During the height of the COVID-epidemic in March, I was in Nicaragua. I’d left New York City for Spring Break, and never made it back! With the borders I traveled around the country for two months before settling down in San Juan del Sur for two more months. A lot of travelers skip San Juan…
Category: Latin America and the Caribbean
Making Traditional Chocolate in Costa Rica
I spent this past January in Costa Rica, driving around the country in search of wildlife and indigenous culture. One of the best things I did during my trip was make traditional chocolate– it was so delicious the first time I decided to do it again. So I made chocolate twice– once with members of…
Wildlife Trekking in Costa Rica
I spent 3 weeks in Costa Rica this past January and visited many of country’s national parks (Arenal, Monteverde, Cahuita, etc.) and they were all beautiful. BUT The best experience I had was a 4-day trek with OsaWild through Corcovado N.P.— a national park accessible by tour only. If you do nothing else in Costa…
Nicaraguan Food for Vegetarians on a Budget
The most common complaint I heard from travelers in Nicaragua was that they didn’t like the food. Many stuck to overpriced pizza, burritos, and sandwiches, though some of them had never even tried Nica food! DON’T fall into this— You’ll not only blow through your money, but also be missing out on some the cleanest…
Don’t Skip Managua, Nicaragua!
Travelers tend to gloss over capital cities for some reason. Many assume that there’s nothing to see other than government buildings — and who wants to see those anyway? Managua, however, is worth at least one day of your time in Nicaragua. There are plenty of fascinating museums, bustling markets, and unusual churches to keep…
From Sandino to Sandinista: Comparing Nicaraguan Revolutionary Movements
I wrote this during my four-month accidental-study-abroad in Nicaragua. My footnotes won’t transfer, but all my sources are at the bottom. If you have any questions send me an email! From Sandino to Sandinista: Comparing Nicaraguan Revolutionary Movements Introduction The Central American republic of Nicaragua has had a tumultuous history, rife with occupations, revolutions, and…
The Biggest City in the Western Hemisphere
No, it’s not New York City— Mexico City boasts a population of 8.5 million and endless things to do. I spent a week a Mexico City and barely scratched the surface, exploring a few of its many neighborhoods and major sites. Most people skip Mexico City and straight for Cancun— don’t— you’re missing out on…
15 Travel Tips for Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is a tried-and-true Spring break destination and has been for decades. However, there are some things you should know before you go, and some factors to consider before you book your accommodation. Bring U.S. cash and a foreign-transaction-fee-free card Though Mexico’s official currency is the Mexican Peso, a lot of things in Cancun (and…
The Puerto Rican Dilemma: Independence, Statehood, or the Status Quo?
For over 100 years, Puerto Rico has been part of the greater U.S. commonwealth. In recent decades, however, political sentiments are picking up steam. Should Puerto Rico become the 51st state, strive for its independence, or simply stay as it is? So far, 5 referenda have been held to decide this issue; however voter turnout is…
A Taste of Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has a rich culinary scene, due to its Spanish, Taino and Afro-Carribean heritage. I spent a couple of days in San Juan eating everything I could get my hands on. Everything is Fried and Stuffed In Puerto Rico, you’ll find just about every plant imaginable can be fried in a ball; yucca, pumpkin,…
San Juan’s Hottest Nightlife
So you’ve only got a couple nights in San Juan, but you want to make sure you go to the right spots — look no further. These tried-and-true bars and clubs are guaranteed to keep you on your feet, dancing the night away with plenty of friendly Puerto Ricans — who by the way, are…
Tristan's Expeditions 