Get Lost Again

Hello World Wide Web and Avid Readers of GL&BF,

You may have been wondering if I fell off the Earth while exploring it. Well, rest assured. I am just fine. Continue reading “Get Lost Again”

Medellín ~ 6 Ways To Have A Blast In Today’s Greatest Latin American City

Pronounced Med-ay-een, Medellín is (in my humble opinion), today’s greatest Latin American city.

When I talk about how much I enjoyed Medellín, I often get surprised reactions. “Isn’t it very unsafe?” People still associate this vibrant city with its dark drug trafficking days under the rule of Pablo Escobar. Until recently, this city was considered a dangerous place. But big changes are happening in Medellín! For several years now, the city has a thriving flow of tourists. Sadly, parts of the city are still living in extreme poverty, and the effects of the past are still quite visible. But the energy and revitalization are hard to deny. I highly recommend a visit. Be part of what helps turn around the no-longer-relevant reputation, and help Medellin spark it’s economy with your visit. I promise, you will have a blast! Continue reading “Medellín ~ 6 Ways To Have A Blast In Today’s Greatest Latin American City”

After Ever After

To all who celebrate, happy Thanksgiving Day. Don’t get me wrong, I will never condone the mass slaughter of turkeys. And I have a hard time standing behind the history from which the tradition was born. But I appreciate this day for its reminder that we should consider and declare what we are grateful for.

For a couple of years, it was really hard for me to do that. But alas, I am feeling gratefulness in my heart yet again. Thank youThank you for reading this. Thank you for caring.  Continue reading “After Ever After”

Tatacoa Desert ~ A well-kept secret of Colombia

Colombia is famed for its beaches, interesting cities, and rainforest. But many people don’t know that central Colombia is home to a small desert known as Tatacoa, too. Honestly, there’s a piece of me that doesn’t want to tell you all about this place. It’s lack of popularity is part of its peaceful charm. Continue reading “Tatacoa Desert ~ A well-kept secret of Colombia”

Mocoa, Colombia ~ Jungle-lite

Mocoa is a day-hiker’s dream. This lush landscape is streaming with trails waiting to be explored in the mountainous jungle terrain of Colombia’s Amazon. I’ve given Mocoa a little nickname, “jungle-lite”. I gave it the name because I think this is the perfect place for someone to visit who might be a little nervous about diving deep into the wild, but has the curiosity to sense the jungle. The day hikes around Mocoa are a great way to dip your toes into The Amazon and get a feel for it without going “full on Tarzan”. You will surely see colorful butterflies, interesting plant-life, and stunning waterfalls. But beware, It is highly likely you will leave ready for more jungle. Continue reading “Mocoa, Colombia ~ Jungle-lite”

Galapagos Under The Sea

“This little clam here knows how to jam here, under the sea”
– Sebastion in The Little Mermaid

Continue reading “Galapagos Under The Sea”

10 Ways to Have a Blast in The Galapagos ~ On A Budget


33 Galapagos

Many long-term travelers choose to skip the spectacular Islands of Galapagos for one unfortunate reason: the cost.  I myself debating saving this destination for “later in life” as it’s own separate trip.  Ultimately, I realized I couldn’t spend nearly 2 years exploring the South American continent without visiting the Galapagos.  I am very glad I didn’t skip over these Islands on my adventure.  And I learned that you don’t have to break the bank in order to visit. Continue reading “10 Ways to Have a Blast in The Galapagos ~ On A Budget”

Tarzan Leaves The Jungle

This one is overdue. What do a gas stove, a wooden pepper grinder, a temperature nob in a shower, and a surf board have in common? Continue reading “Tarzan Leaves The Jungle”

Cuenca, Ecuador

I began my Ecuador explorations in the lovely city, Cuenca.  Cuenca has dozens of museums for art and history.  You can visit factories of the famed “Panama Hat” to learn how they are made (Yes, the Panama hat actually comes from Ecuador…).  You can walk the streets or follow the river.  There are even Incan ruins in the middle of city. Continue reading “Cuenca, Ecuador”

Mancora, Peru

This blog post is about my final week in Peru, spent on the beach in Mancora.  This post is long overdue, as many of you know.  I am currently in Ecuador, and look forward to posting about my new adventures soon.

Mancora is on the coast in the far north of Peru, close to the Ecuadorian border.  When asking around amongst locals and travelers alike about the Peruvian beaches, mostly the reaction was underwhelming.  With one exception.  Mancora.

When people described Mancora the words “the best” always came up.  The best beaches in Peru.  The best sunsets you will ever see. Or simply, Mancora is the best. Continue reading “Mancora, Peru”