Prepare for The Jungle in 8 Steps

The idea of visiting a jungle is quite enchanting, isn’t it? But perhaps a rainforest-run is… I don’t know… a bit daunting? Well, it doesn’t have to be.

If you’ve never been on an excursion through the rainforest, the days leading up to your jungle journey can be anxiety-ridden. It’s natural to be nervous before embarking on an experience completely foreign to you. To put your mind at ease, use the days before your trip to prepare. Every trip to the jungle is a different experience and adventure. It is impossible to predict exactly what you will do, see and even need. But if you follow the steps laid out here, you will surely be among the more savvy, ready-for-anything explorers. Continue reading “Prepare for The Jungle in 8 Steps”

25 Photos That Will Make You Book A Flight To South America.

I am not sure why, but South America often feels like the forgotten continent amongst travelers. So before you run off to Thailand, France, or Iceland, I want to make a case for South America.

I could talk at you until we’re both snoring, but I can’t do proper justice to this continent with words. So, take a moment to be inspired by a few wonders of the Latin Continent. Continue reading “25 Photos That Will Make You Book A Flight To South America.”

¡Celebrating Carnaval, Colombia!

It’s time for a post about the extravaganza known as Carnaval! I realize, Carnaval is in February. But, I actually timed this post in mid-December on purpose. Most of you are caught up in the holiday spirit of Christmas, Hanukkah and New Years. But, if you dream in sparkle and neon (like I do), now is the best time to start planning your Carnaval fiesta. Continue reading “¡Celebrating Carnaval, Colombia!”

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”

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”

Visiting San Augustín, Colombia

This place is a little out of the way from the typical beach resorts where most who vacation in Colombia go. But if you head to the southwest of Colombia there are incredible treasures in store. San Augustín’s stunning landscapes and Archeological parks were among the most memorable stops along my two month Colombian adventure.

If you love traveling to lesser-known off-the-beaten-path places and have an affinity for history and ancient mysteries, then San Augstín should definitely be on your list of adventures. Continue reading “Visiting San Augustín, Colombia”

Sprinkles In The Storm

This post is really outside of my comfort zone of things I am willing to publicize online. But it feels necessary and slightly overdue. I know this is too long for most of you to read entirely, but I’ve said what I needed to say. I genuinely hope this is all completely irrelevant to my readers.  But if it’s not, and you are wanderlusting with grief, this one’s for you.

Traveling the world is a long journey. Grieving is also a long journey. So why not navigate through them together? Unfortunately, I have experience traveling with grief.  And that is what this post is all about.

Continue reading “Sprinkles In The Storm”

Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve ~ Visiting the Jungle of Ecuador

So you are in Ecuador and want to see the Amazon?  A number of companies offer immersive jungle excursions in Cuyabeno Reserve, and I recommend the experience.  However, the planning part of this can be a bit confusing.  So this post is about what you can expect from your Cuyabeno jungle adventure and how to plan it out in the least confusing and exhausting way possible! Continue reading “Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve ~ Visiting the Jungle of Ecuador”

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”