Incas.

Lamas.

Coca tea.

Peru. There are things in this world that are worth traveling tens of thousands of miles to experience at least once in your lifetime. Peru has so many of these things, places and people that if you are a first-time visitor, you might be overwhelmed by the choice. Here’s a list of the most amazing things to do in Peru.

1. Set foot on the floating islands in Lake Titicaca

The Quechua people have been living on the floating islands in Lake Titicaca for centuries and they still use a form of natural economy, exchanging fish, corn and reed for other goods they need. You can spend at least a few hours sailing between the islands and getting in touch with how the locals live.

2. Drink coca tea

The leaves of coca are used to produce the base for cocaine when the alcaloids are extracted chemically, but when you soak them in boiling water, the effect is similar to a strong coffee – refreshing and helpful for coping with the thin air. The taste is similar to green tea or mint tea. It’s a typical drink in the Andes and it’s even used as medicine by the locals.

3. Ride the Machu Picchu train

Adding to the thrill of traveling to one of the most amazing Inca-era venues in the world is the transparent ceiling of the train, which makes it possible to enjoy more complete views on the way.

4. Let Machu Picchu leave you breathless (literally)

Machu Picchu was abandoned by the Incas to be conquered by the jungle. Located more than 4,000 m (13,000 ft) above sea level, it will leave you breathless both literally and metaphorically. The thin air will remind you that all actions you consider normal, like running up three stairs, should not be taken for granted. Make sure you arrange a visit with a guide or a group tour because with the last changes in Peruvian laws, it is now forbidden to visit the archaeological site on your own.

5. Discover the treasures of Cuzco – the archaeological capital of the Americas

In the language of the local Quechua people Cuzco means “navel, center of the world”. Save a place on your route for this well-preserved colonial city built around the remains of the Incan civilization and embraced by the majestic Andes. I’ll only mention the Sacsahyuaman Fortress, whose gigantic stone blocks were arranged centuries ago with laser-like precision.

6. Try the local delicacies (have you eaten llama meat?)

Peruvians grow so many kinds of corn that you won’t be able to try even a tiny fraction of them. But that’s not all, folks! Llamas are cute but if you aren’t a vegetarian, you should try them cooked, too.

7. Sleep in the Amazon forest

If you want to see tarantulas and caymans, while also discovering what the Amazon rainforest means to the planet, visit it yourself. If you’re even more adventurous, spend a night deep in the jungle. There are many accommodation options – from luxury hotels and resorts to basic bungalows and tents offering nothing more than a bed and a mosquito net. I’d recommend the latter as it will give you the unique opportunity to hear the sound of the jungle, which wakes up when you are about to fall asleep.

8. Fly over the mysterious Lines of Nazca

Who created the Lines of Nazca (and how) remains a mystery – aliens, mythical civilizations and ancient astronomers are among the hypotheses. Some of the figures spread as far as 300 m (1000 ft) and are more than 2000 years old. Most of the lines are visible only by plane, but given the many plane accidents in recent years, consider your options carefully and make sure you fly with a reputable company.

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As the urban legend goes, Eleanor Roosevelt exclaimed “Poor Niagara!” when she first saw Iguazu Falls. The moment you find yourself, as tiny as an ant, at the foot of the mighty falling waters, you might not be able to utter even these words.

What’s the legend of Iguazu Falls?

When the Guarani people gave the name to the falls, they weren’t really being poetic – in their language, the name simply means “Big Water”. Far more romantic is the legend of how the waterfalls were created. One of the gods fell in love with a local girl, but she didn’t fall for him. Instead, she impertinently decided to sail away with her human love. As we know, declining a god’s offer is always a bad idea, and so it turned out. The infuriated god cut the river they were sailing along in half, thus dooming them to an eternity spent ‘falling’.

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Argentinian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

What’s the best part of Iguazu Falls?

Iguazu Falls consists of 150 to 300 separate waterfalls depending on the rainfall and the season. Ask 100 visitors which is the best of all the falls and 98 will answer the Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo). This is the mightiest of all waterfalls, which you will see both from its foot (Brazilian side) and from its verge (Argentinian side).

How to get to Iguazu Falls (Brazilian side)

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Brazilian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

Ticket for the national park: R$62 for adults, R$10 for children from 2 to 11 years old (as of January 2018). Grab a free map of the park at the entrance.

Transportation: Public bus 120 takes you from the center of the town of Foz do Iguaçu to the entrance of the national park, stopping at the airport on the way. Inside the park, you can take the park bus (free of charge).

Time needed: 2-3 hours (if you take the standard tour offered at the park)

Length of the trails: 1.2 km (0.75 mi)

Food and water: There are food and drink venues in the park but they are quite overpriced, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food.

What else: Next to the entrance of the national park, there’s a bird park called Parque das Aves (entrance fee: R$45 for adults, open every day from 8:30 am to 5 pm). Some of the birds live completely free and you can enjoy close contact with them. The park was created as a shelter for abused animals and many of the birds you will see were saved from smugglers. Prepare to meet parrots, toucans, butterflies and even colibris.

Official website of National Park Iguaçu: here.

How to get to Iguazú Falls (Argentinian side)

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Argentinian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

Ticket for the national park: 500 pesos for adults, 130 pesos for children from 6 to 12 years old. If you want to visit the park for a second day in a row, you should stop at the ticket office when leaving on the first day to get your ticket validated and receive a 50% discount for the ticket on the next day.

Transportation: There’s a regular bus from the center of Puerto Iguazú to the entrance of the national park. Inside the park there’s a free train, for which you’ll probably have to wait in line for more than an hour. Bring a book to kill the time.

Time needed: At least one day, but better two. The Argentinian side has many more trails where you can see various falls from various angles.

The Upper Circle (Circuito Superior) is a short trail from where you will see the upper fringe of the waterfalls.

The Lower Circle (Circuito Inferior) is longer and passes by the foot of several falls. It’s a good idea to wear a bathing suit or a raincoat because you are inevitably going to get wet. The trail will also take you to the port from where the free ferry to San Martin Island leaves (although the ferry doesn’t operate during bad weather).

San Martin Island (Isla San Martin) has two observation decks and is only accessible via the free ferry. The ferry won’t sail if the water is high. Check at the entrance of the park for the current conditions.

Food and water: As with the Brazilian side, there are food and beverage venues in the park, but they are quite overpriced. It’s a good idea to bring your own food.

Official website of National Park Iguazu: here.

Where to stay: Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil) or Puerto Iguazú (Argentina)?

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Argentinian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

Foz do Iguaçu is a calmer, sleepy town, while Puerto Iguazú is smaller but has more entertainment options. Both towns have airports and are connected to the other parts of their respective countries by buses. There are regular buses, taxis and vans running between the two towns. The visa regime is standard, so you will need two visas – one for Brazil and one for Argentina.

Iguazu Waterfalls, the Brazilian side | © Maria Angelova/www.203challenges.com

What to bring for a day at the waterfalls

The essential supplies are: a lot of water, sunscreen (take plenty with you, as you’ll need to reapply it after getting wet from the waterfalls), a waterproof case for your phone or camera, mosquito repellent and plenty of food. If you bring food in your backpack, you should be very wary of the local coati population. These small but super-strong jungle animals – relatives of raccoons – want your sandwich and are ready to bite or scratch you to get it. They can carry rabies, so you should visit a doctor immediately if you get attacked.

Read more: 10 fun facts about Brazil that you quickly get used to

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Joseph De La Cruz and Simon Vandekerckhove met on the road in South America and their paths intertwined in such an intriguing way, that they can now present their perspective of the inward and outward scope of their experiences in their book, “Paths to Pachamama”.

The indigenous people of the Andes revere Pachamama, or ‘Earth Mother’, as the goddess who carries the power to create and sustain life on the planet. Written independently, these are two stories of self-discovery proving no matter our unique journeys, we all travel the same spiritual path. A tale suitable for any traveler on the adventure known as life, in “Paths to Pachamama” you’ll understand there’s more to this world if you’re willing to look hard enough.

We contacted Simon and Joey to ask them more about their story, plans, and dreams.

– Who are Simon and Joey and what are their dreams?

– Joey grew up in Boulder, Colorado, a graduate of a K-12 bilingual Spanish education program and the University of Colorado, Boulder with a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Italian. After the passing of his mother, he was forced on the road to discover the meaning of life and death. Through his travels he has opened himself up to the universal consciousness that drives our existence, and ever since he has sought to continue his personal evolution by learning to tap into this vast source of powerful energy and endless wisdom available to us all.

Simon from Bruges, Belgium, is a historian and avid traveler who spent a few years abroad studying in Spain, teaching in Thailand, working around Australia and backpacking through South America. Throughout his journeys, the symbolism and coincidences he’s experienced have also widened his perspective to the spiritual dimensions of reality.

For both of us, travel has been a way to get to know ourselves beyond the surface illusion of our physical world, and we both dream that by combining our stories and insights, we can make more people aware of the powerful spiritual force that resides within us all and discover together how we can use it to our advantage.

– How did two independent journeys through South America intertwine and make you a team?

– Fate. We met at a very energetically charged location, Iguazu Falls, and after a short bus ride and a few conversations we got a glimpse of what we could learn from each other. Each independent journey would have been incomplete had it not been for the experiences and input we shared from a distinct, yet complementary perspective of the other. In short, we needed each other to further concepts and ideas we were both discovering on our own after we both had encountered meaningful experiences during our travels. After our meeting we realized that by combining our stories and insights, we were able to gather a much greater understanding of the enigma that is life, which we would not have attained individually.

– How has the concept of Pachamama changed the way you see the world?

– Looking at the world through the lens of Pachamama has removed our sense of physical boundary to some extent and lifted barriers which have blinded us to a greater truth, that everything in this universe is conscious vibrating energy and that we, as energetic beings, have the ability to direct this field of endless opportunity. Pachamama has taught us that we can steer our life experience with our directed conscious intent and take greater control over our lives. Thanks to Pachamama, we have also become much more aware of the signs that are put in front of us to guide us along our journey through life. She has become the fundamental filter through which we see the world.

– What’s the connection between traveling and spirituality?

– There is a fundamental connection between traveling and spirituality. While traveling we are presented with the rare opportunity to be ourselves. Our authentic disposition, our real personalities hidden underneath the costume of everyday life, are given the chance to come out. We are no longer a doctor, a policeman, or a teacher. Our identity becomes fluid, and we simply become a traveler. Without the weight of these labels holding us back, we get the chance to see ourselves in a new light. For a brief moment, we are no longer defined by what we do. What matters most is who we are and who we have always been. In this more elemental state of being, we can look beyond the countless separations and boundaries we usually impose on one another. We can understand that people everywhere are not all that different from one another and that deep down we all share the same hopes and desires. And isn’t that what spirituality is all about?

– Your book is called “Paths to Pachamama”. So there’s more than one path?

– Yes, each and every one of us travels our own personal path towards the highest evolution of our spirit. We all have different lessons and challenges we must face in this life and different ways by which we must overcome them. There is no one path, there is only your path. We must each honor our individual journeys, while at the same time we need to respect the path and personal choices of another.

– Was there one powerful experience during your journey that was a turning point and made you reconsider your lives?

Joey: That moment came to me in the first month of my year long journey. I was sitting utterly alone on a beach in Colombia with nothing but the open road ahead of me. From this place I could see for the first time that I had the choice to bring my past with me on the road, or drop everything I knew and leave it in the sand behind me. I could see that I had an opportunity to completely rewrite my identity, to live free from the layers and constraints of a predetermined identity imposed upon me by friends, family and society back home telling me who and what I should be. Sitting on that beach in solitude, I gifted myself the opportunity to redefine who I was, what I was capable of and who I wanted to become. It was there I began to reconsider every aspect of my life, and it’s never been the same since.

Simon: For me that moment happened in Cadiz. I was out with a friend during carnival, and a tragic accident took the life of my friend that night. I won’t say anything more, other than the fact that the events that took place on that night changed everything for me and have become the bedrock of my spiritual belief. It is all described in the first chapter of the book.

– Your journey to South America has inspired you to be the change you want to see in the world. What are some specific changes everyone can make to make the world a better and more balanced place?

– Redefine your identity. Realize that you are not merely a physical body, but an eternal spark of conscious light vibrating in a void of potential energy over which you have a high degree of creative control. In order to come to this understanding, first you must recognize that an intelligent universal consciousness exists. That is the first step. The second step is recognizing and feeling that we are in constant communication with this universal consciousness, through a personal spiritual connection within an infinite field of opportunity. The final step is to engage in mutual conversation with this energetic source, and send it our desires and intentions with focus and determination so we can allow them to be received, processed, and sent back to us.

An important tool to use in this creative process is your breath. Take the time to focus on it every now and then and learn to control it. By taking control of your breath, you take control of your life.

– What’s the one thing you never travel without?

Joey: My backpack. When traveling my backpack becomes my home. I bring only what’s essential and leave the rest behind and embrace the freedom it provides me as I explore the intriguing paths of life.

Simon: Honestly, every time I travel I tend to take less with me than the last time, as each trip I realize that I really don’t need all that much. So my question is: is there anything that you really cannot travel without, other than your eyes, limbs and sense of wonder?

– What is your next big challenge?

– Writing a book is challenging, but it’s a much greater challenge to have people read it, and an even greater one to get people to the point where they will actually change some of their ways as a result of it. We believe firmly in the ideas presented in the book and are convinced that it can help many people move their lives forward with greater purpose and understanding. Therefore, the next big challenge is to achieve a certain degree of practical implementation of the spiritual constitution and other ideas presented in the book with regard to how we deal with relationships, commerce, money, media, or politics. This will not be easy, but we are hopeful. Thanks to the digital revolution and the technological advancements it is bringing, such as online currencies and green energy, the way we interact with each other and our environment will fundamentally change, and this development will inevitably accelerate the evolution of our spirit.

– Share something inspiring with everyone reading this!

– You are a traveler of many worlds, but ultimately it’s the spiritual journey within that matters the most and will take you the furthest.

***

Paths to Pachamama is available on Amazon:

All images: courtesy of Joseph De La Cruz and Simon Vandekerckhove/Paths to Pachamama

>>> Discover more travel books and interviews with travel writers.

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One hundred years of Solitude, published in 1967, quickly became one of the most iconic novels of the 20th century. The masterpiece written by Nobel prize laureate Gabriel Garcia Marquez enchants the reader with pinches of what is known as ‘magical realism’. Rumor has it Garcia Marquez was inspired by his hometown, Aracataca, when describing the mystical village of Macondo.

© Lina Kirilova

You can find Aracataca by the Magdalena River in the province of Magdalena, near the Caribbean coast. Nestled among the banana plantations, the small town drips with Caribbean heat and scenic beauty. Locals, maps and bus drivers will tell you its real name is Aracataca, even though the magic of Macondo awaits around every corner!

© David Grabowski

The only noted attractions in town are the house where Gabo was born and the church where he was baptized. Nevertheless, the dirty, narrow streets still exude the spirit of the novel. The well-curated Casa Museo Gabriel Garcia Marquez is located in a reconstruction of the house where Garcia Marquez was born in 1927; the original house was sold by the family and knocked down years ago. However, the buildings have been carefully restored to resemble their original state.

© Lina Kirilova

© Lina Kirilova

Useful information

Today Aracataca remains a small town on the side of the only highway connecting Santa Marta, Bucaramanga and Bogota. The easiest way to get there is to follow the coastline, either from Santa Marta or Barranquilla, then turn towards the banana plantations. What should be an hour-and-a-half-long trip turns into a three-hour journey thanks to heavy traffic and the chaotic nature of Colombian driving. Make sure to fill up your fuel tank and bring lots of water, snacks and patience! Entrance to the house-museum is free of charge and the address is Carrera 6 No. 5-46. You can visit it Tuesday through Sunday from 8 am – 1 pm and 2–5 pm.

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I am passionate about traveling and backpacking. My usual itinerary is as eventful as possible. As an avid traveller, when it comes to accommodation, hostels are my first option.

What do I look for in a hostel?

In general, I look for a good location, relatively good reviews and a variety of services that the hostel offers free of charge or in exchange for a small fee. After all, you’ve got to make your money count, especially when traveling on a tight budget.

During my recent trip to Colombia, the hostel that combined all three in the best possible way was:

Hostel Masaya in Santa Marta

©Masaya Hostels

Located in the heart of Santa Marta, the second oldest city on the Caribbean coast, Hostel Masaya offers the most perfect hostel experience you could ask for!

The hostel is situated in a National Heritage listed Colonial house with a spacious inside patio, three floors, and wooden staircases. The atmosphere takes you back in time. That’s not all – you can enjoy the two pools, a rooftop that has one of the best views of the Cathedral, relax-zones, hammocks, deckchairs, and a cozy bar where you can sip on late night drinks or have breakfast in the morning.

A place to gather and to share

© Masaya Hostels

Masaya aims at being not only a comfortable hostel, but a social place. The hostel offers a different 100% Colombian cultural activity every day. There are salsa lessons, cooking classes, live music and Spanish parties!

The first time I walked in Hostel Masaya I truly thought it was the hostel with the most unique atmosphere I have ever been to. I ended up staying there twice during my trip – once in a dorm, once in a private room. Both are comfortable, spacious, with nearly 5-meter tall ceilings. The private rooms are named after famous Colombians such as Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Shakira, Carlos Vives, Juan Valdez and more, and there is a catchy colorful theme going on in each one of them.

© Masaya Hostels

© Masaya Hostels

My stay at Masaya made me reconsider the way I travel. I decided that from now on I will put aside more time to dive in the local atmosphere and just to relax. Even for as little as two days, I enjoyed every minute of my Masaya experience drinking mojitos at the rooftop and swinging in the hammocks. The staff was friendly and helpful.

No breakfast is usually a deal breaker for me

I would definitely cross off my list a hostel that does not offer free breakfast (Cheap deals are acceptable). No wi-fi would also be an issue. It is the 21^st century, right? However, one of the best hostels we stayed in Colombia was a wi-fi free zone and it was just great. If you would like to tune off and relax, I highly recommend:

Casa Loma in Minca

No Wi-Fi, no problems | © Lina Kirilova

Casa Loma is the place to chill, relax, detox and go offline! It is an alternative hostel with open-air dorms and hammocks situated on a hill overlooking Santa Marta and the Sierra Nevada National Park. In order to reach the hostel, you first have to hike about 10 minutes up cobblestone stairs.

The view at the top is totally worth it, particularly at sunset!

The view from the top | © Lina Kirilova

The hilltop wooden house is the main building of the house. You will find the kitchen (maybe with quality kitchen counter or other stones for kitchen) and common area there, as well as a couple of terraces and a few hammocks to enjoy the view. Casa Loma is surrounded by tropical forest and you can hear birds singing everywhere! With no roads, cars, shops or noisy neighbors you will be able to fully enjoy the peace and quiet, reconnect with your inner self, just lie in a hammock, drink a beer or take a nap.

The hostel serves only vegetarian food and it offers a delicious set breakfast menu and a daily lunch and dinner menu. They are famous for their curry and Mexican nights.

Breakfast | ©Lina Kirilova

I was happy to arrive in time for sunset (I had a time for yoga retreat), so I could join the dozen lucky people on the terrace for happy-hour cocktails with an amazing view.  A couple of passion fruit Mojitos later we all watched in awe as the sun set behind the mountains.

Sunset vibes | © Lina Kirilova

The third place I would like to mention here is:

Casa del Ritmo in Santa Marta

© Casa del Ritmo

Casa del Ritmo is a typical colorful house located near El Rotadero – one of the famous beaches on the Caribbean coast. I spent only one night there on my way back from Minca. It was towards the end of my Colombia trip but the setting and atmosphere, and especially the friendly service made me feel at home.

The hostel was not busy at the time, so I was pampered by the staff’s full attention and hospitality. Sandra showed me around and recommended dinner and drink options. She is funny and just great! Every room is named after a different music genre – Pop, Jazz, Bossa Nova, Tango, Salsa and so on. I got Salsa!

© Casa del Ritmo

Talking about food, this is another veggie hostel that offers fresh local food. Don’t miss the happy hour of the Art bar! They use real fruit for their Mojitos, Margaritas and Caipirinhas. Casa del Ritmo is also one of the few places where I was able to find the limited addition coca-infused beer Happy Coca from the Nevada brewery.

© Casa del Ritmo

© Casa del Ritmo

If you have an extra day or two, consider joining some of the different activities the hostel organizes. They include sunset yoga for women on the beach, zumba classes, live music and open mic jam sessions, movie and popcorn, poker nights, salsa parties and many more.

© Casa del Ritmo

© Casa del Ritmo

“Life is not what one lived, but what one remembers and how one remembers it in order to recount it.” Gabriel García Márquez

Note: I was not paid to write this review and I did not receive a free stay in exchange. I paid for my room just like you… but I loved it so much that I felt it deserved this write-up!

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And for a good reason. From breathtaking natural wonders to a unique culture and wild adventures, a trip to the continent is an otherworldly experience to stay in your memories for a long time.

Convinced it`s high time to visit South America? Here`re our personal top three of inspiring destinations on the continent:

#1 Ecuador

“It`s impossible to forget the majestic silhouette of the mountains. The sun. The colorful food that satisfies all the senses – I miss them so much.”, told me Tatiana, my native Colombian friend, who used to live in Ecuador.

Ecuador offers travelers a chance to climb the summit of an active volcano with the impressive height of 5,897m. Cotopaxi is located only 50 km south of Ecuador`s capital Quito. But bear in mind that the volcano has erupted more than 50 times since 1738.

Still hungry for adventures? Explore the region of Salinas de Guaranda or head to the Amazon Basin, where you can meet isolated tribes like Huaorani, Shuar, and the Afro-Ecuadorian minority.

#2 Costa Rica

It`s a go-to destination for all nature lovers. Despite its small territory, Costa Rica is among the top 20 most biodiverse countries in the world. The country boasts nearly half a million species, representing 4 percent of the planet`s biodiversity. Observe rare birds like the black-crowned night heron and the snake bird and meet in person the charming 3-toed sloth and the spider monkey, among other species.

Don`t miss a chance to wander around the biggest rainforest in the country (La Amistad International Park) that stretches on almost 200,000 hectares. But beware: the park is home to the threatened by extinction jaguars!

Supplement your trip with a cultural element, and explore the isolated Talamanca region. It`s inhabited by indigenous people who managed to resist the Spanish colonization because of the region`s far-off and hard to access location.

#3 Chile

A land of contrasts, Chile will charm you with its vibrant capital Santiago, the graceful Valparaíso, and quirky cities like La Serena and Iquique.

Want to go stargazing in a desert? No problem. Go to the Atacama. Into the mood for an epic road trip? Lose yourself deep into the Elqui Valley. Driving across side roads leading to volcanoes and plains along the Bolivian border is also a must for the adventure-seekers.

Excited about getting to the heart of South America? We challenge you: explore this captivating continent and share your pics and experiences in the comments down below!

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Europe

1. Lindt (Switzerland): Lindt, a Swiss chocolatier, is famous for its smooth and creamy chocolate. The Lindt Chocolate Factory in Kilchberg, near Zurich, offers guided tours where you can see the chocolate-making process and, of course, indulge in tastings.
2. Zotter Chocolate Factory (Austria): Located in Riegersburg, Austria, Zotter is known for its organic and fair-trade chocolates. The factory offers guided tours that take you through the chocolate-making process, and you can explore the vast chocolate varieties in their tasting area.
3. Neuhaus (Belgium): Neuhaus is one of Belgium’s oldest chocolate companies, known for inventing the praline. While Neuhaus doesn’t typically offer public tours of its factory, you can visit their stores throughout Belgium and indulge in their delicious chocolates.
4. Maison Cailler (Switzerland): Cailler is Switzerland’s oldest chocolate brand, and its factory, Maison Cailler, is located in Broc. The factory tour provides insights into the history of chocolate and offers tastings of Cailler’s renowned Swiss chocolate.
5. Ritter Sport (Germany): Ritter Sport, a German brand, is known for its square-shaped chocolate bars. While their main production facility is not open to the public, you can visit their colorful flagship store in Berlin to explore and taste their wide range of chocolate.
6. Moser Roth (Germany): Moser Roth is a German brand known for its high-quality chocolate. While they don’t have dedicated factory tours, their chocolates are available in supermarkets, and you can explore their various flavors.
7. Leonidas (Belgium): Leonidas is a Belgian chocolate company with a wide range of pralines. While they may not offer factory tours, you can find their stores throughout Belgium and other countries to sample their delicious chocolates.
8. Amadei (Italy): Amadei is an Italian chocolatier known for its high-quality chocolate. While they may not offer public tours, you can find their chocolates in select stores and indulge in their exquisite creations.

North America

1. Hershey’s Chocolate World (Pennsylvania, USA): Hershey’s is one of the most iconic chocolate brands in the world. Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, Pennsylvania, offers a visitor center with various attractions, including a chocolate tour ride, chocolate tastings, and the opportunity to create your own chocolate bar.
2. Ghirardelli Square (California, USA): Ghirardelli, known for its high-quality chocolate and iconic squares, has a historic location in San Francisco, California. Ghirardelli Square features a chocolate and ice cream shop where you can indulge in their delicious treats.
3. Taza Chocolate (Massachusetts, USA): Taza Chocolate, located in Somerville, Massachusetts, specializes in stone-ground chocolate using traditional Mexican methods. They offer factory tours where you can see the chocolate-making process and enjoy tastings.
4. Theo Chocolate (Washington, USA): Based in Seattle, Washington, Theo Chocolate is known for its organic and fair-trade chocolates. Theo Chocolate Factory offers guided tours that provide insights into the bean-to-bar chocolate-making process.
5. Lake Champlain Chocolates (Vermont, USA): Lake Champlain Chocolates, based in Burlington, Vermont, is known for its high-quality chocolates. While they may not offer factory tours, you can visit their retail store for a selection of chocolates.
6. Mast Brothers Chocolate (New York, USA): Located in Brooklyn, New York, Mast Brothers Chocolate is known for its bean-to-bar approach. While they may not currently offer factory tours, you can explore their flagship store and café to sample their unique chocolate creations.
7. Rogers’ Chocolates (British Columbia, Canada): Rogers’ Chocolates is a historic Canadian chocolate company based in Victoria, British Columbia. While they may not have factory tours, you can visit their stores to enjoy a variety of chocolates.
8. Purdys Chocolatier (British Columbia, Canada): Purdys Chocolatier, based in Vancouver, British Columbia, is known for its premium chocolates. While they may not offer public tours, you can visit their stores across Canada to explore their selection.

Canada

1. Purdys Chocolatier: Based in Vancouver, Purdys is one of the oldest and most popular chocolate companies in Canada. They have retail stores across the country, offering a wide range of chocolates, truffles, and other sweet treats.
2. Rogers’ Chocolates: Established in 1885, Rogers’ Chocolates is a historic Canadian chocolate company based in Victoria, British Columbia. They have a variety of chocolates, including truffles, creams, and caramels.
3. Laura Secord: Laura Secord is a Canadian chocolatier with a long history, known for its quality chocolates and iconic ice cream. While they may not offer factory tours, you can visit their retail stores across Canada.
4. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory: With locations across Canada, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is known for its handmade chocolates, caramel apples, and other confections. They often have stores in tourist areas and shopping centers.
5. Soma Chocolatemaker: Based in Toronto, Soma Chocolatemaker is known for its artisanal approach to chocolate making. They source high-quality cacao beans and produce a range of chocolates, including bars, truffles, and drinking chocolate.
6. Chez Christophe Chocolaterie Patisserie: Located in Burnaby, British Columbia, Chez Christophe is an award-winning chocolatier known for its exquisite chocolates and pastries. While they may not offer factory tours, you can visit their patisserie to enjoy their creations.
7. Chocolats Favoris: Originating in Quebec, Chocolats Favoris has expanded across Canada, offering a variety of chocolate-dipped treats, including ice cream cones, fruits, and more. They have boutiques where you can experience their chocolate offerings.

South America

1. Chocolatería República del Cacao (Ecuador): Ecuador is renowned for its high-quality cocoa, and República del Cacao is a prominent Ecuadorian chocolate brand. They have stores and experiences in Ecuador where you can learn about the chocolate-making process and indulge in tastings.
2. Pacari Chocolate (Ecuador): Another Ecuadorian gem, Pacari is an award-winning chocolate brand known for its organic and biodynamic practices. While they may not have a dedicated factory tour, you can find their chocolates in various locations and specialty shops.
3. Markets and Chocolatiers in Oaxaca (Mexico): Oaxaca, Mexico, is known for its rich culinary heritage, including chocolate. Visit local markets like Mercado Benito Juárez and chocolate shops such as Mayordomo to explore and taste traditional Mexican chocolates.
4. Cacao Sampaka (Argentina): Cacao Sampaka, originally from Spain, has a presence in Buenos Aires, Argentina. They offer a variety of chocolates, and you can visit their store to explore their creations.
5. Chocolatería Rausch (Colombia): Rausch is a Colombian chocolate brand with a focus on high-quality ingredients. While they may not offer public tours, you can find their chocolates in stores and experience their creations in Bogotá.
6. Casa Cacao (Peru): Located in Cusco, Peru, Casa Cacao is a chocolate-themed experience created by Jordi Roca, a renowned Spanish pastry chef. The space includes a chocolate factory, a chocolate shop, and a café where you can taste their creations.
7. Árbol de Cacao (Peru): In the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, Árbol de Cacao is a chocolate farm and eco-lodge. They offer tours that allow visitors to learn about the entire chocolate-making process, from harvesting cacao to making the final product.

Africa

1. Chocoloza (South Africa): Chocoloza, based in Johannesburg, South Africa, is known for its handmade Belgian chocolates. While they may not offer factory tours, you can visit their shop to enjoy a variety of pralines, truffles, and other chocolate treats.
2. Madécasse (Madagascar): Madécasse is a chocolate brand that produces bean-to-bar chocolate in Madagascar. The company is committed to supporting local communities and promoting sustainable practices. While they may not have a physical visitor center, you can find their products in various locations.
3. Morin (Morocco): Morin is a Moroccan chocolate brand that produces bean-to-bar chocolate. While they may not offer formal tours, you can find their chocolates in specialty shops and explore the flavors of Moroccan chocolate.
4. Vanilla Food Company (Uganda): Vanilla Food Company, based in Kampala, Uganda, is known for producing high-quality chocolate and vanilla products. While they may not have formal tours, you can explore their range of chocolates in local shops and markets.
5. Cote d’Or (Ivory Coast): Cote d’Or is a popular Ivorian chocolate brand that produces a variety of chocolate products. While they may not offer tours, you can find their chocolates in local stores and supermarkets in Ivory Coast.
6. MIA (Made in Africa) (South Africa): MIA is a chocolate brand that sources its cocoa from across Africa, including Tanzania and Madagascar. While they may not have physical locations for visits, you can find their products in stores and online.
7. Pacari Chocolate (Ecuador, with African cocoa): While Pacari is originally from Ecuador, they source cocoa from various countries, including those in Africa. They are known for their organic and fair-trade chocolates. You can find Pacari chocolate in various locations globally.

Asia

1. Royce’ Chocolate (Japan): Royce’ is a well-known Japanese chocolate brand with a focus on high-quality chocolates, including their famous Nama Chocolate. They have stores across Japan, and you can visit to enjoy a variety of chocolate treats.
2. Patchi (Lebanon, with a presence in various Asian countries): Patchi is a luxury chocolate brand originally from Lebanon, with a significant presence in various Asian countries. They offer a wide range of chocolates and often have boutique stores where you can explore and purchase their creations.
3. La Maison du Chocolat (Japan): La Maison du Chocolat, a renowned French chocolate brand, has a presence in Japan with boutique stores. You can visit to experience their exquisite chocolates and confections.
4. Silk Cacao (Vietnam): Silk Cacao is a Vietnamese chocolate brand known for its bean-to-bar chocolates. While they may not offer formal tours, you can explore their range of chocolates in their stores and learn about their production processes.
5. Meltz Chocolate Cafe (South Korea): Meltz Chocolate Cafe is a South Korean chocolate brand that offers a variety of handmade chocolates. They have cafes where you can enjoy chocolate treats and beverages.
6. Zotter Chocolate (Japan): Zotter, an Austrian chocolate brand, has a presence in Japan, offering a variety of organic and fair-trade chocolates. While they may not have dedicated factory tours, you can explore their products in stores.
7. Demarquette Fine Chocolates (Singapore): Demarquette, a British chocolate brand, has a presence in Singapore. You can visit their store to explore their handmade chocolates and unique flavor combinations.
8. Minimal Chocolate (Taiwan): Minimal Chocolate is a Taiwanese brand that focuses on minimalist packaging and high-quality chocolate. While they may not offer formal tours, you can find their products in various locations.

Australia

1. Haigh’s Chocolates: Haigh’s is one of the oldest and most respected chocolate makers in Australia. With stores in various cities, including Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, Haigh’s offers a range of high-quality chocolates. Some locations may offer tours or tasting sessions.
2. Lindt Chocolate Cafés: Lindt, the Swiss chocolatier, has a presence in Australia with Lindt Chocolate Cafés. These cafés offer a selection of Lindt chocolates, desserts, and hot chocolate. Lindt also has a factory outlet in Marsden Park, New South Wales.
3. Koko Black: Koko Black is an Australian chocolatier known for its premium chocolate creations. With locations in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and other cities, Koko Black provides a luxurious chocolate experience. Some locations may have chocolate appreciation sessions.
4. San Churro: While San Churro is best known for its Spanish churros, it also offers a variety of chocolate treats. With locations across Australia, including Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth, San Churro is a popular destination for chocolate lovers.
5. Guylian Belgian Chocolate Café: Guylian, the Belgian chocolate brand, has a presence in Australia with chocolate cafés. These cafés offer a selection of Guylian’s famous Belgian chocolates and desserts. You can find them in Sydney and other major cities.
6. Ernest Hillier Chocolates: Established in 1914, Ernest Hillier is one of the oldest chocolate manufacturers in Australia. While they may not offer public tours, you can find their chocolates in specialty stores and online.
7. The Margaret River Chocolate Company: With locations in Margaret River, Perth, and Swan Valley, this Western Australian chocolatier offers a range of chocolate products. Some locations may provide insights into the chocolate-making process.
8. Max Brenner Chocolate Bar: Max Brenner is an international chocolate chain with locations in Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. They offer a chocolate-centric menu with desserts, hot chocolate, and unique chocolate creations.

Before you visit

Before planning a visit, it’s recommended to check with the specific chocolate brand or chocolatier for the most up-to-date information on store locations, tastings, and any potential tours they may offer. Keep in mind that while some brands may not have formal tours, their retail locations often provide delightful opportunities to sample and purchase their chocolates.

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We arrived in Bogota on a rainy afternoon to spend the last three days of our Colombia trip. Looking at the clouds and the moody gray sky, I started feeling nostalgia for the Caribbean heat and the sun we left behind in Santa Marta that same morning. The taxi from the airport slowly made its way through the 9-million capital struggling with crazy traffic.

Sorry, Bogota – it was not love at first sight.

The city didn’t strike me with any beauty or typical architecture. It seemed huge, gray and dull. In my opinion, it definitely lacked character comparing to all Colombian cities we had visited so far.

It took us one hour to get from the airport to our hostel in La Candelaria. That’s where the picture became a little more optimistic. La Candelaria is the city’s old town. Over the years, it has succeeded in keeping the authentic vibe of Bogota alive. Full of old colorful houses, vintage shops, signature cafes, and French pastries (why French? Because of the large number of French expats). Churches, museums, and cozy restaurants follow. What’s more, many of Bogota’s universities are located within the old neighborhood giving it a pinch of youthful spirit.

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

Actually, what made a significant difference in the atmosphere was the widespread street art scene and culture in La Candelaria. We were surprised by the amazing graffiti artwork gazing at us from every corner.

I had read a little bit on the topic beforehand and it turned out Bogota was big on graffiti – one of the world’s hotspots. I sure wanted to learn more.

We found out the best way to get to know the local street art is to join the Bogota Graffiti tour. It’s the original and authentic tour that takes place in the streets of La Candelaria. It started back in 2011 when an Aussie street artist and a Canadian graffiti writer decided to share Bogota’s unique urban art scene and help promote local artists to a wider international audience. The tour is run by street artists for free, but like any other free tour – it is based on tips. They’ll show you around the old town where most of the graffiti works are located. You’ll be awed by the themes, dimensions and bright colors. At the end, if you’re satisfied with the story behind the mesmerizing images, it’s up to you to decide what the tour is worth.

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

The tour starts and wraps up in the Journalist Park (Parque de Los Periodistas). Our guide was a German girl who had been living in Bogota for the past 10 years. Along with the interesting graffiti facts, she was happy to share a lot of information on culture, the political scene, and history of the city. It was nice of her to recommend good restaurants, bars, and cafes that we passed by along the way. She also pointed out street art galleries where we could find more graffiti art or look for pieces of a specific artist.

I don’t want to give up any spoilers but I would love to share the facts that left the greatest impression on me! There has been a lot of controversy in the last decade whether or not graffiti should be legal in Bogota and Justin Bieber is personally involved in one of the stories. How odd is that?

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

Back in 2013, Justin Bieber had a show in the Colombian capital. Right after the concert, he was escorted to 26th street downtown Bogota where policemen guarded him while he was painting the Canadian flag with a marijuana leaf instead of a maple leaf (Justin is a Canadian). Quite creative, don’t you agree?

There was a lot of press and photographers to document his act. Can you imagine the street art society’s reaction? “If he can do it legally, so can we” – they thought. The following day hundreds of artist went on the streets. The police couldn’t do anything to stop them.

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

First, the crowd set out to paint over Bieber’s art. Of course, they didn’t stop there. In less than 48 hours, the entire 26th street turned into an art gallery. Even before that day, the streets and buildings of Bogota have conveyed the political and social messages of artists from all around the world.

The street art and murals really add a lot of color and character to the otherwise boring urban scenery. Most of the graffiti is made on public buildings or abandoned walls but there is a significant amount painted on private houses and apartments. All the artists need to do is knock on the door and ask for permission. The owners are mostly concerned about the main image and the theme of the artwork. When they find it’s going to be a bird or another animal (80% of the graffiti), they immediately agree.

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

Don’t get me wrong, the graffiti in Bogota is still a strong form of social protest and cultural expression. However, with the improving way of life and the growing middle class, modern artists have lost some preach from their paint. They are more focused on creating art that reveals their skills rather than on a cause.

Over the years the designs have become more and more complex. Graffiti artists nowadays use a stencil, spray paint, stickers and wheat-pasted posters. And since graffiti is technically more acceptable in Colombia, artists have the freedom to express themselves as they please.

If you would like to learn even more about the works and the people who helped make Bogota such a thriving hotspot of street art, visit the Graffiti tour website or simply, go there and experience it on your own!

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

© Tzvetelina Chorbadjiyska

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If you ever travel to Costa Rica, you can’t legally enter the country without knowing the principles of pura vida. You are given a 30-minute test on the topic where you should gain at least…

OK, now seriously. Your trip to Costa Rica will be deeper and more meaningful if you know the concept that explains pretty much everything in Costa Rica. It is also better than any souvenir that you can bring back home – a new lifestyle to make you happier. Aren’t Costa Ricans geniuses?

What does pura vida mean?

It is an expression every Costa Rican uses several times a day. Pura vida literally translates as “pure life” or “simple life” but it’s much more than this. It’s the art of living a happy and worry-free life, the concept of taking things as they are and not trying to change them by all means, the deep respect for nature, family and the important things in life. You will be able to indulge in the pura vida lifestyle if you spend some time in Costa Rica and look at the facial expressions of people when they hear these words. It’s the way ticos (people from Costa Rica) remind each other that life is to be enjoyed.

Where does the phrase pura vida come from

Most probably the phrase came with the Mexican movie “Pura vida” shown in Costa Rica in the 1950s. The main character goes from trouble to trouble but keeps his optimistic view saying “pura vida”. Although the phrase didn’t have immediate success, it became part of the everyday language nationwide by the end of 1970s.

How to use pura vida

– Hi, Maria, how are you?

– Pura vida.

or

– Pura vida?

– I’m fine!

or

– She is so pura vida!

This simple. Pura vida can be a greeting, a way to say “excellent” or “easy-going”. The most important thing is to accept it with your heart. If soemthing doesn’t turn out like you expected – pura vida! If someone doesn’t show up for your meeting – pura vida! If you have food for dinner – that’s also pura vida! If you meet a friend on the street – pura vida again.

The post How to practice pura vida and be happy in Costa Rica appeared first on 203Challenges.

Rumor has it that Colombia’s cuisine is not impressive at all. It is said to be bland, dull and lacking taste compared to other South American countries. What’s more, it’s mostly deep-fried and unhealthy. All these bad reviews did not put me off and I set out to prove them wrong. I was happy to find there is a strong vegetarian wave spreading around the country. In addition, the variety of world cuisines and restaurants you can choose from is huge.

The so-called unhealthy Colombian food turned out to be high in nutrients like protein and good fats. Accompanied by fresh fruit and juices this makes up the perfect diet. Read on:

Drink Coffee

A cup of local coffee

Colombia is the place to be this or next year for many reasons. And coffee is only one of them! The country produces some of the world’s highest quality coffee, and is one of the few countries worldwide that grows only the preferred sort of Arabica. Unfortunately, all the premium coffee beans are sold to export companies. The good news is that coffee tourism is becoming more and more popular throughout the whole country. The focus now is on developing a signature coffee culture. Specialty coffee shops are opening up everywhere and you can easily enjoy the taste of a good cup of local coffee.

Load on protein or go vegetarian

Typical Colombian food is high in protein and good fats – seafood, beans, lean meat, eggs, and avocado. Lunch turns into a filling, gut-busting challenge. Colombians take pride in everything. That’s why they use only premium local produce to prepare their traditional dishes – high-quality meat, fresh eggs and seafood from the Pacific or the Caribbean. You can even find vegetarian protein. Eating healthily and going vegetarian is the new trend spreading across the country. There are lots of vegetarian restaurants emerging and when it comes to produce, farmers are going organic.

Give tradition a shot

To fully experience a foreign country, you should try at least one local specialty. Tamal is a simple dish enjoyed all across Colombia. It comes wrapped in a banana leaf and the filling inside could vary between chicken, pork belly, ribs, boiled eggs, carrots, potatoes, rice and more. Mondongo is one of the hearty soups that will keep you warm on a cold day in the Andean zone. It is a signature dish of Colombia, containing pork, tripe and chorizo. The secret ingredients are cilantro and lime juice.

Indulge in all the street food

Colombia is all about the street food – from fresh fruit and juice stands to deep-fried snacks! The most famous are probably the sweet little donuts – boñuelos and the stuffed empanadas. Empanadas and arepas are sold at every corner. Stuffed with chicken, beef or mixed meat, cheese, and avocado – the choice is yours. If you are looking for something exotic, but less filling, go for patacones (deep-fried plantains). They’re known as Colombia’s to-go snack.

Eat fruit

Colombia offers diversity at its finest especially when it comes to fruit. There are loads of exotic fruit and you should eat all of them! On a hot Caribbean day make sure to fuel in on fresh fruit and freshly squeezed juices. Lime, orange, mandarin juice – they are everywhere. My personal favorite is guanabana. Mango and bananas are the most common when it comes to fruit. For an authentic taste, try pitaya, lulo, granadilla, mamoncillo or guanabana. You will not find them anywhere else.

Savor ajiaco soup in Bogota

You can basically find ajiaco anywhere in the country, but it’s typical for the region of Bogota (as bandeja paisa is typical for Antioquia). This hearty soup consists of chicken, three varieties of potatoes and corn. It’s usually served along with cream, capers, avocado and plantain. Simple and delicious – a great way to warm up on a rainy day in the capital!

Try Aguardiente

Aguardiente is a strong alcoholic beverage found throughout Latin America and Spain. The name comes from Latin and it means fiery (ardiente) and water (agua). Just like brandy, aguardiente started out as a distilled spirit made of whatever ingredients were available locally. Colombia’s aguardiente has a strong anise flavor. The brand we tried is the country’s best Aguardiente Antioqueño.

Seafood on the Caribbean

The costeños (people from the coast) have it all figured out – freshly caught fish and fresh coconut! Sounds like the ultimate beach meal, so why not combine them and make onе of Colombia’s best dishes? Alongside the coast you can find a diversity of fish (red snapper, corvina, mojarra, tilapia) usually accompanied by a side of coconut rice. If you prefer seafood, then don’t miss out on Cazuela de Marisco. Shrimp, clam and swordfish cooked in coconut milk make up the perfect combination for this creamy stew. All you need is some fresh veggies and a glass of white wine on the side.

Find a local craft beer

Caribbean cocktails and aguardiente are Colombia’s clichés. If you want to keep up with the latest trends, you should definitely look out for local craft beers and breweries popping up in every major town. I’ll name just a few brands that won’t disappoint – BBC (Bogota Beer Company), 3 Cordilleras and Nevada Brewery. The last one has even brought out a limited edition brew infused with coca leaves.

Drink coca tea

No, that won’t get you in trouble. Drinking coca tea is legal in Colombia as well as Peru, Argentina, Bolivia, Ecuador and Chile. It is used as a medicine throughout the Andes and it is highly recommended for travellers there as it prevents altitude sickness. It is offered widely in the cafes and restaurants in the capital, so you can give it a try. Coca flour, coca energy bars, coca-infused beer or rum, the leaf is slowly turning into Colombia’s new superfood.

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