Baños – The Ultimate Ecuadorian Getaway

It’s hard to figure out what the small Ecuadorian town of Baños doesn’t have - especially for those interested in open-air activities.  The village of 15,000 can really be geared towards various types of travelers. There are natural hot springs, off road trails, waterfalls galore, and even a few small amusement parks for the kids....

Sana – Brazil at its Best

Nestled among the rolling green hills in the northeastern section of the state of Rio de Janeiro lies Sana, a truly unknown Brazilian gem. This small village is full of big surprises such as its abundance of waterfalls, specially made gnocchi, and hippie handicrafts. But the sweet wonders of the city extend past the cuisine...

Florianópolis, Brazil

The laid-back city of Florianópolis is often ranked as the best place to live in Brazil. After taking a visit to the beach-infested party town, I could see why. This isn’t a town to load up on museums and historical visits. It’s a town to relax. Florianópolis has about 60 beaches and some people stay...

Puerto Varas & Lago Llanquihue, Chile

There’s no doubt about it – Chile is a country full of natural beauty. From the frigid, clear waters in the Patagonia region to the dry plains of the Atacama Desert, the country is home to plenty of surprises. One of these gems is located on the edge of Chile’s Patagonia area. Lago Llanquihue (or...

Pedra Bonita – Rio de Janeiro

I think the name speaks for itself. “Pedra Bonita,” or “Beautiful Rock” in English, is yet another one of Rio’s exquisitely stunning natural landmarks. Resting in between Rio’s “Gávea” and “Barra da Tijuca” neighborhoods, the Pedra Bonita is a little bit outside of where most tourists tend to stay while in Rio. However, don’t let...

São Thomé das Letras, Minas Gerais

I can confidently say that I’ve never been to a town quite like São Thomé das Letras. Much of the small town seems out of a fairytale; a nearly unlimited array of waterfalls mixed with the artisanal flavors of the local food and beverage are just a few of this settlement’s highlights. The state of...

Hiking the Morro da Babilônia

Rio de Janeiro is a city full of hiking trails. For the adventurous type, or anyone into sweating a little, this is your place. After completing a few of Rio’s classic hikes (such as to the Sugar Loaf or Christ the Redeemer) you may be craving something more. There are tons of great trails at...

The Dalí Museum – Figueres, Spain

One of Europe’s best and most memorable museums is located in Figueres – a small, yet charming, Spanish town close to the French border. The Dalí Theater-Museum is truly a work of art in itself. Inaugurated in 1974, this Dalí designed museum was a former theater but now holds some of the world’s most thought-provoking...

Monserrate – Bogotá

Located at around 3,200 meters above sea level, Monserrate Mountain towers over Bogotá. The mountain is visible from almost any point in the city and has become one of the city’s top tourist attractions. Some people have difficulties with the altitude so keep that in mind before making the trek up. However, once you make...

Eating in Bogotá, Colombia

Bogotá is a city that, for me, went above and beyond my expectations. It is a place with great museums, friendly people and, above all, tremendous food. I will say that most of the food I ate while in Bogotá probably wasn’t the healthiest but, hey, give me a break. The second you hit the...