Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 19,573 ratings
Read 19,573 verified reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim. You can also read reviews about kimkim on 3rd party sites including Google, TrustPilot and Yelp.

Stuck on Safari...flooding.
South Africa | Feb 5 - Feb 12, 2023

J
Jodi S.
New Rochelle, NY | Reviewed on Feb 13, 2023
I think that the best review for any travel company is related to how they support travellers during unexpected disruptions. We were stuck in the Kruger area, missing a flight because roads were flooded. We still hoped to make it for a few days up to Victoria Falls. The KimKim team worked with us through WhatsAp messages to reroute our travel so we could still enjoy the falls and the Zambezi. Thank you for making this such an easy and wonderful trip! Read more

I think that the best review for any travel company is related to how they support travellers during unexpected disruptions. We were stuck in the Kruger area, missing a flight because roads were flooded. We still hoped to make it for a few days up to Victoria Falls. The KimKim team worked with us through WhatsAp messages to reroute our travel so we could still enjoy the falls and the Zambezi. Thank you for making this such an easy and wonderful trip!

Hotel Reviews
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
Victoria Falls

Very kind and helpful staff. Clean and lovely facility. Do not miss going to the 1:00 Vulture Culture experience!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Shindzela Tented Camp
Kruger National Park

They were fun and professional. When all the roads got flooded, they helped us make the arrangements needed to get on with our trip. Very knowledgeable and amazing game drives! (lion pride on a fresh giraffe kill and giraffe- very memorable!)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Stephanie Louw

Rita did such an amazing job planning, coordi...
Portugal | Feb 5 - Feb 11, 2023

A
Angela R.
Somerville, MA | Reviewed on Feb 12, 2023
Rita did such an amazing job planning, coordinating, and making last second changes as needed. She really listened to what we wanted to do and delivered. I had such a great experience with this platform that I am booking another trip! Read more

Rita did such an amazing job planning, coordinating, and making last second changes as needed. She really listened to what we wanted to do and delivered. I had such a great experience with this platform that I am booking another trip!

Activity Reviews
Sintra Heritage Hike: Hidden Secrets
Sintra Heritage Hike: Hidden Secrets
Portugal

Paulo our guide was great. He challenged us and made sure the group did not fall behind. He packed an amazing lunch and even lent us extra windbreakers when we got cold. He went out of his way to take us along the coast on the way home.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day Excursion to Douro Valley:  Wine Tasting & River Cruise
Day Excursion to Douro Valley: Wine Tasting & River Cruise
Porto

Nelson was a great tour guide. He knows about the history of Portugal and a lot about the wine. He catered the tour to our needs and brought us to an amazing winery on a farm with this amazing home cooked local meal.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
An Introduction to Portuguese Wines
An Introduction to Portuguese Wines
Porto

Ryan was beyond educational and a lot of fun. We really enjoyed our time tasting and learning about Portuguese wines.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Rita Pagano
Rita
Rita Pagano
Local specialist in Naples & Madrid | Replied on Feb 13, 2023

Hi Angela, thank you so much for taking the time to write your trip review which I will make sure to forward to our team of local guides, who were very happy to show you around Portugal!
It was my pleasure to work with you and organize this experience for you and your friends. I hope we will be in touch for other trips and thank you again for letting us be a small part of your trip :)
Warmest regards, Rita

We thank Stephen, William and Celina for orga...
Scotland | Jan 25 - Feb 12, 2024

A
Anne W.
Australia | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2023

We thank Stephen, William and Celina for organising a wonderful holiday for us in Scotland. The attention to detail was outstanding particularly given it was the winter season when many venues are closed. Nothing was too much trouble and always available and keeping in touch. We had a sensational time staying at terrific hotels often wonderfully located in the country, and made many happy memories out in the Scottish Highlands. A lovely outdoor adventure... favourite spot is Applecross!!! We could imagine the Vikings landing there from the sea.

Super thanks from Anne and Bill

Local specialist: Stephen Molloy
Stephen
Stephen Molloy
Local specialist in Dorset and Lyon | Replied on Feb 13, 2023

Hello Anne & Bill

It was a pleasure! We are so happy that you enjoyed (among other things!) the Caledonian Sleeper, the Kingshouse, the guided winter hike, the Three Chimneys Restaurant experience, The Cuillin Hills Hotel and off the beaten track to Sheldaig Lodge, before Culloden and Bannockburn battle fields before the Tiger Lily in Edinburgh, and other warm and cosy winter experiences!

Thank you for choosing us for this winter experience travelling in Scotland.

Best
Stephen

2 week incredible Ecuador trip
Ecuador | Jan 28 - Feb 10, 2023

Nicole
Nicole S.
Canada | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2023
We had the most amazing time in Ecuador. We spent 2 weeks there and were able to see so much more than if we had attempted to plan this ourselves. The tours, guides, hotels and transports were all perfectly coordinated and made the trip stress free for us! Linda really put the most spectacular trip together!!! 10/10 recommend for anyone!! Read more

We had the most amazing time in Ecuador. We spent 2 weeks there and were able to see so much more than if we had attempted to plan this ourselves. The tours, guides, hotels and transports were all perfectly coordinated and made the trip stress free for us! Linda really put the most spectacular trip together!!! 10/10 recommend for anyone!!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel La Laguna Galapagos
Puerto Villamil
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Isla Hotel
Puerto Ayora

Great place and staff! Perfect location to restaurants and shops, with a beautiful roof top view of both the city and ocean.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sacha Lodge Yasuní
Quito

Everything about this place is wonderful! The location, guides, daily excursions and food were spectacular!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Really amazing how deep in the jungle we were!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Joaquín
Quito

Everything was great about our stay here! We had 3 seperate stays here between our time in the Amazon and Galapagos and each time was great! They were very accomodating with some very early departures and late arrivals, and the coffee and breakfast was delicious!!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to a variety of restaurants and a short taxi or transport to the cable car and/or old town.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Kayaking & Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Kayaking & Snorkeling at Las Tintoreras
Galapagos Islands

We had so much fun Kayaking, especially with sea lions! The water is so clear, and the snorkel afterwards was on the clearest water we had experienced yet! Such a wonderful time!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Snorkel at Los Túneles
Snorkel at Los Túneles
Galapagos Islands

Such a wonderful place to visit! Our guide was great and was able to find sea horses during our snorkel! Los Tuneles is incredibly beautiful both during our walk and then our snorkel.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

So many animals to enjoy and experience! The walk was great for watching birds and iguanas and then the snorkel is so refreshing afterwards!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

Astrid was incredibly knowledgeable and we learnt so much from her. Not only that but also really fun to hang out with and incredibly sweet!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer to Quito Airport, Arrival to Galapagos & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Transfer to Quito Airport, Arrival to Galapagos & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Ecuador

All of our transfers were seamless and stress less! Astrid was waiting for us at the airport and got us through to our transport smoothly! Then we had an incredible time visiting the huge tortoises in the highlands and visiting the Darwin research station. Astrid was an absolute joy to be with and was incredibly knowledgeable on everything Galapagos!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Last rainforest activities, Transfer to Coca & Flight to Quito
Last rainforest activities, Transfer to Coca & Flight to Quito
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Parrot Clay Lick & Forest Walks
Parrot Clay Lick & Forest Walks
Yasuni National Park

Everything about our stay at Sacha was amazing! The parrots are very cool to watch and walking through the forest is an incredible experience. Every day was we're able to see something different!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kapok Tower & Canopy Walk
Kapok Tower & Canopy Walk
Yasuni National Park

The towers and canopy walk were incredible. I'm afraid of heights and definitely had to push myself out of my comfort zone but it was sooo worth it! The view is spectacular and your able to see more birds than from the ground.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Flight to Coca, Transfer to rainforest lodge & Night walk
Flight to Coca, Transfer to rainforest lodge & Night walk
Ecuador

Sacha lodge is such an incredible place! The transfer was stress free and very organised, the guides are so knowledgeable and the food is delicious!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit the "Middle of the World"
Visit the "Middle of the World"
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Quito City Tour
Quito City Tour
Ecuador

There is so much to learn and experience in Quito and we never would've been able to do that without this city tour! Cristian was so knowledgeable and fun to hang out with! My husband and I are more the outdoorsy nature type and not hugely interested in history but we both really enjoyed this tour! From the middle of the world, and then to old town with an incredible chocolate tasting, there's so much to take in with the city and we're both really glad we had this tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Linda Schulz
Linda
Linda Schulz
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Feb 17, 2023

Hi Nicole,
I am so happy to hear that you've had an incredible time here in Ecuador! It was a pleasure to help you plan your trip, and I am glad that you've enjoyed each destination, activity, guide, and hotel!
Hopefully you can come back one day to explore other parts of the country such as the beautiful Andes :)
All the best & safe future travels for you and Harm!
Linda

Chris was incredible. We wound up calling hi...
Greece | Jan 27 - Feb 9, 2023

Betty
Betty T.
Murfreesboro, TN | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2023
Chris was incredible. We wound up calling him our deus ex machina because he was always there and responsive if we had any questions or issues. This was our first time using a travel agent and we'll never do it any other way. Chris listened to what we were looking for in our trip to Greece and created a plan that we then read through and adjusted if we wanted to. We were met at each airport by a driver holding a sign with my name on it. We visited many ancient sites and he arranged private... Read more

Chris was incredible. We wound up calling him our deus ex machina because he was always there and responsive if we had any questions or issues. This was our first time using a travel agent and we'll never do it any other way. Chris listened to what we were looking for in our trip to Greece and created a plan that we then read through and adjusted if we wanted to. We were met at each airport by a driver holding a sign with my name on it. We visited many ancient sites and he arranged private guides at each one. When we flew on an internal flight, the boarding passes magically showed up on my phone. When we had a late flight leaving Rhodes, we were about to ask the hotel for a late checkout, only to find that Chris had already arranged it for us. Every day had suggestions for what we might want to do as well as restaurant suggestions. We even met him (and his kids!) for dinner. We can go on, but he made this a truly wonderful and memorable trip.

PS I have no idea what Kimkim did other than set us up with Chris. He was amazing.

Hotel Reviews
Sofitel Athens Airport
Athens

Great place to stay if you have an early flight out. Two minute walk to the terminal. Good soundproofing (didn't ever hear a place from inside the room).

Cleanliness & Comfort
Veneziano Boutique Hotel
Heraklion Crete

Good location in Heraklion. But an odd set up. The room opened to a courtyard so we basically went outside to get to the covered breakfast area. Hosts were gone after 3pm so it was pretty dark and deserted in the evening. We would have liked some more water, and needed some help working the shower, but there was no one there to ask.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Staff were hospitable and helpful when they were around. But they weren't around much.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ganimede Hotel
Galaxidi

The room was more like a small apartment with a separate sitting room. Very clean and comfortable. The owner is fabulous. She's an accomplished cook (and gives cooking lessons) and her breakfast was by far the best we had in Greece, and there was a lot of competition! The bread was from the bakery she owns in town so was incredibly fresh. I'm getting hungry remembering....

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Orizontes View Hotel
Pyrgos Ilia

This hotel is out of the way in a small town that has very little to offer in the winter. But the hotel itself is gorgeous. On a high bluff with sea views on both sides. The room itself was HUGE, clean, and comfortable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Amymone Suites
Nafplio

Beautiful rooms, nicely decorated. Great location. Excellent breakfast (including yogurt and cheese from the owner's creamery)!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kyria Boutique House
Plaka, Athens

Perfect location. Small but comfortable room. Hotel staff were extremely nice. But be aware that there is a steep and narrow staircase to the rooms and the handrail doesn't go all the way up. Breakfast on the roof with a view to the Acropolis but the way up is a winding metal stair. Not good if you have any mobility issues.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Chris Leontopoulos
Chris
Chris Leontopoulos
Local specialist in Delphi, Greece | Replied on Feb 11, 2023
Hello Betty and David I thought I'd give you a couple of days to rest and unpack before I hit you up for the review, but it looks like you beat me to it!! I am very happy to hear that you are both home safe and sound, and that you had such a great time on your trip. Just for the record, it was me that appeared to be on top of everything, but there is a great team of people behind me that make it all possible. As a comparison, there was a team of people behind the scenes, turning the... Read more

Hello Betty and David

I thought I'd give you a couple of days to rest and unpack before I hit you up for the review, but it looks like you beat me to it!!

I am very happy to hear that you are both home safe and sound, and that you had such a great time on your trip. Just for the record, it was me that appeared to be on top of everything, but there is a great team of people behind me that make it all possible. As a comparison, there was a team of people behind the scenes, turning the winch and moving the boom on Deus Ex Machina.

It was a great pleasure planning your trip for you, and an even greater one meeting you for dinner!
I wish we had more time to discuss matters of language and psychology, there are many things that I'd like to pick your brains on!

I do wish you both all the best, and I hope that I'll have the opportunity to plan your next trip to Greece, perhaps even your long retirement vacation when the time comes!

Till then, all the best to you and your family!

Chris

We had a wonderful, memorable trip to Sicily
Italy | Jan 23 - Feb 3, 2023

James
James R.
Hendersonville, NC | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2023
All of our guides were wonderful. We were impressed with how knowledgeable all the guides were. Marilu told us so much about the history of Sicily and took us on an interesting and varied walk around the old town of Palermo. And then met us again the next day to explain the incredible cathedral of Montreale. Claudio took us through the Valley of the Temples and explained each temple and the history of the Greeks and Romans in Agrigento. In Catania, Margherita was delayed due to unforeseen... Read more

All of our guides were wonderful. We were impressed with how knowledgeable all the guides were. Marilu told us so much about the history of Sicily and took us on an interesting and varied walk around the old town of Palermo. And then met us again the next day to explain the incredible cathedral of Montreale. Claudio took us through the Valley of the Temples and explained each temple and the history of the Greeks and Romans in Agrigento. In Catania, Margherita was delayed due to unforeseen traffic conditions so she sent her friend, Angela to meet us at our hotel at the specified time. Angela was great. She took us to the Bellini Gardens and told us about their history. Then we met up with Margherita who condensed a lot of history into the next 3 hours while walking around Catania. We saw cathedrals, gardens, the market, streets of the old town and even stopped for coffee at a historic coffee shop.

All of our drivers showed up when they were expected and got us to the next location on time. Each of them made sure we met up with our host contact or the hotel where we were staying.

Our tour of the Amalfi coast with Antonio was amazing. He stopped several times for us to get pictures and took some of us as well. Lunch at Le Bonta del Capo was amazing! Picking lemons with the chef, making the limoncello, the wonderful meal and the limoncello at the end were among the most memorable experiences of our travels.

We couldn't have asked for more.

Hotel Review
Hedoné Design Experience B&B
Agrigento

Barbara met us on the street and directed us to the B&B which was hard to find. She gave us information about the town and offered to drive us to the Valley of the Temples the next morning for our early tour. She served us breakfast each morning with wonderful Italian pastries, jams, and spreads. She was more than gracious. The room had a view of the valley of the temples below and the sea in the distance. We would have enjoyed the balcony if it had been warmer, but we chose to travel in the winter.

Authenticity & Character
I don't know how to answer this question.
Location
Staff
Barbara was absolutely wonderful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Air from the heater blew directly on the bed when it was on. I solved this problem by hanging the decorative bed cover over the top bar above the bed. I would have appreciated a light blanket as the duvet is too much for me. I have this problem in all hotels that use duvets.
Activity Reviews
Limoncello Tour & Tasting
Limoncello Tour & Tasting
Amalfi Coast
Full Day Tour: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello
Full Day Tour: Positano, Amalfi & Ravello
Italy
Catania: Food & Folklore
Catania: Food & Folklore
Catania
Catania Tour - City Highlights Walk
Catania Tour - City Highlights Walk
Italy
Valley of the Temples Tour
Valley of the Temples Tour
Palermo
Palermo Private Walking Tour
Palermo Private Walking Tour
Palermo
Local specialist: Maria Grazia Rubino
Maria Grazia
Maria Grazia Rubino
Local specialist in Italy | Replied on Feb 13, 2023

Dear James,
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this detailed review!
We put customer experience and satisfaction as our priority, and we're thrilled to know that everything went great and you enjoyed all the tours we planned for you and your wife.

I wish you and Cecelia all the best :)
Ciao!

Thank you Ana!!
Argentina | Feb 1 - Feb 9, 2023

M
Mila L.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2023
We can’t say enough good things about our trip! Ana was great at every step - from planning, to pre-departure, to questions and check ins along the way. We had a great mix of activities and saw and learned things we never would have on our own. We can’t wait to book with Ana again! Read more

We can’t say enough good things about our trip! Ana was great at every step - from planning, to pre-departure, to questions and check ins along the way. We had a great mix of activities and saw and learned things we never would have on our own. We can’t wait to book with Ana again!

Hotel Review
NH Ciudad de Santiago
Santiago
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Ana Gutierrez
Ana
Ana Gutierrez
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Feb 13, 2023

Thank you, Mila, for taking the time to write a review and share your travel experience! 😊
It was my pleasure to assist you and Zak during your time in Chile and Argentina. Really enjoyed being your local expert here, and of course, looking forward to designing the next trip together!

All the best,

Ana

All of the tours and transportation that she ...
Costa Rica | Jan 29 - Feb 7, 2023

K
Kristen L.
Henderson, NV | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2023
All of the tours and transportation that she scheduled were prompt and knowledgeable about the area Read more

All of the tours and transportation that she scheduled were prompt and knowledgeable about the area

Activity Reviews
Private: Full-Day Guided Birdwatching
Private: Full-Day Guided Birdwatching
Monteverde

Our guide was amazing! Took his time and helped us see some amazing wildlife! He used our phones and spotting scope to get beautiful pictures

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Carara National Park Guided Hike
Private Carara National Park Guided Hike
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist:

We used KimKim for a trip to Portugal…fantastic experience!
Portugal | Feb 1 - Feb 9, 2023

R
Ray S.
Pinellas Park, FL | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2023

We used KimKim for a trip to Portugal. They were amazing!

The process for planning our was simple but comprehensive. We were able to give some guidelines re what type of trip and cities we wanted to see and Pedro at Across Portugal build an itinerary for us. We were able to change things around to end up with the perfect trip!

Pedro and his team were top shelf. They made our trip so enjoyable and personal. Pedro knows Portugal and knows the travel business. His expertise really showed in creating our vacation. I can’t say enough great things about Pedro and Across Portugal.

Ray & Sue

Local specialist: Pedro Luis
Pedro
Pedro Luis
Local specialist in Lisbon | Replied on Feb 10, 2023

Hey Ray & Sue,
Thank you very much for your kind words :)
I'm truly glad you enjoyed your trip and my incredible country.
All the best and we keep in touch!
Pedro

Fantastic 15 days in Egypt
Egypt | Jan 14 - Jan 28, 2023

Jennifer
Jennifer C.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2023
Kim Kim did a great job at organizing our 15 day trip to Egypt. 1st of all the people , culture, food and sights are wonderful. While I know using a travel agent usually cost a little bit more, it was well, well worth it. My husband and I usually like to go to any location for at least 2 weeks or more and try to pack in as much as possible. Kim-Kim and their Egyptian team was able to lay out a great final literary after several versions to get to what we wanted. We had a heavily pack... Read more

Kim Kim did a great job at organizing our 15 day trip to Egypt. 1st of all the people , culture, food and sights are wonderful. While I know using a travel agent usually cost a little bit more, it was well, well worth it. My husband and I usually like to go to any location for at least 2 weeks or more and try to pack in as much as possible. Kim-Kim and their Egyptian team was able to lay out a great final literary after several versions to get to what we wanted. We had a heavily pack literary, and Kim-Kim travel and their Egyptian team ( Ibrahim, Mahmoud Hashim and so many more) made it happen smoothly with no worries. When I think of it, to do it on our own would have been a logistical nightmare.
We captured all the great sights in and around Cairo, a day in Alexandria, 2 days, and a night in the White Desert (A MUST DO!!). Our Guide in the North was Khaled Roshgy and he was wonderful, very well informed, energetic and enthusiastic to show us all the sights. We then flew south to visit all the sights in Aswan and took a Dahabiya sailing boat trip down the Nile to Luxor to take in everything it had to offer. The sailing trip included 4-5 stops at ancient sites that many of the motorized boats don't have access too. Our southern guide was Mohamad Helmy and he too was a fantastic guide who was very informative at every level. He made us feel so welcomed and was not only very informative of all the sites, but also Egyptian everyday life past and present. I would highly recommend the Dahabiya sailing over the motorized boats. The Food and Crew of the Maya was fantastic! We then moved on to Hurghada for some diving and some beach relaxation at the Sheraton Soma Bay. (Great Hotel and team providing great service )

Hotel Reviews
Sonesta cairo
cairo

Great location for flying out the next day.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Steigenberger Achti - Luxor
luxor
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Movenpick Aswan
Aswan

Great location , unfortunately we only stayed one night here and needed to catch up on sleep.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hilton Pyramids Golf
Cairo

Very nice hotel , great staff and location for the activities we had planned.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sheraton Soma Bay
Hurghada

Fantastic Hotel and location, great food and staff is wonderful

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dahabiya
Luxor

In our opinion this is a MUST DO ! Our Dahabiya Maya, the food and crew were fantastic, so welcoming and accommodating in everything we wanted. Avoid the motorized boats, the Dahabiya is the way to go . Great stops , food facilities, all the comforts of home and more, super relaxing

Authenticity & Character
Location
Beautiful boat luxury but not overdone so you lose authenticity
Staff
Everyone of the Crew ont he Maya were absolutely fantastic, cant say enough about this journey
Cleanliness & Comfort
Baharia Camp
Bahariya

I would have to say this is a Must do, we only booked 2 days and 1 night in the Black and White desert. We should have also stayed a night in Bahariya to enjoy the hot springs . This adventure was in the top 5 of 10 things we did in Egypt. The guide was very good in all aspect of the trip, food, information, and just how welcoming he was to us.

Authenticity & Character
Location
The stars at night were amazing
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Guide set up everything, but a toilet seat tripod or spackle bucket with a bag would have made things a bit easier :)
Local specialist: Ibrahim Elaref

Felipe was excellent from start to finish. ...
Colombia | Jan 25 - Feb 9, 2023

Emily
Emily C.
Washington, DC | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2023
Felipe was excellent from start to finish. My family and I had a wonderful trip to Columbia. Felipe was so helpful in putting together a trip that made all of us with different needs and desires happy. The hotels were steller, the guides lovely and knowledgable. We loved the drumming workshop in Cartegena - a real highlight. We needed to change directions on our trip several times as I had an injured leg. Felipe arranged for me to have an appointment with a physician and had... Read more

Felipe was excellent from start to finish. My family and I had a wonderful trip to Columbia. Felipe was so helpful in putting together a trip that made all of us with different needs and desires happy. The hotels were steller, the guides lovely and knowledgable. We loved the drumming workshop in Cartegena - a real highlight. We needed to change directions on our trip several times as I had an injured leg. Felipe arranged for me to have an appointment with a physician and had medication delivered to my hotel. Also, when my daughter got a bad cold, he sent supplies and checked in daily. I always felt there was someone there if I needed anything at all - from something small to larger requests. This was the first time I used an agency to plan a trip. I researched many companies. This one was the only one willing to do as much or as little as I wanted and was not pushy about having us do more touring than we like.

Columbia is a beautiful place to visit. The people were kind and helpful. I learned so much about the history, and culture, and got to spend time in both cities and nature. I would love to go back. A shout-out to Margoth and everyone who helped make our trip easy and fantastic.

Hotel Reviews
Senda Watapuy
Santa Marta

A wonderful magical place in the middle of nature. The rooms were large and private and the property was well taken care of. The pool was lovely. My only wish is that they had more umbrellas or created shady pots around the pool. The sun is quite intense and there needs to be a way to stay outside by the pool without getting burned. Other than that, it was a great place to stay and I would not hesitate to go back.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Patio del Mundo
Medellín

A lovely, quiet retreat in the middle of the city. Beautiful house with magical outdoor space. Lovely service and care.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Casa San Agustín
Cartagena de Indias

A beautiful hotel with a staff that is kind and attentive. The rooms are lovely, the courtyard magical, and the food delicious. There was nothing the staff would not do to make you feel comfortable. It was a quiet retreat in the middle of a bustling city. Once inside, you were transported to serenity.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Drums and Music Workshop
Drums and Music Workshop
Cartagena

All I can say is go..... Support these amazing musicians, dancers, and artists. I loved the workshop, playing the drum, and dancing with the dancers. They were exceptional, and it is a great way to support their school. A highlight of my trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Felipe Rico
Felipe
Felipe Rico
Local specialist in Bogota | Replied on Feb 10, 2023
Hi Emily, Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review. It was truly amazing having you and your family in Colombia, and thank you for working together with me to plan a trip that everyone enjoyed. Thank you very much as well for highlighting the drumming workshop in Cartagena and for supporting the community and musicians involved, and being a part of this special social project. And great that you liked our selection of hotels! It has been a pleasure to know you, and to... Read more

Hi Emily,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this review. It was truly amazing having you and your family in Colombia, and thank you for working together with me to plan a trip that everyone enjoyed. Thank you very much as well for highlighting the drumming workshop in Cartagena and for supporting the community and musicians involved, and being a part of this special social project. And great that you liked our selection of hotels!

It has been a pleasure to know you, and to work with you, and Muchas Gracias for visiting Colombia!

Sending you my very Best Wishes and hope you stay in touch.

Best, Felipe

Lorena was very wonderful. Lorena responded q...
Chile | Dec 26 - Jan 7, 2023

S
Sarah K.
Flatbush, NY | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2023

Lorena was very wonderful. Lorena responded quickly and accurately. She always kept us in the loop and was extremely accommodating when changes came up. It was a very easy, no stress process. We had a pretty logistical heavy trip and Lorena was great. We will be using Kim Kim again.

Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Feb 10, 2023

You are so sweet, Sarah, thanks! It was my pleasure to plan this exciting adventure for you and Mark and I'm super glad you enjoyed your time in our beautiful country.
Best wishes for both of you and happy future travels!
Lorena

Arsenal manoa was exceptional! Great food gre...
Costa Rica | Feb 2 - Feb 9, 2023

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susan j.
Narragansett, RI | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2023
Arsenal manoa was exceptional! Great food great atmosphere!all the staff were excellent the guides for trips were all outstanding : Franklin for the waterfall: Justin for the coffee chocolate tour, Winston for arenas
Volcano and Warner for kayaking and snorkeling. It was an excellent trip the transportation was great as well
Read more

Arsenal manoa was exceptional! Great food great atmosphere!all the staff were excellent the guides for trips were all outstanding : Franklin for the waterfall: Justin for the coffee chocolate tour, Winston for arenas
Volcano and Warner for kayaking and snorkeling. It was an excellent trip the transportation was great as well

Hotel Reviews
Espadilla Gardens Hotel
Manuel Antonio
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Monteverde Country Lodge
Monteverde
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs
Fortuna
Authenticity & Character
The grounds the hot springs
Location
Town transport
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling
Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling
Manuel Antonio
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Hanging Bridges Walk
Guided Hanging Bridges Walk
Monteverde
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arenal 1968 Hike & Visit to Ecotermales Hot Springs
Arenal 1968 Hike & Visit to Ecotermales Hot Springs
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Food
Not food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall
Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Coffee & Chocolate Tour
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 10, 2023

Hi Susan,
I hope you are well.
Thanks for this nice review, I was more than glad to assist you, and it is great to know you had a great time here.
I hope you could visit Costa Rica in the future. :)
Best regards,
Yuliana

Outstanding Service.
Colombia | Jan 10 - Feb 5, 2023

Frank
Frank G.
Cuba, IL | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2023
I gave this Five Stars. It could have been 10 Stars. First, I had a great experience with lining up a trip that suited MY needs. The service was patient with me, always adapting to what I wanted to do and never pushing me. Second, once I arrived in Colombia, David (tour coordinator) kept in constant contact with me. this was most appreciated. And finally, I had a real Passport problem that necessitated a major change in my itinerary. this could have been a real issue. But David... Read more

I gave this Five Stars. It could have been 10 Stars. First, I had a great experience with lining up a trip that suited MY needs. The service was patient with me, always adapting to what I wanted to do and never pushing me.

Second, once I arrived in Colombia, David (tour coordinator) kept in constant contact with me. this was most appreciated.

And finally, I had a real Passport problem that necessitated a major change in my itinerary. this could have been a real issue. But David got right on it and things were worked out and I went right on with my tour.

I would highly recommend KimKim to anyone. Very professional.

Local specialist: David Roa Martín
David
David Roa Martín
Local specialist in San Agustín | Replied on Feb 10, 2023

Hi Frank,

Thank you for your kind comments. I'm so glad we were able to help you enjoy your trip to Colombia just as you wanted. I'm sorry about your passport, but fortunately, we were able to sort it out and I hope it didn't cause you any major problems.

It was a pleasure to assist you. We hope you come back soon! :)

Our fantastic visit to Brazil
Brazil | Jan 8 - Jan 14, 2023

Arti
Arti N.
The Colony, TX | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2023
My daughter and I decided to visit Brazil in January. I heard about Kimkim from my neighbor and decided to use them. Being two women traveling by ourselves it seemed like an ideal choice. After answering some questions on a very user friendly website we were put in touch with Daria our trip designer. I cannot say enough good things about her. She gave great recommendations to visit 3 places in Brazil and use our 7 days/6 nights wisely. Every detail including pick ups and drops off to airports... Read more

My daughter and I decided to visit Brazil in January. I heard about Kimkim from my neighbor and decided to use them. Being two women traveling by ourselves it seemed like an ideal choice. After answering some questions on a very user friendly website we were put in touch with Daria our trip designer. I cannot say enough good things about her. She gave great recommendations to visit 3 places in Brazil and use our 7 days/6 nights wisely. Every detail including pick ups and drops off to airports were planned and we felt very safe and all transfers went very smoothly. We visited Rio de Janeiro first where over 2 days we saw all the important sights leisurely in private tours where only my daughter and I were with the tour guide. The tour guides picked us up at the hotel, took us through leisurely to visit the right amount of sites for half a day leaving us half a day to explore on our own. Rio was beautiful, the liveliness of Copacabana, the majestic views of Christ the Redeemer, the Birds Eye views from Sugar loaf, the artistic Selaron steps and quaint district of St Theresa were all awesome. From there we boarded a flight to Iguazu to see the majestic Iguazu Falls. The falls go as far as the eye can see. We took a boat tour recommended by Daria which takes you right under the Falls. It was exhilarating! We had time to see the Falls from the Brazilian and Argentinian sides. After that we flew to Rio and directly had a taxi take us to Paraty, a village settled by Portuguese in 1600s and it has the original cobblestone streets. This was a recommendation by Daria because I wanted to see a colonial town. It is situated beautifully with the bay on one side and the forest on the other. We enjoyed the walking tour of the serene village in the morning and the bustling streets in the evening. We took a boat out to the bay and the captain stopped at various islands for us to snorkel, sunbathe, lunch! It was a big highlight of our entire trip. I’m so glad Daria suggested this village as it’s not on a traditional itinerary. The food and drinks and the people were also wonderful! Daria and kimkim get 5 stars and more if we could do that!

Hotel Reviews
Pousada Porto Imperial
Paraty

Beautiful quaint, historic, clean and comfortable hotel!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wyndham Foz do Iguaçu
Foz do Iguacu

We had a comfortable stay at the hotel. Food, staff and location were great for our visit to the Falls.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Arena Leme Hotel
Rio de Janeiro

Beautifully located on the quiet part of Copacabana! Wonderful food, beds and showers. We had a great stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right by Copacabana
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Jeep Tour Regular
Jeep Tour Regular
Paraty
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Boat Tour around Paraty Bay
Private Boat Tour around Paraty Bay
Paraty
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walking Tour of Paraty
Walking Tour of Paraty
Paraty
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sugarloaf, Santa Teresa and old Rio
Sugarloaf, Santa Teresa and old Rio
Rio de Janeiro
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Argentinian Side Falls Tour regular
Argentinian Side Falls Tour regular
Foz do Iguaçu
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Christ the Redeemer & city tour private tour
Christ the Redeemer & city tour private tour
Rio de Janeiro
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Brazilian Side Falls Tour regular
Brazilian Side Falls Tour regular
Foz do Iguaçu
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gran Aventura
Gran Aventura
Foz do Iguaçu
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Daria Beretta
Daria
Daria Beretta
Local specialist in Rio de Janeiro | Replied on Feb 10, 2023

Hi Arti! Thank you for your detailed review. I'm speechless :-D
I'm really glad you liked Brazil and if one day you want to come back to visit other parts of this huge country I'll be delighted to assist you again.

Sunny greetings,
Daria

Wonderful experience due to competent guides, excellent lodging and delicious food....
Mexico | Feb 1 - Feb 7, 2023

Earl
Earl W.
Haslett, MI | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2023
I found it confusing before the trip commenced because you had my name mixed up with Earl our trip organizer. I did not get all of the emails and had trouble paying the balance of my trip. I did look me the organization of the actual trip. The hotels, transportation , food and guides were first rate. Was surprised, however, when the bicycling was suddenly dropped and switched out for a cave and a palace without explanation.
I am not certain who decided to suggest a week containing a three...
Read more

I found it confusing before the trip commenced because you had my name mixed up with Earl our trip organizer. I did not get all of the emails and had trouble paying the balance of my trip.

I did look me the organization of the actual trip. The hotels, transportation , food and guides were first rate. Was surprised, however, when the bicycling was suddenly dropped and switched out for a cave and a palace without explanation.
I am not certain who decided to suggest a week containing a three day weekend national holiday . The first day at the butterfly refuge (Sunday) was totally overrun. Luckily we had added a second day at another refuge which was MUCH less crowded and saved the experience.

Local specialist: Leslie Pérez

The whole experience was wonder and perfectly...
Costa Rica | Jan 27 - Feb 2, 2023

T
ted m.
Canada | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2023
The whole experience was wonder and perfectly planned. Not a single issue for the entry week of multiple excursions, shuttles, and hotel. Great recommendations on hotel and excursions. We looked it. Thanks Yuliana Read more

The whole experience was wonder and perfectly planned. Not a single issue for the entry week of multiple excursions, shuttles, and hotel. Great recommendations on hotel and excursions. We looked it. Thanks Yuliana

Hotel Reviews
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
Monteverde

Modern, clean, and great location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Many restaurants within short walking distance , as well as centre town
Staff
Very friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Montaña de Fuego Mountain Resort & Spa
La Fortuna
Authenticity & Character
Huge property with walking trails, thermal bath, and nice casita’s as your room.
Location
Little to far from town to walk.
Staff
Very friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 10, 2023

Hi Ted,
I hope you are well.
Thanks for taking your time and leaving us this beautiful review, it was very nice assisting you during this time.
It is great to know you had a good time here, and that you enjoy the whole trip.
Thanks for the pictures, they are amazing.
I hope you could visit Costa Rica in the future and could explore different areas.
Best regards from Costa Rica.
Yuliana

Disappointing
Brazil | Dec 24 - Dec 30, 2022

S
Stephanie S.
Zanesville, OH | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2023

Trip was overbooked and very exhausting. Communication was lacking. Most of our trip was spent in airports. No accountability taken

Local specialist: Rachel Vita
Rachel
Rachel Vita
Local specialist in São Paulo | Replied on Mar 06, 2023
1) The itinerary sent to Stephanie included Manaus, the Amazon, Salvador, and São Paulo, although we recommended another itinerary (Rio de Janeiro, Foz do Iguaçu, and Ilha Grande), taking into account the travel dates and the fact that this would be their first trip to Brazil. Also, despite having been recommended international flights arriving in Manaus and departing from Salvador, they purchased international flights arriving in and departing from São Paulo, which resulted in the need to... Read more

1) The itinerary sent to Stephanie included Manaus, the Amazon, Salvador, and São Paulo, although we recommended another itinerary (Rio de Janeiro, Foz do Iguaçu, and Ilha Grande), taking into account the travel dates and the fact that this would be their first trip to Brazil.

Also, despite having been recommended international flights arriving in Manaus and departing from Salvador, they purchased international flights arriving in and departing from São Paulo, which resulted in the need to purchase two other flights: São Paulo to Manaus and Salvador to São Paulo.

2) Stephanie was unaware of the need to present a Covid-19 vaccination certificate or to take the PCR test to enter Brazil and had to take a last-minute test at the airport for USD 750.00 which was fully refunded as proof of good faith on our part.

3) On 12/23 I informed our emergency phone number so that Stephanie could contact us whenever needed since during the holidays access to e-mails would be more restricted, and because we always make sure that the traveler feels secure in being able to contact us whenever they need, at any time, a fact praised in other comments on kimkim’s platform.

4) Stephanie arrived in Manaus on 12/24 and one of our drivers was ready to welcome them at the airport with an appropriate sign with her name on it, but when they arrived, they did not look for anyone and took a taxi to the hotel, even though the information that they would have a driver upon arrival was on her trip plan.

The end-of-the-year parties (Dec. 24, Dec. 25, Dec. 31) are traditional in Brazil and families and friends prepare for Christmas and the arrival of the new year. As we were preparing for Christmas dinner, we did not see the message that Stephanie had sent on kimkim’s platform and, even though she had our number, she did not call. I only found out about the situation because the driver called me saying that they had not arrived yet (we are always in contact with the drivers/guides to follow up with the client during the whole trip). That's when I realized she had sent a message through the platform. I apologized for the mismatch (although we are not responsible, since the transfer information was in the trip plan, and we offered the service just as she had contracted).

As soon as she arrived at the hotel in Manaus, Stephanie sent me a message on WhatsApp saying they were very hungry. I told her to talk to the receptionist so she could recommend restaurants. Strangely, she said she could not communicate with the receptionist, who spoke her language (English). I took it upon myself to help her, in the middle of the night on the 24th.
That’s when she started to complain, saying she had not eaten all day and that they had to run to catch the flight from São Paulo to Manaus, which seemed strange to me since they had a 4-hour stopover, and that even during the flights food and drinks are offered for purchase.

I made a reservation at a restaurant in another hotel, since on the 24th many establishments close to enjoy Christmas eve, as in many other countries. However, she didn't want to wait. I told her the only fast option would be fast food. She accepted.

While looking for food, Stephanie took the opportunity to ask about breakfast the next day, since she had a transfer scheduled for 7 am to the Amazon jungle. I told her she would have time to have breakfast, which started at 6 am. She said the receptionist told her on the 25th there would be no breakfast because it was Christmas. It seemed strange because I am not aware of any hotel that interrupts service during holidays, but anyway, I apologized and said that we would find a solution. In the end, it turned out this information was not true, and the restaurant served breakfast normally on the 25th from 6 am (although she told me that during the trip, she had several days without breakfast at the hotel in Manaus and at the hotel in São Paulo).

5) During their entire trip we were in touch by WhatsApp. We were only unavailable during her stay in the Amazon, where there is no phone signal.

6) On 12/27 she seemed to be very satisfied with the trip, as she sent a message saying that it had been a "great experience". On this day she had the flight to Salvador, and I had already sent her their boarding passes the day before.

Before taking the flight to Salvador, Stephanie sent a message asking already where she could have dinner because they had eaten nothing but breakfast that day. I didn't really understand why they didn't buy something to eat at the airport while waiting for the flight to Salvador, since they spent some time waiting for the flight, but I told her that the hotel in Salvador had room service 24h.

7) At 8 pm, I received a message from Stephanie, saying that she was not seeing the driver who would take her to the hotel. I would only understand later that she was in Brasilia (the transit city where she had a layover) and not in Salvador. She thought it would be a direct flight, even though I had sent her the boarding passes for the Manaus > Brasilia and the Brasilia > Salvador flights. She admitted herself that she did not pay attention properly. The fact that she left the airport made her miss the flight to Salvador. By coincidence, her second flight was overbooked, and the airline re-accommodated her on other flights. This made her arrive in Salvador only the next day and not that same night.

We gave her clear instructions and insisted that she should talk to the airport attendant to board a better flight, putting us at her disposal to talk to the company employee, if necessary, but she refused to listen and said she was very tired and did not want to argue.

8) Despite their late arrival in Salvador, they managed to do the planned tours for that day, losing only 1h30 of the total time initially planned.

9) On 12/29 they took the last flight from Salvador to São Paulo, the last destination before catching her international flight.

10) On 12/30, I received an e-mail from the hotel in São Paulo saying that Stephanie had left the room service bill in our name, for us to bear the expense. No customer had ever done this before. Trying not to believe that one of our customers could do this, I asked Stephanie if it was real, and she told me that she did pay the bill. I asked her for proof of payment so that I could check with the hotel that the charge was undue, but she did not send anything. I told Kimkim's support that if she sent me the proof of payment, I would refund her double the amount she paid, but to this day the proof of payment has not been sent and we had to pay again for this expense.

Finally, we are happy to see that in some way they were able to enjoy the trip, judging by the photos attached, which undermine the testimonial and praise of the experience they had in Brazil.

Deb provided one of the most amazing and well...
South Africa | Jan 27 - Feb 8, 2023

Justin
Justin F.
Livingston, TN | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2023

Deb provided one of the most amazing and well planned itineraries we have ever experienced. She took care of everything down to the minor details. She truly made Southern Africa a trip of a lifetime. We will be back again traveling with Deb!

Local specialist: Deborah Smook
Deborah
Deborah Smook
Local specialist in Cape Town | Replied on Feb 13, 2023

Hello Justin & Melanie

It was great to plan your trip with you and meet you briefly while you were here. I enjoyed your excitement and your big grin so much.

I can't wait for the next trip!

Deb

Emi was wonderful. We changed our itinerary s...
Argentina | Jan 19 - Feb 3, 2023

Kate
Kate K.
Rochester, NY | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2023
Emi was wonderful. We changed our itinerary so many times. We had to cancel one year and rebook the next. We started out with a completely different itinerary than we ended up with. The entire time, Emi kept up to pace and planned accordingly. Our trip was mostly seamless and wonderful. Thank you Emi Read more

Emi was wonderful. We changed our itinerary so many times. We had to cancel one year and rebook the next. We started out with a completely different itinerary than we ended up with. The entire time, Emi kept up to pace and planned accordingly. Our trip was mostly seamless and wonderful. Thank you Emi

Activity Reviews
Trekking to Emerald Lagoon 🚶‍♀️🏕️
Trekking to Emerald Lagoon 🚶‍♀️🏕️
Ushuaia

Beautiful but didn't really feel like I needed a guide for this trip. Would have enjoyed a ride

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The Best of Argentina Culinary Experience
The Best of Argentina Culinary Experience
Buenos Aires

This was so much fun! We had a blast and got to experience all sorts of culturally relevant activities

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Emilce Alonso
Emilce
Emilce Alonso
Local specialist in Córdoba | Replied on Feb 16, 2023

Thank you, Kate!
After so much time waiting, you finally made it to come!
I am very happy to know that your trip went smoothly and that you had a nice experience :D
All the best!
Emi

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.