If you’ve visited this site before, then you may know that I’ve traveled to more than 25 countries (on 5 continents), including some that might be considered ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ journeys; I’ve also had “life-changing” experiences along the way. I feel great about where I’ve been and have no regrets. Of course, there’s a lot more to…
I’d love to get to know you, my fellow travelers, better (and to see which of you I’m most similar to.) How? By playing a simple game called “Would you rather….?” using travel-related situations, some of them a (tiny) bit extreme. I highly recommend this for long bus journeys, by the way. To play, just…
When I took my recent trip to Ecuador and Panama, I went with my usual backpack of travel stuff (carefully packed and not too heavy) and some new high-tech equipment: my new camera—an Olympus XZ-1 (a high-end point and shoot)–and my iPad2 (plus an amazing Zaggmate keyboard and a WordPress app). I was all packed…
It’s that time of year again (getting ready for my summer trip), and unfortunately, I’ve got PPS. Try as I might to avoid it, I find that I’m suffering from it–the syndrome–once again. If there were a pill to take, I would. But there isn’t. Diet and exercise have no effect, either. See, PPS–Packing Procrastination…
Liked part 1 of this series? Here’s the exciting conclusion, this one focusing on dilemmas and dramas. This post is set up the same way. I share the details of the situation I found myself in and pose the “What would you do?” question. You share your answer and then, later, I’ll most likely share…
Like to travel off the beaten path? Enjoy hanging out with the locals? If so, then perhaps–like me–you find yourself having some truly amazing experiences. Rewarding moments you wouldn’t trade for anything. Of course, immersing yourself this way doesn’t always go smoothly. There are sometimes cultural clashes, dilemmas and even dramas. And they can be…
What happens when two friends get together for 4 days/5 nights, stay in a small apartment with one bathroom, cram in too many activities and then save NYC for the last day, when they’re exhausted and the weather happens to be cold all of a sudden (after being perfect the day before)? By the way….Friend…
Manic mosquitos. Trippy turtles. A psychotic yogini and a violent storm. Wet Birkenstocks. Deadly waves slamming down on black sand. And of course, Pancho, the Pelican, who can still fuel nightmares if I’m not careful.
Ah yes, memories…of a mere 24 hours in Monterrico, Guatemala. Do they light the corner of my mind? Most certainly.
Wondering what the hell happened there, are you? Well, let’s pretend we’re at a hostel or in a bar having a drink and sharing travel tales. Tag–I’m it.
Some travel destinations are made for hanging out—for relaxing and finding your own rhythm/groove. And of course, for being in the moment.
Hopkins Village, Belize, is one of those places.
I could tell you why it’s great, but I’d rather just show you.
Here’s a photo essay I created, which takes you on a groovy 1.5-minute tour of the town, its locals and the natural tropical beauty. You’ll hear the music of the Lebeha Drummers, meet the Garifuna locals and feel the warmth of the community. (Don’t miss Part 1 of this series, my story re: how the drumbeat took me into the heartbeat of the culture.)
After the video, check out my tips on how to “hang out in Hopkins” if you happen to visit this special little town.
As you’ve seen in this series, it’s easy to fall in love with alleged ‘bad boy’ country Syria and have the time of your life there—whether you’re a man or a woman.
I did, after all, and I’m a SWF.
Before you go, though, there are a few things you should know that will help make your first trip a great one.
As awesome as Syria is to visit (cool video here), he does have a few issues you should know about in advance.
Most of these tips are unisex; some are specific to women.
