Kimkim Trip Reviews

Méadhbh was our travel specialist and she was fantastic. Despite the time change prior to our trip she was quick to respond to all of our questions. Especially after a last minute change in our travel dates. She was very thorough and provided us with so much information. This was only our second time using a tour company to plan our entire trip and we were very pleased with everything she booked. From Trevor who took us on a food tour in Belfast to Johnny who was our Black Cab tour driver and onto the Gobbins Cliff walk with a lovely young lady whose name I forget. We saw a lot in our 8 days in Northern Ireland and Méadhbh was always available to answer questions and help us out.
We really enjoyed Ballycastle and all to do in that area. We only had 1 day in Londonderry but had some great food. And Carlingford is worth the visit. Great pubs and awesome restaurants. Of course Belfast is so full of history, beautiful architecture, and wonderful pubs. An afternoon at Tollymore National Park is highly recommended. Just beautiful.
I would absolutely use Kimkim again for future travels.

Alfonso and his team at Basquelands Way were first class from the time we engaged with them until our trip finished in Barcelona. They communicated well and were vey responsive to our needs and created an itinerary that optimised our time in each city. We visited Mardrid, Bilbao, San Sebastián and Barcelona. Being local they saved us so much time planning the holiday, making accomodation bookings and arranging excursions. Everything went smoothly and we would use a Kim Kim again

Activity Reviews

Short Prado Museum Visit

Madrid

Sophia our guide was excellent. She was very knowledgeable about the city and the Prado Museum.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

San Sebastián & Gipuzkoa Coast Day Trip

Bilbao

Alfonso provides a locals guide to his hometown.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Traditional Tapas Tour

Madrid

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Private Madrid Highlights Walk

Madrid

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guggenheim private visit

Bilbao

While this is a very impressive building with some excellent steel sculptures, there is not a great selection of artwork.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Tapas Walk in The Gothic Quarter

Barcelona

Jordi was an amazing and knowledgeable guide. The tapas restaurant was very good.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Park Güell & La Sagrada Família

Barcelona

One of the highlights of our trip to Barcelona was seeing the genius of Antonio Gaudi.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Michelin starred restaurant

Bilbao

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Absolutely loved how local our guided adventures felt. True experts for wildlife and urban interest tours. We even saw the elusive grouse!
Everything was very professional and the accommodations (4) each fit the location and needs for the surrounding explorations. The luxury spot in Granton on Spey was such a treat and not anything I would have found in my own or chosen for myself. It was idealic.

I truly valued the expertise and the fun that were woven together; making the trip extra special.

Would use again in a heartbeat.

Aziz was our Guide/Driver who was with us throughout our entire trip from the time he picked us up from Casablanca airport and dropped us at Marrakech airport. He was an amazing person, very knowledgeable and provided extensive and detailed answers about the Moroccan history, culture and current political affairs. He was a very careful and vigilant driver when we could comfortably dose off on hectic days🙂.

Aziz was extremely friendly, polite and respectful. His guidance and support throughout our trip made our experience really memorable.

Following list of individual guides for respective places/cities were all very knowledgeable and expert in their respective areas.

1. Uthaman in Rabat
2. Hazim in Chefchaouen
3. Hakim in Fez
4. Mehdi and his family for hosting a traditional dinner in their warm and loving home
4. Rasheed in Volubilis
5. The staff at Tiziri Camp, Merzouga
6. Ayub in Ksar Ait Ben Haddou
7. Hameed in Marrakech
8. Youssef for Ballooning Experience by MLT in the outskirts of Marrakech.

A big Thank you to the people of Morocco for all their love and hospitality and definitely a warm cheers for all the Moroccan guides who work hard day-in and day-out to keep Moroccan tourism industry a flourishing one!

Hotel Reviews

Sofitel Casablanca Tour Blanche

Casablanca

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Villa Pomme d'Or

Midelt

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Tiziri Luxury Camp

Merzouga

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Very entertaining musical evening

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Xaluca Dades

Boumalne

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Sofitel Marrakech Lounge and Spa

Marrakesh

Authenticity & Character

Amazing breakfast with ample options

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Sofitel Rabat Jardin Des Roses

Rabat

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Dar Jasmine

Chefchaouen

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace

Fès

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Architectural Elegance: A Journey through the Hassan II Mosque

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Evening in Casablanca with your driver/guide.

Casablanca

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Casablanca Accommodation – Rabat ( 1 Hour Drive).*Driving Times Don’t Include The Various Stops Along The Way

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat

Rabat

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Uthaman had excellent English language skills

Transport

Transfer to Chefchaouen from Rabat via Ouazzane 4 Hours Drive

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore the Blue City

Chefchaouen

Quality of Experience

Chefchaouen is a unique city to visit

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guided Tour of Volubilis

Volubilis

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dinner with a local Family in Fes

Fes

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Very warm and welcoming environment

Transport

Fes: Exploring the Imperial City

Fes

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Hakeem took us to the oldest University (now Madrassah) to offer Friday prayers

Transport

Fes to Midelt via High Atlas Mountains

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Transfer to Merzouga via Erfoud, Saharan Camel Ride

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Merzouga to Boumalne Dades via Tinghir & Todra Gorge

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dades Valley, Ouarzazate, Ait Benhaddou & Marrakech

Morocco

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Marrakech Food Tour

Marrakesh

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Marrakesh

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Half Day Trip to Atlas Mountains Ourika Valley

Marrakesh

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Jeep to your luxury Desert Camp (15 Muintes Drive)

Merzouga

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Rosewater Workshop in Boumalne Dades

Boumalne Dades

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hammam Spa & Massage in La Masion Arabe at 3 pm

Marrakesh

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore Chefchaouen with your local guide

Chefchaouen

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Fes Food Tour

Fes

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Tour of Marrakech, the "Red City"

Marrakesh

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

I could not have planned this trip without Fabio's help. He was so patient and answered every question I had. He tailored our itinerary perfectly and helped me secure the perfect the most amazing hotels and activities for our group. Fabio went above and beyond even while we were on our trip. The day before we left, Fabio let us know that there was a strike happening and that our trains were cancelled but not to worry he booked us a taxi instead and at no additional cost to us. Not having to deal with those unforeseen travel changes was a blessing. Fabio also helped me plan 2 separate events outside of my itinerary with a large group of my friends and graciously dealt with many last minute changes and updates.

Sabrina was our tour guide for our colosseum tour and she was absolutely amazing. We asked her so many questions about ancient Rome and the colosseum that we lost track of time and she so nicely stayed for an extra half hour. The tour of the colosseum was one of the most memorable parts of our trip.

Our drivers that took us to Florence and all around Tuscany, Stefano and Jury were wonderful. They were both very engaging and lovely to talk to and encouraged me to practice my Italian with them which I really appreciated. Stefano even walked us around each of the little towns he drove us to in Tuscany and shared some history and places of interest about each.

Another highlight was the truffle hunt. Our guide and his dog, Dora were wonderful company as we learned all out hunting for truffles. Dora found us many truffles.

Hotel Reviews

Otivm Hotel

Rome

I was delightfully surprised by this hotel. It's centrally located next all the main sites in the city center but it's located on a quieter side street. The rooms were very spacious and comfortable and the breakfast on the roof overlooking the city was amazing. The Front desk, and staff were very kind and welcoming.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Walkable to all the most important sites in the city center but down a quieter side street

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Mormoraia

San Gimignano

I highly recommend this hotel and to anyone staying in Tuscany or San Gimignano, the views around the property and from our hotel room were stunning. The rooms are very modern and chic. I shared a room with my mother and my aunt but I would say the rooms and the overall experience would be better suited for couples traveling. Most of the guests were younger, perhaps on their honeymoon or older couples. Breakfast was included and it was amazing every day. At night we ate at the restaurant on the property and that was also very delicious.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Doria Palace Boutique Hotel

Rome

This hotel is in a great location, very walkable to all the sites and right next to a Santa Maria maggiore Basilica. I was in Rome for a wedding and I asked to be closed to the hotel of the wedding party so that I could use the shuttle services. The hotel itself is very tiny /narrow. The elevator was a little scary as it only fits one person and barely any luggage. The rooms were on the smaller side but clean and comfortable. The rooftop bar served breakfast every day and drinks at night. The staff were very friendly and helpful.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Private Colosseum & Roman Forum Tour

Rome

Sabrina was fantastic. She is so knowledgable and engaging, we loved our tour with her. We asked her so many questions that we actually missed going to 2 other scheduled sites during our tour because we were so fascinated by the colosseum. She graciously stayed for another half hour and quickly walked us through the palatine hill. I highly recommend Sabrina to anyone looking for a private tour of the Colosseum.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Truffle Hunting Experience With Lunch and Wine Tasting

Italy

This was a very unique and wonderful experience. We got a private transfer and tour with a truffle hunter and his wonderful dog, Dora. We were pleasantly surprised that we were able to find so many truffles and it was very to get to dig up our own. Poggia wine tasting and lunch was delicious and they were kind enough to cook up our truffles we found into a dish.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Val D’Orcia and Brunello Wine Tour

Italy

I wound up cancelling one of these tours for the day as we were worried about doing too many wine tasting. The one winery we did go to was beautiful and just recently renovated. We were given our own private room for the tasting and they served us lunch which was the best lasagna of my life. The space is huge and we were unfortunately the only ones there.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Tour of the Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel

Rome

Unfortunately the Vatican was incredibly packed when we visited and we had to wait a while to actually go in to the sistine chapel, which of course was not the fault of the tour guide. However, at times it seemed like she was exasperated by the crowds, she was having a hard time engaging our large group. Her accent also made it harder to understand her over the audio speaker and all the noise. She did not accomopany us into St. Peter's but it would have been nice to have someone guide us through the basilica. Unfortunately much of the site is under construction and scaffolding, preparing for next years jubliee.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Rome Food Tour

Rome

Amazing! It was great to explore a new neighborhood and get out of the city center. Maurizio took us a wonderful assortment of shops all showcasing Rome's local cuisine. He also shared some Roman history and walked us through a basilica as a part of the tour.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Cecelia put together the most amazing trip for 12 days to Northern Italy--Rapallo, Portofino, Chincaterra, Milan, Lake Como, and Venice. She listened to our wants and put together great hotels in the best locations, top-notch guides and drivers. Everything went off without a hitch.

This is our third trip with KimKim in past two years.
We are huge KimKim fans.

The trip was 5 star all the way. Cecelia was terrific to work with.

We enjoyed being in all the places that Anna Maria recommended.

All the service persons she recommended were very nice, attentive and efficient. They were very knowledgeable about the places they took us to.

Our trip to Croatia was a very good experience, due to the excellent program due to the excellent program that Kimkim put together for us.

Activity Review

Dubrovnik tour in an E-tuk tuk

Dubrovnik

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The friendliness of all the people recommended made it a beautiful trip

Every aspect of our trip to Ireland that Kim Kim helped us plan was absolutely wonderful!
We loved our two day stay in Dublin. The Dublin Food and Drink tour was a blast and a great way to see some of the city and learn about and taste traditional Irish food. I can’t remember the tour guide’s name but he had a great personality and really made the tour even more enjoyable. We also loved the Historical walking tour. We learned so much about the history of Ireland and Dublin in particular.
We loved Donegal town and Harvey’s Point hotel. Our day tour with Henry was fantastic and we especially loved the Slieve League Cliffs. Henry was so knowledgeable and loved spending the day with him. He recommended great restaurants and pubs for music.
We loved the drive to Galway by way of Achill Island. This was a great recommendation to take the long way and fit in the island.
On our way to Doolin, we stopped at the Cliffs of Moher visitors center and walked out to the cliffs. The views were spectacular but this area was very touristy and crowded with huge tour buses.
We loved our afternoon ferry out to Inisheer island and the bike ride all around the island. One of our favorite tours for sure!
I think perhaps Dingle Town was our favorite…. staying at the Pax House was unlike any place I’ve ever stayed. The rooms, the scenery from the common rooms and our bedrooms, and the beautiful breakfast prepared by the owner was simply amazing. An experience never to be forgotten! The Archaeological Tour of the peninsula was great. So beautiful!
Really enjoyed Killarney and the Cahernane House Manor. The National Park Walking Tour was nice and the Ring of Kerry Day Tour was great. Aiden, our tour guide was very knowledgeable and had so much good information about Ireland’s history and that area in particular. He was so enjoyable to spend the day with.
The last night of our trip at the Cashel Palace Hotel was beautiful with a wonderful breakfast the next day.

Hotel Reviews

Pax Guest House

Dingle

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Pembroke Townhouse Dublin

Dublin

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The Shamrock Inn

Doolin

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Cahernane House Manor Hotel

Killarney

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Harvey's Point Hotel

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Cashel Palace Hotel

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Dublin Food and Drink tour

Dublin

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Welcome to Donegal!

Ireland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Trinity Trails & Book of Kells Guided Tour

Dublin

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Historical Walking Tour of Dublin

Dublin

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

DAY TOUR: Highlights Of South Donegal

Ireland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Archaeological Tour of the Dingle Peninsula

Ireland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Ring of Kerry Private Day Tour

Kenmare

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour

Killarney

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Aran Island Tour - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin

Ireland

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Everything was carefully planned and coordinated by Claire and her teammates. Our fairly robust itinerary went smoothly and included walking food tours, e-bike tours, guided hikes, a visit to an island, a boat tour of a lake, and an hidden gems tour and more. The guides on the tours were informative and entertaining. The 3 private drivers were friendly and competent and made our 4 + hours of travel time pass quickly with their stories, etc.

Hotel Reviews

Skeffington Arms Hotel

Galway

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Randles Hotel Killarney

Co. Kerry

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The Fleet

Dublin

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour

Killarney

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Galway Food Tour

Galway

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Killarney boat tour

Ireland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dublin Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour

Dublin

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guided E-bike Tour Of Galway City

Galway

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets

Ireland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

This is the first time we have used KimKim, and I must admit I was anxious. Well, I could not have been more wrong! Thanos was absolutely fantastic! He was patient and kind and answered all my endless questions, worked around our changing plans and even came to greet us when we arrived in Athens! I cannot thank him enough for arranging the absolutely perfect trip for us. We spent a few days in Athens where Thanos arranged for an informative tour of the Acropolis. The hotel, 18 Micon was perfect (it was my favorite on of the trip). The location enabled us to walk everywhere: to the historic sites, shopping and great eating. Did I mention Thanos recommended fabulous restaurants, too. We took a day trip to Delphi which was memorable for our wonderful driver and guide. We then went on to Crete where we stayed in a lovely hotel in Chania, Kydon, also within easy walking for shopping the beautiful Venetian harbor, restaurants and even a local beach. We spent a day in Heraklion and were driven by a wonderful guide, Yanna and escorted through Knossos by Gabriel. Our final stop, Thessaloniki was great. A cooking class with Esmeralda made our day. We had the perfect Greek vacation. Thank you Thanos!

Hotel Reviews

Kydon, The Heart City Hotel Chania

Chania

Modern hotel within walking distance of the Venetian Harbor Comfortable beds. Delicious breakfast

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

DOM Boutique Hotel

Heraklion

Tucked away on a side street this hotel was quiet and comfortable with helpful staff

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Teight Hotel Thessaloniki

Amazing staff. clean and comfortable. Lovely breakfast

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Staff deserves 12 stars very very helpful

Cleanliness & Comfort

18 Micon Street Athens

Athens

Lovely room with comfortable bed, great shower, delicious breakfast located in the perfect spot within an easy walk of anywhere you might want to go. Kind friendly staff and immaculately clean. As far as I am concerned, it is the perfect hotel.

Authenticity & Character

modern but not cold

Location

walkable to everywhere

Staff

always helpful and friendly

Cleanliness & Comfort

great beds, shower

Activity Reviews

Divine Delphi Excursion

Greece

Delphi is fascinating and our guide was amazing sharing the site and the museum with us Our driver from Athens was outstanding and we had a memorable day

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Acropolis Guided Tour

Athens

Informative with a sweet guide who was able to help us navigate the crowds and enjoy our experience

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Private Hike to Imbros Gorge — A Scenic Adventure Through the Narrowest Gorge in Crete

Greece

We are an older couple and our guide, Tina was so thoughtful and helpful along the way

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Denise was wonderful

The Legendary Palace of Knossos & The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

Greece

What an amazing site. Gregory was a fantastic guide helping us to navigate the site and we learned an enormous mount in a way that was fun

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Gregory and Yanna were fantastic. We made two new friends

Transport

Cooking Class in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki

Esmeralda has the most amazing kitchen! It was joy to cook there. The trip to the market was fun and educational. The dishes we made were delicious but we could not have done it without Anastasia! They make the perfect team.

Quality of Experience

Maria did a great job. There were a few misunderstandings due to language barrier between italian and english but it was a great experience overall. All of our guides we loved just maybe a different guide for the colosseum because even though she was informative, there were many times that we couldn't really understand too well cause of her very strong accent. Our private drivers were amazing as well and the conversation between Maria and the Storywalking team was excellent. Also, restaurant recommendations would be extremely helpful because it's not easy to find an amazing restaurant even when you search on google.

Hotel Reviews

Donna Laura Palace

Roma

It's a great hotel with good breakfast selection.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Unconventional Hotel Sorrento 3* Sant'Agnello

Sant'Agnello

It was a great experience here. We loved our view and the shuttle service they provide is very helpful as well.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Ca' dei Proverbi Suites

Venice

This was our favorite hotel experience so far! Beautiful, modern and luxurious shower

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Private Colosseum Tour Including Roman Forum

Rome

It was a great experience, just wish we had a different guide

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Very strong accent, couldn't really understand everything she was saying. She was very kind and accommodating but the language barrier was a bit of a let down

Transport

Rome Street Food Tour

Rome

DO IT! So worth it!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dinner Experience in a Local Home Restaurant

Rome

We loved it!!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Amalfi Coast Private Boat Tour with Skipper

Italy

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Venice Walking Tour with St. Marks Basilica Access

Italy

Omg! We loved this experience and our guide so much!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Vatican, Sistine Chapel & Saint Peter's Basilica

Rome

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Guides were all excellent and knowledgeable

Hotel Reviews

Hôtel de l’Horloge

Avignon

Location was excellent, as was the breakfast

Authenticity & Character

Location was in the center of everything we needed

Location

Staff

Extremely helpful with all needs including setting up dinner reservations

Cleanliness & Comfort

Suisse Hotel

Nice

Location and view was perfect

Authenticity & Character

Location

View

Staff

Staff was very helpful with all needs

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hôtel Jardin de Cluny

Paris

Room was comfortable, clean and quiet

Authenticity & Character

Breakfast was excellent

Location

No cars on street in front of the hotel

Staff

Most of staff was excellent, check in staff not so much

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Nighttime Seine River Cruise with Dining Experience

Paris

Exceeded all our expectations

Food

Food was beyond better than we expected

Monaco, Eze and La Turbie Tour small group tour

France

Guide was excellent. Wish we had more time to see the Casino area.

Cannes, Antibes and St Paul de Vence Small Group Tour (Full day)

France

Guide was excellent

Eiffel Tower Summit Ticket

Paris

Amazing but weather was a challenge

Medieval Paris - St Chapelle, Notre Dame & Conciergerie

Paris

Guide was extremely knowledgeable and enjoyable to be with

Saint Germain des Près Food Tour

Paris

Weather was terrible. Did not seem well planned.

Giverny and Versailles from Paris

France

Guide was excellent and took the time to drive to our hotel the next day after we left glasses in his van

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Murders and Mysteries of the Louvre

Paris

Guide was excellent

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Discover Villages in Luberon

France

Guide was excellent

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Van Gogh in Arles, Saint Rémy de Provence & Chateauneuf du Pape

France

Guide was excellent

Saint Remy, les Baux de Provence and Pont du Gard

Avignon

Guide was excellent

As our first trip to Africa in general and South Africa specifically, we had no idea where to start in planning, though we had some idea about experiences that we wanted. We jumped online to search for a travel agency to assist us, another first for us. We found KimKim somewhat randomly, but the feedback of other traveler led us to take a chance. What we found was that from start to finish, Anna-marie was attentive, responsive, energetic, and proactive. She took our somewhat neophytic thoughts and arranged an experience that will be indelibly fixed in our memories for the rest of our lives. The guides provided not only their knowledge, but their openness and willingness to share insights beyond geography, food and textbook history. The authenticity of those discussions truly made the journey one that was holistically edifying. Radheeka and Stephanie of Earthstompers, as well as Marlene of Adventure Shop were excellent. Probably most impactful personally for us was the day spent in Soweto with the guide from Lebo's Soweto Backpackers. The tuk-tuk tour gave us the opportunity to engage with people of all ages and the culture on a deeper level. The smiles and waves of the children, not to mention their innumerable high-fives, will not be forgotten or unappreciated for the hope for the future that they represented. Lastly, we are still in awe of the natural wonders that we shared in during our stay at the Walker Plains Camp. Our days there were never the same, with new animals and behaviors seemingly by the hour. Paul and Kenwell, our driver and tracker, were fantastic hosts for our daily drives, expert in their crafts and exceedingly gracious as they dealt with non-stop questions.
So with all of the wonderful personal and natural experiences, as well as the well appointed accommodations, we definitely look forward to our next adventure as curated by KimKim.

Hotel Reviews

Oude Werf Hotel

Stellenbosch

The location was great and it was modern hotel. We did not find it to very inviting. The staff was polite but did not go out of their way. We found the room to be small and standard. The breakfast was lovely.

Authenticity & Character

A modern hotel. Nothing set it apart

Location

Staff

Responsive but not proactive.

Cleanliness & Comfort

I recommend you select your room.

Dorp Hotel

Cape Town

Beautiful and well appointed accommodations. The staff was attentive and friendly. We felt like home in a very short amount of time. This hotel is not gated which we appreciated. The views were absolutely stunning.

Authenticity & Character

It transformed us back into time. We loved the photographs, history, etc.

Location

It sits on top of a hill. We made the mistake of walking up. LOL.

Staff

Extremely friendly and helpful. Our every need was met.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The size of the room and balcony was fantastic!

Walkers Plains Camp

Our home away from home. We fell in love with everything about this place. The accommodations were first class. The community was wonderful. The staff was friendly and professional. The meals were outstanding. We were celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary and they planned a romantic dinner in our cottage by the pool. Absolutely beautiful. We hope to return soon.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The Peech Boutique Hotel

Johannesburg

The property was very nice with the exception of being a gated community. We are the type of travelers that immerse ourselves into our environment. This was not possible at this location. The staff was professional but not overly friendly or accommodating with the exception of the gentlemen at the gate.

Authenticity & Character

It was a nice property but nothing stood out,

Location

We did not like the gated community

Staff

The gentlemen at the gate were very nice, friendly and professional

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Lunch at Crofter's Kitchen

Cape Town

The conversation with the chef and her staff, the tasting walk through the house garden.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Guided Hikes in Stellenbosch

South Africa

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Foodies on Foot

South Africa

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

A Day in the Kruger Bush with Two Private Game Drives

South Africa

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Cape Peninsula & Penguins

South Africa

We enjoyed the entire experience, visiting the parks and seeing the wildlife. Radheeka was a wonderful guide for the day.

Quality of Experience

animals, geography.

Food

stopped for coffee and pastry, which was nice.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

knowledge and openness of conversation

Transport

Robben Island

Cape Town

The experience was thought provoking and one we would not have missed.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

tour of cellblock conducted by former inmate. their presentation was evocative and moving, framed within the melancholy of the lasting effects on the guide.

Transport

not sure it can be improved, but a very crowded bus with relatively poor sound.

Dinner at GOLD Restaurant

Cape Town

As dinner theatre goes, it was a reasonably entertaining evening. However, it had too much of a touristy flavor.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Cape Town Food, City & Table Mountain Private Day Tour

Cape Town

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Full-Day Wine Tour

South Africa

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Arrive at Your Lodge in Kruger & First Game Drive

South Africa

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Another Day in the Kruger with 2 private game drives

South Africa

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Final morning game drive & next stop

South Africa

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Soweto Bicycle, Walking, or Tuk-Tuk Tour with Traditional Lunch in Outdoor Kitchen

Johannesburg

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

All hotels and hotels staff were amazing. We loved all os the tour guides. Our favorite ones were:
1. Donegal Tour Guide - Henry
2. Ollie Tours - Eleanor (Aran Island bike tour)
3. Mossies Tour- Helen (archaeological tour of Dingle Pen)
4. Killarney Guided Walks - John O’Connor (Killarney National Park)
5. Killarney Touring Co - Aiden O ‘Donaghue ? (Ring of Kerry)

Hotel Review

Pax Guest House

Dingle

We are 65 years old and have traveled quite a bit. This is our favorite hotel we have ever visited. The setting was so quiet and peaceful. The view was gorgeous. The hospitality and breakfast was the best we have ever experienced. I could go on and on. It was perfect in EVERY way.

Authenticity & Character

It is small enough to make each customer feel cherished.

Location

Beautiful views. Easy walk to the village.

Staff

Waitresses and housekeepers were so friendly. The owner introduced himself personally to all guests and asked if he could be of help.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Welcome to Donegal!

Ireland

The tour guide was very personal and shared so much history

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Our tour guide was amazing - so knowledgeable in the history of the area, so friendly

Transport

DAY TOUR: Highlights Of South Donegal

Ireland

Whoops - see above post

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Aran Island Tour - Day Trip to Inisheer from Doolin

Ireland

We over the bike tour. Such a magical island. Wonderful scones.

Quality of Experience

The remoteness of the island and seclusion of the inhabitants made us feel as if their lives haven’t changed much in the last few years.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Eleanor was very friendly and knowledgeable. Great sense of humor.

Transport

Bikes were the way to go!,,

Guided Killarney National Park Walking Tour

Killarney

The park was beautiful - not crowded - many deer. It felt like a magical place.

Quality of Experience

The park is beautiful and not crowded.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

John was so much fun! Burst out in Irish songs sporadically. He loves hiking like we do.

Transport

Archaeological Tour of the Dingle Peninsula

Ireland

Wonderful history shared with us.

Quality of Experience

The sunny weather allowed us to see amazing views. What a special place!! Not as crowded as the Ring of Kerry.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Helen was a great tour guide. Very knowledgeable about the local history and very friendly.

Transport

Ring of Kerry Private Day Tour

Kenmare

Very beautiful tour even in bad weather.

Quality of Experience

The views were gorgeous. The bog village village and the sheepdog demonstration were amazing!,,

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Aiden was great,,,

Transport

All of the drivers and trips we booked were great , the people of Greece were amazingly nice and friendly .
Hotels were spot -on as far as location, cleanliness, great included breakfasts.

Hotel Review

Heliotopos Hotel

Santorini

We had a “cave” style room at the Heliotopos hotel in Santorini. It was very clean, just a few steps to navigate. The view was amazing! We looked at the beautiful town of Oia, as well as the smaller towns lining the top of the caldera. Breakfast each day was homemade, including egg dishes, meats, fresh juices, and pastries. Would definitely recommend this hotel!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Morning Catamaran Cruise

Naxos

The catamaran trip was super! Anna, our captain made sure everyone was well taken care of. She explained where we were going, how long each section would take, and some history of what we were seeing. We were fed 3 different times on the boat, and were able to swim at 2 different spots. She was very professional, but also made the trip fun for everyone!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

E-Bike Experience in Naxos with Farm visit and Wine Tasting

Naxos

Manos was our guide, but he also became a friend. He took us to an olive oil press, where they showed us how they made olive oil years ago. We tasted the current, flavored olive oils too. Also visited the “kouros”, which is a marble statue, believed to be from around 570 BC. We had a great lunch at a family owned, roadside cafe where the owners did not speak English, but were prepared for us anyway. Next to a family farm where they make cheese from cows, sheep, and goats. Great day, felt like we learned a lot about island life from Manos.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our trip to Morocco was terrific. From the planning to the on the ground handling worked like a charm. Our river Illyach was great. We enjoyed his company throughout the entire week. He was always on time, had a lot of insight into visiting his country and always took care of anything we needed. He knew his way around , gave us advice on what we were going to see, and was very friendly and personable. We couldn’t, have asked for anyone better.
All the guides were also great. The new their history and what was important to show us and explain to us about their cities.
All accommodations from Marrakesh, the luxury Tiziri camp , Palau’s Amani, to Dar Jasmine were comfortable, clean, and lovely places to put your head down after a rich and exhausting day.
The most remember adventure of the trip the desert experience and the most remembered person would be our driver Illyach who represented his country and his company very well. Great job !

Hotel Review

Dar Jasmine

Chefchaouen

Beautiful view of the blue city. Lovely accommodations. We had to leave well before breakfast and they packed us a breakfast to go. They also had staff handle our luggage on a rather long stairway down to street level to meet our driver.. A definite 5 star hotel🌠🌠🌠🌠🌠

Authenticity & Character

Location

View

Staff

Especially in the morning

Cleanliness & Comfort

Comfortable bed

Activity Review

Explore the Magic of Marrakesh: A Guided Tour

Marrakesh

We would have never seen the city without a guide. She was friendly , knowledgeable , and did a great jo

Quality of Experience

Learning from people who really knew about their country

Food

Enjoyed it especially the family dinner and the barbecue stop for the fresh beef and lamb chop lunch

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Driver was terrific. We all got along and he seemed to the extra mile with us. Lots of laughs

Transport

Nathalie did a phenomenal job planning our trip and attending to all the details. She was extremely attentive, responsive, knowledgeable, and an absolute joy to work with. (And to meet in person!)

Our hotels were comfortable and well-located and met our specifications. The day trips were perfect with well-chosen local guides and a variety of activities. Our drivers were always punctual, pleasant, and communicative. Nathalie did a great job of balancing scheduled activities with free time so that we had time to explore on our own and catch our breath when needed. There was not a single glitch which is amazing for a three-week trip!

I highly recommend Nathalie and would use her again in a heartbeat!

All of the arrangements worked very well and reservations; No problems. The hotels were in great locations and once we learned to use the train system we went to different locations easily. We found the hotel staff very friendly and very helpful. It was a great trip and we enjoyed each unique location. Our trip advisor was extrememly helpful and willing to answer all of our questions. The advise given was right on target and we were very pleased with Jane's knowledge of all venues. Thanks for your help and support.

Hotel Review

Riu Plaza London Victoria

London

This hotel is very well located in a safe walking neighborhood. It is close to the theaters, transportation is readily available and there are good local restaurants. The staff are very supportive and offer good advice.

Authenticity & Character

Location

A little less construction around the hotel

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Downton Villages, Cotswolds and Blenheim Palace Tour from London

London

Interesting.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

It was a hard day as there was flooding in the area. The bus driver did fine. We were left off at a different location, so transport back to our hotel was more complex.

Tickets to Westminster Abbey

London

This was so crowded that trying to walk through was very difficult. It is filled with museum artifacts and honestly feels more like a museum than an Abbey.

Churchill War Rooms Small-Group Walking (plus discovery of the area around Westminster) Tour

London

This was very interesting. It is very detailed and fills in a lot of history that one might not know.

Bodleian Library Tour

Oxford

This was very interesting. The guide was very informative and the library was beautiful. It is an amazing collection.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

I spoke to this.

Christchurch College and Cathedral Tour

Oxford

Very interesting. Both the college and the church were beautiful. The guide was very informative. She was a grad student in the college, so she shared a lot about the college as a community and the how the students relate to the greater community.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Very good guide.

Entry into the Roman Baths

Bath

The history of the Baths was intriguing. It was very crowded, hot and difficult to hear at times . We were glad we went. My friend had been there previously and said that they have improved and expanded the exhibits tremendously.

Simply Windsor Castle - Afternoon Tour with transport

London

Going to Windsor is always a treat. It is so beautiful, both the setting and the castle itself. Unfortunated St. George's Chapel was closed for repairs, but otherwise it was a wonderful trip. There were lots of people on a Sunday afternoon, but things moved along quite easily. I wish we could have stayed longer.

Quality of Experience

Tickets to British Museum

London

Very crowded but lovely Jade Exhibit and Grecian and Roman artifacts. We were disappointed that we couldn't see the Elgin Marbles.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Taxi drivers were very helpful as were the staff members in the hotel. The Courtyard Marriott in Oxford couldn't deal with cash. Twice we went to pay them for a dinner and they took our money but struggled to find cash to return to us.

Transport

Bus tours were fine

Canterbury Cathedral Entrance ticket

Canterbury

This was a very meaningful experience, both the cathedral and the abbey. Very worthwhile. I really loved it. I could have stayed longer.

Both the guides - Ken in Tokyo and Junko in Kyoto were very good. Full marks to them. We enjoyed Tokyo and Kyoto, but Kanazawa was, for us, the really outstanding city. Takayama was interesting, but overrun by tourists. Hotels - Asakusa View Hotel Annex Rokku was adequate, as was Nohga in Kyoto - though the latter was overpriced. Zoushi in Kanazawa , though small, was truly outstanding in every way. In contrast, Oyado Koto no Yume in Takayama was both overpriced and pretentious and was the place we least enjoyed. The day trip to Hakone was a disaster - mainly owing to the crowds - and we didn’t even make it to the final boat ride. Overall we enjoyed Japan and are thankful to Claudia for making all the arrangements in a patient and efficient manner. Thank you.

Activity Reviews

Explore Asakusa and Hamarikyu Gardens

Tokyo

Asakusa was a fun area and very interesting. Hamarikyu Garden - it was unfortunately raining

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Helpful and courteous

Transport

Taxis were efficient and the drivers were always polite and helpful

Beautiful Hakone!

Japan

Complete disaster due to over tourism.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Ken, the guide was outstanding

Transport

Contro the nymbers

Tranquil Walks and Cultural Treasures: Kyoto's Outdoor Wonders

Kyoto

Junko the guide was extremely helpful and understanding and made an enjoyable day for us.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Antonia was very responsive and helped answer all my questions quickly. I was very impressed with the tour she put together and arranged to have us picked up in Budapest to start. We saw a lot of the country and had a great time. Highly recommend.

Hotel Review

AS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Ljubljana

Really nice hotel in a good location and friendly helpful staff

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Discover Bled Town and Enjoy Pletna Boat Ride

Bled

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff