First River Cruise
Reviewed By George and Julie - Manchester, NH | Traveled to Danube | On the River | At Sea
My wife and I had a great time on our Danube River Cruise with Kimber and family in May 2025. Other than the airfare we set up ourselves (by choice), Kimber and AMA Waterways made everything effortless with great accommodations, excursions, and dining. It was our first time ever outside the US and for cruising. We would definitely do it again and AMA was a great choice for River cruiselines
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! It was an honor to help you navigate your first international trip. At Thirsty Bird Travel, making river cruising feel effortless is exactly what I strive for. I’m so glad you loved the AmaWaterways experience—their luxury dining and service are truly 'spot on.' I am especially thrilled that we already have your July 2027 cruise on the books! I can’t wait to 'expertly craft' another incredible journey for you and your wife. See you on the water! — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Debbie Roberts
Reviewed By Deb R - Los Gatos, California | Traveled to Bordeaux | France | Europe
Kimber established and owns and operates her own winery, Coeur d’Alene Cellars. She is very knowledgeable about wines from all over the world.
I went on a criuse with her along the coast of France, Spain and Portugal. She exhibited her wide knowledge of wines during tours of wineries that were offered along the route of the cruise tour.
She is intelligent, organized and lots of fun to be around. She would be a great wine tour agent. I highly recommend her!
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! My background as the owner of Coeur d’Alene Cellars allows me to bring a unique perspective to every Thirsty Bird Travel journey. I loved sharing my passion for French, Spanish, and Portuguese wines with you along that beautiful coast! My goal is to combine that deep winery knowledge with seamless luxury cruise logistics to create a truly 'intelligent' and fun adventure. I am so glad you enjoyed the tours, and I can't wait to plan your next one! — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Cruising the Danube
Reviewed By Cruisefanforlife2025 - Post Falls, Idaho | Traveled to Bucharest | Romania | Europe
I had never been on a cruise before and didn't really know anyone that would be on the cruise. Kimber made everything so easy, from the transports to & from the airport, the excursions and the post cruise trip. It was all so well organized and made the experience comfortable and so much fun.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! I am so glad I could make your first cruise experience a 'worry-free' success. At Thirsty Bird Travel, handling those airport transfers and post-cruise land tours is what I do best to ensure a seamless journey. It has been a pleasure to 'expertly craft' your travels, and I am so excited to welcome you back on our AmaWaterways river cruise next month! I can't wait to raise a glass with you again on the Rhine. See you soon! — Kimber Travis"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Love a River Cruise!
Reviewed By Ro1955 - Coeur D Alene, Idaho | Traveled to Eastern Europe | Europe
I had a great experience preparing for my vacation with Kimber. She was always available for my questions and concerns. She had a group of 22 guests and I’m sure we all share the same experience. She put together knowledgeable tour guides, transportation, beautiful hotels and restaurants. It was easy to follow her lead. It all seemed effortless but I know she put a lot of time, research and energy into preparing this great adventure. I would definitely travel with her again.
The AMA waterways is also a cruise line I would also recommend. The staff, service and food were also outstanding.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! It was a pleasure to lead our group of 22 on such a memorable AmaWaterways river cruise. At Thirsty Bird Travel, I believe the 'effortless' feel comes from deep research and expertly crafting every detail—from luxury transportation to hand-picked hotels and restaurants. I’m so glad you enjoyed the outstanding service on board! I look forward to managing your next group travel adventure with that same care and professionalism. — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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A very memorable trip.
Reviewed By C - Coeurd'Alne Idaho | Traveled to Europe
We had the greatest time. No worries for us knowing Kimber had taken care of everything. She planned the best excursions and so memorable for us.
We love her!!!
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you so much! It means the world to me that you could truly relax and enjoy every moment. At Thirsty Bird Travel, my goal is to provide worry-free travel by handling every detail from start to finish. I’m so glad the luxury excursions we selected were memorable for you! There is nothing better than seeing my clients explore the world with total confidence. I look forward to expertly crafting your next great getaway! — Kimber Travis"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Perfect Agent to arrange travel for you!
Reviewed By Debbie - Ivins, Utah | Traveled to Moselle River | On the River | At Sea
From our first inquiry to getting all the preparations lined up, working with Kimber has been a pleasure. She is organized, knowledgeable, professional and personable with a deep knowledge of the travel industry and her specialty of wine tours. We look forward to our trip in April and know it will not be our last with Kimber. She is a delight to work with and always has good suggestions and advice while taking personal preferences into consideration.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to 'expertly craft' your upcoming April journey. At Thirsty Bird Travel, I believe that luxury wine tours require a deep understanding of both the industry and your personal preferences. My goal is to ensure every travel arrangement is as seamless and professional as the destination itself. I’m so glad we have your next adventure in the works, and I can't wait for you to experience all our specialty wine tastings! — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Flawlessly planned trip
Reviewed By 85yrsYoung - Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho | Traveled to Paris | France | Europe
From the time we arrived in Paris until we left Vienna our hotels, cruise and excursions were spot on. The selections and coordination were perfectly placed and curated.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! I am so glad your journey from Paris to Vienna was seamless. At Thirsty Bird Travel, I specialize in these curated European experiences, ensuring every luxury hotel and shore excursion is perfectly placed for your comfort. Whether it's a Danube River cruise or a custom land tour, my goal is 'spot on' coordination from start to finish. I look forward to expertly crafting your next world-class adventure! — Kimber Travis"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Kimber led our trip by air, bus, and water to Italy and Croatia
Reviewed By CdA Cellars member since 2002 - Coeur d'Alene, ID | Traveled to Abruzzo | Italy | Europe
Kimber was a hands on leader from the time of the trip planning, through booking, and through the entire trip. She was always available for questions which were always answered with kindness and professionalism. I would travel anywhere with Kimber!!
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you so much! It was an absolute joy to lead your journey. At Thirsty Bird Travel, I believe that being a 'hands-on' luxury travel advisor means providing a seamless experience from the initial trip planning and booking through the final destination. Whether we are exploring European wine regions or a bucket-list cruise, I’m always here to ensure your questions are answered and every detail is expertly crafted. I’d travel anywhere with you, too! — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Tuscany tour and Adriatic Windstar cruise
Reviewed By Tourts - Hayden, idaho | Traveled to Italy | Europe
Kimber took care of everything for this trip and it all went flawlessly. All of the tours, wine tastings, accommodations and meals were first class.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! I am so thrilled to hear that your journey went flawlessly. At Thirsty Bird Travel, my goal is to provide a first-class experience by meticulously vetting every luxury accommodation, private wine tasting, and curated tour.
Whether we are exploring European vineyards or a bucket-list cruise, I strive to handle every detail so my clients can simply enjoy the moment. I look forward to 'expertly crafting' your next adventure! — Kimber Travis"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Amazing experience! Highly recommend!
Reviewed By DianaC - Harrison, Idaho | Traveled to Europe
We had an absolutely wonderful time on the Coeur d'Alene Winery River Cruise! Kimber created a truly memorable experience from start to finish. She brought together a fantastic group of people and managed every detail with such care and professionalism that all we had to do was relax and enjoy ourselves. Everything was stress-free. We loved the itinerary, the ship, the food and excursions. The wine tastings were absolutely fabulous, and the entire atmosphere was warm, fun, and beautifully organized. She kept us up-to-date on every aspect with excellent communications. We couldn’t have asked for a better time and experience. We highly recommend traveling with Kimber!
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! It’s wonderful to hear that your Danube River cruise was such a stress-free experience. At Thirsty Bird Travel, I believe that high-level communication and meticulous itinerary planning are what allow travelers to truly relax. Whether we’re exploring exclusive wine tastings or unique shore excursions, I love creating that 'beautifully organized' atmosphere for our groups. I’m so glad you enjoyed the journey and I can’t wait to plan your next one! — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Elevate Your Travels: Wine, Culture, and Unmatched Expertise
Reviewed By Dennis - Bordeaux | Traveled to Europe
Five Stars for Kimber Gates Travis—Curator of Wine-Focused European Journeys
If you dream of exploring Europe through wine, luxury, and authentic experiences, Kimber Gates Travis is the perfect guide. After three exceptional journeys with her, I’ve witnessed Kimber’s gift for blending beauty, comfort, and adventure with every detail.
Italy & Dalmatian Coast (2017):
Our first trip began in Tuscan vineyards and medieval villages, then up the Dalmatian coast with Windstar Cruises. Sampling Brunello, savoring Croatian wines, and gliding through Venice—a flawless itinerary with private excursions, lovely hotels, and Kimber’s expert hosting. We relaxed knowing every detail was handled.
London to Lisbon (2018):
Kimber raised the bar, guiding a close-knit group through France, Spain, and Portugal. From Bordeaux tastings with an oenologist, Basque dinners by the sea, Rioja reds, to the rhythms of Porto and Lisbon—her customized excursions and access to wine and culture made every moment memorable.
Southeast Europe River Cruise (2025):
Our latest adventure: a 7-night Danube cruise with AmaWaterways and special pre- and post-trip options from Paris to Istanbul. Paris tours, Hungarian cooperages, and exclusive behind-the-scenes wine experiences filled Kimber's itinerary with authentic discovery and connection.
Why Travel with Kimber?
Kimber’s care shapes every trip. She hand-picks destinations, fosters connections with winemakers and chefs, and ensures each guest’s experience is seamless, inspiring, and fun. Her professional certification reflects true commitment, from travel insurance to special events for wine lovers. She delivers beautiful hotels, exclusive winery access, and a camaraderie that turns travelers into friends.
If you love wine and crave authentic, curated travel, travel with Kimber Gates Travis. Each journey promises joy, adventure—and always a memorable glass raised together.
Five stars, every time!
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! It has been an honor to curate these European wine journeys for you. From Tuscan vineyards and Windstar cruises to our recent AmaWaterways Danube river cruise, my goal at Thirsty Bird Travel is to blend authentic discovery with seamless luxury. I’m so glad the exclusive winery access in Bordeaux and Portugal created such lasting memories. I look forward to raising another glass together on our next expertly crafted adventure! — Kimber Travis"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Best Wine Cruise
Reviewed By Kimber Gates Travis - Coeur d’Alene, Idaho | Traveled to Bucharest | Romania | Europe
My husband & I had a great trip on CDA Cellars wine cruise on the Danube River. Kimber did an excellent job of helping us make travel arrangements & meet other travelers prior to the journey. It was extremely well planned & enjoyable. Thanks Kimber & Devin
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! That Danube River cruise was such a highlight. I believe that meeting your fellow travelers before the journey is what turns a trip into a community. At Thirsty Bird Travel, I specialize in these expertly crafted group experiences where every detail—from the international travel arrangements to the local wine tastings—is seamless. I’m so glad you had an enjoyable time, and I look forward to planning your next luxury cruise! — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Italy Croatia Italy 2017
Reviewed By Hank - Hayden, ID | Traveled to Italy | Europe
Had a great time on our cruise with CdA Cellars. The side trips were fantastic. We still remember the Bibich winery, Michelin star experience in Croatia, what an experience. The trip was well organized and well thought out. We definitely would go on another cruise with them again.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! That Croatia cruise was truly unforgettable. Visiting Bibich Winery for that Michelin-star experience is exactly the kind of 'expertly crafted' moment I love to provide. While that journey was with CdA Cellars, I’m bringing that same level of detail and passion for luxury wine travel to my new agency, Thirsty Bird Travel. I’m so glad the shore excursions and organization exceeded your expectations—let's get your next cruise on the books! — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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The best of the best !
Reviewed By Deb - Hayden Idaho | Traveled to Europe
Kimber never misses a beat! Every moment, detail by detail is planned and executed seamlessly w/ perfection. Whatever your needs are, she will do everything to make sure you are comfortable, at ease and having the time of your life.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you so much! It is always my goal at Thirsty Bird Travel to ensure every 'flight' is expertly crafted so that you can simply relax and enjoy the journey. Whether we are planning a luxury river cruise or a custom land adventure, I believe the magic is in the details. I’m so glad you felt at ease and had the time of your life—I can't wait to help you execute your next seamless getaway! — Kimber Travis"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Off the Beaten Path
Reviewed By Sylvia - Hayden Idaho | Traveled to Italy | Europe
Our trip with Kimber to Italy was amazing. We landed in Milan, took a beautiful ride through the hills heading toward our first stop. We stayed in a gorgeous château in the Hills. The grounds were magnificent. I believe the restaurant was a Michelin star restaurant. This is the place we would never have found on our own. The entire trip was one surprise after another. Many of the special meals were with wine pairings. My husband and myself didn’t know many of the people in the group, but by the end of the trip, we were all traveling buddies.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you! It was a joy to curate your Italy adventure. From the hills of Milan to that hidden château, I love finding those 'off-the-beaten-path' gems that travelers wouldn't find alone. Combining Michelin-star dining with authentic wine pairings is what makes a Thirsty Bird Travel journey so special. I’m especially glad the group became lifelong travel buddies—that’s the true heart of fellowship! Looking forward to 'expertly crafting' your next trip. — Kimber"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Spectacular!
Reviewed By Luke - Hayden | Traveled to Danube | On the River | At Sea
From initial sign up, trip planning and communication and execution on the trip Kimber is simply amazing. She is so professional which gives a traveler such confidence in new settings.
Kimber Travis responded
"Thank you so much for the wonderful review! Providing a seamless experience from the initial trip planning to the final execution is exactly what I strive for at Thirsty Bird Travel.
My goal as a luxury travel advisor is to ensure my clients feel total confidence, especially when exploring new destinations. It was a pleasure to help you navigate your journey, and I look forward to 'expertly crafting' your next adventure! — Kimber Travis"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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Buck list check off
Reviewed By Kathid - Idaho | Traveled to Aachen | Germany | Europe
This is my first excursion with Kimber and thus far it has been delightful. She listens to the clients wishes and is willing to make necessary changes to make them happy. I know she researches each venue for the best opportunity for pleasure and value. Great communications and organization. Her warm friendly personality will make you feel comfortable and confident that she is providing top notch services individualized for each client
Kimber Travis responded
"Dear Kathi,
Thank you for trusting me with your journey! I am incredibly excited to be guiding you through this magnificent region. Prepare to be swept away by the charm of France, the hidden gems of Luxembourg, the historic castles of Germany, and the breathtaking alpine beauty of Switzerland. We are going to craft the adventure of a lifetime!"
✓ I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
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