a special moment that could’ve been done without her! My 16-year-old daughter’s highlight was going to vintage...
Read more

A big shout out to Marianna! She was amazing specialist and worked hard to make this Trip my family. I went back-and-forth with her on the phone and email so many times and she was patient and kind with all my revisions when we got the final draft she made sure we understood everything sending us a video on how to use the itinerary truly amazing!
Each person in our family had a special moment that could’ve been done without her! My 16-year-old daughter’s highlight was going to vintage Bentley. She was able to be a passenger in a 1929 Bentley and race around the track in it!!! We had a great private Tour of the Garage with a restore Bentleys! This was a dream come true for her!
My husband had the time of his life driven around Paris in an antique car! Their driver was the owner of the company and took us to so many interesting out-of-the-way stops ! His knowledge was impeccable. I don’t know his name, but he was the owner of the company. I would use him again. If I went back to Paris he was just amazing with his knowledge wonderful sense of humor and skill of driving ! Four stars for this activity !
My 17-year-old son highlight was going to the Black Country Museum in Birmingham. It It is worth a day trip out of London! Is ranked one of the best living museums in the world and my family agrees! The people on character are spot on and share sooo much history ! This place Kept two teenagers, engaged all day while learning!!! The coal mine tower is a definite must do! My daughter loved that she got to see the set for Peaky Blinders!
Amsterdam is a city we plan on going back to as we all loved it! The tour of the windmills cheese factory , wooden shoes ( Yes, my son brought home a pair of wooden shoes and wore to school when we got home) and walking tours of cute towns was a good overview of Holland! We just wish it was a longer tour as at times we were rushed! But the camel tour at the end was a perfect ending! Great captain with a wonderful sense of humor! The only glitch was the tickets had one meeting place on them and the itinerary had another! But we did catch up with the tour!
One last shout out to Oscar our guide on the London donut tour! He was wonderful! Heated the tour to our needs and interests! We felt like we had a new friend when we left him! He told us to call him anytime we were in London, and he would help us with anything even after the tour! I really fun tour that is relaxing and you’ll be stuffed afterwards. Well worth it for its quirkiness.
Our Doctor Who tour was a little bit of a disappointment! The guide, giving it was a movie director and gave more information about directing movies than Doctor Who trivia, which is what we really wanted! Nice and knowledgeable, but not what we were looking for. I would recommend another tour company for this.!
Can’t wait to use your company again as this is the second time I have used them and everything is always spot on! Thank you again for making my daughter sweet 16 trip so memorable!

Hotel Reviews
Trebovir Hotel
Kensington, London
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Grand Hotel Birgmingham
Birmingham

Great location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private transfer in Paris
Private transfer in Paris
Paris
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hop-on, Hop-off Bus
Hop-on, Hop-off Bus
London

Great way to see the city wish you had live guide

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Live guide
Transport
Doctor Who Tour London
Doctor Who Tour London
London

Not the type of tour we wanted! Would of enjoyed more trivia not cinematography knowledge

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tickets to British Museum
Tickets to British Museum
London

Must do in London

Quality of Experience
Private transfer to your accommodation. Then check-in or bag-drop
Private transfer to your accommodation. Then check-in or bag-drop
London
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
London  Borough Market  Doughnut Tour
London Borough Market Doughnut Tour
London

Fun and yummy tour! Learned a lot of London history as well tour totally catered to our likes and dislikes and interests

Quality of Experience
Oscar the guide was fantastic
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Knowledgeable, helpful, friendly funny, just perfect and every way
Discover Paris in a vintage car
Discover Paris in a vintage car
Paris

Best guide ever! The owner of the company is an Amazing guide! He takes you to so many out of the way places that are priceless!! Best guide ever

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dutch countryside tour - windmills and more!
Dutch countryside tour - windmills and more!
Amsterdam

Wish tour was longer and could have more times at stops

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private transfer to your destination
Private transfer to your destination
England
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit of Cadbury world
Visit of Cadbury world
Birmingham

Fun family activity!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private driver transfer
Amsterdam
Quality of Experience
lol
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tickets to Anne Franck's House
Tickets to Anne Franck's House
Amsterdam

Must do!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Marianna Leccese
Marianna
Marianna Leccese
Local specialist in Nice | Replied on May 06, 2024

Liz, this is so nice! I truly appreciate it! THANK YOU !I'm really happy you had a great time on the trip and lot of memories with your kids ! Making your daughter happy, especially with the Vintage Bentley, brings me immense joy. Thank you for your positive feedback and the detailed review; it means a lot to us and helps us improve our services!

Looking forward for your next trip, and I hope to be your local specialist again.
How about Italy next time? 😊

Highlights and Disappointments
England | Apr 21 - May 2, 2024

Sanford
Sanford R.
Colorado Springs, CO | Reviewed on May 04, 2024
I am reviewing my notes to identify where the disconnect occurred between Stephen and I. From the beginning, I was very specific that my wife and I wanted small group or private tours. The fact that the tours to Stonehenge / Windsor, Cliffs of Mohr were large groups were a disappointment. The tour guides were very good in both instances, it was the environment of traveling with 40-70 ppl was not discussed beforehand if that was the only option. The arrival experience was a... Read more

I am reviewing my notes to identify where the disconnect occurred between Stephen and I. From the beginning, I was very specific that my wife and I wanted small group or private tours. The fact that the tours to Stonehenge / Windsor, Cliffs of Mohr were large groups were a disappointment. The tour guides were very good in both instances, it was the environment of traveling with 40-70 ppl was not discussed beforehand if that was the only option.

The arrival experience was a disappointment. First, Stephen never mentioned that communication to the KimKim team, tour operators, or taxi service would be through WhatsApp. It was only by chance that I downloaded the app to keep in contact with my family back in the states. The service that provided pickup at Heathrow, Pink Berry Card, went to the wrong terminal (this was disclosed by the driver) and same driver went to the wrong pickup site after your tour to Stonehenge. The rest of the transportation went well.

The welcome baskets at both hotels was a nice touch although considering I am a lifetime Diamond and regularly receive room upgrades, this did not occur in spite of Stephen knowing my Hilton status.

Overall, Stephen was responsive although not transparent in disclosing that my requests were not going to be met.

Local specialist: Stephen Molloy
Stephen
Stephen Molloy
Local specialist in Dorset and Lyon | Replied on May 07, 2024
Dear Sanford Thank you for the review Sanford, and welcome home! I appreciate that you took the time to reply, and it will help us get better at our jobs. I'll take the time to reply, and I hope that it will explain our position too. The trip planning process was enjoyable, but if you recall it involved 9 different versions of a tailormade vacation plan. If you recall, each iteration of the proposal was criticised based on price, with a continual wish that it could be cheaper and... Read more

Dear Sanford

Thank you for the review Sanford, and welcome home!

I appreciate that you took the time to reply, and it will help us get better at our jobs. I'll take the time to reply, and I hope that it will explain our position too.

The trip planning process was enjoyable, but if you recall it involved 9 different versions of a tailormade vacation plan. If you recall, each iteration of the proposal was criticised based on price, with a continual wish that it could be cheaper and cheaper and cheaper. Each one of my following proposals included tweaks that responded to your comments. Each tweak was made transparently and the proposal was changed to reflect the change - the proposal did change from private experiences to small group then to group experiences, on a very few occasions to meet your budget constraints. I can accept that you stated you wanted small group or private proposals at the beginning of the process, but by the 7th or 8th version, it was clear in my proposals that this line had been crossed. I do hope that no matter what you enjoyed these days out and that the moments were memorable.

We use WhatsApp when it seems like a serious and useful means of communication (among others). It is not something we do every time and we do not oblige travelers to use this, it is simply just a convenient means of communication to travelers, because it is free for both parties, and with the two blue ticks it shows that the message is read. If you had not engaged with the WhatsApp we would have certainly used your normal cellular service. Following your comments however, we will review our use of WhatsApp, especially how we present it to each keen traveler.

When it comes to the confusion at pickups, we have taken this up with that supplier, and certainly take this all seriously. I am happy that your mentioned pickups did work out (these examples) and the other ones worked seamlessly too. We do not use this supplier often, and we have already refunded you for these two journeys. If the refund is not with you now, it will be in a day or so after processing.

We're happy to know you appreciated the welcome baskets. We do this often, and it feels nice to know you receive these at each hotel. When it comes to the Hilton Curio in London, we requested an upgrade and you received it - you were upgraded to a Queen Corner Room.

Thank you again for the review and I appreciate hearing from you. I hope that by seeing my reply this all makes sense.

Thank you for choosing us for England and Ireland Sanford,
Stephen

Ireland by All the Modes of Transportation
Ireland | Apr 27 - May 3, 2024

Heather
Heather G.
Canada | Reviewed on May 04, 2024
We wanted to experience multiple areas of Ireland as a family but didn't want to drive. Emily set us up with stays in 3 cities and got us to each by train. We started in Killarney with stunning scenery and a charming, vibrant downtown. Our Ring of Kerry Tour was the perfect length and Michael was an informative guide but didn't dominate the trip. Cannot recommend the Kells Sheep Dogs demonstration enough. Highlight of the trip. We took a carriage tour of the Killarney National Park... Read more

We wanted to experience multiple areas of Ireland as a family but didn't want to drive. Emily set us up with stays in 3 cities and got us to each by train.

We started in Killarney with stunning scenery and a charming, vibrant downtown. Our Ring of Kerry Tour was the perfect length and Michael was an informative guide but didn't dominate the trip. Cannot recommend the Kells Sheep Dogs demonstration enough. Highlight of the trip. We took a carriage tour of the Killarney National Park - Mikey, our guide, was a hoot and turned us on to the local pubs to try.

Cork was a quick stop and a colorful city with people who are very proud of their heritage. Blarney Castle is impressive but don't miss out on the gardens. We wanted Irish Session Music and we got it at Sin e'. Our cab driver also recommended the Corner House and those two both had tremendous atmosphere and music.

Dublin has yet another vibe than the other areas. We went on several tours - Molly was great at the Jameson experience. You can't go wrong in Temple Bar but hit THE Temple Bar early. We really enjoyed the Palace Bar and its adjoining Whiskey Bar. JR Mahon's also had great session music. The EPIC museum felt like the best way to end the trip.

We took a 13-hour bus trip from Dublin out to the west coast for the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and Galway. Barry, our driver, gave us enough breaks and a lot of interesting history along the way. You cannot beat the majesty of views. It's long day to cross the country and back so we were glad we scheduled it in between Dublin days.

Cannot thank Emily enough for building a trip that was exactly what we wanted while making it seem effortless.

Hotel Reviews
Castle Lodge
Killarney

Friendly staff, great location, good food charming decor. Just a little trouble regulating the heater in the room. Wonderful for walkability to the part and the downtown pubs, restaurants, shopping and the train station.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Maldron Hotel Shandon
Co. Cork

Bit of a hike from the training but we had a lovely turret room. Room was very clean and the views were expansive. Bathroom was very updated.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Academy Plaza Hotel
Dublin

Great value in Dublin right off O'Connell street. Quick walk to the river and pubs. Lovely staff. We found our normal double room spacious and updated. Others in our party had a small double and a single that were very tight, so understand what you're booking. Would stay there again for sure.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Leon at the desk could not have been more welcoming. The bartenders were very helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guided tour to the Ring of Kerry
Guided tour to the Ring of Kerry
Killarney

Michael as an excellent guide. The Kells sheep dog demonstration was a highlight of our whole trip. The tour was paced well with enough time to enjoy multiple areas.

Quality of Experience
Kells Sheep Dog Show, View from lunch in Waterville
Guides, Drivers and Staff
We were stopped for quite a while by and accident on the road. Michael somehow made up the time so we didn't miss anything. He was very informative without distracting from us taking in the views.
Transport
Very nice bus
Visit Blarney castle and kiss the stone
Visit Blarney castle and kiss the stone
Ireland

We were lucky to visit in the afternoon when it wasn't so busy with tour buses and cruise excursions. Got right through the VERY steep climb to the top of the castle to kiss the stone. Had a great time learning about the castle and touring the amazing gardens.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle
Dublin

State rooms are nice but you don't get to see much as it's not large. It's not an expensive ticket, but if you're expecting Windsor Castle, this isn't it.

Quality of Experience
Cliff of Moher tour from Dublin
Cliff of Moher tour from Dublin
Dublin

The Cliffs are stunning and worth the long drive from Dublin. We enjoyed our lunch in Doolin - the staff at McGann's was ready and waiting for us. Doolin itself is a lovely village. The Burren is like nothing we've seen before. Wish we could have spend more time in Galway but we did get to spend time in the quaint shopping area and hear busker and see murals. The people could not have been nicer. Barry, our driver, was very accommodating and kept us informed of the schedule. But it was a long day.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bus didn't have charging ports. The pocket in the seat in front of us was ripped.
Trinity College Library : The Book of Kells Experience
Trinity College Library : The Book of Kells Experience
Dublin

Really well done tour of the facilities even though the books have been decanted. Enjoyed the interactive presentations

Quality of Experience
Free time in Dublin
Free time in Dublin
Dublin

The Temple Bar area was colorful and fun with the pubs and restaurants. We sampled many and saw Irish music sessions in some places along with modern performers at others. The city center is every walkable. We found that cab drivers and bar tenders were great sources of intel on places to try.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jameson Distillery Dublin - Bow St. Experience
Jameson Distillery Dublin - Bow St. Experience
Dublin

This was so much more than we expected. The facility itself is very cool with shops and a unique bar. Even though Jameson isn't distilled here, they celebrate the heritage so well and so a great job of interactively demonstrating how the distillation process works. The tasting room was so well done and our tour group was so friendly thanks to our excellent guide, Molly. Will recommend to everyone to gets to Dublin.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Molly was great!
Local specialist: Emily Reilly