Sancocho – Discover Latin America’s Hearty Stew (Cuisine Spotlight)

"The beauty of a popular dish like Sancocho is its’ history, its’ adaptability, as well as the chance to gather with a group of people and dig in to this delicious food together."

Three Days in Chicago – A Journey Through Architecture, Culture, and the Soul of the Windy City

"In just three days there with short flights from either the East or West coasts of the United States, you can walk through American history, cruise through modern design, and taste the very essence of the Midwest’s greatest metropolis."

Vallenato – Colombia’s Heartbeat in Song and Story (Cultural Spotlight)

"If we were to translate vallenato to English, it would roughly mean, “born in the valley,” which refers to vallenato’s roots coming from the Caribbean region of Colombia."

Bandeja Paisa – Colombia’s Flavor on a Platter (Cuisine Spotlight)

"Flavorful, unique, and made up of different food groups, ‘Bandeja Paisa’ is a conglomeration of the best of Colombian cuisine, and specifically of the Antioquia region."

Where Spring Never Ends – Exploring Medellin, Colombia

"Medellin, a bustling metropolis of over three million people, has a popular and well-known nickname, “The City of Eternal Spring.” I can say for certain that this particular nickname is well warranted and appropriate given the moderate temperatures and humidity that make up the day and night here."

Bachata Breakdown – History, Rhythm, and Soul (Cultural Spotlight)

"The most important thing to be aware of when dancing Bachata is to watch your steps and make sure you’re moving seamlessly with your lady or gentleman partner in tow."

Churrascaria Unleashed – A Brazilian Meat Marathon (Cuisine Spotlight)

"While the ‘Fogo de Chao’ churrascaria or steakhouse is a very popular chain in the United States, Brazil, and around the world and whose name carries weight for being the most popular or the most expensive churrascaria depending on who you ask, there are more options out there than just this particular place. If you are going to really enjoy the churrascaria, you have to try out a few of them in where it all began: Brazil."

Five Steps to Making Language Gains Quickly (Traveler Edition)

"Consistency beats intensity every time. Studying for five hours one day and nothing for a week won’t get you far. Instead, aim for 30–60 minutes daily. Travelers can make this even more fun on the road: listen to a podcast on the train, label your hostel or Airbnb objects in your target language, or practice phrases while ordering street food. Small, daily interactions add up quickly."

Minca, Colombia: Mountain Magic and Lush Jungle Waterfalls

"What struck me right away was how quickly the scenery changed, going from the hot, dry Caribbean coast into the cooler, greener mountains of the Magdalena region felt almost like crossing into a completely different country."

Richmond, Virginia Weekend Trip: Exploring American History, Culture, and Food

"Walking and exploring around Richmond taught me a lesson I’m stubbornly still learning as a traveler: you don’t need to cross oceans or borders to find fulfillment or enjoyment. Sometimes, you just need to cross a river or bridge, buy a train ticket, and pay attention to your new surroundings closely."