A Memorable Trip
Spain
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Apr 8 - Apr 21, 2024
Everything about this trip was memorable. Working with Yuri to craft our ideal tour was a pleasant experience. Based on our goals, he made recommendations which we took into consideration and communicated with him by KimKim email and a scheduled phone call. As active seniors with specific ideas of what we wanted to see (we did our homework), the group travel experience of other companies wasn't for us. But because we aren't as young as we used to be, having Yuri's recommendations of hotels, tours and guides gave us extra support on this trip and alleviated stress. We traveled to Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Ronda and Granada -- Kim Kim arranged flight & train tickets. We really appreciated the driving service between some of our destinations because instead of navigating a rental car, we could relax and enjoy the scenery. We had a glitch but Yuri and the Kim Kim Team solved the problem. Familiarity with WhatsApp and, for Canadian travelers, having a local Esim was essential for us. Through food, art, wine and history tours we learned so much about the Andalusian culture and all guides were so generous with their time and knowledge. We do recommend that if your guide is not meeting you at the hotel, do exchange photos for ease of identification in crowded plazas. Also, in advance of a private tour, discuss what you are seeking to see and learn so that your guide knows more about your goals.
Hotel Reviews
A great location in Madrid and walking distance to art museums, shopping and El Retiro Park. We enjoyed the hotel's artistic ambience, our quiet and spacious room and the professional and attentive staff. The breakfast room was bright and spacious, with an extensive selection and a barista who makes excellent coffee. Special thanks to Ruben at the concierge desk. Be sure to reserve at Angelita, a short walk away. Thank you 7 Islas!
The cab driver dropped us off beside an orange tree and we walked 5 minutes through the narrow cobbled roads to the hotel and it was a wonderful introduction to the ancient neighbourhood. We were greeted with cold drinks and treats and escorted to our light and airy room. All staff were helpful and pleasant. The rooftop view is outstanding and breathtaking by night with a view of the Mesquita. We discovered Bar La Cavea and visited the Museo Arqueologico -- a good place to being your Cordoba experience. Walk the Puente Romano in the evening, visit the Jewish Quarter and the Mesquita, roam the winding passages -- all within walking distance from Madinat. We really enjoyed our 2 night stay.
Very attentive concierge staff who deals with a considerable number of travelers but the hotel never feels crowded. A spacious, comfortable lobby area for arriving and departing and a pleasant breakfast area with a varied buffet selection. Our room was clean, quiet and had a coffee pod machine. The hotel bar is open for your late afternoon drink when other establishments are closed for the mid day break. Close walking distance to Alameda de Hercules Plaza , the Hop On, Hop Off Buses, shopping and Setas de Seville (do use your ticket to see by day and by night). Special thanks to Raul.
The view from our Junior Suite was magnificent and we just spent time taking in the beautiful view of the valley and gorge. The 2nd level suite was luxuriously spacious but be aware that the bedroom is in the loft and the washroom is downstairs. The decor speaks of another decade but you are in the old town, so enjoy. Beautiful views from the restaurant (make reservations) and the breakfast room. Walk through the old town and into the gorge before the tours arrive -- so lush after the rainfall with beautiful views and so much birdsong. Be warned -- its a good workout walking back up the pathway. The hotel booked our cab for Cortijo Los Aguilares, a local winery. Highly recommend!
A quiet enclave in an elegant historic building. We were welcomed with a bottle of Cava and appreciated the complimentary tapas from 4:30 to 6 pm in the central courtyard--a nice touch for tired tourists. A simple buffet breakfast with seating in the covered courtyard and some seating in the buffet room. If your room overlooks the courtyard, you do have wooden shutters but you might hear guests returning from their evening and talking loudly in this area. Walking distance to Alhambra and be sure to participate in the River Darro evening stroll where you can view Alhambra towering overhead. Make reservations for La Tabernilla del Darro.