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active 25 mins ago

Mathia Pacenti

I am a passionate traveler who, after exploring for many years our wonderful planet, has fallen in love with the majestic nature of Norway.
I have worked with tourists all over the country as a hotel receptionist and guide.

How did you get involved in travel?

"My idea of traveling involves the passion of sharing experiences and getting knowledge from locals. I always tried to give meaning and a cultural target in every trip I planned for myself, from learning the language, a traditional dish, a hidden gem to explore, or volunteering to give something in return.
I think this is the best way to receive the best from the place you dream of.
"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I took a hike together with locals on a frozen winter night in a remote area of Northern Norway. We arrived at the top of a mountain and set up a fire under a sky full of stars.
We shared stories together with warm food and hot coffee, waiting for the most beautiful northern lights I have ever seen in my life.
At that moment, while the universe was dancing for us, we could only feel all one.
"

Mathia is part of the following groups: Norway Travel Agents, Norway Family Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Favorite experiences

Hike the Queen's Route in Vesterålen

Enjoy a beautiful hike along the popular Queen's Route near the fishing village of Stø on the Vesterålen Islands. You'll pass picturesque views along the coastline, crossing bridges and twisting through fjords and inlets.This moderate trek is called Dronningruta, also known as the Queen’s Route,...

Explore Oslo with a Local

Tour the vibrant and lively capital of Oslo with an enthusiastic and informed local leading the way. Although the city is fairly small—it takes only 30 minutes to travel from one end to the other—there's still a lot to see and do! Oslo is known for its rich history and museums, some of which...

Reindeer Feeding & Northern Lights Experience near Tromsø

This cultural experience takes you on a quest to find the Northern Lights while feeding a herd of reindeer at a traditional lavvo hut. You'll have plenty of time to interact with the animals, feed them, pet them, and take photos. In addition, your guide will share the Sámi people's stories,...

Lofoten Islands Sea Kayaking Tour

The Lofoten Islands are one of Noway's little-discovered gems, tucked away high in the Arctic Circle. The Lofotens are part of an archipelago comprised of five main volcanic islands and many smaller ones. Fishing is the predominant industry, but tourism is on the upswing, too, as more and more...

Midnight Sunset Hike in Svolvær

Watch the summer midnight sun melt into the horizon on this hike in Lofoten's mountainous northern side. With a clear view of the sea, you'll climb up to the top of a grassy peak and find the perfect spot to watch the sun's rays fade into the night. The moderate route is a local hidden gem and...

Recent trip reviews for Mathia

Fabulous trip! Recommend it!
Norway | Aug 28 - Sep 12, 2024

N
Nancy W.
Canada | Reviewed on Sep 19, 2024
Fabulous trip! John in Began was very good and took us to areas we would not have ventured. Trondheim guide was good and provided an interesting tour. Cycling tour Tromso was very good. We also did our own tour to the Russian border which was eye opening. Went to old and new border crossings. I would recommend this.
The tour itself in both Hurtigrutin and Havila were exceptional. The crew on Hurtigrutin were more relaxed and humorous while Havila was a bit more refined. Enjoyed...
Read more

Fabulous trip! John in Began was very good and took us to areas we would not have ventured. Trondheim guide was good and provided an interesting tour. Cycling tour Tromso was very good. We also did our own tour to the Russian border which was eye opening. Went to old and new border crossings. I would recommend this.
The tour itself in both Hurtigrutin and Havila were exceptional. The crew on Hurtigrutin were more relaxed and humorous while Havila was a bit more refined. Enjoyed both. The inn in Aurland was quaint with a very interesting couple running it and room was very good with exceptional views. All the hotels were exceptional and the breakfasts were fabulous.

We didn’t do the planning but our friend Renee and our organizer Mathia did a great job!!

Thanks again for some a wonderful trip and great memories!!

Nancy

Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Sep 20, 2024

Dear Nancy,
Thank you very much for your great review.
I am happy to hear the activities we planned together, especially the one organized by Hurtigruten and Havila, were so satisfying and interesting. It is true that a big part of the planning is thanks to Renee, and I hope she and Paul will have the opportunity of visiting Norway soon, maybe with the same itinerary and your additional recommendations. You and Kevin have been kind and friendly. I will miss our "Norwegian" phone calls. :) You can contact me at any time for a second trip to beautiful Norway.
Best Regards
Mathia

We absolutely enjoyed our trip to northern No...
Norway | Sep 2 - Sep 11, 2024

Eric
Eric J.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Sep 17, 2024
We absolutely enjoyed our trip to northern Norway! Mathia was great to work with and we even got to meet for coffee during our trip! He was very professional and proactive in arranging everything and also quick to respond to weather conditions affecting certain activities, making changes, etc. Best of all- we got to see the northern lights! Thanks Mathia! Read more

We absolutely enjoyed our trip to northern Norway! Mathia was great to work with and we even got to meet for coffee during our trip! He was very professional and proactive in arranging everything and also quick to respond to weather conditions affecting certain activities, making changes, etc. Best of all- we got to see the northern lights! Thanks Mathia!

Hotel Review
Glass Igloo Lyngen North
Lyngen
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Sep 18, 2024
Dear Eric and Karen,
Thank you very much for your kind review.
It was a great satisfaction to arrange everything for you, and I was pleased to meet you in my small and charming island. I had the opportunity to see what a beautiful couple you are. I won't forget you walking to the cafeteria hand in hand. True Love. :)
You made it and encountered the Northern Lights. I still remember how skeptical we were during the planning phase, but you deserved a spectacle like that. I hope you will visit...
Read more

Dear Eric and Karen,
Thank you very much for your kind review.
It was a great satisfaction to arrange everything for you, and I was pleased to meet you in my small and charming island. I had the opportunity to see what a beautiful couple you are. I won't forget you walking to the cafeteria hand in hand. True Love. :)
You made it and encountered the Northern Lights. I still remember how skeptical we were during the planning phase, but you deserved a spectacle like that. I hope you will visit Norway again, maybe with your family. You have been so kind and patient with me. I appreciated it a lot.
Take care and do not hesitate to contact me if needed.
Best Regards
Mathia

Fantastic trip
Norway | Aug 28 - Sep 12, 2024

K
Kevin S.
Canada | Reviewed on Sep 14, 2024
Fantastic trip Everything worked flawlessly.
It was helpful on many occasions to have pre booked tours and excursions - they were often sold out or unavailable to others.
Even the weather was cooperative,
Read more

Fantastic trip

Everything worked flawlessly.
It was helpful on many occasions to have pre booked tours and excursions - they were often sold out or unavailable to others.
Even the weather was cooperative,

Hotel Reviews
Amerikalinjen
Oslo

Really cool building. Nice room Great location Friendly staff Great breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Old steamship line headquarter converted to boutique hotel lots of character
Location
Close to everything
Staff
Helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Thon Hotel Kirkenes
Kirkenes

A bit of a walk from dock but there are no hotels right near dock. Close to centre of town, nice harbor view

Authenticity & Character
Just clean modern hotel
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
MS Havila Polaris
Fosnavåg

Awesome ship. New, well thought out public spaces and outside spaces ( better than Nordkapp ). Less, but better food ( though Nordkapp was good ).

Authenticity & Character
More of a cruise ship than ferry. More reserved crew ( but still very nice )
Location
It’s sailing though immense natural beauty
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bigger cabin than Hurtigruten. Well designed public and outdoor spaces.
Thon Hotel Harstad

Clean, great breakfast, nice size room, close to dock

Authenticity & Character
Average modern hotel
Location
Close to dock
Staff
Very accommodating to special request - had room available at early morning check in and having breakfast at check in day not check out day,
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hurtigruten
Bergen

MS Nordkapp. Very friendly, happy, and helpful crew. Good food. Cabin a bit small ( Arctic Superior outside ) but nice enough.

Authenticity & Character
Nordkapp is a working ship with passengers traveling point to point not just cruising
Location
It’s a ship sailing through amazing scenery
Staff
They were happy people
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ship was spotless though 28 years old
Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri
Aurland

Quaint, quirky Big room excellent Fjord view, Close to everything in Aurland Very nice proprietor. Good breakfast

Authenticity & Character
Historic buildings
Location
Close to fjord, dock, town
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Norge by Scandic
Bergen

Good central location close to transportion, everything walking distances. Nice enough room. Fantastic breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
It’s a clean modern large hotel
Location
Easy walking distance from public transportation, points of interest
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Andersgrotta WW2 Bomb Shelter Visit
Kirkenes

Interesting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nærøyfjord Cruise & Viking Valley Tour
Nærøyfjord Cruise & Viking Valley Tour
Norway

Incredible beauty

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boat and taxi right on time
Visit Stegastein Viewpoint
Visit Stegastein Viewpoint
Norway

Very lucky with weather. View was incredible

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bergen Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Bergen Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Bergen

Nice time. Guide was good. Weather was so-so but what can you do?

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Sep 19, 2024

Dear Kevin and Nancy,
Thank you very much for your kind review and feedback.
I hope this historical tour of Norway has left memories of a lifetime. WW2 impacted heavily on Norwegian lives at that time, but its inhabitants proudly reacted and fought for their freedom. This is something still visible in the belief of this beautiful country. I learned a lot by assisting during your long and interesting journey.
I wish you and your family all the best. :)
Mathia

Highly recommended
Norway | Aug 27 - Sep 7, 2024

Norma
Norma S.
Stevens, PA | Reviewed on Sep 11, 2024

Mathia paid attention to our desires for our visit to Noway and planned an amazing trip tailor-made for us. He was helpful in the initial planning stages, the pre-trip last-minute details, and all along the way during our travels in Norway. We could not have been more pleased with our adventure and the services of Mathia and KimKim. Highly recommend this firm for anyone wanting to plan a trip that includes the things you want to see and experience.

Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Sep 12, 2024

Dear Norma and Bruce,
Thank you very much for your kind review.
It has been a pleasure to help you plan this trip all over Norway. What a great feeling to cooperate with expert travelers like you, and I loved your way of traveling light like only experienced backpackers do. I hope the breathtaking scenery of this country will take you back here someday, and you can be sure I would be honored to assist you again.
I wish you and your family all the best. :)
Mathia

Olso
Norway | Aug 21 - Sep 1, 2024

LINDSAY
LINDSAY C.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Sep 08, 2024
We liked Olso and the tour guides we had. Most of the rooms were nice and Mathia was quick to answer us and help out. We made a last minute change in plans and he took care of it. Read more

We liked Olso and the tour guides we had. Most of the rooms were nice and Mathia was quick to answer us and help out. We made a last minute change in plans and he took care of it.

Hotel Reviews
Eilert Smith Hotel
Stavanger

Outstanding service and room. Absolutely amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Banken Hotel
Haugesund

Not the best hotel. But it was in a small town and we didn't expect much.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Brakanes Hotel
Ulvik

Dated with a broken bed and broken tv. The balcony was nice but that's about it.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fretheim Hotel
Flåm

We left a night early. It was dated and uncomfortable. It was probably the nicest hotel in that town. The balcony was nice.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Flor & Fjære Garden Cruise
Flor & Fjære Garden Cruise
Stavanger

Beautiful tour, great food.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bergen Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Bergen Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Bergen

The guide was great. Unfortunately we had to cut out early because the rain got so so bad.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Oslo's Hidden Gems with a Local Expert
Explore Oslo's Hidden Gems with a Local Expert
Oslo

We really liked our guide and saw so much of Olso we would never have seen without him.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fjordcruise on UNESCO Nærøyfjord
Fjordcruise on UNESCO Nærøyfjord
Norway

Beautiful beautiful river trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Sep 09, 2024

Dear Lindsay,
Thank you very much for your kind review.
I appreciate your feedback about the hotels. It will help me with selecting the right accommodations for the next travelers visiting Norway. You have been responsive and patient. I hope you will visit Norway again and contact me for planning another trip.
I wish you and your family all the best. :)
Mathia

August 2024 Norway
Norway | Aug 24 - Aug 31, 2024

Mary Ann
Mary Ann M.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 03, 2024
Mathia listened and planned the trip that we wanted. He would have helped with all our Norway trip, but we only needed help planning the road trip portion. Not being the usual travelers, we wanted to experience the Kystriksveien Highway (Norwegian Coastal Highway). He created a driving trip with accommodations and activities (kayaking and guided hiking) along the way. Accommodations exceeded our expectations. Dinner at Vega Havhotell was the best meal on our 21 day trip. Once we arrived in... Read more

Mathia listened and planned the trip that we wanted. He would have helped with all our Norway trip, but we only needed help planning the road trip portion. Not being the usual travelers, we wanted to experience the Kystriksveien Highway (Norwegian Coastal Highway). He created a driving trip with accommodations and activities (kayaking and guided hiking) along the way. Accommodations exceeded our expectations. Dinner at Vega Havhotell was the best meal on our 21 day trip. Once we arrived in Norway, Mathia arranged for a call, checking to make sure we were comfortable with our driving schedule. He was able to make a last minute change in accommodations to better suit our driving plans. He not only provided ferry schedules for Highway 17 but emailed daily to determine how things were going.
We definitely would recommend Mathia and kimkim to assist with travel planning. They listen and tailor a trip to suit individual needs. Knowing that Mathia or another associate was available 24 hours a day was reassuring; we know help was available should a problem arise.

Hotel Reviews
Thon Hotel Verdal
Verdal

Weird outside entrance. Had to enter code to get front door to open. Hotel situated in an empty mall.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Scandic Nidelven
Trondheim

Amazing breakfast buffet. Big room with a view of the harbor.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Convenient.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Norsk Havbrukssenter Rorbuer
Brønnøysund

Quiet, comfortable. Huge breakfast baskets. Loved being on the water. Good guided tour of salmon farming.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Vega Havhotell
Vega

Definitely has character, but a bit worn.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Quiet and off by itself.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Scandic Syv Søstre
Sandnessjøen

Room had good view of harbor. Good dinner in hotel restaurant.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Scandic Havet
Bodø
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Guided Kayak Tour
Guided Kayak Tour
Brønnøysund

Hard to tell. Cancelled due to weather.

Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Sep 05, 2024

Dear Mary Ann,
Thank you very much for your kind review.
You have been enthusiastic and cooperative from the planning phase to the moment you were driving along one of the most beautiful scenic roads of Norway. You provided detailed feedback for each location you stopped along the way. The best gift for empowering my knowledge about the area you have visited. This is what I call mutual assistance and cooperation. I hope you will visit this country again. You can count on me if needed.
Best Regards
Mathia

very efficient and obliging team
Norway | Aug 22 - Aug 31, 2024

J
Jonathan S.
Australia | Reviewed on Sep 02, 2024

Mathia and colleagues were very helpful, obliging and efficient throughout the process including during the trip when we required various changes to the schedule.

Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Sep 02, 2024

Dear Jonathan and Caro,
Thank you very much for your kind review.
It was a pleasure to have you on board and help with the modifications you needed during the journey.
I am happy to hear you have appreciated our efficiency and on-time assistance. I hope you will come back to Norway in the wintertime to admire the Northern Lights spectacle and cooperate with me again.
I wish you and your family all the best. :)
Mathia

Norway was an extraordinary trip of a lifetime, thanks to Mathias and kimkim!
Norway | Aug 13 - Aug 22, 2024

Jen
Jen T.
Manassas, VA | Reviewed on Aug 29, 2024
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a trip to Norway that was nothing short of extraordinary, all thanks to Kimkim agency and our exceptional travel partner, Mathia. From the very beginning, Mathia listened intently to my goals and crafted an itinerary that I could have never planned myself. The trip included special, hard-to-get reservations at Flor & Flaer, and three iconic guided hikes that were simply breathtaking. Mathia spent more than a year meticulously planning this trip,... Read more

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a trip to Norway that was nothing short of extraordinary, all thanks to Kimkim agency and our exceptional travel partner, Mathia. From the very beginning, Mathia listened intently to my goals and crafted an itinerary that I could have never planned myself.

The trip included special, hard-to-get reservations at Flor & Flaer, and three iconic guided hikes that were simply breathtaking. Mathia spent more than a year meticulously planning this trip, and not only was it perfect, but he also provided a personal touch every step of the way.

One instance that truly stood out was when I injured my knee on the descent of Trolltunga. Mathia called me at 9 PM to check on me and ensure I was okay. His dedication and care were evident throughout the entire journey.

I couldn't recommend Mathia and Kimkim enough for planning the perfect trip to Norway. Having an insider like Mathia plan this trip made it incredibly special, with amazing boutique hotels and unwavering support every step of the way. It was truly the trip of a lifetime.

I can't thank Mathia enough for his expertise and kind support from the beginning to the end! Thank you thank you thank you!!!!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Norge by Scandic
Bergen

We LOVED this hotel. The location was perfect. The rooms were lovely and the breakfast was simply amazing!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Perfectly centered in Bergen with amazing views from the balcony!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Ullensvang
Lofthus Hardanger

Great location for Trolltunga hike. Nice amenities. Wish there were more dinner options than the buffet.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Eilert Smith Hotel
Stavanger

I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Eilert Smith hotel, and it was an experience that will forever be etched in my memory. The highlight of our stay was the exceptional attention and care provided by Hanne. Not only is she lovely, but she was always available to offer advice on restaurants, experiences, and massages. Hanne went above and beyond to ensure our stay was perfect. Her dedication and personal touch made all the difference, and I couldn't recommend the Eilert Smith hotel enough because of the special attention from Hanne. This hotel will go down in my memory as the best hotel experience of a lifetime.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Hanne Hanne Hanne!!!!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Moxy Bergen
Bergen

Great location for a quick stay a little bit away from the city center. Fun vibe and great sunset! Nice staff!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Flor & Fjære Garden Cruise
Flor & Fjære Garden Cruise
Stavanger

I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the Flor & Fjaer garden cruise, and it was absolutely amazing. The tour was incredible, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The food was excellent, with a variety of delicious dishes that exceeded my expectations. The grounds are fabulous, beautifully maintained, and a true feast for the eyes. I highly recommend the Flor & Fjaer garden cruise for anyone looking for a memorable and delightful experience. It was truly a highlight of my trip.

Quality of Experience
Food
Simply delicious!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
nice boat ride
Transport
Guided Hike to Trolltunga
Guided Hike to Trolltunga
Norway

I recently had the pleasure of embarking on a guided hike of Trolltunga, and it was an unforgettable experience. Our guide, Joe, was absolutely fantastic. He was not only fun and engaging but also incredibly supportive throughout the hike. As someone with 54-year-old knees, the descent was particularly challenging for me. Joe was there every step of the way, helping me safely navigate the trail and providing much-needed encouragement. His assistance was invaluable, and he ensured that we didn't miss the last bus to P2. I highly recommend this guided hike and can't thank Joe enough for making it such a memorable and enjoyable adventure.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Joe!!!
Transport
Fjord Cruise & Pulpit Rock Hike
Fjord Cruise & Pulpit Rock Hike
Stavanger

We were on the smaller overflow boat and did not hear when the Pulpit Rock disembarkment occured. It must have been quick because we were not the only ones that missed it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mostraumen Fjord Cruise from Bergen
Mostraumen Fjord Cruise from Bergen
Bergen

Perfect 3 hour Fjord trip. Comfortable plentiful seating. Arrive early to get a seat by the window

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pulpit Rock Classic Summer Hike
Pulpit Rock Classic Summer Hike
Norway

I recently embarked on a hike to Pulpit Rock, and it was an adventure like no other. We chose the much more challenging, less-traveled route, which included a canoe trip, scrambling up boulders, and a very long trek. The guides were fantastic and ensured our safety throughout the journey. I must admit, I was terrified at times, not because of my fitness level (although I am 54), but because the route was dangerous at certain points. However, the guides were always there to ensure my safety and provide support. Despite the challenges, it was an incredible experience. That said, I would probably opt for the Nepalese Sherpa stairs next time for a less daunting experience. Nonetheless, this hike was unforgettable, and I highly recommend it for those seeking an adventurous and thrilling journey.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Aug 30, 2024
Dear Jen and Trent,
Thank you very much for your extraordinary review. :)
I feel we all had a wonderful time during your journey. Your enthusiasm and kindness is something extremely rare. It has been such a pleasure to assist and reach out while you were in Norway. And your trust during the planning phase was the best gift I could receive.
You have been so brave despite the bad weather, the injured knee, and the challenging but rewarding hikes you have experienced. Those memories will last...
Read more

Dear Jen and Trent,
Thank you very much for your extraordinary review. :)
I feel we all had a wonderful time during your journey. Your enthusiasm and kindness is something extremely rare. It has been such a pleasure to assist and reach out while you were in Norway. And your trust during the planning phase was the best gift I could receive.
You have been so brave despite the bad weather, the injured knee, and the challenging but rewarding hikes you have experienced. Those memories will last forever, especially because you were together in this.
My support and care cannot be considered part of the job, but more like a mutual help between friends. I am very grateful for that. I hope you will visit this country again, maybe with family or friends, and I would be honored to meet you in Northern Norway, where eagles fly and Northern Lights dance in a sky full of stars. If weather helps. ;) We keep in touch.
Best Regards
Mathia

Perfect Trip arranged by Mathia!
Norway | Jul 18 - Jul 25, 2024

P
Phillips P.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Aug 03, 2024
This is the first time our family of four used KimKim and I know we will be repeat customers based on how amazing our trip to Norway was! Our specialist, Mathia, did a great job developing an itinerary based on our requests, and the trip was once-in-a-lifetime! We said we wanted to experience the beauty of Norway and that's exactly what happened - our accommodations in Aurland were right on the water of the fjord, and we saw an otter hanging out there one morning! The hotel in Ulvik was... Read more

This is the first time our family of four used KimKim and I know we will be repeat customers based on how amazing our trip to Norway was! Our specialist, Mathia, did a great job developing an itinerary based on our requests, and the trip was once-in-a-lifetime! We said we wanted to experience the beauty of Norway and that's exactly what happened - our accommodations in Aurland were right on the water of the fjord, and we saw an otter hanging out there one morning! The hotel in Ulvik was comfortable and convenient, and all the transfers and tickets were perfect. Because everything was taken care of, we were more relaxed and able to truly enjoy the trip. On Mathia's recommendation, we stayed a day in Bergen and I'm so grateful he recommended it - Bergen was the highlight of the trip. The guide in Bergen provided a wonderful overview of the city and we were able to enjoy our personal time there even more. I knew this itinerary was a good one when native Norwegians told us "You saw the best places!". Many thanks to Mathia and his support on this journey!

Hotel Reviews
Strand Fjordhotel
Ulvik

Family run hotel with lots of character, big rooms and large patio area right on the water. We really enjoyed our time there and the personal attention from the staff ensured a wonderful stay. Conveniently located in the middle of the village, easy walk to the cider farms, kayaks and bikes available for rental.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Thon Hotel Opera
Oslo

Conveniently located, clean rooms, good breakfast buffet - just what we needed. Literally steps from the train station, which we used to arrive and depart, so the convenience was great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Norge by Scandic
Bergen

Amazing breakfast buffet - so many choices and a great way to fill up before a busy day! Rooms were clean and appropriately sized for a city hotel. Location is perfect in the middle of Bergen within walking distance to everything. It was a great home base for our two days in Bergen.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Vangsgaarden Gjestgiveri
Aurland

We stayed in a cabin right on the water with a small kitchen and living area - it was great for our family of four. We had a small sitting area outside that was right on the water, so I spend most of my time out there, looking at the fjord. Excellent breakfast and conveniently located right in the middle of the village.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore a Cider Farm in Hardanger
Explore a Cider Farm in Hardanger
Ulvik

This cider walking tour was a great way to learn about the Hardanger fjord area, as well as learn more about apple orchards and cider production. It was very interesting and helped me understand more about this part of Norway. Highly recommend as a good way to stretch your legs and learn.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bergen Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Bergen Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Bergen

Amazing! Highly recommend doing a tour with John - his knowledge about the area really enhanced our stay in Bergen. He took us all over the city at a measured pace and pointed out things only the locals know. It was a great experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fjordsafari Extended
Fjordsafari Extended
Norway

Excellent! Up close and personal view of the fjord and villages - really enhanced our understanding and awe of the area. Staff was pleasant and professional - I appreciated their attention to safety. Highly recommend. I was concerned about motion sickness and it was not a problem at all - so glad our planner recommended this activity.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit Stegastein Viewpoint
Visit Stegastein Viewpoint
Norway

Amazing view - great way to get a feel for the area on our first day there. Highly recommend.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Aug 04, 2024
Dear Dwight, Kim, and Phamily,
Thank you very much for your lovely review.
What a pleasure to plan this summer trip with you guys. You followed my recommendations and put a complete trust on me. The planning phase was so easy to discuss together. I am so happy to hear you liked the accommodations and activities we selected in Ulvik and Bergen. And my great satisfaction is to hear that a local told you visited the best places. It means a lot to me.
There is no doubt you deserved it all. Your...
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Dear Dwight, Kim, and Phamily,
Thank you very much for your lovely review.
What a pleasure to plan this summer trip with you guys. You followed my recommendations and put a complete trust on me. The planning phase was so easy to discuss together. I am so happy to hear you liked the accommodations and activities we selected in Ulvik and Bergen. And my great satisfaction is to hear that a local told you visited the best places. It means a lot to me.
There is no doubt you deserved it all. Your kindness and participation has been remarkable. If you decide to visit Norway again, please let me help you again. Maybe in winter, we can meet in Northern Norway under a dancing green sky. Think about it. ;)
I will make a great use of your experience, a gift to improve the quality of my work.
I wish you the best in life, love, and everything else connected to it. :)
Mathia

Super fun Norway trip made easy!
Norway | Jul 21 - Jul 29, 2024

Betsy
Betsy H.
| Reviewed on Jul 31, 2024

Mathia made our trip planning easy - a well planned trip across Norway with nice accommodations and helpful tips along the way. He gave us all the necessary details and checked in daily. When we had some minor issues, he replied super quickly and helped us sort it out. We especially liked the Flåm railway/bike excursion and enjoyed our stay in Oslo at the beautiful Amerikalinjen hotel.

Local specialist: Mathia Pacenti
Mathia
Mathia Pacenti
Local specialist in Vesterålen, Norway | Replied on Aug 01, 2024

Dear Betsy,
Thank you very much for your kind review. I am happy to hear your trip to Norway was above your expectations. Thanks for letting me know that I have been helpful with the assistance and recommendations needed during the entire journey.
I wish you and your beautiful family all the best. :)
Mathia