Learning Lessons at Iguazu Falls, Argentina
I thought it would be easy. A walk through the park. Granted, it would be a walk through a park that just happens to contain one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls, ...
A Row of Moai – Easter Island – Daily Photo
Considered one of the most remotely inhabited islands, Easter Island also goes by the name Rapa Nui, and is well known for it’s large stone statues called moai. Due to the isolated ...
A View from Above: Favela Tours in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
My favorite view of Rio de Janeiro wasn’t from Christ’s feet upon Corcovado or even from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain. It was from Rocinha, one of Rio’s largest favelas. Favelas are ...
Could Marcahuamachuco, Peru Really Rival Machu Picchu?
Although Marcahuamachuco has been around for about 1600 years, only recently has it started being promoted as an archaeological site that could one day rival Machu Picchu. The site is a pre-Incan ...
Book Review: In the Shadow of the Volcano by Maureen Klovers
Maureen Klover’s book In the Shadow of the Volcano is not only an enjoyable read, but incredibly refreshing. Rather than rehash an itinerary or sights to be seen, she delves deeper by focusing on ...
Sunday Strolls through Quito, Ecuador
Sunday in Quito, Ecuador is a time for family, recreation, and long strolls through the park. Street vendors heat up their burners, churning out hot corn kernels called mote. Shops tighten bolts ...
Travel to Bolivia – Episode 313
The Amateur Traveler talks to Michael Tieso about his recent trip to Bolivia. He was traveling from Argentina to Peru and at first Bolivia was just in the way, but he discovered ...
Paucartambo Festival: A Traditional Spectacle – Peru
Paucartambo is a small town a few hours from Cusco. It’s not well traveled except for one time a year when people come from all over Peru and abroad for the festival ...
Heading to Machu Picchu? Why You Should Explore the Ruins Around Cusco First
Travelers heading to Cusco, Peru are usually there for one main reason – to see the wonder that is Machu Picchu. All travelers have their own way of seeing Machu Picchu. Some ...
Trekking and Confronting Altitude in Huaraz, Peru
I like to think I’m in fairly good shape. I exercise regularly and other than stove-top popcorn I’m pretty much a healthy eater. I wouldn’t call myself an avid trekker (because carrying ...
