Did you know that Siem Reap contains the largest freshwater lake in all of Southeast Asia, called the Tonle Sap Lake? It’s one of the richest inland fishing grounds in the world, home to not only over 200 different species of fish but also to over one million people. In fact, the majority of these … Continue Reading
While conducting some preliminary research before heading to Siem Reap, I couldn’t seem to figure out what exactly to wear to Angkor Wat. I knew I needed to wear temple appropriate clothing, but I didn’t know how strict it would be. Well, I’m here to tell you that the dress code for Angkor Wat and … Continue Reading
I may be a little biased because I grew up nearby, but there’s a slice of Western Massachusetts called the Berkshires, or “the Shire” as the locals would say, that is absolutely glorious. Known for epic fall foliage, excellent hiking and outdoor activities, farm-to-table dining, and classic New England style charm, the Berkshires have people coming … Continue Reading
Have you ever wondered how globetrotters fell in love with traveling in the first place? For me, I think back to one specific life-changing experience that sparked my love affair with traveling the world. This first experience eventually led me to quit my 9-5 job to move across the world and ultimately led me to … Continue Reading
Although Burlington isn’t the capital of Vermont, this earthy-crunchy, uber-hip, progressive city seems to steal the spotlight within the state. With hundreds of restaurants, micro-breweries and live music venues, there’s a bustling food and entertainment scene, and with Lake Champlain and the Green Mountains nearby, there are tons of outdoor activities to enjoy as well. … Continue Reading
When I first heard about the Pangea Dreams Blogger Retreats, they had never run one before. There were no reviews, testimonials, or alumni to ask questions to. I mean, it all sounded great: one week at a luxury villa in Bali, daily yoga, sunset dinners, photo shoots… but I thought to myself, am I really … Continue Reading
George Town is Malaysia’s second largest city next to Kuala Lumpur and the capital of Penang, but it doesn’t feel anything like a big city. In fact, George Town’s city center was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 for its preservation of culture and the many historical buildings in the area. Once a … Continue Reading
Have you ever been to a place that completely blew away your expectations? For me, it was Mexico City. With over 20 million people living in the Greater Mexico City area, I was expecting a loud, crazy, and totally crammed city. What I experienced was very much the opposite. Mexico City may be one of … Continue Reading
Solo travel is not easy. Things not only can, but will go wrong, and it’s up to you to decide how you’re going to handle it. Here’s a story about a perfect plan gone awry during my last trip to Southeast Asia as a solo traveler and what I learned about myself in the process. … Continue Reading
Parque Tayrona is a nationally protected park in Northern Colombia sandwiched between the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Mountains and the Carribean Sea. It’s known for its lush jungle and wild coastline of virtually untouched beaches. Although many of the beaches between the park entrance and Cabo San Juan are frequented by tourists, they are only accessible … Continue Reading
To me, visiting Eje Cafetero (Colombia’s coffee region) is about two things: nature and coffee. So when I arrived in the shining star of this region, Salento, those are the two things I set out to enjoy the most! This region produces the largest amount of Arabica variety in the world and is said to cultivate … Continue Reading
Although Salento is the golden child of Colombia’s coffee region, there’s a little-underrated town about 45 minutes away that deserves more attention. This quaint pueblo is called Filandia, and is a must for anyone looking for an authentic experience in the Zona Cafetera region. It’s also much less frequented by foreigners than other areas of the region, … Continue Reading
I read that visiting Villa de Leyva was like taking a time machine back to the 16th century, and seeing it with my own eyes confirmed that statement for sure. Charming and quaint are the first two adjectives that come to mind when describing this colonial town outside of Bogotá, largely in part due to … Continue Reading
Although Cartagena is the most popular seaside destination in Colombia, those looking for a quieter beach getaway head further north to Costeño Beach & Palomino. These relatively underdeveloped beach towns are home to stretches of rugged coastline, most of it completely untouched. You won’t find any resorts or big name hotels here, just small locally run … Continue Reading
I went on The Lost City Trek with Expotur and it was 4 days jam packed with adventure. Expotur promises adventure, and adventure you shall receive! From intense jungle trekking in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains, raging rapid river crossings, and 1,200 steep stone steps to get to Cuidad Perdida, it’s exhilarating, challenging … Continue Reading
Cartagena is Colombia’s shining star of the coast, with tropical weather all year round, easy access to a slew of islands surrounded by coral reef, as well as the famous Walled City, deemed a Unesco World Heritage site in the 1980s. The cobblestone streets and colonial architecture will have you thinking you’re in Europe, but … Continue Reading
I was under the impression that Cartagena was lined with gorgeous white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise water – it’s not. However, just an hour boat ride away is the paradise of Isla Grande, which is part of the Rosario Islands. Here you will surely find that Caribbean paradise you were searching for. Although the … Continue Reading
Peru is a magical place, known as the epicenter of the legendary Inca Empire, home to world famous ceviche and Machu Picchu, and is a country so biodiverse it is said that if Peru can be saved, it could serve as the basis for rehabilitating the rest of the world. Peru has 84 of the … Continue Reading
Are you planning a trip to Peru and need to figure out where to stay during your epic adventure? I can’t speak for all of Peru, but I can speak for four of the marvelous cities I visited during my three weeks exploring Southern Peru, and in this post I have rounded up all the … Continue Reading
Since I was a little kid, I’ve always loved roller coasters. So when I heard about an oasis in the middle of the Peruvian desert where dune buggies fly over sand dunes up to 700 feet tall, you better believe I immediately added it to my itinerary. That desert oasis is called Huacachina, and when … Continue Reading
Paracas is a small fishing village turned beach resort town that is actually known as Peru’s best wild-life watching destination. Often referred to as “The Poor Man’s Galapagos,” this coastal desert region is home to the Ballestas Islands and the Paracas National Reserve, both of which are teeming with wildlife, from sea lions, seabirds, and … Continue Reading
Lima is the Capital and largest city in Peru, yet it is often misunderstood and almost entirely skipped over while traveler’s make their way to Cusco. I fell victim to the “don’t spend too much time in Lima” hearsay, and wish I had given this awesome city more of a chance. That being said, with … Continue Reading
Between all of the trekking nearby, the gorgeous Spanish colonial architecture, the traditional food, and lively culture, Cusco is simply a traveler’s dream. Famed as the gateway to Machu Picchu, it has become the launching point for enthusiastic trekkers looking to see a New Wonder of the World, experience the beauty of the Peruvian Andes, … Continue Reading
After 6 days and over 30 miles of trekking both Rainbow Mountain, Lares, and Machu Picchu, I was in dire need of some serious relaxation. You can count on sore legs from all the walking, tight shoulders from schlepping a backpack full of gear around, and overall exhaustion from the altitude (over 17,000ft at Rainbow … Continue Reading
I rarely can pass up an opportunity to see any sort of wildlife in their natural habitat, and when I heard about Mar Adentro Excursiones and the opportunity to swim with wild sea lions off the coast of Lima, it was no exception. Mar Adentro Excursiones offers a comfortable, guided trip out to Islas Palomino … Continue Reading
When you think of Peru, what comes to mind? If I had to guess, it would probably be hiking the Inca Trail into Machu Picchu. But what if I told you there was an alternative trek you could take without the hundreds of other tourists you’d find on the over-trekked Inca Trail, that offers a perfect mix … Continue Reading
Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain or Montaña de Siete Colores, is a stunning geological marvel of the Peruvian Andes located at a whopping 5,200 meters above sea level, and is gaining some serious popularity within the Cusco tourism industry. Located about a 4 hour drive from Cusco, it’s advertised as something that can be … Continue Reading
At the beginning of March I arrived to Colombia all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, so excited to take on a new city and country. Upon arrival, the extent of my Espanol ended at hola, sí, gracias, por favor, and yo quiero Taco Bell. However, I’ve travelled all over the world where I haven’t know other languages … Continue Reading
A city once known as the most dangerous place in the world, has recently undergone an incredible transformation, and people are flocking from all over to see for themselves. I swear you could spend a year in Medellín and still not get to see, do, and experience all that this incredible city has to offer, … Continue Reading
To me, solo travel is all about challenging yourself, growing as an individual, stepping out of your comfort zone, and opening yourself up to new experiences and to new people. So when I came across the Colombia Immersion Spanish School, I knew I had struck gold. Check out the below 5 reasons why Colombia Immersion … Continue Reading
