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Raquel Aceituno

The eternal question ... where to next?

I live for my passion: travelling. I aim to travel to every country in the world and inspire you to do the sam. Nature, learning about new cultures, speaking several languages & blending in with locals, are my key drivers! During my trips, I seek adventures. I always put myself out of my comfort zone and have never regretted it! I am also an advocate of preserving and protecting our planet.

We are a project from travellers to travellers and we can't wait to take you on the best adventure ever!
I am from a wee town in Badajoz, Portugal borders. However, I consider myself a world citizen.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Spain and Portugal"

How did you get involved in travel?

"In 2014 I decided to grab my suitcase and moved to Scotland seeking for new challenges. I have been based up there for 8 years working on Tourism and at the same time traveling the world whenever I had the opportunity.

I combine my knowledge and background in Tourism with my personal vision of the world, to share with you my travel experiences in the most genuine and honest way possible."

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"mmm .... tough question!
Spain is the land of contrast and my very own place in the world, but If I had to name a feeling that would be called Granada. The scent of incense, Arabian flavours from ancient cultures and Alhambra became the most spectacular scenario to enjoy over and over again."

Raquel is part of the following groups: Portugal Travel Agents, Spain Travel Agents, Spain Family Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Raquel

All of the hotels in 4 cities were first clas...
Spain | Sep 6 - Sep 16, 2024

K
keith m.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 19, 2024
All of the hotels in 4 cities were first class and in great locations for walking and sightseeing. Transportation was seamless. All of the guides were fantastic, and seemed to really enjoy their jobs.
Our tour operator Raquel was very helpful and patient. Highly recommended.
Read more

All of the hotels in 4 cities were first class and in great locations for walking and sightseeing. Transportation was seamless. All of the guides were fantastic, and seemed to really enjoy their jobs.
Our tour operator Raquel was very helpful and patient. Highly recommended.

Activity Reviews
Guided Visit of Madrid:  History, Culture & Architecture of the Capital of Spain
Guided Visit of Madrid: History, Culture & Architecture of the Capital of Spain
Madrid

We actually asked for guided tour of the Prado and he happily obliged. Graduate level tour ensued.

Tapas Culinary Experience
Tapas Culinary Experience
Madrid
Guided Visit:  Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Guided Visit: Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Granada

Our guide was very informative.

Quality of Experience
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Granada
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Tour of Barcelona & La Sagrada Familia
Private Tour of Barcelona & La Sagrada Familia
Barcelona
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Wine & Gourmet Tapas Tour
Wine & Gourmet Tapas Tour
Barcelona
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Sep 19, 2024

Hola Keith, thanks so much for taking the time to write this fantastic review! I am very happy to hear that you had a great time in Spain and that you were comfortable at all your accomodations, which is an important part of the experience. I will pass your words to our guides, specially to Geza! 😊
Hopefully, we get in touch again for future adventures .All the best, Raquel

Well tailored to my needs
Spain | Sep 6 - Sep 16, 2024

Lucien
Lucien M.
Canada | Reviewed on Sep 17, 2024
The hotel selections were extremely well planned out, and positioned giving you access to a lot of the areas that you were visiting the itineraries as far as tours, exhibitions, museums was very well laid out. The entire trip was very interesting and met all my expectations and more. Read more

The hotel selections were extremely well planned out, and positioned giving you access to a lot of the areas that you were visiting the itineraries as far as tours, exhibitions, museums was very well laid out. The entire trip was very interesting and met all my expectations and more.

Hotel Reviews
Catalonia Gran Vía
Madrid
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Molina Lario Hotel
Málaga
Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Bonay
Barcelona
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Áurea Catedral Hotel
Granada
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Tapas Culinary Experience
Tapas Culinary Experience
Madrid

Our tour guide was excellent, engaging, entertaining and keep the group energized. Highly recommended.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Flamenco Show in a Sacromonte Cave
Granada

Great place in the atmosphere was fantastic. Something I’ve always wanted to see and I was more than satisfied. It was a great experience and I would highly recommend it as a must for anybody’s trip.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit:  Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Guided Visit: Alhambra & Generalife Gardens
Granada

But all my expectations. To have a tour guide is a must so much to see so much to learn what a great experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Sep 19, 2024

Hi Lucien! Thank you so much for taking the time to share the feedback of your trip to Spain. I am glad to know that you had a great time and that the trip exceeded your expectations😊 . It was a pleasure creating this experience for you and Keith and hopefully, we get in touch again for future adventures. All the best, Raquel

Great trip to Portugal and Mallorca
Spain | Jul 9 - Jul 22, 2024

A
Alyssa F.
Mundelein, IL | Reviewed on Jul 29, 2024
All of our excursions were excellent. Our guide Celia for our Porto walking tour was so knowledge and had great recommendations. Pedro organized a private tour of the vineyard for us in the Douro Valley. Alex was an excellent walking tour guide, being flexing and showing us sights of Lisbon we would have missed on our own. Mannu gave us a great outing to Sintra and Cascais, even making a special stop on the way back for us to take an extra photo. The recommendations of places to eat and... Read more

All of our excursions were excellent. Our guide Celia for our Porto walking tour was so knowledge and had great recommendations. Pedro organized a private tour of the vineyard for us in the Douro Valley. Alex was an excellent walking tour guide, being flexing and showing us sights of Lisbon we would have missed on our own. Mannu gave us a great outing to Sintra and Cascais, even making a special stop on the way back for us to take an extra photo. The recommendations of places to eat and beaches from Kim Kim were very helpful. The hotels were all beautiful and centrally located.

Hotel Reviews
PortoBay Hotel Teatro
Porto

The location of this hotel was fantastic. Very walkable, safe. The room was comfortable and had everything we needed

Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Portugal Boutique Hotel
Lisbon

This hotel was top of the line. The service was excellent, the room impressive. The location was great too.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lagos Avenida Hotel
Lagos

The hotel has a great view of the marina. The room was nice, had everything we needed. We loved the rooftop pool.

Location
Staff
Meliá Lisboa Aeroporto
Lisbon

This hotel was great, free shuttle to the airport was helpful. Room was nice, clean, and spacious.

Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Puro Hotel Palma
Palma de Mallorca

This hotel was crazy. The room was so big! It had a tub and a shower. Location was great. Staff was great at providing recommendations and transportation options. We did not utilize the beach club but if we had an extra day we would’ve liked to try it.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Privately Guided Visit of Porto
Privately Guided Visit of Porto
Porto

Celia was fantastic. Learned so much and one of the highlights of our trip. I recommend this to everyone.

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

Our guide was great, the views are incredible. He even arranged a private vineyard tour for us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Get to Know Lisbon with a Local
Get to Know Lisbon with a Local
Lisbon

Alex was great. He was so knowledgeable and we learned so much of portugals history. He was flexible and adapted the tour to show us things we would never have found on our own.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Spain

Mannu was great. Full of knowledge about Portugal, cares about responsible tourism and wants to show travelers the real Portugal. We would definitely recommend.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Bike Excursion along the Beautiful Ria Formosa
Bike Excursion along the Beautiful Ria Formosa
Spain
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Catamaran Trip around Mallorca with Snorkeling, Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Catamaran Trip around Mallorca with Snorkeling, Kayaking or Paddleboarding
Mallorca

Definitely better than some of the other boats we saw where they pack the boats full of travelers. The views were incredible. The staff were not the friendliest, and I understand they turn over the boat and work with the public all the time. I might opt for an even smaller, more intimate boat next time. There were about 50 people on the boat with us many off the cruise ship.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 30, 2024

Hi Alyssa! thanks so much for taking the time to write this wonderful and detailed review. I am glad to know that you and Bradley had a great time discovering Portugal and Mallorca and that everything we planned met your expectations 🤩 I have noted your feedback about the catamarran in Mallorca and me and the team will search for a reduced people experience to make it more memorable for our travellers. Thanks again! It was a pleasure working with you and hopefully, we get in touch again for future adventures x All the best, Raquel

Raquel is Amazing!!
Spain | Jul 16 - Jul 24, 2024

Pat
Pat M.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jul 25, 2024
Raquel was amazing to work with. I'm an 'in the details' travel planner myself but was going to Spain for the first time and needed a TON of help. I loved working with her and her recommendations were fantastic. It was also very easy to go back and forth on alterations ahead of the trip and everything was super smooth during. Read more

Raquel was amazing to work with. I'm an 'in the details' travel planner myself but was going to Spain for the first time and needed a TON of help. I loved working with her and her recommendations were fantastic. It was also very easy to go back and forth on alterations ahead of the trip and everything was super smooth during.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel España Ramblas
Barcelona

The one part of our trip that we didn't LOVE was this hotel. It is in a good location in terms of being very central to everything but the area around it felt a bit sketchy. Our original room felt like a small, dingy hotel room but we upgraded to a suite and the room felt better. The hotel was very dark overall but not in a great moody kind of way. It wasn't terrible or anything, we just didn't love it.

Authenticity & Character
It is nice but a bit dark and gloomy.
Location
Central but felt like it could be a little sketchy. For example, everyone told us "don't go left after midnight...."
Staff
They were nice but not happy-nice.
Cleanliness & Comfort
It was "clean" but didn't feel "super clean". Also they use a really strong aroma in the rooms, like really strong.
Pestana Plaza Mayor Madrid
Madrid

We loved the hotel and the location. It felt like a super cool boutique hotel, very bright and vibrant, great little pool area, loved the beautiful restaurant.

Authenticity & Character
Very cool, charming, boutique hotel.
Location
Seemed very central to everything, train was easy to use, and seemed like every taxi was 10 euros or less.
Staff
Super nice and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beautiful overall. Very clean.
Activity Reviews
Boquería Market Visit & Cooking Class
Boquería Market Visit & Cooking Class
Barcelona
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Coastal Hike, Kayaking & Lagoon Dipping in Costa Brava
Coastal Hike, Kayaking & Lagoon Dipping in Costa Brava
Spain
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Barcelona & Gaudí:  An Architecture Walk
Barcelona & Gaudí: An Architecture Walk
Barcelona
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gastronomy & Wine Tour with a Sommelier
Gastronomy & Wine Tour with a Sommelier
Barcelona
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Train Madrid to Toledo, Guided Visit of Toledo,  Train Toledo to Madrid
Train Madrid to Toledo, Guided Visit of Toledo, Train Toledo to Madrid
Madrid
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Flamenco Night
Flamenco Night
Madrid
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit of Madrid:  History, Culture & Architecture of the Capital of Spain
Guided Visit of Madrid: History, Culture & Architecture of the Capital of Spain
Madrid
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jámon & Wine Experience in Madrid
Jámon & Wine Experience in Madrid
Madrid
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 26, 2024

Hola Pat! I really appreciate your feedback and taking the time to share the highlights of your trip to Spain. I'm so pleased that you and Haley had a great experience!😍 I am happy to hear that you got a nicer room at your hotel in Barcelona and noted your feedback for our future trips ;)
All the best, It has been a pleasure! x Raquel

Portugal and Spain
Spain | Jul 2 - Jul 15, 2024

A
Amy F.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Jul 16, 2024
Raquel did an amazing job organizing a trip that met all of our desires. Flawless transportation arrangements, wonderful hotel accommodations, guided tours. She found remote locations not travelled by most into the most beautiful places, esp the Picos de Europa national park in the Asturian mountains. Memorable to say the least! She kept to our budget overall, was responsive to inquiries leading up to the trip. My friend had used KimKim to travel to Europe with her wiener dog, and had such a... Read more

Raquel did an amazing job organizing a trip that met all of our desires. Flawless transportation arrangements, wonderful hotel accommodations, guided tours. She found remote locations not travelled by most into the most beautiful places, esp the Picos de Europa national park in the Asturian mountains. Memorable to say the least! She kept to our budget overall, was responsive to inquiries leading up to the trip. My friend had used KimKim to travel to Europe with her wiener dog, and had such a wonderful experience she recommended them to me for my trip with my children to Portugal and Spain. No regrets!! Will definitely recommend them to anyone!!

Thank you Raquel and KimKim!!

Amy F., Montana

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Intur Palacio San Martin
Madrid
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Catalonia Donosti
San Sebastián
Authenticity & Character
Fairly modern hotel. If expecting old world charm, may be a bit disappointed.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Soho BOutique Oviedo
Oviedo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Puebloastur Eco-Resort Wellness & Spa
Cofiño, Parres
Authenticity & Character
Outside absolutely beautiful, inside modern.
Location
The views were spectacular!! Location off of challenging narrow road for those driving if not used to this! Beautiful drive!!
Staff
Waiters seemed put off if we didn't finish our meals, offended? Lack of English skills may have interfered with communication. Came off a bit rude to us.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Eurostars Araguaney
Santiago de Compostela
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Legendary Porto Hotel
Porto
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Borges Chiado
Lisbon
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The staff member checking us in was a bit rude. Maybe seemed more so as we were jet lagged and she seemed less than accommodating.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Discover Biarritz &. French Basque Country
Discover Biarritz &. French Basque Country
Spain

Saw alot of the Basque countryside, learned alot about it's history. Guide very knowledgable, fun. Gorgeous, wonderful food!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
San Sebastian Pintxo Experience
San Sebastian Pintxo Experience
San Sebastián

Our guide, Esther, took us to the most amazing restaurants! Got to sample a wide variety of Pintxos, wines. She is very fun, knowledgable, made sure we had seats available for our excursion. Fun group of Australians enhanced our fun!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Day Excursion to Covadonga Lakes
Day Excursion to Covadonga Lakes
Spain

Amazing!! From the views to our guide, to a wonderful lunch!. The 3 mile hike was a must! Walked amongst all the cows with cow bells, the sound!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Privately Guided Visit of Santiago de Compostela
Privately Guided Visit of Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela

Guide very enthusiastic/ passionate about the city and it's history! Beautiful!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Douro Valley Excursion with Wine & Olive Oil Tastings & River Cruise
Douro Valley Excursion with Wine & Olive Oil Tastings & River Cruise
Porto

A must do! Guide was super fun, knowledgable. Great wines, Ports in authentic locations. Wonderful lunch with a view! Duoro Valley extremely beautiful!!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Pedro Sousa made this experience very fun!! Knowledgable, fun guide!! Good photographer of all clients!!
Transport
Get to know Porto by E-bike
Get to know Porto by E-bike
Porto

Flexible guide, originally booked for tour involving more hills. It was a very hot day and we opted to stay along the beach with tour thru largest park, etc. Very knowledgable guide, fun. Beautiful city. Wish we could have spent more time in Porto!

Quality of Experience
Guide, beauty of Porto.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour
Guided Tuk-Tuk Tour
Spain

Saw highlights of Lisbon that would have otherwise been hard to see with limited time in the city. Very friendly and knowledgable guide!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lisbon Petiscos & Wine Tour
Lisbon Petiscos & Wine Tour
Lisbon

Guide was very fun, energetic. Took us to great places in Lisbon to get a taste of the local cuisine. We were paired with a fun group of fellow Americans that enhanced the experience as well!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 18, 2024

Hola Amy! Thank you so much for your detailed feedback and kind words 😍
It's amazing to hear you had a wonderful time with your family
I will pass your words onto to our local guides as they will be so happy to hear that they have contributed to a wonderful adventure. It was a real pleasure working with you making this possible and that it met your expectations 😊All the best , Raquel

Our trip was absolutely amazing! 5 star across the board!
Spain | Jun 4 - Jun 10, 2024

Julie
Julie M.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jul 01, 2024
Our trip was absolutely amazing! Thank you so much for your thoughtful itinerary- the hotels, transport, food suggestions were fabulous and the addition of the sunset cruise with Captain Guillermo and guitarist Alvaro was perfect! Every excursion was fabulous! The Biking tour of Barcelona with Corentin hit all of the historical marks and taught us about culture, art and architecture while we pedaled and got the lay of the land! Touring and hiking in Montserrat with Ramon and being able to... Read more

Our trip was absolutely amazing! Thank you so much for your thoughtful itinerary- the hotels, transport, food suggestions were fabulous and the addition of the sunset cruise with Captain Guillermo and guitarist Alvaro was perfect! Every excursion was fabulous! The Biking tour of Barcelona with Corentin hit all of the historical marks and taught us about culture, art and architecture while we pedaled and got the lay of the land! Touring and hiking in Montserrat with Ramon and being able to customize our experience to our family was amazing- He is an expert on the history, lore and the hiking area- we escaped the crowds and got some amazing views! Costa Brava is gorgeous and our adventure with Stepan, despite the cloudy and slightly rough day at sea- was great! Every detail of our kayak, snorkel, swim, walk-was planned out and executed perfectly. Without exception- lovely people, great communicators, professional and fun and ready to adapt to our wishes and needs. Can't say enough great things!

Hotel Review
Hotel Aigua Blava
Costa Brava · Girona

Absolutely gorgeous grounds, airy rooms, restaurant breakfast is excellent, staff very pleasant, attentive and helpful!

Authenticity & Character
paradise!
Location
Staff
reception was particularly helpful with reservations in local towns and modes of transport
Cleanliness & Comfort
everything was immaculate
Activity Reviews
Coastal Hike, Kayaking & Lagoon Dipping in Costa Brava
Coastal Hike, Kayaking & Lagoon Dipping in Costa Brava
Spain

Stepan was amazing! Every detail of our walk, kayak, swim/snorkel was well planned and executed. We had a wonderful day despite the imperfect weather and learned a lot about proper technique for kayaking as well as environmental conservation efforts in the area.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Family Visit Montserrat & Hiking
Family Visit Montserrat & Hiking
Barcelona

Ramon is a pro. We were able to customize our visit to focus most of our time on the hiking around Montserrat. We steered clear of the crowds and had some marvelous views while Ramon taught us the lore and history of the area ( as well as a geology lesson ) ! Highly recommend!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Visit of Barcelona by Bike
Guided Visit of Barcelona by Bike
Barcelona

Great way to cover a lot of ground, see a lot of the cities highlights and get some history as well. Corentin was our guide and was excellent.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Flamenco Night
Flamenco Night
Barcelona

We all enjoyed the flamenco- it seemed the crowd was quite reserved and didn't know if they should cheer or watch quietly or get up and participate. Since the large majority re: ALL of the patrons are tourists- maybe an introduction that talks about the history and the crowds expected response would enhance the experience. We had tapas at the expat next door and would highly recommend!

Quality of Experience
Tapas Walk in Barcelona
Tapas Walk in Barcelona
Barcelona

Jeanne was so fun! She asked great questions, engaged the entire group. We had a great group, tried all types of tapas in different neighborhoods. my 16 and 13 year olds enjoyed it and felt very comfortable in the mix! Try the cava!

Quality of Experience
Food
We tried it all- snails, fried sardines, meatballs, desserts- vermouth of course and cava! be adventurous!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 04, 2024

Hello Julie! Thank you for your wonderful review and kind words 😍
It's amazing to hear you had a wonderful time with your family, specially for your bitrthday! which is the greatest reward for us.
I will pass your words onto to our local guides as they will be so happy to hear that they have contributed to a wonderful adventure. I hope we will work together in the future to plan your next adventure. All the best , Raquel

Spain, Raquel our agent with KimKim from a local age...
Spain | Jun 4 - Jun 10, 2024

P
Paul N.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jun 25, 2024
Raquel our agent with KimKim from a local agency in Spain was amazing. Great communicator, prompt and helpful. Also was able to talk person to person on the phone. This was first class trip. They planned amazing outings with great guides. Top notch. Yes, i have planned many trips on my own, and wanted to plan this one, but we had limited time. KimKim saved us a bunch of time , and did a much better job than i could have. Specifically with finding top notch local guides that... Read more

Raquel our agent with KimKim from a local agency in Spain was amazing. Great communicator, prompt and helpful. Also was able to talk person to person on the phone. This was first class trip. They planned amazing outings with great guides. Top notch. Yes, i have planned many trips on my own, and wanted to plan this one, but we had limited time. KimKim saved us a bunch of time , and did a much better job than i could have. Specifically with finding top notch local guides that were knowledgeable and friendly.

Our local bike ride was great. Our tour of Monserrat was a highlight, out guide Ramone was fantastic and skilled climber that obviously was beyond our skill level.
Kayaking with Stepan near Costa Brava took care of us , and was very patient.
Also we super enjoyed our Tapa Tour with Jeanne. We enjoyed meeting a few other travelers and were happy it was not a fully private tour with our Family. Tapas are meant to be shared.

Again, Raquel was always available and responsive both before and during our trip.
Price was expensive, but worth it, and accommodations and everything 5 star. What we spent on KimKim we saved in planning time and getting work shifts done prior to departure , so kind of of evens out on a dollar basis.

But lastly, the trip was efficient as far as we covered a lot of ground with little hassle or delay, and was great to be a "passenger" as a parent, b/c often the planning / blame falls on us. It was Truly enjoyable.
Paul & Julie, Kids 16/13

Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 04, 2024

Hola Paul! thank you so much for taking the time to write this fabulous review! It is a pleasure to know you and your family enjoyed your time in Spain and you left home with lots of incredible memories. I will share the feedback with our guides, who will be delighted to hear that they have contributed to a great experience! Again, a pleasure planning this trip for you and your family 🥰All the best. Raquel

Fabulous trip. would recommend it to our friends
Portugal | May 31 - Jun 15, 2024

L
Laura A.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jun 20, 2024
The guides we had were all exceptional and very knowlegable and fun to be with. They made our trip very special. The hotels were beautiful and spacious with the exception of the hotel Vintage Pestana which was a bit dated. Although the location was good. We especially loved the Palacio Ludivice in Lisbon, The Octant in Duoro and the Sensi in Azores. I would hightly recommend these hotels and would stay there again. I would take extra time to also stay more in the eastern part of the Duoro in... Read more

The guides we had were all exceptional and very knowlegable and fun to be with. They made our trip very special. The hotels were beautiful and spacious with the exception of the hotel Vintage Pestana which was a bit dated. Although the location was good. We especially loved the Palacio Ludivice in Lisbon, The Octant in Duoro and the Sensi in Azores. I would hightly recommend these hotels and would stay there again. I would take extra time to also stay more in the eastern part of the Duoro in addition to staying at the Octant to be closer to the wineries. Raquel put together an amazing trip.

Hotel Reviews
Sensi Azores Nature and SPA
Ponta Delgada

Will someday go back. loved everything about the hotel. Ate dinner there 3 times. superb

Authenticity & Character
Location
a bit far from Ponta Delgada
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel & World Heritage Site
Porto

a bit dated and small rooms and bathrooms

Authenticity & Character
update the rooms
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
updated rooms
Octant Douro
Douro

Fabulous, want to go back

Authenticity & Character
Location
although not close to many wineries
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas
Coimbra

beautiful. a few of rooms were musty so had to move to differnt rooms. upgraded to big suite Would never stay in the new addition. extremely ugly

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
two rooms they offered were musty/moldy
Palácio Ludovice Wine Experience Hotel
Lisboa

beautiful hotel. exemplary staff

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Vintage Car Tour of Porto
Vintage Car Tour of Porto
Porto

it was good but short in the car

Quality of Experience
more sights to see
Guides, Drivers and Staff
enthusiastic
Transport
could have been longer in car to see more sights
Wine Experience in the Douro Valley & River Cruise
Wine Experience in the Douro Valley & River Cruise
Douro Valley

amazing guide

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
good guide
Guided Visit of Historic Coimbra
Guided Visit of Historic Coimbra
Portugal

very interesting. beuatiful buildings

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Dinner With Locals at a Local Home
Dinner With Locals at a Local Home
Lisbon

One of highlights of trip. Loved spending toime with a local family. they were lovely. Best food in Lisbon

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
hard to find. took a taxi
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Portugal

loved sintra and our guide was exceptional. Had lunch at his family restaurant and met his wife. Best guide on the trip

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Architectural & Historical Highlights of Lisbon
Architectural & Historical Highlights of Lisbon
Lisbon
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jul 04, 2024

Dear Laura, I really appreciate your feedback and taking the time to share the highlights of your trip to Portugal. I'm so pleased that you and Greg had a wonderful trip!😍 I will pass your words on to our local guides, who will love to hear that they have contributed to a memorable trip and take note of the location of the Octant Douro hotel to explore the wineries.
All the best for the future. It has been a pleasure! x Raquel

Raquel’s trip exceeded our expectations
Portugal | May 31 - Jun 15, 2024

Daniel
Daniel C.
Phoenix, AZ | Reviewed on Jun 16, 2024
Raquel picked great hotels. Cliff Bay in Madeira was absolutely amazing. The private tours were wonderful. The cooking class in Porto with Chef Sara Verde with just the three of us cooking lunch was such a treat. Hiking with our guides in the Peneda-Gerês National Park was breathtaking. A great trip. Read more

Raquel picked great hotels. Cliff Bay in Madeira was absolutely amazing. The private tours were wonderful. The cooking class in Porto with Chef Sara Verde with just the three of us cooking lunch was such a treat. Hiking with our guides in the Peneda-Gerês National Park was breathtaking. A great trip.

Hotel Reviews
Douro Suites
Ribadouro
Location
The Cliff Bay
Funchal

WOW! What a beautiful property. Access to the ocean. Indoor/outdoor pools. Amazing breakfast in beautiful restaurants with outdoor eating in the gardens. Great room with ocean views. Short walk to downtown.

Authenticity & Character
Gardens. Can not be described with words. Just beautiful.
Location
Close to downtown. Ocean access.
Staff
Responds immediately to requests.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Everything perfect
Portugal Boutique Hotel
Lisbon

Boutique hotel next to their much larger hotel in the center of Lisbon’s tourist area. Great staff. Smallish room without any view. OK breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Perfect.
Staff
Always helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pestana Vintage Porto Hotel & World Heritage Site
Porto

Busy area of Porto, so you have to want to be where the action is. Balcony room a must. River view adds so much. Fantastic breakfast and staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
In the middle of the River scene.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Comfortable beds.
Activity Reviews
Madeira East Island 4x4 Private Adventure
Madeira East Island 4x4 Private Adventure
Portugal

Great investigation of the Northwestern part of Madeira. A little too much time in the 4X4. Longer stops would be better.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Knowledgeable. .
Transport
Vehicle was old and felt somewhat unsafe. Seat belts were not functioning correctly.
Porto Cooking Class
Porto Cooking Class
Porto

Cooking lunch with Chef Sara Verde in her restaurant was a highlight of this trip. She was a wonderful host.

Quality of Experience
Food
Cooking in the Cataplana pans. Chef gs e us directions to a kitchen supply store to buy them!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Half-Day Hike Larano Cliff footpath
Half-Day Hike Larano Cliff footpath
Portugal

Didn’t do this tour.

Day Excursion in Peneda-Gerês National Park
Day Excursion in Peneda-Gerês National Park
Porto

Two great hikes and tour of the old city.

Quality of Experience
Food
Nice local restaurant.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Personable and engaging. Chose two beautiful hikes.
Transport
Introducing Funchal - Food & Cultural Tour
Introducing Funchal - Food & Cultural Tour
Portugal

Cancelled due to holiday.

Guided Visit of Porto's Architecture & World Heritage
Guided Visit of Porto's Architecture & World Heritage
Porto

Excellent personable guide. Great insight into Porto’s history with multiple recommendations for shopping and restaurants.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Wine Experience in the Douro Valley & River Cruise
Wine Experience in the Douro Valley & River Cruise
Douro Valley

Didn’t do this tour.

Private Transfer {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} via Coimbra
Private Transfer {{start_location}} to {{end_location}} via Coimbra
Portugal

Personable driver. Could have provided more information on Coimbra.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Portugal

Driver just OK. Did adapt to our requests but didn’t adapt to issues in Cascais and never got to Estoril.

Quality of Experience
Needed to adapt to conditions.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
 Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk
Lisbon Roots, Food & Cultural Walk
Portugal

Guide was great. Tour was a good introduction to the city. She took us to ethnic food areas that were outstanding. It is unlikely that we would have discovered these intimate areas.

Quality of Experience
Food
pastel de nata
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Jun 25, 2024

Hi Daniel! Thank you so much for taking the time to share the feedback of your trip to Portugal. I am glad to know that you and Rebecca had a great time and that the trip exceeded your expectations😊 . It was a pleasure creating this experience with you and hopefully, we get in touch again for future adventures. All the best, Raquel

This was a fabulous trip. Of special note is ...our guides.
Portugal | Apr 29 - May 9, 2024

Anthea
Anthea B.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on May 16, 2024
This was a fabulous trip. Of special note is the quality and flexibility of our guides. They were fantastic. Rachel was also flexible and responsive to all our questions and modifications. This was a great trip. Read more

This was a fabulous trip. Of special note is the quality and flexibility of our guides. They were fantastic. Rachel was also flexible and responsive to all our questions and modifications. This was a great trip.

Hotel Review
Convento do Espinheiro, Historic Hotel & Spa
Evora

I am recommending this to friends. The hotel and spa is beautiful as were the grounds and the service was outstanding.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Private Day Excursion: Sintra, Cascais & Estoril
Portugal

This was our longest and for me my most exhilarating day.

Quality of Experience
Our guide
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was knowledgeable , flexible, and fun to be around
Transport
Get to Know Lisbon with a Local
Get to Know Lisbon with a Local
Lisbon

This was such a good day. We learned so much about Lisbon .

Quality of Experience
Seeing so much of the city in a short time period.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
As I have said before , the quality, knowledge and flexibility of our guide made the difference.
Transport
Fado Dinner Experience
Fado Dinner Experience
Lisbon

Going to Fado was really fun and the food was good.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jeep Safari through a Cork Forest & Visit to an Olive Oil Estate
Jeep Safari through a Cork Forest & Visit to an Olive Oil Estate
Portugal

The Cork Fork and Olive oil estate was amazing .

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sweet and Tasting Évora Tour
Sweet and Tasting Évora Tour
Évora

This was not my favorite experience . The sweets tended to be too much at once.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Foodie Experience in Porto
Foodie Experience in Porto
Porto

This was a really good experience. We were able to try a variety of foods.

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

This was one of my favorite days. Our guide modified the trip by excluding the river cruise and it was the right call.

Quality of Experience
The visit to the winery and the wonderful meal
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Privately Guided Visit of Porto
Privately Guided Visit of Porto
Porto

Our guide as excellent however the main was rainy and at times down pouring rain forced us to be indoors.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Everyone was on time and flexible.
Transport
Local specialist: Raquel Aceituno
Raquel
Raquel Aceituno
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on May 31, 2024

Hi Anthea! Thanks so much for your kind words and for taking the time to share your feedback. I'm so pleased that you had a wonderful trip! I will pass your words onto our guides who will love to hear that she has contributed to a memorable trip. I wish you all the best and hopefully, we can plan another adventure together in the future x Raquel