Bali Travel Itinerary
Introduction
24 hours of flying time to lead into a group trip with strangers. A bit of a wild card, but it was the best of times. We celebrated my friend’s 28th birthday, creating core memories with a dynamic we had no idea would overly exceed our expectations of our time together.
This trip re-highlighted what a great group can bring in terms of elevating a vacation. This was my first group trip since 2021.
We stayed in Ubud but spent so much time in our off-brand Sprinter going to all of our itinerary items that the birthday girl beautifully listed for the group.
Lots to say as I learned so much on this trip to pass along to you. This blog is going to get you to hop on that day-long commitment of traveling to visit the incredible Bali.
“This trip made me believe in successful group trips again. Best time there!”
Villa Jehanne - Airbnb
Our Bali villa became our sanctuary for our week-long stay. Going in with 10 people, I wondered how we’d divide the rooms. This villa was built perfectly for group stays with pairs. There were six equally-sized rooms, each with its own bathroom, except for two rooms that shared a bathroom. Additionally, there was a bathroom attached to the kitchen and living room building. The rectangular premises were centered around a large pool with lounging chairs. Each room had its own exceptional A/C, large beds, and spacious storage.
One major thing to note with this Airbnb is that the property is on an isolated one-way road. By one-way, I mean barely only one car can pass at a time. There were many times we had to pull into a driveway, reverse, and pull to the very edge to let another car pass or vice versa. Because we had a private driver for our group activities, we didn’t have a problem with drivers being surprised by this obstacle. The few times we used GoJek, their version of Uber, the arrival time would be increased because of the one-way road or drivers would ask people in the group to walk to them.
The host staff were great. They visited to check in, scheduled daily clean-ups of the rooms, and even surprised the birthday girl with cake and a card on her birthday.
There were additional add-ons available through the host, such as hour long at home massages for $15 , flower baths, and a private chef to cook us breakfast.
We ended up having group breakfast twice in the villa. It was $10 each. It was a traditional American breakfast with eggs, bacon, fruit, pancakes, potatoes, and French toast. We loved our cook, and she took a liking to us as well. The staff made our stay extra special to match the villa vibes.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Finn’s Beach Club
Located in the more populated Canggu, we headed towards the water for this beach club. We were welcomed with disco head dancers and free colorful shots in an endless open club with daybeds and chairs, pools, and an ocean view. We made the mistake of not booking a daybed for our large group. After some searching along the edge of the club, we found a section that had plenty of high tables for us all to sit together. The food selection was endless, with menus featuring different cuisines: Mexican, Italian, Japanese, and Indian were a few I remember. I personally only had fries, but from the group’s feedback, they had no negative reviews. The drink menu was also extensive. My favorite was the Watermelon Crush (something along those lines). I also had a frozen margarita, which wasn’t my favorite, and a French 75. The bar service was quick and accepted cards. I appreciated the different vibes of Finn’s: sunning out on a daybed, hookah sessions on the shaded deck, or eating at the tables. What did surprise me was that the establishment was kid-friendly. After eating and drinking, we went down to the beach area, which is open to the public. There was a volleyball game being played, dogs running around, vendors walking up to sell their products, and we caught the beautiful sunset. Overall, not the best music and place for a last-minute reservation, but the company was great as we all got a better opportunity to talk and get acquainted.
Overall Rating: 3/5
Happy Swing Bali
At Happy Swing Bali, the entire experience was quite a production, starting with selecting the package you wanted. There were two options, and we chose the most basic one, which included most of the photo ops. Next, we picked out the color of our dress. These were huge gowns made of fabric that the staff tailored to your body.
The dresses are reused, and thankfully, we arrived early enough that they hadn't been overly used for the day. It's important to note that the dresses aren't washed between uses, so arriving early is advisable if you want a fresher dress.
Some people mentioned that their dresses smelled and were uncomfortable. So, if you go early, you can ask for or look for dresses that haven't been used yet.
We moved through the activities one by one, which were essentially photo ops with different types of swings and structures. The day was beautiful, and the photos turned out great.
The swing was fun, but there was also the concern of getting the right angles for the photos. Everyone was taking photos of everyone else, which was nice for getting different perspectives. There were also a few swings where you could pair up and sit with other people.
Overall, it was a great time, though it could be exhausting and hot. Once we changed back into our own clothes, it felt refreshing. I recommend bringing items to touch up with, such as deodorant, hairspray, and deodorant wipes.
Overall Rating: 3.8/5
Holy Springs of Tirta Empul
This educational and culturally rich experience was enhanced by a guide we opted to upgrade to rather than walking around without the informative aspect. I enjoyed exploring the premises with its different structures, landscapes, and visual features. After we prayed and gave our offering, which brought tears to my eyes, we changed into our borrowed fabric coverings to enter the water baths. Our guide informed us of the proper way to receive the holy water.
There is a large market as you exit with clothes, souvenirs, and home decor.
Special Note: the borrowed fabric dress and dressing room do have a smell so prepared for that. I’d recommend coming earlier to avoid the smell of used wet fabric.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Pangkon Bali Rumah Makan & Agrotorism
While we waited for our scheduled tour of the Holy Water Temple, our driver took us to this outdoor restaurant. It had an open concept with eco-friendly elements, surrounded by rice fields and featuring a pond in the middle of the restaurant. We loved our food. I got chicken satay with peanut dipping sauce, egg rolls, crispy mushrooms, and a delicious fresh juice with my selection of dragon fruit, mango, and watermelon. Do take into account that this is a restaurant catered to tourists.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Akasa Sunset Dinner
To celebrate Nancy’s birthday, we had a sunset dinner at a beautiful high-end resort two hours away from the villa. To give you an idea of the luxury, the toilet seats were automatically heated and had a fan option to change the temperature. We had to preselect our order to total $115 USD per person, which was the minimum charge. Not sure if it was because we were a large group, but we thought pre-ordering weeks in advance was a bit off. Once we arrived, we felt the luxurious vibes from start to finish with the décor, architecture, staff, and the gorgeous sun-kissed view overlooking the beach.
Oddly, Nancy’s camera wasn’t allowed to be used while we were in the restaurant. Since we had ordered way in advance, it was a friendly reminder of what we ordered back in Chicago without really knowing what each dish looked like. I liked my dishes and especially loved the spicy tuna tartare with crispy potatoes, truffle mashed potatoes, and matcha ice cream. The drinks were okay. Across food and beverages, the presentation was impeccable. My biggest critique would be that the service was extremely slow for a non-busy night. We ended up being at the restaurant for over three hours. We loved the DJ who graciously played in the background. The views, presentation, celebratory atmosphere, and bonded company made this a great family dinner with the crew.
Overall Rating: 4/5
ShiShi
This was rated one of the top clubs in Bali... and I don’t know why. On Friday night, when we arrived around 11 PM, there was a cover charge for the men, but ladies got in for free. The place was lively and full of foreigners from all over. The first floor is more of a lounge with hookah and drinks. A few of us got the Matcha Spicy Margarita, and it received solid great reviews.
We went upstairs to the club floor, which unfortunately smelled like body odor in parts of the establishment. Once we got up, we noticed there were plenty of people vibing. However, it wasn’t our vibe. The music was heavy on Bruno Mars, Miley Cyrus, and tunes you’d play for a Kidz Bop reunion. We tried hard to make the most of the situation, and just being in great company made it better. However, we definitely didn’t stay long.
The staff was incredible. We spoke to the manager, and she was receptive to our feedback and wanted to make it up to us. And let’s not forget about the yummy drink.
Overall Experience: 1/5
Kanto Lampo Waterfall
This beautiful, popular Bali waterfall has a unique water course, as the rock structure creates mini falls. Entrance is 20,000 IDR, which is a little over $1 USD. There is a 5-minute slope walk down to the waterfall.
We arrived at the entrance around 3 PM. There were two lines to take photos in front of the structures. By the time I took my pictures at the main waterfall, it was 4:30 PM. You spend most of your time waiting in line for your turn. There are Balinese amateur photographers who do cool spins and pose direction, like I’ve seen online, waiting to take everyone’s photo. It is tip-based, so bring cash. I will say the photos and videos didn’t turn out as well as imagined because of the lighting and contrast. As a group, we changed our settings to lower the contrast on our phones, which made a huge difference. If I only had the pictures that the photographers took, I would have been disappointed, as the water contrast and lighting weren’t flattering.
If I could have brought a nice camera and didn’t have to wait in line, this would have been more fun. The long line and having to fight for your turn at times, combined with the cold water in the shade, took away from the nature experience. Just like the Happy Swing, this is more of a photo experience hub than anything.
If I were to do this again, I’d go super early, get my pictures on a camera that auto-fixes contrast, and enjoy admiring the waterfall structure and area more. Also, bring water shoes!
Overall Experience: 3/5
Cretya Beach Club
If I could recommend one thing the highest on my Bali list, it’s experiencing the Cretya floating breakfast. So peaceful, fulfilling, and magical to have this beach club view in almost complete isolation. Watching the sun peak through while admiring the colorful dishes the staff created was a dream.
It was 750,000 IDR, less than $50 for two people. The package includes early access to the property, a full massive floating breakfast meal with two nonalcoholic drinks, and a reserved seating section for when the space is open to the public.
Being able to take photos unobstructed, having incredible food, and just experiencing the peace here has truly become a core memory of mine. Please book this as soon as you can because each day they only allow four guests. I was extremely lucky and was able to book the last spot the day before. You have to go to their website, and communication for me was through WhatsApp. If you really want to elevate your experience, we saw a couple who hired a photographer with a drone to capture the morning.
For regular entrance, I believe the cost is 70,000 IDR. I loved this place so much that I went twice. The first day I went, it was during a busy time. But the club is so huge that it doesn’t feel overly crowded or overstimulating. I would recommend opting for some type of seating as that was limited. They do have cubbies to store your items. The food selection is vast and very good.
Overall Experience: 6/5
Ivy Cafe
Ivy Cafe is connected to a hostel in downtown Ubud. It's a very tourist-centered spot with a clean, coworking-friendly vibe. The space is quite fluid with the hostel, offering a view of the pool. You can choose to sit indoors or outdoors, with shaded outdoor seating available.
The menu is excellent, featuring great options with visuals and pictures, which I really appreciated. I ended up getting a power fruit bowl and a mocktail on the side. Unfortunately, I got sick immediately after eating my bowl. However, my friend had the exact same thing and didn’t get sick, so it might have just been a reaction to my stomach.
Overall, I enjoyed my time at Ivy Cafe. Despite my experience with the food, it was possibly a one-off scenario. I did like the atmosphere and the offerings.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Ulamam Eco Luxury Retreat
For our last day in Bali, we decided to have a spa day, especially since we had an early checkout. This worked out perfectly because the spa had shower amenities, allowing us to relax right before our flight. We went to Ulamam Eco Luxury Retreat, which was about an hour and a half from our villa in Ubud. We had to pre-book our services.
We opted for the flower bath and the day pass, which gave us access to the spa with a cold plunge pool, a heated pool, a sauna, and a steam room (though the steam room was out of service during our visit).
Keep in mind that the area is in a very secluded town, making it difficult to find an ATM. It’s less touristy, so English isn't widely spoken, which led to a few language barriers. However, the retreat and staff itself is very tourist-friendly.
The property is amazing, grand, and true to its eco-friendly name. The architecture is made of natural materials, and the staff is really kind. It wasn’t crowded when we went, which added to the calm and serene atmosphere—a beautiful way to wind down the day. We also chose this location because it was just 30 minutes from the airport, making our departure easy.
Our experience started with a flower bath in a small room overlooking a mini waterfall during sunset, accompanied by some tea. After the bath, we rinsed off (though getting the flowers off was a bit tricky), and then we headed to the spa area. We enjoyed the sauna, the heated pool, and some relaxing time. The staff was very helpful, storing our luggage at the front desk and providing lockers for our personal items.
The retreat has plenty of seating areas, including comfy couches and rope-seated hammocks. There’s also a stream running through the property, adding to the serene environment.
Overall, I really liked Ulamam Eco Luxury Retreat. It is on the pricier side, but it was a fantastic experience to unwind and relax before our flight home.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Bali Tips
1. Bring Cash to Exchange: Many places or individuals only take cash, and some ATMs may not work or be out of service. For one week, I took out $200 for our rides, massages, souvenirs, and entrances.
2. Prepare for Schedule Changes: Be prepared for possible same-day changes. Traffic can be affected by festivals, ceremonies, or rituals. Check with Airbnb hosts about any special occasions.
3. Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water. Always have bottled water in your room and carry it throughout the day. Consider taking charcoal pills and/or probiotics to avoid getting sick from food and water. I brought Florastor Probiotics for Digestive & Immune Health.
4. Comfort for Long Flights: Give yourself grace for long flights. Upgrade your seat or bring airplane essentials like a travel pillow, blanket, and a water bottle to refill during your trip. Check your luggage policy and be prepared.
5. Price Awareness: More so for grocery items, convert prices to avoid surprises. Some items are imported and can be expensive. Don’t assume everything is more affordable.
6. On the Go Personal Care Items: Bring deodorant, hairspray, and other items to touch up throughout the day. Bali can be hot and humid.
7. Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing basic phrases like "Hello," "Thank you," and "You're welcome" is helpful. Each island in Indonesia may have its own language. In Balinese, "thank you" is said as "Suksma" (pronounced sook-smah)
8. Snacks for the Trip: Carry snacks for your flight and in between experiences.
9. Photo Opportunities: For popular photo spots, go early. Lighting changes the outcome of photos, play around with contrast and angles.
10. Local Apps and SIM Cards: Download the GoJek app for transportation and the SIM card application for mobile data. I used HolaFly but there are plenty of options out there. Believe mine was a 7 day unlimited for $29 and the service was great. Be aware that your phone number may change.
11. Pre-book at Beach Clubs: Pre-book beds and other amenities at beach clubs. It enhances the experience and is often affordable. Look at videos and reviews to help you decide which options to purchase.
Nicaragua Travel Itinerary
Introduction
Welcome to my blog, reflecting on my soothing and relaxing stay in Nicaragua. I escaped the winter with my friend Alondra. Compared to all of my past travels, this was by far my most relaxing trip to date. After doing some research, we decided to visit two towns: Popoyo and Granada. Popoyo is a quiet surf town on the Pacific Ocean side, chosen for its beach vibes. Granada, being a very attraction-centered town, was the obvious second choice for our stay. Everything about this trip was incredible. I can’t wait for you to continue reading as I share everything about my experience and the tips I learned along the way.
Nicaragua became my hug to myself to start 2024.
“Nicaragua became my escape into wellness and friendship richness.”
99 Surf Lodge
Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life with a retreat to 99 Surf Lodge. Nestled in a serene setting with only seven rooms, this beachfront accommodation offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and recharge. As we arrived at sunset, the iconic view took our breath away, setting the tone for our tranquil stay.
This hotel is tucked away within the un-commercialized paths in the town of Jiquelite, the town adjacent to the larger Popoyo along the coast. The journey to the lodge through dusty roads confirmed the sense of small quiet town our driver mentioned on the journey over. With minimal interaction beyond the attentive staff, our experience felt intimate and exclusive.
During our four-day stay in Popoyo, 99 Surf Lodge served as our sole accommodation amongst fellow travelers and migrants from a variety of countries. I found the hotel's full-service restaurant and bar to have an exceptional kitchen as they served a variety of global dishes well. They had specialty days such as sushi and pizza night with a bonfire which reminded us what day it was at times. Sipping on refreshing drinks (both aguas frescas and juicy cocktails) poolside became a cherished pastime, accompanied by daily complimentary mimosas that added an extra touch of paradise.
The lodge offers an array of activities, from yoga sessions near the beach to exhilarating jet skiing adventures and horseback riding. Our first morning we did the hour and half yoga session that cost $12.
One thing about this hotel, there were ample seating options, including hammocks and beach lounge chairs, which invite guests to unwind and soak in the sun-drenched ambiance. The central swimming pool, with its backdrop of crashing waves, provides a calmness.
Our room exuded a rustic charm, with wooden panels and thoughtful amenities such as strong A/C and spacious storage ensuring a comfortable stay. While the shower's water pressure was a bit lower than accustomed to as well as not the hottest water, I was left unbothered by it after the first shower. Each room also has a private patio seating area that allows you to be outside in privacy.
Venturing beyond the lodge, the beach walks were crowd-less throughout all hours, offering a sense of seclusion similar to a remote island getaway. The attentive staff, mainly women, fostered a warm and welcoming atmosphere as we joked and spoke Spanish with them (being one of the few guests that spoke it comfortably).
With reliable Wi-Fi connectivity, even remote work was a possibility if you plan to work out in Popoyo. Yet, the true essence of 99 Surf Lodge lies in its ability to disconnect and prioritize rejuvenation above all else.
I could see this hotel being a great group trip place to share in the restorative experience. Our time at 99 Surf Lodge was nothing short of perfection, leaving us longing for more moments of serenity surroundings.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Tribal Hotel
Nestled within the urban landscape, one is greeted by an oasis-like atmosphere, adorned with numerous palm trees and collective wall décor centered around an Electicismo Tropical interior style upon entry. A quiet ambiance with only 8 room accommodations. Each morning at Tribal became a cherished experience, thanks to the inclusive breakfast featuring a rotated menu. Our days began leisurely, flipping through Spanish magazines poolside as we strategized our activities for the day.
Throughout our entire trip at both hotels, the warmth and hospitality extended by the Nicaraguan staff enhanced our experience. Because it’s so intimate with the capacity of guests, we felt catered as well as knowledgeable with recommendations and walking directions.
Our balcony view room with a spacious outdoor seating area, seamlessly blended indoor and outdoor spaces through the sliding doors entering into the bed. The meticulously curated décor exuded luxury, complemented by amenities such as a full-length mirror, ample closet space, a generous bathroom counter, and the convenience of a hair dryer. Daily housekeeping ensured our space remained immaculate, with fresh towels provided regularly, along with separate pool blankets for the cabanas.
The central pool emerged as our sanctuary amidst the bustling streets of Granada. While the water may have been slightly cooler due to the shaded location, it offered a refreshing feel from the Nicaraguan heat. There were moments when we had the pool entirely to ourselves, allowing for moments of tranquility, with the attentive staff always on hand to cater to our needs or provide insights into local attractions.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Surfing Lessons
I’ve never surfed before, but Nicaragua influenced me to take my first lesson in Beginner’s Bay. Known for its friendly, calm waves, we stumbled upon a surfing lesson company just a 10-minute walk from our hotel. The $35 price tag sold us, and we booked a sunset lesson. As the day went on, I built up nerves since I wear contacts and it was a new activity for me.
They provided long sleeve shirts and assigned us our instructor, David. He took me, Alondra, and a third person to the sandy beach to practice our surfing form on land first. I appreciated the clear direction, helpful feedback, and repetitive steps.
Once we got in the water, all the practice on land became second nature as we recreated the motions. David had us take turns to minimize any risk. While waiting for our turns, we stayed in the canal area where the waves weren’t as strong. Our instructor offered feedback to help us improve while also boosting our confidence. We also chatted about the differences between Mexican and Nicaraguan culture. Despite similar backgrounds, the unique aspects of each Latino culture are one of my favorite things about visiting Latin American countries—it feels like meeting a distant primo.
The surfing lesson lasted 1.5 hours in total. Watching the beautiful sunset while waiting for my turn made me appreciate the blessings of being in this position and the courage I found to try something out of my comfort zone. We loved it so much that we came back for a sunrise session. Across the two sessions, I managed to get up around seven times, and it felt amazing to ride the waves.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Beach Front Yoga Class
One of the activities offered by our hotel was an early morning yoga class. It was 90 minutes for $12. Although I don’t usually do yoga, the instructor made the class accessible for various skill levels with alternatives. It was a yang style class, so we held poses for a long time. I did find that challenging at times, but the instructor once again created a welcoming environment. I soaked in the sun and listened to the waves crashing as I tuned in with my body. Overall, I had a great experience and was glad I made time to move my body in new ways during my vacation.
Overall Rating: 4/5
99 Surf Lodge Restaurant
Having a boutique hotel with amazing food created so much ease in our day. We got our usual table and always had an enjoyable time with the staff, who were primarily Nicaraguan women. They appreciated that we spoke Spanish, as not many guests did. The menu had a great variety, and everything was delicious—from ceviche to chicken burgers, the selection was diverse. The specialty days, like pizza and sushi night, added extra excitement for us. I appreciated the hotel for keeping things fresh by changing up the activities and menu throughout the week.
The small environment of the hotel, made it easy to access staff and order from anywhere. We also got to pay our total at the end of our stay instead of having to pay each time, which was convenient and hassle-free.
Overall Rating: 4.7/5
Magnific Rock
Review coming soon
Treehouse Rave
Review coming soon
Volcán Mombacho Ziplining
Review coming soon
Laguna de Apoyo
Review coming soon
Garden Cafe
Review coming soon
NM
Review coming soon
Asarte
Review coming soon
Transportation
Review coming soon
Things To Do in Los Angeles
Purposeful Traveling
Being a business owner, sometimes it’s hard to unplug from the entrepreneurial life. Physically departing Chicago is one of the only ways that allows my mind to leave the day to day thinking of the brand and allow the creativity of bigger picture brainstorming.
I used LA as a time to connect and network with amazing community builders here, picture Sin Título in a new city, and find inspiration in a different environment.
This trip also had an emotional roller coaster element of stress, grief, and reminiscing. From work to business and the passing of my aunt, this trip holds a special time stamp of maneuvering life living.
Airbnb
When thinking of visiting LA, it’s a strategic balance between location and budget on my temporary home. The purpose of this trip for me was to take in the sun as much as I could, be centrally located to drive, and work from home. My top area to stay in is Culver City. It’s calm, great restaurant options, solid parking options, and close enough to the beach. To put into perspective my preference for this city, I’ve stayed in Culver City for three of my four LA visits.
The Sunny Culver Casita became my home away from home for my 11 day stay in LA. The modern kitchen was perfect for making breakfast and lunch, having a pull-out bed in the living room for movie nights, outdoor patio for working outside, and of course the pool view made me forget it was October.
The little things you don’t think about prior to booking, this home had. For example, when getting ready, having two mirrors (a full length one for outfits and a long full portrait length one in the bathroom) was appreciated.
Although I didn’t fully go into the pool, I did dip my feet in while journaling or just admired being adjacent to water while destressing from work.
Being in a space for that long, we invested in going grocery shopping and even buying small things to make it feel more like home with flowers and a candle.
This Airbnb really did become my sanctuary of preserving my peace while being productive.
See if Sunny Culver Casita works for your next LA trip.
Mija Restaurant
We paid a visit to this restaurant, situated incredibly close to the Airbnb and adorned in shades of pink, on a laid-back brunch day. Opting for the outdoor patio, we soaked up the LA sun. From the rosy napkins to the background Latino music, the place exuded an Instagram-worthy vibe, complemented by delectable food. It was evident that great attention had been given to crafting this space. As a fan of french toast, Mija's version did not disappoint.
I was particularly impressed with the customer service as well as the various seating options including the outdoor patio, well-decorated interior, and the inviting fireplace area. Culver City, with its thoughtfully curated restaurants, offered a pleasant dining experience without the usual drawbacks of wait times and parking hassles. Starting the day in this calm setting before diving into the hustle and bustle of LA traffic and attractions was truly refreshing. The location of our Airbnb, especially for places like Mija, added to the overall enjoyment.
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Universal Studios
We spent two separate days at Universal. The first was Horror Nights. The acting and atmosphere very much instilled horror, to me at least. Take into consideration that this is a thriller environment with people scaring you from all angles throughout certain park areas during the entirety of time you’re there. The money, energy from the actors, and installations was very much felt. It’s a great seasonal activation if you’re really trying to get into the spooky season.
Most of the rides were open, they also had curated haunted houses. I personally only went through the Strangers Things and The Last of Us because I reached my scared limit. Reflecting on the night, I’m glad I faced my fears multiple times and stepped into the Halloween spirit. We stayed at the park from 7PM – 2AM.
Day two of Universal was spent in daylight and more vibrant vibes. With the park closing at 5:30 for Horror Nights visitors to continue the rest of the night, we opted in for the Express Access to skip the lines. It was truly the move as Universal had long lines that didn’t move as fast as expected. The pass allowed us to practically be at the front of the line the day we went.
Harry Potter was my favorite portion of the park with the Butterbeer drink and feeling transported to Hogwarts. The Jurassic World ride was a fun ride with moments of water splashes and robotic dinosaurs that really got close to us. Being in Nintendo World was surreal. They had mini games with the feeling of really stepping into the cartoon world. I was disappointed by the Mario Kart ride experience, that one had the longest wait time but still glad I got to experience my childhood favorite video game in real life.
Fitting in time to go to Universal Studios Hollywood with the rides and the tour of TV sets was nice to schedule on a day off after a work week. I reflected on the parents with their kids at the park. Then I began to think of my parents saving money for us to do the same thing years back. In a way, amusement parks can serve as a time capsule or memory jogger. The time stamp of the first time you played Mario Kart, who you watched Fast & Furious with, and overall seeing flashes of years go by. In a beautiful way, it’s memories building upon memories because now I have this day at Universal associated with my growing up memories.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Apothéke
This establishment featured a mixology space designed like a pharmacy, complete with comfortable seating and enticing beverages. Our visit was centered around late-night drinks in a group setting. After the entire group assembled, we relocated from inside seating to the outdoor patio, where we spent the remainder of the evening.
The menu here is unconventional. During our ordering process, we were captivated by the creation of a drink called High Plains Drifter, which involved an impressive fire show. My second drink, the Miracle of Mazunte, was a delightful concoction of mezcal with a blend of beet and habanero.
Apothéke provided a sophisticated and elevated experience for our night out, setting it apart from the typical bar scene.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Mr. Tempo Cantina
Following an early night out, a few of us decided to wrap up the evening at a Mexican cantina that had a glow in the dark atmosphere. It struck me as a popular spot for groups looking to kick off their night with hearty food and indulge in the cantina's sizable margaritas.
We ordered ceviche, pulpo, birria tacos, and the bone marrow tacos. Judging the bit of trashy nightclub vibes, the food exceeded my expectations with the flavor and appearance.
They had TVs around the eating area with reggaetón music videos playing. A photographer approached our table to snap photos of us. They even went as far as printing and framing those same photos from minutes ago. They sold them for $15.
The food was great, and the service was speedy and friendly. My local friend recommended this place. The interior was clubby and not my preference for a nice dinner, but the food was flavorful.
Overall Rating: 3.9/5
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
Making the park our outdoor gym, we went to this scenic mile long hilly trail. I plugged in an Unbreakable Latina podcast episode and ran my little heart out. Being a Midwest girl, the hills was something new for me. The park is huge, as we drove to the trail, I saw family parties, picnics, dog walkers, and photoshoots happening.
This was a great way of keeping my routine of going to the gym but making it unique to my environment of being in LA.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Will Rogers State Beach
Opting for a more laid-back beach experience than Venice Beach, we headed to Will Rogers State Beach. Despite it being a Saturday, I was pleasantly surprised to discover a nearby parking spot. We took a blanket and speaker to sunbathe. There was a shack restaurant with food and snacks available or you can bring your own food and drinks.
I really wanted to make sure I got a beach day even if the Pacific water was cold. Where I find my purest points of relaxation is near water where the sun is beaming as I’m forced to be away from my phone. I brought a book to read on and off while I played Jazz music in the background. It was nice to get a beach day in October.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Mama Shelter
I went with my LA friend here on a Sunday night. The music was bumping, and the daybeds were packed with groups of people winding down. We sat along the glass wall rooftop edge to grab a drink and some bites. The drinks and food menu had variety. The taste of everything was good too. This had lounge, dance, and late dinner vibes. If you want to have this be your first stop for a Hollywood outing, it was centrally located to the bars in the area.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Santa Monica Pier
This is always a must for me every time I visit LA. We went during sunset time for a conversation amongst the waves with the amusement lights of the pier completing the view. It’s nice to just walk around the pier and beach or take some time to enjoy the rides and/or eat there too.
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Mercado
Just beyond the Universal grounds, we headed straight to this spot following our day in the park. This Mexican eatery boasted an extensive menu, and I was particularly impressed by their diverse drink options. Opting for a guava mezcal and a watermelon basil margarita, I thoroughly enjoyed the refreshing choices. Our ultimate selection was the Surf & Turf Tabla dish, offering a plethora of chicken, carnitas, steak, shrimp, beans, rice, beans, chiles, and more.
Being of Mexican descent, I found the food to be satisfactory, though not exceptionally remarkable, if that makes sense. The standouts for me were undeniably the drinks and the steak.
Overall Rating: 3.8/5
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
This place is conveniently located near Airbnb, offering another nearby option. Before our movie night, we decided to indulge in a late-night dessert run. I picked the waffle cone option with cookie dough and cookies 'n cream ice cream. While I usually prefer creamier ice cream, this one leaned towards a thicker consistency with generous cookie chunks. Despite that, treating ourselves to ice cream on a Sunday night felt like splurging with adult money and providing some inner child healing during our movie night.
Overall Rating: 3.8/5
The Grove
We spent some time shopping and checking out the farmer’s market at The Grove. We got Sprinkles cupcakes and pickles as snacks, weird combo but the cupcake were saved for later. The farmer’s market had fall decorations and cute kiosk shopping.
The Grove is very LA specific, it’s cool to go if you have to get some shopping done from retail shops and/or curated shops.
We checked out Drake’s OVO shop. The displayed items were minimalistic but diverse. Seeing the collaboration pieces such as Bugs Bunny and college universities was dope and inspirational as an apparel business owner.
Going to the mall has a distant kid memory for me. Did anyone else’s family go to the mall to window shop? We’d get a few things that were on sale sometimes and as a family we’d share Chinese food in the food court. That’s how I remember my experiences going to the mall. My time in LA served as a reflection trip for me. Doing activities that I did as a kid with my parents and siblings, now as an adult was life connecting.
Overall Rating: 3.7/5
Roxy’s & Jo’s Seafood Grill and Oyster Bar
Located within The Grove, we opted to dine here following some shopping. We selected a Lobster Roll and oysters. As a lobster roll enthusiast, I must say this one fell short. It lacked sufficient mayo and seasoning. On the bright side, the oysters were enjoyable. Regrettably, I wish I had taken the recommendations for other dining spots, as my selection left me somewhat disappointed.
Overall Rating: 2.5/5
Playa del Rey
Combining getting my steps in and going to the beach, we took a stroll along Playa del Rey. Located in Marina del Rey, we witnessed seals, a practice session of the UCLA rowing team, a trumpet playing lesson, runners, and fishermen along the shore. I appreciated the chill walkway verses the crowded Venice one. This is a great picnic location with plenty of parking during the fall season.
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Transportation
Attempting to start off our trip without a car was an instant reminder of how LA is such a driving city. Destinations are distant and Ubers vary so much. We had a scenario where we got a good rate for our ride, but everyone cancelled so it delayed our arrival time.
We ended up booking our car through Turbo the second day with the pick up location near the airport so drop off is smoother. A tip we learned on this trip is to check with your credit card company if they provide car rental insurance, so you don’t have to accept Turbo’s cost of it and still be covered.
One last tip with transportation, check traffic often based on time. Google Maps allows you to check forecasted driving time.
Soho House Warehouse
Thankfully through the business, I was awarded being a recipient of a Soho House fellowship. There was a mixer being hosted for both present and past fellows and mentors for LA creatives but I was extended an invite after they heard I’d be in town.
I was nervous to go solo without knowing anyone. One comment of liking someone’s tattoo while in line for food connected me with a string of new connections. I’m so grateful I went and genuinely connected with creatives in LA. It’s interesting to hear the difference of passions between my city and the city of dreams.
Love checking out different houses under the Soho umbrella as each one has its own identity. Warehouse is very young, diverse, and uniquely fashionable. There’s a pool rooftop and a garden patio area that I’ve spend most of my time both this time and the last time I was in LA.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Village Well
A bookstore with co-working and coffee as add-ons. I gravitate towards small, cute bookstores as books tend to find me here so easily. The staff was friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming. I picked up two books and two cards. This is located off Culver Blvd with restaurants across the street.
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Costa Rica Travel Itinerary
Join the adventure of three Latinas travel and explore the beauty of Costa Rica
Read the adventures of three Latinas that had their Dora La Exploradora moment in the forests and beaches of Costa Rica. This was our first sister travel experience outside of visiting familia in México. We also went with our mutual amiga. It was the best time we could have had. Read more about our jampacked 5 days in Costa Rica.
Airbnb
After long research, we opted to fly and stay in Liberia. It’s a northern city that offers close proximity of the natural attractions we wanted to visit. The other international airport option is San Jose. Due to the capital being in the central region, distant from the main activities on our bucket list, we decided to save on travel time with our Liberia selection.
Our Airbnb was a house in a family neighborhood next to a nice neighbor we met with his dog Benito. There was also a very convenient corner store that had long business hours. The address did cause some confusion at first as it’s a local area off the main road. There were three beds in this two bedroom, two bathroom home. The space had a washer and dryer which was important with all the water activities. We also had excellent A/C within the home. We rarely spent time here as we had full day excursions, but it was always nice coming back to a comfortable and soothing home.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Transportation
This kept us up late at night prior to our trip. So many people told us we needed to rent a car to get around. After hours of seeing crazy prices and hearing about the curvy and aggressive roads, we went in with no plan other than ask the locals for advice once we arrive to the country.
Our first night we had extreme difficulty finding Ubers to take us to our destinations with addresses not being accurate and scarcity of drivers.
Our Costa Rica savior was our chauffeur Poli (also known with basically all the locals as Chino). We met him during our first excursion that included him as our driver. He ended up being our rider and Costa Rica personal tour guide for the entire trip. Looking back, he was so essential in the success of our trip. And to have that local connection and new friend abroad, it’s truly made our trip. We love when Latinos come together genuinely, especially in traveling. From breaking barriers of growing up as Latinas and not seeing our people travel, it’s important for us to create and form relationships with locals of Latin Americans countries to learn and share cultures and life.
To book him, What’s App him at +506 8962 5036. Tell him las chicas de Chicago sent you.
Overall Rating: 6/5
Rincon de la Vieja – El Santuario & Termales
Our first excursion in Costa Rica was tarnished as the weather was majorly not on our side. Being on the rainy side of the volcano, the day turned into a major pour day. Looking back, this excursion should have gotten canceled. The conditions would be described as a constant slippery slope with gum-like muddy conditions. Our tour guides said they very rarely witness it rain this long and as hard. This unglamorous journey really made me appreciate one, our tour guides for letting us use them as our human crutch to minimize falling and two, acknowledging mother nature isn’t just to look cute. She serves a purpose and we’re meant to go with her timeline.
The typical experience we saw online of seeing calm crystal blue water and a glistening rock waterfall structure became an aggressive brown stream amongst the huge raindrops. The stream was so strong, we had to DIY a zipline to get across. Truly a scene of survival and making it work.
The slippery walk back was just as bad as the walk there. A well-deserved meal was waiting for us at our tour guide’s home. The full excursion experience is family owned as the mother cooked for us, dad was our driver around the area, and the son was our tour guide. It was wholesome to hear about their drive to showcase Costa Rica’s beautiful nature to the world. Here’s their Instagram.
To conclude our journey, we got to spend some time in a hot spring. After the treacherous wet and cold journey, we had, it was well deserved to relax in some warm water in complete tranquility.
Although, the sight and experience weren’t as advertised due to out of our control circumstances, we appreciated the time spent amongst nature and our tour guides. We’re extremely grateful we met and connected with Poli on this day. He was hired as our driver from the travel agency, but ended up tagging along for the journey so he spent the whole day with us.
Overall Rating: 3/5 (mainly because of the weather conditions)
La Leona
This was a must on our list prior to coming to Costa Rica. It’s one thing seeing celeste blue through pictures, it’s surreal seeing how truly baby blue this water is. We ended up doing this tour with Poli versus having a tour guide in a group setting for a designated time frame.
To start, there’s a short back of the truck drive to the start of the walking portion. The hike over was through rocks, river streams, and branches. Because there is a swimming portion, make sure to bring a waterproof bag and shoes. Due to timing, we couldn’t book the guide Poli recommended to us, however, having Poli take on the task of guiding us to the destination was the best decision. This man let us take as much time as we wanted at the waterfall. Taking in the powerful water beauty, swimming, and taking as many rounds of pictures was a privilege as we saw so many groups come and go as we stayed back. It was appreciated that weren’t rushed.
Same as how we got there, we swam, hiked, and drove back to town. Included in the package we got, we ate at a nearby restaurant. The food fuel was beyond needed on top of it being delicious.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Playa Tamarindo
A touristy, gringo filled beach town for sure. Here you’ll find restaurants, souvenir shops, and water attractions. We spent four hours here relaxing watching surfers do their thing while taking in the sun. We ended up renting chairs from one of the local businesses on the beach. Poli picked us up after and we all ate at a beachside restaurant while the sun set.
Overall Experience: 3.8/5
Playa del Coco
A very dark and rocky beach is how I would describe Playa del Coco. We spent one day beach hopping. Poli took us to local beaches before taking us to this touristy one. Compared to Tamarindo, this was on the calmer side in terms of people and businesses. It was less relaxing beachy vibes with the water being not as clean and random trash around. If I had to pick between the two big beaches we visited, Playa Tamarindo would be my favorite.
Overall Experience: 2.2/5
Fiestas Civicas
With timing luck and just like in México, we happened to be in town for las fiestas del pueblo. The town of Liberia had live music performances for locals to gather and dance in el centro. After dinner, we headed over to join the crowd. They played classic Latin cover songs to get everyone moving. They also had carnival rides nearby, but unfortunately, we didn’t get to visit. We recommend researching local celebration in and around the area you’re staying.
Overall Experience: 4.2/5
Termales Rio Negro
An experience hidden within the Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin’s property. We can once again thank Poli for the recommendation. This is a resort run hot spring with 10 extremely hot but refreshing pools. There’s also a stream of cold water available if you want to alternate between the hot springs.
If you’re not a hotel guest, you can rent a day pass. We spent practically our whole last full day here relaxing, trying out all the pools, taking in nature, and soaking up the minerals from our mud body mask. The facility offers towels, lockers, outdoor showers, and bathrooms.
Overall Experience: 5/5
You’re Mispronouncing Immigrant
Immigrant (n): a person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country.
Expatriate (n): a person who lives outside their native country.
According to the Oxford Dictionary, the definition between the word immigrant and expatriate boils down to essentially the same action of individuals living outside of their native country.
So, when is immigrant used verses expatriate?
It’s societally orchestrated to have two different labels just for the sake of glamourizing it when privileged people do it. U.S. citizens created a new term to be disassociated with the tarnished word of immigrant. White people get to be expatriate, and people of color are immigrants.
With the dynamic changes in cities such as México City due to the influx of financially stable Americans making these areas their home or long-term stays, the term expatriate and digital nomad (a new younger generation version of expat but has the same harming effects) have become buzzwords. Obviously, migration is a natural act of humans which is why I advocate for immigrant rights. However, that depends on your birth soil. For example, U.S. citizens are granted more international rights than Latin American born citizens. I myself reap the benefits of being a United States American. My parents, Mexican immigrants, do not. I have more liberty to be in and leave their home country than they do. And in great part, I get to because of their sacrifices.
Circling back to the example of foreign residents in México, the act of moving isn’t necessarily evil. The reasons, exploitation, and attitude I’ve seen, heard, and witness on top of the hurtful long-term effects that’ll impact the local economic is heartbreaking to say the least. And this is what it is, gentrification, but in larger part colonization. Gentrification, like expatriate, once again is a term used to make the act of displacing people more digestible.
The reason why many Americans have been moving to cities such as México City over cities like Montreal? México is cheaper. Exploiting your American salary to move into a country that’s in a sensitive poverty state, while chanting on social media that México is the Shit and why did Mexicans leave this great country for the U.S.? oozes privilege. Privilege of not knowing the struggles of truly living as a Mexican with a Mexican wage and dealing with real non-tourist Mexican issues.
Do know of the privilege weight when commenting that’s half my rent than in the U.S. Locals have been advocating for foreigners to stop coming to México as they are sadly being run out of their homes from landlords and businesses that are maximizing on the opportunity of dollar bills outweighing pesos. Imagine for a second. Your rent doubles/triples, and yes these are realistic increases since the pandemic, due to Germans coming in to take over Chicago’s prime real estate. And on top of that, the foreigners are ignoring your mask safety regulations, demanding all menus are written in German, and influence closing down local businesses for [insert what Germans like to do in a business storefront name].
I’ve spoken on some of the effects on a macro level. Speaking from my standpoint, I’ve mentioned I’m an American born citizen. With that comes a level of privilege I benefit from my immigrant, not expatriate, parents making the tough decision to leave limiting opportunities for their dreams to be achieved in the United States. Migrants such as my parents have accomplished the opposite with negative disruption in their new home. Migrants continuously take the unwanted jobs at extremely low wages, allowing the U.S. economy to grow and give corporations larger profit margins. And because of undocumented status for many, they carry model citizen status without being a citizen. A simple speeding ticket could lead to deportation. On top of everything, experience discrimination, hate crimes, and little protection from the law. Does that happen to these expatriates? Do they bring benefit to the long-term economic state of their new country? Yet this term expatriate is seen in a positive light by society while the term immigrant doesn’t. Funny.
As a child I was not allowed to go visit my grandmas as the violent activity was too much for my mom to allow us to go. Narcos are present in the areas of my family line. But who do those drugs get purchased from? To the point of avocado farmers being exploited and now are heavily ran by the cartels because guess who discovered avocado toast. Crime rises in economic disparities. Coming to México because you genuinely want to be cultured and living a life of freedom comes at a cost. And the payer is not you. It’s the locals now dealing with raised living expenses and higher crime rates. Congratulations expats.
Now what? I don’t have the answers to fully combat this continuously rising issue. I have suggestions for individuals that refer to themselves as expatriates/digital nomads. Do note that gentrification/expatriate has a thin line between morals and optimizing on opportunities. It’s tricky. And like I’ve said, migration is a human right I believe all should have.
1. My biggest suggestion is to be a supporter for immigrant rights. The same energy you use to have your followers click on your bio for 10% off TripAdvisor can be used for human rights. Once we societally treat migrants as hearts, brains, and a soul, then maybe we’ll stop putting them cages and end separating them from their families like mine. It’s crazy to know that the support I got for my cousin’s ICE detention came extremely little from the people I know that make digital nomad/travel their social media lifestyle.
2. Use your platform for education. Share the acknowledgement of your privilege on your socials and maybe what this read has you self-reflecting on.
3. Start using the terms immigrant/migrant when you refer to individuals living in another country. Using the word doesn’t give you less rights but the inclusion of your voice can give more rights to all.
4. I’d encourage for long term stays in hotels, hostels, dedicated Airbnbs over management/landlord operated residential apartments. The housing market is based on supply and demand. With individuals willing to pay over the asking price based on the local wage median, that gets locals pushed out of their homes and into more violent neighborhoods.
5. Stop overtaking your visa. I’ve heard of multiple cases of white people breaking the law which creates tougher regulation with future visitors. I have never been asked to show prove of my return flight to the U.S. when visiting México until the rise of exploiting the visa process.
6. Respect safety regulations. Always be aware of local health courtesy. Mexican accessibility for the vaccines and medical equipment is at a disadvantage in comparison to the U.S.
7. Learn the language. If you can afford over-paying for an apartment, you can afford giving some time to Duolingo (pretty sure this is free) or a tutor.
8. Advocate for what you have. The same faces on Youtube with travel blogs aren’t the same faces for immigrant right rallies. Sure allyship, but I want to see accomplice energy. Use your privilege for good. Cops like you.
English Meaning: The people united will never be defeated
The next time I see expatriate being used, I’m going to ask: Just curious, why don’t you refer to yourself as an immigrant?
And if I see expatriate, digital nomad, etc. on your bio and you lack advocation for immigration rights, you give me the ick. I want to see sharing immigrant right posts, highlighting your travel AND your privilege, educating your circle, etc. Because our current immigration rights are inhumane.
And if you think this is harsh, it’s kind of meant to be. This is a PSA. When you know better, you do better. I’m tired of seeing my mom cry.
Medellín Travel Itinerary
Named the city of eternal springs, after witnessing the luscious green scenery amongst the busy streets of Medellín, no doubt on the title. It’s not your typical palm trees green, it’s bamboo and leaves bigger than both of my hands together. Add in the mountains as the background, surreal city.
In comparison, our Medellín time was filled with more adventure activities along with some nights out and walking around like Cartagena.
I’ll go over our day trips outside of the city that were accompanied by amazing bird views of mother nature offerings, bites and drinks, and our stay.
Airbnb
Crazy Views. Modern. Hotel-like.
Very much an apartment with a hotel luxury-feel. Before we get into the actual unit, I want to highlight some of the amenities. There’s a open nature concept co-work area with a café, gym, and terrace on the second floor. Now the apartment, the elongated landscape windows in every room had me in a stare down any chance I got with the city views. The apartment was modern, sleek, and making me want to stay there to just read a book and look out the window. However, the city had so much to offer. I will say the location of the Airbnb was a bit secluded from food and attractions, especially compared to our Cartagena Airbnb. But with day long trips, it wasn’t a dealbreaker looking back if we had to redo selecting our stay.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Paragliding in San Jose
Surreal. Safe. Adventurous.
An excursion that literally was a leap of adrenaline. Flying over Medellín was a pause in life. From a technical standpoint, everything was well executed. The equipment, location, staff, and the inclusion of the GoPro footage made the experience feel safe, secure, and memory-lasting. With excursions like this, there can be a chance of having the actual experience feel rushed. I can gladly say that the time up in the clouds was enough time to take everything in, appreciate the view, as well as get all the footage. My recommendations and warnings for this excursion would be to be ready for the steep steps up to the launch location, wear pants in case you have a rocky landing, take all the angles while up there (portrait and landscape), wouldn’t recommend bringing your phone, and make sure to speak up if you’re uncomfortable (they’ll help with readjusting the seating).
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Provenza – Vintrash
Options. Latine. Vibes.
Provenza is a nightlife designated area. Although we went on a slow weekday, we had such a great time exploring the Provenza strip. We heard good things about Vintrash from a group during our paragliding excursion. The club is three stories with each one having its own vibe. We stayed on the main floor, which was the second. The music was hitting with pure Latine reggaeton vibes. The crowd in the club was diverse and dance-y. Do be prepared to pay a small cover. Pro, there’s Wi-Fi inside that’s open for public usage.
Overall Rating: 3.6/5
Guatapé (Piedra del Peñol)
Colorful. Informational. A Workout.
This petite tourist town outside of Medellín had a plethora of activities to offer. The main attraction being the Piedra del Peñol structure with 742 steps up to the top. We had a guided tour that included transportation with the pick-up and drop-off at Parque de El Poblado, tour guide, lunch, boat ride, and a walking tour of Guatapé.
Because it was a Colombian holiday weekend, we ran into some traffic issues. The staff did an amazing job of addressing the traffic concerns. It’s a great tour experience when you have the liberty to roam on your own with a regroup outline. Our main tour guide Sergio was beyond pleasant and personable. Top takeaways from this day were the views at the top of the rock and the traditional Antioquian lunch that was provided. The boat cruise was nice to be on the water and relax before all the walking. Be prepared for crowdedness. Both the walking tour and the hike up are filled with people slowly strolling and taking pictures. As a tip, get all your souvenirs and purchases in the town and not on the Peñal premises as the attraction is privately owned by a wealthy family whereas the town shops are mostly locally driven.
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Pergamino Café
Friendly. Jungle-Like. Yummy.
Imagine the cutest café shop filled with luscious vibes and a collective of travelers. The days we went to Pergamino, it was a popular remote co-working spot for travelers. I absolutely loved the menu, staff, and environment this café gave before our busy days ahead. They also have souvenirs and branding items for purchase. I’m not a coffee person, but I got peanut butter and fruit toast one day and an açai bowl another time that tasted so rich and fresh on top of it looking so pretty.
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Comuna 13
Artsy. Touristy. Narrow.
Previously known to be one of the most dangerous areas in the World, Comuna 13 is a place where street art and liveness thrive today. This tourist strip is on a narrow-elevated pathway with escalators and steep streets filled with restaurants, bars, galleries, souvenir stores, and street vendors. One of the highlights for me was the basketball court with kids playing occasionally interacting with visitors from all walks of life.
Overall Rating: 3.2/5
El Botánico
Elaborate. Scaled Experience. Yummy.
Knowing that we highly came for the simple fact that this restaurant delivered the receipt in a hollowed book, we knew this was going to be one of our sophisticated eats. It was a chill Tuesday with a late reservation, so it was practically empty. Aligning with the city, it was decorated with amazing greenery and a plethora of mirrors. The bathrooms also matched the ambiance. That was a vibe with all the wall mirrors. The drinks were a presentation. I ordered El Spicy and it came in a smoked-out treasure chest. One thing about me, I will order the octopus if it’s on the menu. I would highly recommend ordering the octupus.
Overall Rating: 3.6/5
Arepa
Cheesy. Rewarding. Genuine.
One bucket list item was getting an arepa while in Colombia. It was quite literally our last activity before the airport. I’m so glad I got lucky outside of the Comuna area with finding one street stand selling arepas. The arepa was good, however, the connection with the street vendor made the world’s difference. He was around 18 years old if my memory serves me right. He walked us through the overview of the iconic food staple. On top of forming a genuine connection, since it was our last moments in Colombia, we gave him the majority of our Colombian pesos. He appreciated our generosity tremendously. There was also a little girl with her dad making burgers at the next street stand. The remaining of my cash, I gave to the little girl that was too shy to approach the conversation but I noticed that she was around us listening in. She went to her dad to let him know her contributions for the day. Even though she wasn’t a part of the service of our arepas, seeing her near us wanting to interact but feeling shy reminded me of my younger self.
His street stand is located outside of Commune 13 entrance on Carrera 109 near Trece Food and Licor.
Overall Rating: 4/5
Chingona Tips
· Make sure to check the weather frequently, we were caught in micro rain sessions
· If it rains and you’re walking, make sure to wear shoes with grip as the streets are mainly on angles
· Parque de El Poblado is a great souvenir spot for jewelry
· According to our Uber driver, Aguardiente Antioqueño is a popular liquor out there if you’d like to drink like the locals
· Brings activities to keep you distracted on the long bus rides, especially if there’s traffic
The Meaning Behind Amigo. Verb Not a Noun.
Are they a friend?
This year Sin Título hosted an Amigosgiving to bring community members together to mingle and break bread. As we were curating the meaning behind the mission, I reflected on the word friend. After pondering on the word and the relationships I’ve formed over the years, I came up with the event’s slogan: Amigo. Verb Not a Noun.
The power of a friendship is complex. It’s more than two people, it’s the essence of two people. A friend is a term that holds grand weight in my heart. Time cannot be bought. Think about that. The people you spend your time with is everything. To me, a friend is an actionable term. You put in the energy to be a friend. Hence, the slogan. It’s also healthy to know that friends aren’t always forever, they can be seasonal if the relationship no longer serves you. Or even worst, hurts you.
Although very happy memories, as I was reminiscing on my definition of friend, one past friendship still keeps my heart sensitive when I think of the word.
Back in 2016 I studied abroad in Barcelona. It was the best and worst summer of my life. Best because this was my first taste of making international movement. It was the worst because my brother past while I was nowhere near him and my family. I remember this vivid memory of me being on the phone with my mom telling her I wanted to go home, and she advised me to stay strong. I know you’re okay because you have [person’s name] with you. It brought her comfort knowing I had my best friend at the time with me.
With friendships, especially a best friendship, there will be times of highs and lows. In my opinion, the way one responds to low times is very telling of true identity. Little did I know that my best friend at the time became the most self-centered individual during my grieving months of my brother’s sudden pasting. Her priorities had resembled nothing to addressing my quiet crying nights and soul-less like moments. Strangers that I met at the beginning of the program were far greater friends than my so-called best friend. Bringing me flowers, texting me throughout the day, taking me to church, and cooking for me were all quality friendship actions they took. In comparison, [person’s name] gave me traumatic crying sessions due to me having to take care of her intoxicated when I couldn’t even help myself and completely ignoring my brother’s pasting to keep the fun times going.
The lonely yet physical presence of someone that my mom thought was going to comfort me hurt the most. And for the longest, I convinced myself she was a friend. I continued because society always placed us together as an inseparable unit and I didn’t want to explain the emotional toll she placed on my heart while I grieved. And even after we stopped being friends, I previously never spoke about the pain she caused me because she was someone I cared about.
When I finally realized that these self-centered actions and approaches to situations abroad and back in the States were traumatizing to myself and even other students in the program, I couldn’t continue saying But she’s my friend. Because during the lowest point in my life, she wasn’t any of the actionable traits of a friend. She instead caused more pain during this difficult time. I was using friend as the noun not the verb to justify being in that relationship.
In present time, I still have nightmares of her. However, I learned that the word friend is not a noun. It’s not meant for individuals that don’t care about you as you care for them or vice versa. When we hosted our Amigosgiving, I was beyond happy from ear to ear to see the atmosphere we created with our circle of people. The personality, connections, and the power of coming together was so strong in the room. I want more of those moments. More connections of genuine people in new and reoccurring settings.
I hope this brought you some reflection of people you cherish, but obviously also the people that no longer take up your space. Those were/are lessons learned. I know to protect my heart better in the future. Take a moment to love your action-forward homies.
Thank your rocks.
Cartagena Travel Itinerary
My journey exploring the food, community, and architect of Cartagena, Colombia as a Latina.
A port city like no other. From the antique house structures to the vibrant nightlife, Cartagena has so much to offer. This was part of our three city South American trip. With that in consideration, this portion was very much food, random exploration walks, and endless drinks. We spent most of our time within a 8 minute walk from our Airbnb for the majority of our stay. However, within that small radius, there’s so much to see as you walk on the cobblestone streets. With such an electric nightlife, we couldn’t help but go out every night.
Overall, my experience in Cartagena was amazing with great stories of connecting with both local and traveling visitors, colorful photo taking walks, and dancing. I see why Cartagena is compared to Miami. But it’s way better in my opinion.
Cartagena was the perfect first stop to kick off our South American trip. It allowed our group to bond and explore at our own pace.
Buena Vida – Seafood Rooftop Restaurant
A block from our stay, we came here to grab some fresh seafood. The ratings online were a perfect 5 stars which I’ve never seen before. In terms of beauty and décor, 5 stars. The food was 3/5. The food looked great; however, it lacked flavor. I would have liked some sauce to come with my seafood platter. We went upstairs for a post-meal drink. Personally, overpriced for the experience. The staff was friendly, energetic with random dance sessions, and helpful.
Overall Rating: 3.2/5
Alquímico Bar – Rooftop Bar Club
OMG. My favorite bar in Cartagena. It’s a bit of a mixed crowd all listening to reggaetón and hip-hop amongst the grand royalty-like architecture. It’s a total of three stories, the base floor with the main bar and seating, second floor is a more mingle friendly vibe, and the rooftop is puro perrear. We went every night here. The drinks are crafty. I ended up telling the bartenders my likes and they curated a custom drink for me that I loved and kept ordering. It was a perfect blend of strong and spicy. Great, great first stop to start the night.
Overall Rating: 5/5
Town House – Rooftop Restaurant
This rooftop has the drinks, bites, pool, and the views. I really enjoyed my time at this restaurant. It was so beautiful to see the panoramic view, and the food was yummy. It’s your more typical American small bites food such as sliders and chicken skewers. We went during the day, so we had the restaurant to ourselves. I enjoyed chatting with the staff as we got our lives together from the night before.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Boat Tour - Experience
We took a two-hour sunset boat ride. Our tour included unlimited drinks, however, it was also BYOB which we partook in with White Hennessey and La Hechicera. It did get a bit crowded on the boat with moments of spilling drinks due to the waves, but it was an eventful pregame move as we overlooked the city. Our particular package had an interactive portion where we got to mingle and party with the whole boat collective. I wish we got more of a say in the music selection. It was a vibe but could have been better. Especially, with only two hours, could have optimized with better songs for the lit vibes. It was a great opportunity for my group to mingle with both the hosts and the other groups.
Overall Rating: 3.8/5
Mirador – Rooftop Bar
Overlooking the Monumento Torre del Reloj (clock tower) and port, I’m noticing there’s a theme of Cartagena, rooftops. We had experienced a live band covering hits from different Latin countries. The Colombian flag right in front with the walking pedestrians was a freeze moment of cherishing life. Especially being Latina, Colombia felt familiar even though I’ve never been before. As I remember randomly saying to some street vendors, Viva Cartagena! Viva Colombia! Viva México!
Overall Rating: 4.2/5
Delirium Gastro Bar – Bar Club
I unfortunately did not make it to this night spot; however, I heard it was a dope vibe. According to the group, highly recommend. They played hip-hop, rap, and reggaeton.
Rating: 4.8/5
Bronx Afro House – Hookah Lounge
A graffiti hookah lounge playing all the hits with the music videos playing on the TVs. This is a chiller lowkey lounge compared to other locations I went to. There’s also a second floor we didn’t really get to explore. The vibe upstairs was more of a club rather than sit and lounge. I’d recommend going with a large group. Music 10/10.
Overall Rating: 3.8/5
Cande – Restaurant
I was recommended this spot based on the food. I personally didn’t finish my food due to the dislike. It wasn’t for my palette. I had the trio ceviche. It wasn’t my favorite flavors in my opinion. One was tomato based but it tasted watered down. Another was too sweet for my liking. The ambiance was very elegant from the decor, service, vegetation, and bathrooms. There was live music playing which was great. They had instruments as simple as shakers to the piano and cello.
Overall Rating: 2.5/5
Castillo de San Felipe de Barajas – Attraction
We had some time prior to our flight to explore this historic castle. It was a short taxi ride from El Centro. We went during a very direct sun afternoon. It was nice to see and walk around. It had a great view of the city. Not much to learn from just walking around without a guide.
Overall Rating: 3/5
Chingona Tips
If you take a picture of or with the Fruit Ladies, do know that you have to pay per woman. Ask for the price prior to snapping.
With your stay, read the reviews on the hot water and A/C mentions. Some areas we were looking into had issues with these items. We thankfully had an incredible experience at our stay. This is ours that was extremely central to everything.
La Hechicera was our drink of choice, a Colombian rum. Too smooth for our own good.
We rarely ordered any car rides. I recommend when you do need vehicle transportation to opt for Uber to minimize the risk of fake taxis.
Bring breathable attire. It’s extremely humid and hot in Cartagena.
If you find yourself hungry while out, consider the chicken and carne asada skewers from street vendors.
To Mis Muertitos: An Open Letter about Día de Los Muertos
An honest letter of my journey as a Mexican American celebrating Día de Los Muertos
The time of Día de Los Muertos is a special time. I remember officially learning about the holiday in middle school during a singular history class dedicated to a cultural curriculum. The hour was filled with an Oaxaca Day of the Dead documentary, a region I’ve never heard of before. I have a long lineage of Michoacán roots that I barely knew of at the time due to the fact I wasn’t allowed to visit during the high times of cartel presence. Learning that day about a beautiful city with an indigenous representation was by far my best history class in my Pre-K to Collegiate educational career. I recall engraving the name Oaxaca in my head so I could ask my parents later about it. I remember having pan de muerto in class that day. That day I felt seen, educated, and well-represented in history class. But I also didn’t really know at the time that I was being taught my own culture. It was school, where you learn random things that you most likely won’t use later in life. But as an adult,
I reflect on that day as a pivotal moment as a Mexican American girl.
Without really knowing, we have had variations of ofrendas in different formats to honor the angels of my family. My mom was and is big on remembering past loved ones. In her current home, her ofrenda is up 24/7 365 days a year. It has pictures of my brother, sister, grandfather, uncles, aunts, and most recently, her mother. During this time of year, we garnish extra with a tower of cempasúchil and décor for the holiday remembrance.
This tradition has been implemented in extensive beauty of colorfulness, enlightenment, and peace as the years grow of celebrating these days as an adult. I can truly say I have learned from my peers, media, and my community through conversations and events. Although difficult to pass down non-Caucasian truths in history and traditions of indigenous groups, I’m glad to have learned, or be corrected, of Día de Los Muertos through social media, movie representation, and not going to lie, TikTok. It is a small representation of Mexican culture in these sectors. I’m grateful to have and follow a digital and physical hub of intelligent and well-crafted individuals doing the work of educating ourselves because Día de Los Muertos deserved more than one 45 minutes in 7th grade in the 17 years of education.
With this year being my first ofrenda including my abuelita, I hold a tender but at peace heart cherishing her in this format. She was my piece of México I can never replace. However, I know she’s reunited and healthy in ways she was unable to here with us. I can never think of rebosos without her. She loved and valued our relationship so much. When I needed to not think of my busy days, I would call her. Of course, she talked most of the time as she was a chatter box. But I loved every second.
To an extent, this holiday I feel to me is a way to come to peace with death. It’s a scary reality that is embellished to aid as a crutch to get me through at times. The magically thing about a crutch is that over time, you don’t need it forever. The grief will still be there, but with time, we heal and honor our ancestors for us to pass along their lives and the impacts it had on ours. It’s a symbolic holiday to never forget and truly reminisce on the macro and micro qualities of each soul. From what they liked to eat and drink to what picture you feel best represents them; I give mi cempasúchil flowers to mis muertitos.
As I continue my journey being on the soil that embarks so much of my ancestor’s history, a goal of mine is to visit México during this time of year. I need to see my culture firsthand outside of a history documentary.
Flowers to my Spanish Speaking Mother
My journey with Spanish and how my mom has been my biggest asset.
“We have to be more Mexican than the Mexicans and more American than the Americans, both at the same time!” This is one of the famous lines from the Selena movie that has stuck with me through the years.
As it was recently Selena Quintanilla’s birthday on April 16th and having Karol G give a beautiful ode to the late singer at Coachella, I’m reminded of Selena and what she stood for as a Mexican American stuck between two worlds.
One of the biggest scale ratings of Hispanic-ness is the level and accent of your Spanish. I am personally grateful I grew up in a Spanish speaking household as my mom and multiple family members only speaks Spanish. So, when I go to México, I get the mix of your Spanish is so good for a Mexican from America or your accent is a tell of you being American.
I love being present in Spanish-speaking countries because it aids my proficiency in the language, but above all, boosts my confidence. Personally, I’ve noticed that my confidence level fuels my flow when speaking en español. I feel a bit proud for my mom because she’s the main reason I have kept up my Spanish.
When I was growing up and needed help with my homework, my mom, with a partial middle school education, would get so sad because she couldn’t help me with my homework. But when it came to my Spanish reading, she was my biggest asset.
So, every time I talk in Spanish, it’s for myself on learning and growing, it’s a shoutout to my mom, and it’s a way of staying grounded to my roots. Especially when I’m in México, I love speaking in Spanish. Even if I get called out to correct a word or two.
Now this is my experience of the language of my people. However, not only everyone has a positive story. Mexican American stories also come in assimilation of the American life to avoid hatred and ridicule. Mexican Americans may lack or have an emptiness of culture representation in the household for a multitude of reasons. They’re still Mexican. And if they’re reconnecting to the culture and are in the process of enhancing their Spanish, so be it.
Also, let’s not forget about our dismantling representation of indigenous tongue. I give love to the individuals and communities that continue to keep the voices of our ancestors alive.
To conclude, let’s remember it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. And we’re not all necessarily on the same route. Spanish is a form of me staying in tune with my family and traditions. It is not the only way to reconnect. And don’t push anyone in the process of learning or enhancing their native tongue as an adult.
Those struggles of translating Parent Teacher conferences and doctor appointments are moments I appreciate today, a chicane finding her way closer to her culture every day. Flowers to my mom for being present in my Mexicana journey.
CHICANA IN MÉXICO CITY
Introduction post of a Mexican American in México City.
Historically, my trips to México have been to the family roots, Michoacán. I took 2022 as the year to make my way to CDMX. I loved it so much, I came back to Chicago January 31st and booked a flight to return March 1st. However, to truly be honest, I did not like my first few days in Mexico City. Maybe it was my comparison to pueblita life with my past trips to Michoacán. Traveling south from the U.S. before was always family time, great food, and humbling living conditions.
Although CDMX turned out to be an amazing time for me, to the point I came back after a month of leaving, it wasn’t the México I grew up with. But what is México?
Just like everything, perception varies. This blog is going to talk about my thoughts while traveling as a first generation Mexican American, bilingual but can always improve her Spanish, frequent traveler, working remotely, but above all as Iraís Rosalba Elizarraraz Sosa. I don’t think anyone has the same name as me, but I want to clarify these are my thoughts. I’d love to hear feedback on my experience and hear on yours as you read along the journey to reconnecting to my roots.
This blog will be curated as I go with a structure of highlighting my adventures, recommendations, tips, and cultural information I’ve learned/would like to speak on along the way. Above all, I aim to encourage authentic travel, especially for my Latine community. I grew up being discouraged to be passionate in travel, a selfish act to many family members.
Take a sneak peak of some visuals during my time Mexico City to see what’s in store for Sin Título - Dope Travel.
-Iraís, La Globetrotter
México isn’t shy with the colors. And I love that.
Top 10 Ciudad de México Activities
A visual and description list of my Top 10 Attractions in La Ciudad de México.
It’s hard to see the most populated city in North America all in one trip. México City is truly never ending. Below are the gems that stood out from my experience while staying here long term. As I still have more to see in this beautiful community, this list will be a living post that will change as I widen my CDMX eyes, so stay tune.
This list is in no particular order.
All of the images are mine, I hope I captured a glimpse of each attraction’s glory.
Teotihuacán
My FAVORITE adventure day in México, seeing las pirámides. From symbolism, civilization, community, and archeology while riding on ATVs, this was everything. The tour was extremely informational and not regurgitated blanketed facts. After the tour, the guides took us to the nearby town, San Martín de las Pirámides, to eat in an actual cave. The food was authentic and to my liking on top of the delicious mezcal drinks.
Additional Tips:
Head over on a weekday, when it’s less crowded for more private tour vibes
Tollan Adventures is the tourism company we used. It’s run by the two local guides we met. Tell them las chicas de Chicago sent you.
Castillo de Chapultepec
This is such a beauty from every angle. It gives royalty with views of the city. Located in el Bosque de Chapultepec, it’s a bit hidden from the main road. The walk is worth it as it’s filled with greenery, history, color, and elegance.
Additional Tips:
They close once they hit a capacity of 7,000 visitors for the day. Closed on Sunday and Monday.
If pictures are on your itinerary, dress up for this attraction.
It’s so grand, would dedicate ~2.5 hours to see everything.
Touribus
With CDMX being so large, I’d highly recommend spending a day hopping on and off the red tourist buses to visit attractions. It’s an all day pass that not only allows you to save on rides, it provides an elevated view that captures the amazing scenery that Ubers just can’t compare to. This is an unguided tour so that leaves it all up to you with scheduling.
Additional Tips:
Be aware of the branches if you’re on the top level
Have this be an all day means of transportation to hit up your must see spots
Mercado Artesanal Mexicano
This colorful vendor-filled location is found in the Coyoacán neighborhood. I could be here for hours, and I have. My multiple trips to this mercado gets better with finds every time. This is the perfect spot for souvenir shopping. When I’m not on Mexican soil, having a piece of México through artisan work roots me to my culture.
Additional Tips:
Walk around outside of el mercado to find some more artisan stands. I found an indigenous stand selling earrings
El Péndulo
A bookstore that puts all other bookstores straight to the bench. This multi-floored store and bar is equipped for hours spent here in a day. Working remote, book searching, and grabbing a drink are all activities to enjoy at el Péndulo. There’s a Roma Norte and Polanco location that offer the same services and vibes.
Parque México
This park embodies everything wholesome. With individuals dancing, roller-skating, playing with their dogs, or just soaking up the energy, this is a magical place where people put the phones down and take in the day. I recommend biking there on Sunday when some of the CDMX streets are closed for bikers/runners/skaters. A plus for going on a Domingo is that the neighboring park hosts dog and cat adoptions. My youth was screaming with every turn here.
Zócalo
The layout of Mexico City is truly an art. El Zócalo is no exception. This open plaza bleeds Mexican pride with the gigantic national flag while vendors hustle, visitors gaze at the surroundings, indigenous groups perform, and you see the sun bless everyone in sight. In the morning (usually around 6AM depending on the season), the military raises the flag and in the evening (also depending on season, ~6/7PM) they lower it as a ceremonial ritual.
Frida Kahlo Museum
The very recognizable blue casa de Frida y Diego in Coyoácan is a museum and then some. Art, garden, fashion, and home decor are the focal points that visually summarize Frida’s influence. I went with a friend and her 7 year-old daughter. Seeing it alongside a child’s perspective with a goal of becoming an artist was an added plus. She was so curious about Frida’s raw portrayal on life.
Additional Tips:
To take photos, you must purchase a media pass sticker (on my left thigh in the image)
Purchase tickets in advance. You cannot purchase at the door.
Palacio de Bellas Artes
I always look up and around to take in the architect grandness of Bella Artes. In addition to an array of rich art pieces, some of Diego Rivera’s pieces resides in this palace. The park near by has street vendors and live entertainment that is worth a visit. It’s also a 15 minute walk from El Zócalo if you wish to see these two iconic locations back to back.
Xochimilco
Las trajineras (boats) is life. Grab a group and some extra passengers named Tequila for the ride. It’s BYOB and BYOF with an hourly rate per boat. Not only does your boat vibe have it’s thing, the passing boat parties also bring in extra flare to the celebration of living. Mariachi, shots being poured, and music blasting, I thrived here. It does sit about an hour outside of the city, but the drive can always be the pregame. My Uber driver was nice enough to stop by an Oxxo mid-way through the ride to avoid the inflated prices near the river.
Additional Tips:
Bring an outdoor speaker or rent one there.
Find a local small business connect prior to arriving. Reach us to me if interested.
I hope this sparked a need to visit la Ciudad de México or visit again with these activities in mind. Not only did I learn about the historical culture of my ancestors, I met great individuals and got to share my experiences with them. Forever I will cherish these colorful CDMX moments.
-Iraís, a lover of la Ciudad de CDMX
México es Lleya
A special dedication to our newest pillar of branding, reconnecting to our roots through travel.
Think of a long distance relative. In most cases it may be a surface level relationship or how are you? How’s everyone? We’re well, thank you. And the yearly birthday call. Not with mi Mamá Lleya.
My material grandmother was my random call on a Tuesday when I needed to hear her voice, check in with her, and/or reconnect with my roots. As my sisters and I were able to visit México more frequently as adults, we always went to primarily go see Lleya. Unfortunately, her long journey of combating cancer came to an end March, 2022.
Since we were toddlers, my sisters and I were never all in México at the same time. We purposely separated our travel so our grandma would have her nieta visitations spread out. Her funeral finally brought us all together in her pueblito home.
I was already in México City when word of her condition was being communicated. Since her cancer was detected in 2017, she was always described as being weak and ill. The radiation from the chemotherapy sessions left her always needing medical assistance. My mom and my sisters were her constant source of financial means. When we sent more money than usual, it meant she was doing worse than usual. Like clockwork, we knew to call immediately to see how she was holding up. She said our calls always gave her extra strength. You could just hear her voice go up octaves when she heard it was one of us on the other line.
Traveling to México was Lleya. The purpose of Sin Título’s travel blog is to reconnect to our roots. Roots we can’t fully be in tune with when we’re across the border. Now more than ever, with losing a huge component in our connection to our family roots, we dedicate this travel blog introduction to our abuelita. The woman that introduced me to chilindrinas con té de hojas de limón. The woman that I’d follow to get el mandado de frutas y vegetales. The woman that fed into my love for plantitas.
Te queremos mucho Lleya, more than all the flowers can show. Cheers to a new beginning of our brand. Sin Título Travel, the connection back to the roots.
-Iraís, nieta de Mamá Lleya
