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”

True Stories of Pablo Escobar and a Cop Who Fought Against Him.

Pablo Emilio Escobar Gaviria infamously ruled the streets of Medellín, Colombia, until his death in 1993. For many long grueling years, Colombians lived in constant terror from violence caused by the drug cartels. The drug-lord’s international fame has increased in recent years thanks to Netflix original series, Narcos. However, today, Medellín is reviving and thriving. Continue reading “True Stories of Pablo Escobar and a Cop Who Fought Against Him.”

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”

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”

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”

Amazon Junlge – Iquitos, Peru

You may know by know that I am quite enamored with the rainforest.  Iquitos, Peru is another launching point to the Amazon.  The main reason to visit Iquitos is preparation before a jungle excursion and rest afterwards.  Iquitos boasts that it is the world’s largest city inaccessible by car.   Continue reading “Amazon Junlge – Iquitos, Peru”

¡Jungle Crafts!

By now you know that I have spent a good bit of time exploring the Amazon rainforest.  One of many things that fascinates me about Amazon culture is the impressive knowledge of the jungle’s natural resources.

Indigenous communities throughout the Amazon have learned over centuries how to utilize the rainforest for survival.  These cultures rely almost entirely on plants and plant materials for survival.  The plants provide them with food, medicine and materials for shelter and clothing.   Continue reading “¡Jungle Crafts!”