You Need To Know How To Get To Tulum

Did you know that you can’t fly directly into Tulum? You should know that Tulum is two hours away from Cancun. The closest airport to Tulum is 2 hours away, so you’ll need to fly into Cancun. Once you’ve flown into Cancun, you’ll need to find a way to get from the airport to Tulum. You have three options:

1. Private/group transfer Shuttle – You can book a private transfer shuttle as a group or you can join a shuttle as an individual. You can arrange this ahead of time and this might feel safer than jumping into a random taxi once you land.

2. Taxi – This is by far the most expensive option. Once you step outside of the Cancun airport, you’ll be swarmed by taxi drivers. If you take a taxi, you can expect to pay between $60-$100 to get to Tulum. You can attempt to negotiate the price, but you’ll likely be paying close to $100.

3. ADO bus – This is your cheapest option. You’ll pay about $10 for a ride to Tulum. You can either book a bus that stops in Playa Del Carmen and transfers to Tulum or you can book a direct bus to Tulum. You can find an ADO bus kiosk in the airport alongside the rental car kiosks as you exit the airport OR you can pay for your ticket outside near the bus stop. After riding the ADO bus for years across Mexico, I can say that they are clean and completely safe.

4. Rental Car – A rental car will offer you plenty of flexibility in Tulum and nearby towns. I advise booking your rental car ahead of time. During high season, you should book the rental car directly through the company(I.e. Hertz, Avis) website as opposed to a third-party site (Expedia, Skyscanner, etc.)

You Need To Know How Exchange Money

While many places in Tulum certainly accept US dollars, you’ll need to know how to exchange your money to the local currency – Pesos. Skip the currency exchange kiosk in the airport. You’ll get the best exchange rate by withdrawing money from a local ATM once you arrive in Mexico.  You can withdraw cash from a local bank in the airport, in Cancun, or once you arrive in Tulum. Tulum Centro/pueblo is the best place to withdraw cash in Tulum as the ATMs in the hotel zone often run out of money.

Many businesses in Tulum accept credit cards, but you’ll need pesos for taxi rides, taco stands, excursions, etc. It’s also wise to carry cash in order to tip taxi drivers, servers, housekeepers, or anyone who provides a service/assistance during your trip. This goes a long way, especially now.

As a heads up, local businesses will charge you more if you do decide to use US dollars instead of Pesos.

You Need To Know Where Stay In Tulum

There are two sides to Tulum: the Tulum hotel zone and Tulum Centro.

Tulum Hotel Zone is full of villas, treehouses, & boutique hotels with direct access to the beach. It’s expensive AF but you’ll have direct beach access. Many hotels in the hotel zone don’t offer A/C during the daytime and the internet is all but non-existent. If you find yourself in the hotel zone, you’ll need to use hotel and restaurant wifi to stay connected.

Tulum Centro is an affordable area to stay and it’s about 10-15 minutes driving distance from the beach.  This is where the locals live and as a result, you’ll have a much more ‘local’ experience in the area.

Alternatively, Aldea Zama is a new development area in Tulum which is about a 5 minute drive from the beach. It’s directly between Tulum Centro and the Hotel Zone. You’ll find plenty of nice Airbnb’s to book in the area, which are great for large groups!

You Need To Know That Tulum Is Not A Resort Town

Unlike Cancun, Tulum is not a resort town. While the town changed tremendously, the original appeal of the town was it’s laid-back atmosphere and bungalow/boutique hotel vibe. There are plenty of boutique hotels, bungalow, and villas that have gone above & beyond to curate that bohemian vibe that Tulum is known for. Not to mention, the insane amount of resteraunts along the hotel zone with much better food than resort food. Trust me when I say, you won’t regret staying at a stunning bungalow in the hotel zone OR a sick airbnb in Tulum Centro. The options are endless.

There is only resort that is currently in Tulum is Kore Tulum. Other than that, you’ll need to drive 20-30 minutes outside of town to get to Dreams Tulum. Know that you’ll pay $50-$100 ONE WAY to get to the Tulum ruins, beach, and hotel zone if you decided to stay outside of town.

You Need To Know What To Pack

Ladies, leave your heels at home. The hotel zone is one long, rocky dirt road and you don’t want to twist an ankle or break a heel in that mud. I’ve seen it happen before.

The style in Tulum is very beachy, bohemian. Pack plenty of bikinis along with loose clothing for the daytime. Bring a few cute dresses to bar hop at night along with sandals.

The heat/humidity is on 100. Not too different than Houston, but it can be a lot of you’re not used to it, so be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen!

Do not forget the bugspray. The mosquitos in Tulum are from another planet. Better safe than sorry!

If you’re in need of anything, you can find anything you need at the Super-Aki(local supermarket) along with pharmacy’s in town. If you get sick, you should know that you don’t need a prescription to pick up medication in town.

You Need To Know When How To Get Around

Prior to leaving, you should decide how you plan to get around Tulum. If you choose not to rent a car, you should know that taxi costs can really add up. If you don’t plan to stay in the hotel zone, you will be paying for a taxi everytime you go to the beach or a restaurant in the area. While you don’t need a car in Tulum, it’s certainly more convenient to explore the town and surrounding areas. Traffic is pretty bad at nighttime and during holidays in the hotel zone, so you can expect to pay a lot for a taxi and/or wait up to an hour in traffic to get to your destination.

You Need To Know Where To Eat

You’ll have the opportunity to eat your heart out in Tulum, but first you need to make reservations. If you plan to eat at the best restaurants in the hotel zone – particularly on a weekend trip – you’ll need to book a table ahead of time. I recommend downloading the opentable app to make reservations or emailing/calling the resteraunt to book directly.

You Need To Know When To Go SightSeeing

When it comes to visiting ruins or cenotes, you’ll need to arrive close to open or closing time to have some peace without tour crowds. You can visit cenotes or ruins with a tour group, but it will be cheaper to pay directly at the door. If you’re curious about booking day trips in the area, you can book via viator or airbnb experiences.

You Need To Know That Tulum Is Not Cheap

While you can certainly do Tulum on a budget, the prices in the hotel zone rival New York and Las Vegas prices. If you plan to stay along the hotel zone, drink craft cocktails alongside hipsters, and party in Instagram-worthy beach clubs, be prepared to spend a pretty penny. The Tulum Hotel Zone is one of the most expensive areas in the entire country.

You Need To Know How To Do Tulum On A Budget

As I stated above, Tulum is a place where you can splurge OR save. It just depends on how you decide to travel. You can stay at a nice airbnb or hostel in Tulum centro on a for less than $30 a night. You can bike or take a collective bus to the beach for less than $10 a day. You can enjoy local street food for less than $5 a plate and enjoy cheap drinks at a variety of bars in Tulum Centro. You can get to and from Tulum using the ADO bus for less than $10 a day. If you go with a group, you can split a dope Airbnb for less than $50 a person. If you plan ahead, Tulum doesn’t have to be so expensive.

You Need To Know That Tulum Has Changed

I visited Tulum for the first time 5 years and I’ll be the first to tell you that Tulum has changed. You need to know that Tulum is not the low-key, unknown beach destination that it once was. There’s a Starbucks, there’s plenty of traffic, and it can get extremely busy in the high season. Despite it’s rapid growth, I still adore the area. If you manage your expectations, you can have an great time.

The post Things To Know Before Visiting Tulum appeared first on Showit Blog.

1. Go Horseback Riding at Campo Rico Ranch

We galloped through lush green farmland on this famous ranch where famous movies like Fast & Furious have been shot. I felt like a kid again as I rode through cornfields under the island sun. You can book ziplining and four-wheeling at the same ranch!

2. Take Foodie Tour Through Old San Juan

No better way to discover a place than through its food right? Ate my way all the way through old San Juan while learning about the history of the Island. Learned how to make Mofongo, enjoyed some tasty Mallorca sandwiches, and devoured the mango popsicle/paleta you see in the video here. You can’t miss Senor Paletas!

3. Have A Rum Experience

I got the chance to taste the rum and sip on cocktails in both classic and hidden gems throughout old San Juan on a cocktail tour. I’m a sucker for a good cocktail so this was the oneeeeeeee! If you’re going to visit the Bacardi Factory, be sure to plan ahead! I missed out because there was no availability when I arrived.

4. Go Island Hopping via Catamaran

I’ve been to both Culebra and Icacos Island vía catamaran on separate trips to PR. If you ask me, I personally preferred Icacos! However, both islands are gorg and worth the day trip! If you book the right one, you’ll get unlimited rum punch along with lunch onboard!

5. Venture out to Cueva Ventana

Which is a large cave in a limestone cliff out in Aricebe, Puerto Rico. The views are everything and this is definitely more off the beaten path!

6. Take a Foodie Tour

Wander the streets of Old San Juan while tasting traditional foods like the Mallorca, Mofongo, Tostones, lechón a la vara, Mallorca, and Arroz con Habichuelas with every single meal. Make a stop at Veradura, one of my Favorite restaurants in old San Juan.

7. Listen to La Bomba Music

If you’re looking for Afro- Puerto Rican music and culture, then La Bomba music might interest you!  Check out Terraza de Bonanza to experience the lively sounds of La Bomba!

8. Go Salsa Dancing

Salsa dancing to live music at la factoría on Monday nights(once rated top bar in the world, has 3 diff rooms and the backroom is live Salsa on certain nights). If you don’t know where to start, take salsa lessons! When In Puerto Rico, right?

9. Explore El Yunque Rainforest

Get ready to soak or dive(if you’re feeling adventurous)  into Puerto Rico’s National rainforest. El Yunque is rich in biodiversity and there’s no shortage of waterfalls throughout this massive rainforest. It’s absolutely worth the visit and it will give you a chance to discover Puerto Rico’s natural beauty! You can rent a car and visit the park for free. If you don’t have a car, you’ll need to book a day tour that included transportation. Get there early to beat the crowds and do some waterfall jumping if you get the opportunity!

10. Go Partying at La Placita(Plaza del Mercado)

There are several streets of markets & restaurants that turn into bars at night. SO much fun! We wanted to go back each night, *best nights are Thursday & Friday*

11. Stroll through Santurce

The Santurce neighborhood in San Juan is closer to the beach, street art, and yummy food. Check out La Placita(where market stalls basically transform into a block party by night), street art, and Lote 23(a fairly new food truck park) while you’re in the neighborhood.

12. You can book excursions using Get Your Guide, Trip Advisor, or Airbnb Experiences.

These are invaluable resources for booking with local companies via a trustworthy website where you can read reviews. They’re also ideal for solo travelers to join a group and meet new people. If you don’t rent a car, these sites will make it possible for you to discover more of the island without running up an Uber tab.

13. Kayak the Bioluminescence Bay

Ever seen sparkly plankton particles glow in the sea at dark? It’s pretty cool! If you visit during the right season, you’ll be able to see the water sparkle!

14. More than anything, just explore!

Wander the streets and talk to as many locals as possible to really get a feel for the city. With everything that we did, we still didn’t scratch the surface in San Juan!

The post 14 Bucketlist Activities For An Unforgettable Trip to Puerto Rico appeared first on Showit Blog.

Welcome to the island of Aruba! Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean with a population of just under 100,000 people. The island is the most popular vacation spot in the Caribbean and for good reason. There are several things that make this destination so special including its natural beauty, white sand beaches, world-class resorts and restaurants, and stunning diving sites with plenty of marine life. It has been voted as one of the best places to live and work on many occasions due to its stunning beaches, great weather, and friendly residents. Aruba is an enticing destination for most travelers, like myself, but it can be hard to plan your itinerary for such a short visit. Because of that, I have put together this ultimate 3-day itinerary for you to ensure you get to experience all of these wonderful aspects that I have been lucky enough to experience myself!

Why Visit Aruba?

What makes Aruba so special? Besides the obvious—the gorgeous beaches, resorts, marine life—it is one interesting island. Here are some interesting facts to get you excited for when you visit Aruba.

• The island is actually three islands connected by bridges: Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire.

• It has the second-longest bridge in North America

• There are over 200 natural freshwater springs on the island – one for every square mile!

• The country has become known for its casinos, being one of the first islands to offer casino gambling, since they were legalized in 1976.

• The average temperature ranges from 75° to 85° F year-round, with consistently gorgeous weather (as long as you avoid hurricane season)

• The island is situated just above Venezuela. You can even see the country from certain parts of the island.

• Aruba is a constituent country of the kingdom of the Netherlands – right along with Netherlands, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten.

• The locals speak Papiamento, a Creole language rooted in Dutch, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French(along with a few other languages). That’s not all though. Most of them speak 4-5 languages. Had this American feeling really bad about my 1.5 languages spoken.

• Aruba is incredibly diverse, a true melting pot with over 90 nationalities represented across a population of over 100k people.

• YOU CAN DRINK THE WATER!!! Thanks to a desalinization plant, the island is known for its refreshingly tasty tap water. No need to buy water bottles. Just bring your own to refill.

• Aruba produces lots of Aloe Vera. You’ll probably need some after spending your days in the sun.

• Despite the tropical climate, Aruba is a desert island.

• There are over 40 beaches to be found in Aruba, famous for the white sand that can be walked barefoot even at the hottest time of day.

• Aruba is known for some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean (bring an underwater camera!)

• Aruba’s nickname is “one happy island”, and it def lives up to its name!

Where to Stay in Aruba

The first step in your planning your itinerary is finding where to stay in Aruba. I cannot tell you how great my stay at Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa was.

Set on tranquil Eagle Beach and recently named one of the “Top Ten Beaches in The World” by TripAdvisor, Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa occupies perhaps the most enviable oceanfront hotel location in Aruba. Mánchebo offers yoga, Pilates classes, spa services, dining options, pool access and beach access.

You’ll be welcomed with a mojito upon checking in and you have four restaurants to choose from if you’re feeling hungry after a long day of lounging on the beach. While I LOVED eating at The Chophouse, my favorite part of staying at Manchebo was the free breakfast. This wasn’t just your standard continental breakfast buffet, but instead a full food and smoothie menu! Plus, it was included in the cost of your stay. What more could a traveler ask for?

Book your stay here!

What to do in Aruba

Now that you know where you’re staying, you need to find out what to do in Aruba. There are countless experiences to be had, it can be hard to figure out how to fit it all in! But don’t worry—That is what I am here for. Of course, you can change up the activities and days to your preference, but hopefully this will be a start to getting you prepared for the trip of a lifetime!

Aruba is definitely known for its beaches and if you love adventure like myself, you might be wondering what else there is to this island. Don’t worry, I gotchu! There’s definitely something for everyone!

Day 1 – Kick back and Relax

The day you arrive might be a tiring one. Plus, you’ve arrived at one of the most laid-back islands out there! Give yourself some time to relax and take in the beauty of Aruba.  Unpack your bags before exploring your hotel and journeying to the nearest beach.

Head down to the famous beaches – I mean, aside from the food, isn’t this what you came for? Choose from beaches like Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, Arashi Beach, Manchebo Beach, Malmok Beach & Boca Catalina Cove(ideal for snorkeling), Boca Keto, and many more!

Do Yoga on The Beach – Many hotels, like the one I shared above, will offer yoga and it makes sense that they do— Aruba is so laid back and peaceful that if only makes sense for you to find some Zen.

Nap in a hammock – enjoy the sound of the waves and the beautiful weather while recouping from your travel.

Try some local food – There are plenty of tasty restaurants to choose from,  but I’d really recommend kicking things off with some Aruban cuisine! Consider trying Zeerovers, a local favorite that serves up fresh seafood right on the beach. As an alternative, hit up The old Cunucu House. This 150-year-old home has been converted into a charming restaurant that serves up authentic Aruban plates. They’re known for their goat, lamb, and oxtails!

Scroll to the bottom of this post for all of my food recommendations! 

Day 2 – Explore The Island 

One of the best things about Aruba is the sights to see and you’ve got a full day to explore. I recommend taking a day to appreciate the beauty and charm of the island. Here are some great options:

Tour Arikok National Park – This national park takes up 20 percent of the island and you can explore the landscapes via ATV or 4-wheeler. You can also do a day hike with a park ranger if you’re in need of a physical challenge. Book with ABC Tours Aruba!

Go snorkeling – This is a must at least once! The reefs are unlike any other. You can spend a day on a catamaran, where you can snorkel, swim, and chill while sipping on Aruba Aribas, the National drink!

Tour Natural Springs – You can take a tour of one of the many natural springs at Casibari National Park or Piscadera Bay Resort & Marina- both offer snorkeling opportunities as well as guided tours through subterranean caverns which provide access to cold, deep freshwater pools.

Visit a natural pool and Indian cave on a Jeep Safari Tour – Take half of your day and get a tour around the island, with the opportunity to see one of the most beautiful natural highlights. The Natural Pool in Arikok National Park is a perfect place to swim and snorkel with other adventurous types who have made the arduous 4×4 Land Cruiser road trip. You will stop at various attractions along your journey, like Dos Playa beach or Fontein Garden before arriving at this serene natural poolside setting where there are rock formations on either side of you as well! This is a great way to combine both Arikok National Park and natural springs! I HIGHLY recommend ABC tours – ask for Boss Lady!

Spend a day on a catamaran – There’s no better way to explore an island! You can snorkel(if diving is too much for you), swim, slide/jump into the water or just chill while sipping on Aruba Aribas – the National drank. I sailed with Delphi Watersports!

Jump on a party bus – Looking for a nightcap? Hop aboard the Kukoo Kunuku bus, where you’ll party on a wacky bus trip while cruising through both city streets and country roads. It might sound cheesy, but it’s a great way to make new friends and while seeing the island.

Day 3—Go on an adventure

You cannot visit Aruba without taking part in an adventure. Get out of your comfort zone and have an experience that will stay with you forever!

Go diving – Aruba is a great place to get your dive on. Divers may want to explore Antilla Shipwreck, which has been listed as one of the largest shipwrecks in Caribbean waters! You can even sign up for an intro/discovery swim if you don’t have any experience – there’s no better way to learn than by doing it yourself right?

Take Kite Surfing Lessons – This is the place to take your kiting skills up a notch! The strong trade winds make it an ideal destination for this exciting sport.

Go Cliff Jumping – Cliff jumping in Aruba is an adventure! The natural pools are beautiful and it’s easy to get yourself into the water if you’re feeling adventurous. I went for a dive at Conchi pool, which can only be reached by 4×4.

Learn to cook a traditional meal – Foodie alert!! If your idea of a good time is getting adventurous with some food, then this one is for you! IMO, food is one of the ultimate paths to learning about a new destination. Instead of just eating, learn about the ingredients, process, etc. This can be found on Airbnb Experiences linked here! 

Eat your heart out!!

This one isn’t reserved for any particular day! Here are some other restaurants worth trying during your time in Aruba!

Oneil’ Caribbean Kitchen – Another local fave!! Another spot that combines Aruban and Caribbean flavors with dishes like Jerk Chicken, Ribs, lamb, etc. This came highly recommended but the locals that I met.

Screaming Eagle/ @screamingeaglearuba – Sit out on the porch and enjoy tasty seafood in a relaxing atmosphere! Everything we ordered here was on point so you’ll just have to see for yourself. Be sure to make a reservation!

Flying Fish Bone – Ever ate with your feet in the ocean? Well, you can at this seafood spot! I honestly thought this would be one of those places where the views surpassed the food quality  but everything was on point…including the service! This spot definitely lived up to the hype and it was incredible to sip on Aruba Ariba(Aruba’s signature cocktail) while the sunset over the sea.

William’s Dutch Pancake House/ @dutchpancakesaruba – I’m a sucker for a solid breakfast and this is def one of the top 10 breakfasts that I’ve enjoyed around the world. You MUST try the traditional Dutch Pancakes – particularly the Poffertjes (Dutch style silver dollar pancakes). From this point on, If my pancakes aren’t mini then I don’t want them! Arrive early, but know that this breakfast is def worth the wait!

Additional tips for visiting Aruba

Rent a car in Aruba – Taxis can cost you up to $30 one way and the island is very spread out, so you’ll save time and money by renting a car. You’ll also be able to explore to your heart’s desire! Be prepared to drive through non-stop roundabouts.

Pack plenty of sunscreen and mosquito spray – While the weather isn’t extremely hot, you’ll def want to bring sunscreen. Mosquito spray will save you during late evenings on the beach.

Bring a water bottle – Aruba is known for its refreshing water, so I’d recommend bringing a water bottle to refill on your daily adventures!

If you’ve been to Aruba and you have any recommendations, please drop them below! What‘s been your favorite restaurant experience while traveling?

I hope you can find some inspiration in this post for your next trip to Aruba! Let me know what you think of the itinerary and which recommendations from this 3-day adventure might work best for you. If nothing else, it should be a good start as you plan your own perfect vacation on one of our favorite Caribbean islands!

The post How To Plan the Ultimate 3 Day Getaway To Aruba | Aruba 3-4 Day Itinerary appeared first on Showit Blog.

This post was sponsored by Rosetta Stone. All thoughts are mine. 

I’ve been on a mission to learn Spanish ever since I can remember. 

My language learning journey started in middle school. 

Of all the languages I could learn in high school, I chose Spanish as my language elective once again. 

As a Texan, it just made sense to learn Spanish. 

In my college days, I knew that learning Spanish would lead to more job and internship opportunities. I knew that it would make me a greater global citizen. I knew that it would help me travel more freely if I ever got the chance to see the world. Despite being fully aware of the benefits of learning Spanish, I still never managed to learn more than the basics. 

Once I began working full-time in HR, I found that I needed a hobby. Post-grad depression was setting in heavy and I needed to find a way to live life on my own terms in the context of working a 9-5. My blog, Hey Ciara, served as the perfect creative outlet at the time. It was a way for me to share my passion and love for world travel, even when I couldn’t travel at the capacity that I truly desired. I knew early on that I’d quit my job to pursue full-time travel. I began plotting where I’d kick off my year of travel. Mexico, Central America, and South America were the first regions that came to mind. 

Firstly, I knew that I could fly to Mexico for less than $200. I could easily make my way from North America down to South America on a budget. I could learn about a variety of cultures in Latin America and listen to plenty of Reggaeton along the way (and I listened to plenty). Finally, I knew that I could finally immerse myself in the Spanish language far beyond the classroom. 

If you’ve been following for a while, you know I spent several months backpacking throughout the region. I spoke Spanish in markets, taxis, restaurants, etc. I stumbled over my words and oftentimes had to whip out my translator if I needed any assistance. I took one-on-one Spanish classes in Guatemala and even stayed in a Guatemalan family’s home.  I practiced Spanish any chance I got and I truly fell in love with the language. 

After several months, I left the region speaking a conversational level of Spanish. While I was able to get a grasp on the language much quicker than I had in school, I still have a lot to learn. If someone speaks too fast, I find that I’m unable to follow. Let’s just say, I have the grammar and vocabulary of a 12-year-old. I planned to spend more time in both Mexico and Guatemala during 2020 so that I could continue learning, but the pandemic curved that plan. 

Once quarantine began, I knew that it would be the perfect time to brush up on my Spanish-speaking skills. This would give me a way to travel and learn about different cultures from the comfort of my home. I immediately downloaded Rosetta Stone, created a Reggaeton playlist, and tuned into Netflix Spain!

Since then, I’ve been using Rosetta Stone to learn more vocabulary and nail down some better grammar. This has been the ultimate way for me to stay busy, keep my mind active, and focus on a goal to keep me moving forward at this very uncertain time. I truly love learning Spanish and it has made me look forward to future travels. I’m more than ready to show off all that I’ve learned over the past few months. If I decide to continue classes in Mexico post-pandemic, I’ll be much further along in my language learning journey. Plus, I learned that Rosetta Stone also offers Live Lessons that are completely free. So there’s no better time to start learning a new language.

If you’re looking for a way to immerse yourself in another culture and build a skill that can help you in your future travels, I recommend learning a language with Rosetta Stone! 

The post Learning Spanish During Quarantine With Rosetta Stone appeared first on Showit Blog.

Here are some of the places I’ve cried: ⁣⁣
⁣⁣
A Parisian bedroom after saying goodbye to a special adventure and an even more special someone. ⁣⁣

⁣⁣At a club in Colombia mere hours after being robbed. But these were tears of pure gratitude not sadness. Funny how that works. ⁣⁣

Flights. Oh, countless flights. Shoutout to that flight attendant who gracefully passed me a mini-bottle of wine lmao. You’re the real MVP. Something MUST be in the air on flights. ⁣⁣

On a safari jeep in Kenya. So many animals. So many emotions. ⁣⁣

⁣On a hidden rooftop in Greece with a bottle of wine in hand and in the arms of someone who reassured me that TEARS ARE GOOD. It must have been a perfect combination of the sunset and the person and the moment and ugh.⁣⁣

In the arms of a new friend in a hotel in Ecuador after losing an old friend.

⁣ At a bar in Cuba with a stranger I had just met in a tour earlier that day discussing childhood sh*t???(she’s probably reading this…hey girl ) shoutout to solo travel and the magnetic instant connections that it breeds!! ⁣⁣

⁣⁣Feeling like I was on my deathbed after a severe case of food poisoning in Uzbekistan. ⁣⁣

⁣⁣
Admiring the sheer beauty of the landscapes in Iceland from a campervan with my bestfriend ⁣⁣

⁣On a night bus in Peru. Iono if it was bc I was watching La La Land or because we were literally about to fall off the side of this cliff. Emotions were running high though! ⁣⁣

⁣⁣
What can I say? Travel has made me soft. With such a whirlwind of experiences, the tears had to flow. I’m just glad I’ve learned to make space for them. Inspired by @haleydrewthis ⁣Ever cried tears of sadness or joy on a trip?

The post All The Places That I’ve Cried | How Travel Made Me Soft appeared first on Showit Blog.

An unforgettable night in the Sahara Desert.

THE JOURNEY TO THE SAHARA

The journey to the Sahara was a long one, but I knew it’d be worth it. After stepping into the only non-muslim permitting mosque in Casablanca and shopping in the maze-like Medina in Fes, our tour group made our way south to Midelt. Situated in the high plains between the middle & high atlas mountains, this stop allowed us to witness the Berber way of life. It was the perfect way to break up our 2-day drive just before arriving in Merzouga, a small town that sits right at the edge of the Sahara.

ARRIVING TO MERZOUGA

We arrived to remote Merzouga midday after driving through massive gorges and lush green valleys. We dropped our bags off at a hotel overlooking the desert, packed small overnight bags, and set off for the experience we’d all been waiting for – a night camping the Sahara. I remember asking all 9 members of our group what they were looking forward to most and the majority admitted that they expected our desert trek to be the highlight of the trip. I couldn’t help but feel the same amount of excitement for what was to come.

Before jumping on our camels, we prepped ourselves for the elements by wrapping scarves around our heads in traditional Berber style and fueling up with some Moroccan mint tea. We walked out onto the sand to meet the camels who’d be carrying us through the dunes. Since this was my first time seeing a camel in real life, I was completely taken aback at just how tall these animals were. They seemed calm & confident, which helped ease some of the fear a few people in our group had. One by one, our Berber guides helped us get mounted on top of our camels. We were told to hold on tightly as the camels abruptly rose from the ground to an upright position. As I sat atop my camel’s hump, I could hardly believe that this was real life. Woah! I was seriously about to ride a camel!

RIDING CAMELS THROUGH THE DESERT

Up then down, was the continuous motion as we set off into bright orange dunes are far as the eye could see. There was not a single soul or building in sight. Other than the squeals we’d occasionally release as the galloping camels jolted our bodies, you couldn’t hear a sound. The desert was completely silent. Despite the silence of the Sahara, I was overwhelmed by the power of the dunes that towered around us. We all expressed how surreal the experience was in the moment. I began to tear up as we rode into sunset and our shadows silently dance along the seas of sand.

DRUMS UNDER THE SKY

We arrived at our desert camp at dusk and our guides helped us off of the camels. We quickly realized that the 2-hour camel ride would leave us sore for the next few days, but we all agreed it was worth it. The ride was unforgettable! Before getting settled in our tents, we ran to the top of a nearby dune to take in the views during the last bit of light. After only several days, it was like we forgot that we started this trip as strangers. We were cracking inside jokes, rolling in the sand, and snapping photos. I sunk my hands into the powder-like sand and thanked the universe for gifting me these new friends to share this experience with. We headed back down to the desert camp and the first order of business was Moroccan mint tea, of course. We looked at each other in the eye, clinked our glasses, and gushed about the fact that we were spending the night in the Sahara together. We sipped on our tea as the desert guide served us a traditional Tagine. This was the best Tagine of our trip, and I think the extraordinary setting had something to do with it.

SLEEPING UNDER THE STARS

After eating, we all gathered around a campfire for some traditional Berber music. It was just us,  the warmth of the fire, and the sound of drums underneath the night sky. We danced, we sang, and we rejoiced under the starlight. Millions of tiny stars filled the pitch-black sky. It felt like we were in a dream. We all decided to scrap the tents and sleep outside right under the stars. If there was any place made for sleeping outdoors, this was it.

FINAL MOMENTS IN THE SAHARA 

We awoke at a silent 6 am to prepare for our trek back into Merzouga. With sore bums, we jumped back onto our camels with the hopes of witnessing a miraculous sunrise. Unfortunately, the fog prevented us from doing so but that didn’t make our last moments in the Sahara any less magical. I sat on my camel, looking out into the sand, absorbing the calm, and trying to soak in the entire experience. In fact, I decided to demount my camel and stay in the dunes a bit longer as the rest of my group continued on. I stood completely alone surrounded by sand for nearly an hour, trying to process what exactly my eyes were seeing. Being out there in complete solitude was nearly too much to handle. It was both powerful and humbling.

My feet sank with each step as I finally made my way back to the hotel to meet up with the rest of my group. I took one last look around at the magnificent mountains of sand that surrounded me and I felt an immense amount of gratitude. This would be my last moment in the Sahara desert, but I knew that the experience would be imprinted in my mind forever.

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The post An Unforgettable Experience In The Sahara Desert | Morocco appeared first on Showit Blog.

This blog post is in Partnership with Explore Morocco

I hardly ever get “culture shock” these days, but Marrakech was different – in the best way possible. I’d heard about the medinas – the old towns of Moroccan cities which once served as protection from invaders and date back to the 11th century. However,  nothing could have fully prepared me for wandering through these winding alleyways.

My senses were ignited as soon as I stepped foot into Marrakech’s medina or marketplace, Djemaa El Fna. It became apparent that you could easily lose yourself here – both literally and figuratively. There were so many sounds, sights, and smells vying for my attention all at once. It felt like I was immediately transported to another world.

Once we stepped into the medina, I was smacked with the overwhelming smells & sights of my surroundings, like the sound of sandals clacking against the hot pavement, donkeys pulling carts of who-knows-what, engines from speedy motorcycles, endless forms of transportation buzzing by, spices on spices on spices. There were goat heads laying on tables, men giving unwarranted directions, endless honking, winding walls that made me feel like I was in a maze, the call to prayer sung in every corner, horses galloping in carriages and so much more. My senses were on alert as I wandered through the blush alleyways unsure of what would lie around the corner. Exhilarating and vibrant – it’s easy to see why they call Marrakech the ‘Red City’.

I really try to be mindful of my surroundings and appreciate every moment when I travel. Morocco made that easy.

Here’s my Marrakech Experience in 5 senses: 

Sight: Red taxis, blue taxis, ornate tiles & archways, dark & narrow alleyways inside the medina, Arabic letters, the man serving my food, olives, fish, naturally dyed clothing, stray kittens, donkeys carrying loads, leather jackets, leather poufs, mosques, the process of scarves being stitched, and the molding of wet clay.

Sound: The call to prayer, horns honking, Arabic, donkeys straining, “Balak” which means to move out of the way in the medina, and “Shukra” which means thank you.

Smell: Dust, fresh mint, engine exhaust, and the scent of pigeon poop from the leather tanneries.

Taste: Camel burger…don’t ask, amazing lentils, beets, fresh yet tasteless bread, olive oil & salt to give the bread

taste, bitter mint tea, and the sweet & savory taste of chicken pastilla.

Feel: Kaftan on my skin, mint leaves, leather, fluffy rugs, and the hammam (traditional body scrubbing) that removed all of my dead skin.

Anytime I hear these sounds or smells these scents, I am immediately transported back to these days spent walking through the medina. Marrakech was one of my final designations in Morocco, after Fez, Casablanca, Merzouga, Moulay Idris, and Ait Ben Haddou. Out of all of the cities I visited, it certainly left the biggest mark on me.

Here are my tips for exploring the medina:

Get a Guide – A guide might make you feel more comfortable and they’ll also be able to provide relevant information. This will also prevent you from getting lost.

Bargain – Yes, you can and absolutely should bargain! It’s customary! Stand your ground, but have fun!

Wander Wisely – Be mindful of your surroundings, use a money belt and carry valuables closely.

Buy A Local Sim – Download Maps.me or Google Maps in order to help you find your way around the medina. You should be able to buy a local sim for cheap.

Dress Appropriately – While it’s not mandatory, it’s best that your shoulders and knees are covered due to cultural customs.

Know A Few Arabic Words – Learning some basic phrases will get you far, especially with the locals!

Be Respectful While Taking Photos – You’ll want to take plenty of photos. Just respect local boundaries and always be sure to ask if you want to take photos of/with people.

Marrakech is one of those places that reminded me why I travel – to see, feel, and experience a totally different world. Enjoy!

The post My First Impression of The Medinas In Marrakech, Morocco appeared first on Showit Blog.

This was in response to another (White) guy in our trip asking why we, the black girls, were specifically being swarmed for photos. I mean, It was obvious to us. We were the only black people in sight during our entire time in Uzbekistan. How could he not see this? ⁣⁣After all, this is my norm while living and sometimes even existing while being black.
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Traveling(and living) while black means being hyper-aware of your existence and how it shapes your experience within the world. I’m also aware that other people are aware and it’s the exact reason that I have no choice but to be.

I can see the stares, sneaking of photos, and close whispers to their friends. Sometimes it’s in my face and sometimes it’s a bit more hidden. It mostly happens in places like Eastern Europe, Asia, and even parts of Mexico where there are few if any black people around.

I can usually chalk it up to curiosity, but the hardest part is not knowing. Thanks to media(especially historically) and universal stereotypes, we have a less than favorable image around the world and this may be the only perception that they have of us. So are these stares of pure interest or disdain? The latter must be taken into consideration and it can be exhausting when you simply want to enjoy your trip like everyone else. ⁣⁣
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Somehow I’ve ended up becoming the attraction at every main attraction in places like Uzbekistan and Budapest. Like, I couldn’t take a few steps without being approached for photos by entire families. People followed us the entire time waiting for their chance to jump in a frame with us to the point that we had to turn people away.

Contrary to regions that I’ve traveled like Eastern Europe, these locals weren’t shy about showing their interest in us. They didn’t hold back. They gasped and pointed and…smiled. “Black is beautiful.”, one man told us as he shook our hands. The stares weren’t blank or flat. Little girls acted as if they’d just seen their favorite celebrity. They were very enamored in a way that I’d never experienced before…so we reluctantly gave in.

How to Handle The Challenges That Come With Being A Black Traveler

This is a reality of traveling while black and it presents itself in different ways for black travelers around the world. Some of us find it entertaining and others find it annoying, as nobody wants to be treated like a zoo animal when they’re just trying to enjoy their vacation.

I understand the intrigue so I can usually brush it off and not take any offense to it…I mean, who could blame them?

The challenging part is discerning people’s true intentions and that would be up to the individual to decipher.

If you feel uncomfortable at any point, then throw your shades on and ignore with zero apologies. As a traveler, you owe nobody anything…especially not a photo. This isn’t as simple as changing our bright hair color in a primarily dark-haired region or even covering up tattoos that make one stand out.

We cannot change our skin tone. We cannot hide or coverup. With that being said, it’s important to do what you need to feel most comfortable and safe while traveling.

The black experience is not a monolith but that’s a completely different conversation.

I hope that you don’t let one place or experience stop you from seeing for yourself.

The world is your oyster too.

On another note, where do these photos end up anyway? Does anyone know?

I could start a series about being black abroad, especially as a solo female traveler. The treatment, assumptions, questions. Is that something you all would be interested in?

The post Being Black In Uzbekistan | What It’s REALLY Like Being Black Abroad appeared first on Showit Blog.

How did I end up drinking and watching the most beautiful sunset on a 50 year old woman’s boat? I’ll tell you how.
My heart beat was racing, my body full of adrenaline.

We’d just jumped from a cliff into ice cold water and the sun was about to set over Milos.

The few people who were hanging around we’re departing, which meant that we would have this precious beach all to ourselves.

Suddenly, Archeleos was jumping for joy. His friend, who happened to be on a boat in the distance, spotted us from afar.

“There’s no way!”, we thought. How could his friend spot us on the beach from miles and miles away?

Well, before we knew it, we were all meeting on the beach. His friend was a skipper and he was hosting a 50 year old woman on a month long sailing trip around the Greek islands – solo. ⁣⁣Um…can we say “goals”?
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This woman was a character. The kind of person you only hear about in stories or see in movies. She was talkative, direct, and curious. She spoke with a cigarette in her hand and she had a few more adult treats that she’d brought along with her.

After a brief meeting, she invited us to join her on the sailboat. ⁣⁣ We sat on the boat as the sun set over the ocean. We shared drinks and interesting conversations. She was the life of the party.

“It’s destiny”, she proclaimed.

And I couldn’t help but agree with her.

How did we end up on this boat right here in the middle of the ocean with her with every single one of us being strangers? ⁣⁣Should I call it serendipity? Synchronicity?
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I’ve been faced with this question many times during my travels, but I’ve learned that some things don’t need an explanation. These moments are made for living. ⁣⁣
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Have you met people during your travels or found yourself in circumstances that can’t be explained by coincidence? Would love to hear your stories!

The post Sweet, Serendipitous Travel Moments In Milos, Greece appeared first on Showit Blog.

Well, here’s the thing: I’ve traveled the world alone for the past few years and it’s led to incredible experiences BUT I’m constantly trying to step outside of my comfort zone. Solo travel was a HUGE challenge for me when I first started but I’ve since become accustomed to it. Why not switch things up?

I first visited Greece in 2015 with a group of strangers and had a blast. Way back in 2015, travel was just a far-flung dream. I had no idea how to plan an extended trip in a foreign country and I def wasn’t ready to travel alone. So I signed up for a 35-day group trip through Europe with 30 strangers in hopes that it would help me ease my way into solo travel. I figured that I’d is able to travel solo without feeling like I was completely alone. I figured that I’d have a perfect balance of planned experiences and free time to explore on my own terms if I truly wanted to. That trip felt like REAL WORLD: EUROPE, but I left with life-long friends and endless memories.

I’ve since joined several group trips and I truly believe they’re the ultimate way to ease your way into solo travel without sacrificing your freedom. Despite the fact that I’ve been to Greece twice before, this trip led me to new adventures and discoveries. We visited the islands of Paros, Santorini, and Amorgos. We spent hours trekking across these islands, which allowed us to witness dramatic landscapes from a different perspective. We took cooking classes together and even learned a few traditional dances. We visited Greek churches and got lost inside traditional white villages. This trip made me fall even more in love with the country and its culture. It was made even more special by the group of strangers that I can now call friends. Here are some reasons you should consider giving group travel a try:

MEET NEW PEOPLE

I always feel nervous before group tours. There’s something scary about the thought of being stuck with strangers for an extended period of time. However, this could be the perfect solution for those of you who wish to travel without waiting around for others to get on board. You’ll have the support of a group while also having the freedom of a solo traveler if you truly wish. You’ll also have a solid group of like-minded people who share the same love for travel. In my opinion, there’s no better way to ease your way into solo travel. We ended up liking each other so much that we decided to extend our trip together! You never know!

GET LOCAL GUIDES

There’s nothing like being led by a local. If you want to truly immerse yourself in the culture and discover more about a country, then a local guide can help you do just that. These guides know the country like the back of their hands and they’re able to answer every question you may have. They’ve led countless groups and lived in Greece all of their lives. When it comes to multi-day treks and outdoor activities, knowledgable guides become a necessary safety precaution – especially for women traveling alone. I would have been reluctant to hike some of those trails on my own. Our guides cooked, partied, and danced with us until the very last day.

TRAVEL STRESS-FREE

Some of us love the trip planning process, while others prefer to show up and have a good time. Trip logistics can be a pain, especially in certain destinations. If you don’t know where to start or simply prefer the convenience of a curated trip, then a group tour is likely the best option. All you have to do is arrive and let the guides lead the way. They’re on-the-ground experts that have taken the time to create dynamic itineraries. I was able to discover the island of Amorgos, which I’d never heard of or seen before. There’s no way I would have visited on my own if I weren’t on this trip. I saw sites that I probably wouldn’t have been to by myself. Transportation, boat transfers, accommodation, and even most meals were included in the trip total. This can release the pressure that most of us feel to plan the ‘perfect’ trip!

Despite my initial reservations, I left this trip connected to myself and the world around me. I pushed myself both physically and socially. I got the chance to see Greece from a completely different perspective and I’d happily do it all over again. The daily hikes were exactly what my mind and body needed while the new friends I made were the icing on the cake. Head over to my Instagram to see behind the scenes of this trip and stay tuned for more blog posts about my time in Greece.

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