Becoming a digital nomad or remote worker? Tips to find the perfect location to live and work abroad

Hi there again, 2020. Some of us finally have the guts to face you, stand up, and get creative again! I believe the following guide to find the perfect place to live and work abroad for new digital nomads or remote workers may be the first major step in the right direction for many in an otherwise daunting year.

If there’s a master lesson we were taught in the past several months, it’s the importance of our “base camp”–whether we are a digital nomad or a 9-5 worker. Many of us experienced a really powerful shift in our day-to-day routine, in our priorities.

What do I really need inside these four walls?

How far am I from the places and people I love?

Where can I go safely, while also experiencing a sense of community?

Where do I find my mind wandering to?

digital nomad in Costa Rica working from the beach

To me, it was the beach and yoga. The connection to the ocean and the calmness and centering of the mind and soul that outdoor yoga delivers are all I really needed. With most relatives always afar, that slice of socially-distanced paradise became a sanctuary to my husband and I (oh yes, I got married. More on that on a future post!).

And I’m not alone: the silver lining of this crisis has been that a lot of us find ourselves working remotely full-time, digital nomad or not. This means an increased flexibility to go out there and find a haven you can call home temporarily–perhaps even escaping strict lockdowns and crowds.

If living and working abroad has always been a dream of yours, seize this moment!

Today’s guest writer Aaron is a dedicated yoga teacher I met back in 2014 while on a yoga retreat in Costa Rica. Blue Osa, the sacred land he calls home, transformed my mind and soul in ways that I can barely explain, so it is with great pleasure that I present to you his detailed guide. He will share useful tips on how to pick the best remote worker location and see if living and working in Costa Rica is right for you.

Aaron and Blue Osa, take it away!

living and working from Costa Rica yoga retreat

The once-elusive digital nomad job title is now recognized worldwide as a legitimate way to live, travel, and work remotely. But not all exotic locations are great places to live as a remote worker.

As a temporary resident, there are many factors to consider in order to ensure a smooth and successful transition.

When deciding on a location to live and work abroad, you should focus on what could make or break your experience, such as amenities available and community. It’s easy to think you want to be amid the hustle and bustle of a city–until you find you’re unable to sleep at night because of nightlife noise.

On the flip side, you may think you want to live on a remote beach to escape the chaos that this pandemic has stirred–but may be worried about being isolated again.

Enter Costa Rica: the happy medium you may be looking for!

living and working remotely in Costa Rica, things to do

Costa Rica. a digital nomad hotspot

Costa Rica is a place where the jungle meets the beach, with beautiful weather year-round and plenty of fresh food, interesting sightseeing, and adventurous activities to offer. From hundreds of miles of unspoiled beaches and a stress-free pura vida lifestyle to adrenaline-pumping rappelling, zip lines and scuba diving, it’s no wonder this Central American country is becoming a digital nomad hotspot.

Furthermore (and perhaps most importantly), Costa Rica has the infrastructure to accommodate the growing numbers of travelers and remote workers. A perfect example? High-speed Wi-Fi availability, even in seemingly-remote beach towns.

However, many new remote workers make “rookie mistakes,” forgetting to think beyond beautiful surroundings and Internet connectivity when choosing a base camp to travel, work, and live in.

Factors you should consider as a digital nomad or remote worker

A productive environment

Any seasoned digital nomad will tell you how important it is to create a productive environment to work in. If you work from your accommodation, that means ensuring you have a dedicated working space. If you like to go out, you’ll want to choose a location with various coffee shops and unlimited WiFi, plenty of cable ports, and desks. Likewise, if you enjoy participating in local events and networking, you’ll want an area that has a lot going on.

living and working in Costa Rica, community

A community of like-minded people

Working in solitude might be the most productive environment for some. Still, you’ll likely want to collaborate and meet like-minded people every once in a while. As a digital nomad or remote worker, you are away from most things that are familiar to you, including friends and family. Thus, building a community that shares your interests is a great way to feel connected, be inspired, and have fun.

A range of leisure activities

Speaking of fun, you should also strive to create a healthy work-life balance in your new base camp. As many of us have found out, working remotely blurs the line between clocking in and out, so it’s imperative to set up a rough schedule to walk away from your desk. You didn’t jet out to sit at your laptop all day!

Whether you like to go whitewater rafting in the morning or neon rollerblading at night, it’s wise to build some social activities into your daily routine and try something new while living abroad. Remember: having fun and staying healthy is just as important as making money.

Language and culture

If you are reading this, you have a huge advantage over other non-English remote workers. Most locations that become digital nomad hotspots do so because they have plenty of English-speaking locals and services.

While these are great locations to start your journey, it’s still a good idea to learn the language and familiarize yourself with the culture of the country you plan to travel to and work from. Understanding and respecting the customs and traditions of your temporary home will enrich your experience.

working remotely from Costa Rica, warm climate

one of the best parts of living and working remotely from Costa Rica? Year-round warm climate! However, its high humidity is not for everyone.

Climate

When deciding where to go on holiday, it seems the popular choice is ‘the hotter, the better.’ However, if you’re looking to work and live abroad, you want to ensure the weather meets your personal comfort and is conducive to productivity. Can you work in humidity with nothing but a fan? Do you feel more comfortable in a cool shade?

Cost of Living

You may have a secure full-time remote job–or you may be a freelancer in between gigs. Either way, most people become digital nomads and/or decide to live and work abroad because of the low cost of living compared to their home country.

But not all locations are as cheap as you think.

Moving abroad can be costly at first, especially if it’s your first time dealing with currency exchanges and “paying the foreigner tax” (i.e. being charged a higher price than the locals or ripped off). It’s always best to underestimate your monthly salary and overestimate your expenses until you get accustomed to the local currency and cost of living.

Safety and security

A location with a low cost of living might also come with a hidden price tag: lack of security/safety. Once you find the country you’re interested in, do your due diligence online by reading expat blogs, destination guides from digital nomads already on-site, and local forums. This will help you zero in not only on a particular town, but also specific neighborhoods that match your interests and security concerns.

Also important: speak to locals once you arrive for up-to-date advice.

Accommodation types

accommodation for digital nomads and remote workers

where should I stay as a digital nomad / remote worker? 

The 3 accommodation types that most digital nomads and remote workers go for at the beginning of their journey are:

hotels

Hotels are the initial go-to, as many of them offer easy online booking, free unlimited WiFi, private room and bath, breakfast, and other amenities that’ll take care of most of your needs. Moreover, most hotels don’t require a minimum stay or a contract, allowing you to get a feel of different neighborhoods before committing to a specific area.

The flip side? Privacy may come at the price of isolation.

Hotels are less homey, plus it’s uncommon to have access to a communal kitchen or shared spaces with other travelers and digital nomads, making it harder to meet people. It’s also the most expensive of all options–and it’s unlikely for you to be able to book longer than 30 days online. This means you’re limited to short stays unless you speak with the hotel staff in person and arrange an extended stay.

However, if you’ve already decided on a specific location, staying in a hotel for a few nights while you find a more permanent place is a sensible option. Being on the ground means you get a feel of the area you’d be living in, plus you can talk to owners to get the inside scoop and strike better deals.

hostels

If you are an adventurous remote worker and want to meet new people while living on a budget, a hostel is a great accommodation option for you. Usually, hostels provide dorms with shared bathrooms and, in some cases, they may provide private bedrooms and bathrooms.

Hostels are also non-committal and more flexible. You can stay anywhere from one night to 50– it’s entirely up to you. You can expect to meet many new people, as the guest turnover is much higher at a hostel than at any other accommodation type.

The best part of staying in a hostel? They are designed with sociability in mind, offering a variety of activities during the day and other social events at night. If you’re not an outgoing person or you’re someone who likes a lot of personal space, perhaps a hostel isn’t for you.

Additionally, keep in mind that hostels cater to short-term travelers first and foremost. As a remote worker, this means you’ll need to be proactive about setting a work routine and finding quiet spaces to work.

Another issue to remember when living and working at hostels is security. You’ll need to bring a high-quality padlock to lock away your valuables and work equipment when you aren’t using them.

co-living for digital nomads and remote workers in Costa Rica, Blue Osa

co-living spaces and residential programs

Co-living spaces and residential programs are somewhere between a hotel and a hostel. They typically offer many of the amenities you are used to at home, while sharing some of the living spaces with other like-minded remote workers. You can expect to share a kitchen and other communal areas, all while still enjoying a private bedroom and en suite bathroom.

Another benefit of choosing a co-living space or residential program is that you may snag some great deals when booking long-term stays. This makes them more cost-effective than staying in a hotel, while still being able to enjoy many of the same amenities and some sense of privacy.

While there are many different types of co-living spaces and residential programs, the one thing they share in common is the focus of connecting like-minded remote workers and digital nomads.

There is a sense of community and shared purpose in all co-living spaces.

This type of accommodation option offers you the social life you’d enjoy at a hostel, while the focus of most of the residents is on networking and collaborating instead of partying.

Of course, you may choose to work hard and play hard, too! But you’ll at least always have a quiet, private space to retreat to whenever you need to.

co-living in Costa Rica, Blue Osa residential program

Why choose a co-living program

‘Community hubs’ and ‘expat haven’ are excellent terms to look out for when deciding on a location. But if you know what you like and you plan to stay 1-2 months in one place, going for a co-living or residential program is a wonderful option.

Sure, living and working by the beach while living in a cute Airbnb is great. But living, learning, and retreating with like-minded people is one of the top benefits of being a digital nomad or remote worker abroad.

Whether you’re into yoga and establishing a spiritual practice or building a tech startup and looking to make work connections, there is a co-living program out there for you.

a co-living program in Costa Rica

Why not combine your working schedule with your holistic needs and seek answers to life’s big questions?

Blue Osa, a retreat and spa located in the lush jungles of the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica, also functions as a co-living residence. Its residential program for remote workers offers private bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, 3 healthy meals a day, high-speed WiFi, and a variety of holistic activities such as yoga classes, meditation, and nature excursions. The experience has been designed to meet digital nomads’ needs beyond the usual sense of community, internet connectivity and other amenities.

Some of the benefits of the Blue Osa Residential Program:

  • Live and serve in a community of like-minded people dedicated to serving others
  • Take breathtaking daily beach walks at sunrise
  • Enjoy the companionship of three dogs and four cats
  • Have access to guided yoga practices
  • Enjoy discounted rejuvenating spa services

Is it safe to live, work, and travel to Costa Rica right now, though?

Costa Rica is positioned as an ideal destination post-COVID “thanks to the successful management of the pandemic and robust health system.” By nature, its remote jungle location allows for semi-private, boutique tourist experiences that are perfect for observing current precautions without adding many hindrances.

Specifically, Blue Osa currently adheres to the COVID guidelines of social distancing and other precautions. Better yet? This retreat is located in an open-air facility on the beach. The continuous ocean breeze, spacious grounds, and secluded private beach–combined with social distancing–make this Costa Rican haven the perfect place to live and work from.

live temporarily in Costa Rica, digital nomad destinations

Come to a safe space where you can wake up every day in a tropical destination and sink deep into an understanding of who you are–all while propelling your career forward and meeting like-minded travelers and remote workers. Live the balanced life you have always wanted!

For more information about Blue Osa’s residential program, click here.

Chiapas Mexico Attractions: My Top 5 Natural Sites, Maya Ruins and Cities

It is shocking how underrated Chiapas Mexico attractions are. The southernmost state in Mexico is one of the most beautiful regions I have visited in North America. Not only is Chiapas home of one of the largest indigenous populations in the country, but it is also Mexico’s breadbasket. A culturally and naturally rich destination, sprinkled with high sierras, deep canyons, traditional indigenous villages, and off-the-beaten-path Maya ruins.

Of all places I’ve visited on four different Mexico holidays, this region was the most surprising. While I still have much to explore, I’m thrilled to share with you my top 5 things to do in Chiapas.

My Top 5 Chiapas Mexico Attractions

Chiapas Mexico attractions

Sumidero Canyon National Park

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Known as Cañón del Sumidero in Spanish, this spectacular national park features gorges that go as deep as 250 meters – in addition to towering peaks reaching up to 1000 meters above sea level.

The 21,789-hectare protected area is a must visit in Chiapas not only because of its topography, but also due to its flora and fauna. Sumidero is, in fact, one of the most biodiverse canyons in the continent.

Its relative proximity to the Tuxtla Gutiérrez (TGZ) airport means a boat trip through this national park is doable shortly after your flight. I highly recommend it, as it was one of the highlights of my trip!

Chiapas Mayan Ruins, Palenque

Ancient Maya City of Palenque

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Pre-Columbian cities such as Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza may overshadow it, but the Maya city of Palenque is impressive in its own right.

Although this ancient archaeological zone already boasts some of the best preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico, it is believed that over 90% of its total area remains either underground or swallowed by the jungle. We can only imagine what treasures still lie beneath, dating from circa 226 BC to A.D. 799…

things to see in Chiapas

Colonial San Cristobal de Las Casas

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Over 90% of Chiapas state’s population may live in this picturesque colonial city, but that doesn’t take away from its intrinsic charm.

Founded in 1528 by Spanish conquistador Diego de Mazariegos, San Cristobal de Las Casas is a history buff’s dream. Its pedestrian-only cobblestone streets, Spanish-style interior patios, and terra-cotta rooftops will transport you to a different era.

I stayed at Hotel Casa Vieja, a converted convent run by a local family. I enjoyed impeccable service, a strategic location, gorgeous architecture, and à la carte breakfast. I felt like I was living in the 18th century for a few days!

things to do in Chiapas, Agua Azul

Agua Azul

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There was nothing more refreshing than a visit to the rain forest after a long day of hiking.

As its Spanish name suggests, Agua Azul is a group of bright sky-blue waterfalls. They rush from the Chiapas highlands, cutting through big boulders downstream. At the bottom of the river, a few natural pools form as well, making it a safe place to take a dip.

Do keep in mind though that if you visit during the rainy season like I did, Agua Azul will be more like “agua chocolate.” Still, it is a great pit stop on your way to Palenque.

best Chiapas attractions

Misol-Ha Waterfall

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Speaking of pit stops between Chiapas and Yucatán: Misol-Ha is another beautiful waterfall worth visiting. It is located about 12.4 miles from Palenque, on the way to San Cristobal de Las Casas, in the Salto de Agua municipality. The site is equipped with facilities, from cabins and a restaurant to guided tours.

I stopped at Misol-Ha on my way from Chiapas to Quintana Roo, so I just spent an hour or two there. Fair warning: don’t approach it if you don’t want to get wet like I did! You’ll be soaked after walking over the bridge leading to the waterfall.

It’s so worth it though, as you can see from the video above. Walking behind a raging waterfall is an incredible experience.

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Chiapas Mexico Attractions Guide

Know of any other interesting things to do in Chiapas? Comment below!

Unknown Mexican Food: 5 Delicacies You’ve Probably Never Heard of

I knew Chiapas would wow me with its beauty as soon as I received my latest Mexico itinerary. What I didn’t expect, though, was to be introduced to unknown Mexican food. You know, dishes I had never seen at a typical Mexican restaurant in the USA.

I think living in Florida is partly to blame. I’m sure Southern states such as Texas and Arizona get a wider variety of Mexican dishes!

Either way, my audience comes from all over the world. So! I wanted to introduce you to five Mexican dishes you’ve probably never heard of today. These are some of my new favorites after my Chiapas tour:

Unknown Mexican Food: 5 Delicacies You’ve Probably Never Heard of

unknown Mexican food

Asado de puerco and pollo

Up until July, I thought all moles were spicy. Chiapas food proved me wrong once again!

Namely, I learned that asado de puerco varies from region to region. Northern Mexican asados, for instance, tend to be tearfully-spicy, vinegar-based stews. Southern varieties, on the other hand, are more like mole-style stews.

While “puerco” means pork, another popular spin of this underrated Mexican food is made with chicken. Then, it’s called asado de pollo. Either way, it is full of Spanish spices and flavor, typically served with a mountain of rice.

The asado I tried was made with chicken, soaking in a thick chocolate base. The dark cacao notes really stood out, blending beautifully with a chili sauce that was actually served for my nachos. Yum!

unknown Mexican drinks

Chiapas pozol by Alejandro Linares Garcia, Wiki Commons

Pozol

I’ll admit: I wouldn’t have tried pozol if it weren’t for my Karma Trails guide. It is commonly sold in less-than-appealing plastic jugs, so most foreigners never dare to try it.

Made out of coarse cornmeal, sugar, and sometimes even cacao, this meal-replacement drink is a staple for farmers to kill hunger whilst on the field.

If you plan to go out and explore several Mayan ruins in a day, go ahead and have pozol for breakfast. You will thank me later!

authentic Mexican food

Chanfaina by Marbregal, Wiki Commons

Chanfaina

I’ve never been a fan of tripes pork or cow. However, I must admit that Latinos have a special gift to turn these typically-unloved organs into something delicious.

Akin to Puerto Rican mondongo, chanfaina is a hearty, time-consuming soup made with pork liver, heart, and kidneys.

While it originally hails from Western Spain, the Mexican version is typically cooked with tomatoes, garlic, onions, potatoes, sour orange, bay leaves, sweet and white chilies.

unique Mexican food

Sopa de pan

This warming soup is a delicacy of San Cristobal de Las Casas, a charming colonial town up in the Chiapas Highlands.

Traditionally, it is made with pork lard–although it is not as common to find this hard to version and restaurants anymore.

What your sopa de pan will sure have no matter where you go, though, is hen broth, cut vegetables, plantains strips, and bread.

authentic Mexican drinks

Mezcal

OK, so this is not Mexican food. Still, I had to come in its defense. Why does tequila take all the glory?! Mezcal is its unknown Mexican sibling. A mellow, smoky-flavored alcoholic beverage made from the same agave plant.

Literally meaning “oven-cooked agave,” mezcal is most commonly drunk in Oaxaca. As that region is just north of Chiapas, I got to sample a few shots at Belil Restaurant. Wonderful spot for authentic, mostly unknown Mexican food by the way. I highly recommend it if you drop by San Cristobal de Las Casas!

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Unique Mexican Food Guide

Special thanks to Karma Trails for my unforgettable 10-day press trip to Mexico this past July! I highly recommend them for any of your Mexico tour, accommodation, transportation needs. I was not paid for positive reviews however; all views set forth are product of independent research and my own opinions.

Swimming with Holbox Whale Sharks Travel Guide: My VIDEO + Tips!

One of the Yucatan attractions I was looking forward to the most was swimming with Holbox whale sharks. While I’ve been lucky to have a variety of incredible marine creature encounters as a PADI Rescue Diver, I had yet found these gentle giants in the wild–until the Gulf of Mexico called.

swim with whale sharks Holbox

Holbox whale sharks photo by KarmaTrails.com

Swimming with Whale Sharks: First, My Urban Legend

I first heard story of swimming with whale sharks thousands of miles away, in Koh Tao, Thailand. There, divers daydream of meeting the elusive whale-like creatures, spotted sporadically beneath the waters of the majestic Chumphon Pinnacle, on a daily basis.

I found tiny box fishes, rare octopuses, dancing shrimp, and even several barracuda vortexes–but not whale sharks. Not even a baby one.

It wasn’t my time yet.

Back in 2015, I thought I could only encounter the largest fish in the world in deep waters. It wasn’t until I researched further that I found out these filter feeders mainly munch on plankton lurking in the surface.

I had to, literally, go with the flow.

Following the currents

That mini investigation taught me two vital facts. First, whale sharks love the tropics–they are rarely spotted in waters below 72°F. Second, their main source of food (plankton) is moved around by the ocean’s major currents.

Gee, what urban legend?! I didn’t even have to dive to find them!

It was then that Mexico called. Again.

The owner of Karma Trails was one of my partners in the first press trip I took to Playa Del Carmen. Earlier this summer, he reached out to me to see if I could explore more of the Yucatan Peninsula with his knowledgeable local guides.

“Only if I can swim with whale sharks. That’s one of your Holbox tours, right?”

I could feel him smiling from his computer monitor.

where to swim with whale sharks in Mexico

Where to swim with whale sharks in Mexico? HOLBOX!

Tale of the Holbox Whale Sharks

Whale sharks have lurked the waters around Holbox Island for many years, frightening local fishermen. We can’t blame them: it’s hard to believe the largest non-mammal vertebrate in the world, averaging between 33 to 40 feet long, isn’t a threat to humans.

Still, the Mexican fishermen didn’t bother them. Eventually, word spread out: giant creatures come to the same patch of the Gulf of Mexico between May and September (with higher concentrations between mid-July and August), every year.

Hundreds of them.

BOOM: Holbox was put on the map.

Holbox whale sharks and giant manta

Not only did I swim with Holbox whale sharks, but also beside a GIANT MANTA! 😀

Holbox Island: The Paradise I Got to Know

Going with the flow paid off. Colorful murals, charming bamboo-and-palapa architecture, scores of seafood, and some of the calmest Latinos I’ve met…Holbox is a speck of paradise I’m glad I got to know.

Despite its proximity to the Yucatan Peninsula, Holbox retains a laid-back vibe due to the lack of infrastructure. Thus, getting there can be time-consuming. A three-hour drive from most resorts to Chiquila, the only port of departure; a 20-min. ferry ride through the Gulf; and no paved roads upon arrival make it quite the journey.

Add to that a 2+ hour boat ride each way to find the plankton and pods of whale sharks…

This is where the locals’ advice really came in handy: stay a minimum of two days to make any Holbox tour worth it!

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Is swimming with Holbox whale sharks on your bucket list?

Special thanks to Karma Trails for booking my Holbox transfer, fabulous Holbox Dream Hotel, and unforgettable swim with whale sharks. I was not paid for positive reports, however, so all opinions and research facts on this article were independently written–on my own.

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swimming with whale sharks Holbox travel guide

My Favorite Mayan Ruins to Visit from Playa Del Carmen, Cancun or Merida

Are you wondering which are the best Mayan ruins to visit from Playa Del Carmen, Cancun or Merida? I had the same dilemma when visiting the Yucatán Peninsula for the fifth time last month. There were some Mayan cities I wanted to visit again because I loved them so much…

YET,  there were many more I had yet explored! So what to do?!

Given that I’m obsessed with carvings and ancient art, it was all about analyzing the size and amount of detail found at each Mayan site. Moreover, I had to take into consideration distances between cities I would overnight in.

After taking all these elements into consideration, I built the following list of Mayan ruins. They are in order of my personal must-sees, so add these to your Mexico itinerary first!

Top Mayan Ruins to Visit from Playa Del Carmen, Cancun or Merida

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Uxmal

If you can go on just one of the Yucatan tours I booked,  I tell you right now: make it Uxmal, one of the most important pre-Hispanic towns in Latin America!

Founded in 700 A.D., Uxmal tops the list of the most important Mayan ruins in Mexico–along with Palenque, Chichen Itza, and Calakmul. I easily compare it to Italian Florence, both because of its historical importance and beautiful art found throughout.

The intricate carvings and unique decorated moldings, roofs, and open plazas are absolutely breathtaking. So much detail and scale! It is, hands-down, my favorite Mayan city.

There’s simply no comparison to Uxmal in my eyes, artistically speaking.

Just 62 km south of Merida, I explored Uxmal with Karma Trails as one of my excursions from the aforementioned capital city of Yucatan. However, it can also be seen on a full, action-packed day from Cancun or Playa Del Carmen. Prepare to walk and climb a lot!

main Mayan pyramid in Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza

I had visited Chichen Itza both by public transport and a big tour company in the past…and my experiences weren’t the best. Gosh, is Chichen Itza crowded–but so worth it still.

The top trick here is to book a private tour and request your operator to get you there by opening time.

Another reason I think this is the best travel hack to visit Yucatan’s most popular Mayan ruins? Neither did I nor the big tour company went to explore the central area of Chichen Itza. It wasn’t until my local Karma Trails guide took me on my third visit that I saw this beautiful, ornate area of the ancient city.

Namely, this central area became my new favorite.

Geez, what I had been missing! Third time’s a charm: I could finally appreciate the variety of architectural styles present at the impressive ruins of the Terminal Classic period (AD 800–900).

Private homes of Mayan nobility, with deep reliefs and intricate art, popped in front of my eyes. Better yet? We pretty much had the central area of Chichen Itza to ourselves, as many tourists and companies skip it altogether.

Ek Balam

You all know I have a soft spot for Ek Balam: the first Mayan city I visited that wasn’t exclusively made out of rock.

Skillfully-carved stucco, mixed with rock inscriptions and paintings, give the site a unique color palette and design I had not seen at other Mayan sites.

My second visit was equally fulfilling. It was nice to take a deeper look at the detail of the Jaguar Temple carvings and jaw-dropping jungle surrounding it.

Many travelers are surprised when they find out this was the seat of the Mayan kingdom between the Preclassic and Postclassic periods, too.

A.k.a. you can’t miss this if you are in the area!

Given its relatively-compact size, it is easy to combine Ek Balam with a visit to Chichen Itza in one day. Wake up early to enjoy these contrasting Mayan ruins–the differences are a joy to appreciate.

Alternatively, you could book the Rio Lagartos Ek Balam tour I enjoyed on my first Playa Del Carmen trip–specially if you’re a nature lover.

The coastal Mayan city of Tulum

Tulum

It was tough to decide whether to recommend Tulum or Coba first. Assuming you go to either Uxmal, Chichen Itza, and Ek Balam, you should definitely head to Tulum for a change of scenery.

Not only was the pre-Columbian walled city built in a different period altogether, but it also managed to thrive approximately 70 years post-Spanish occupation!

Moreover, these coastal Mayan ruins are surrounded by the most intense turquoise-colored waters you’ve ever seen in your life.

So historical ruins AND a beach day?! These elements definitely make Tulum another fun day trip from Playa Del Carmen or Cancun!

Oh & did I mention there are many cenotes you can dive into in the Tulum region?

They look something like this:

Cenote by Mayan ruins in the Yucatan

Indeed: GO FOR IT

Coba

Lastly, you could visit the ancient Maya city of Coba. While it was the least impressive site I visited, Coba houses one of the few Mayan pyramids you can still climb in Mexico.

And that main pyramid in Coba is quite a steep, and exhilarating, climb for all.

If you have extra time or happen to be a history fanatic like myself, you will appreciate some elements. Namely, the many engraved stelae and inscriptions documenting ceremonial Mayan life in the Late Classic Period (AD 600–900).

Top of Mayan pyramid in Coba, Mexico

Which are your favorite Mayan ruins in the Yucatan?

Special thanks to Karma Trails for taking me on a deep exploration of these wonderful Mayan sites and other underrated Mexican attractions! More from this trip soon 😉

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Mayan ruins travel guide: best Yucatán day trips from Playa Del Carmen, Cancun or Merida

Mexican Customs and Traditions: Discovering the Real Mexico

How fun my trip to Mexico was! As expected, it was lively and action-packed. From the peaceful rural towns in Chiapas to the lively cities of Cancun and Playa del Carmen--they all share a rich cultural tapestry, woven together with threads that have grown, frayed, and changed over centuries. To delve a little bit deeper, I invited guest writer Megan Taylor to describe some unique Mexican customs and traditions.

Like its people, certain foods and events can be interestingly eclectic and colorful. Check them out below while I write more articles and details about my trip to Mexico in the coming week 😉

Unique Mexican Customs and Traditions

Mexican customs and traditions, Day of the Dead

Day of the Dead bread

In Mexico, the Day of the Dead is a day of remembrance at the end of October, oor locals honor friends and family members who have passed away. Many events take place across Mexico during the season, but Cancun, Mexico’s party capital, puts on an elaborate show not to be missed..

In the days leading up to the celebration, families get together to make and bake pan de muerto: a sweet bread that is traditionally eaten during a picnic at a loved one’s grave on the Day of the Dead.

Family always comes first

Like in many other Latin American countries, family is extremely important in Mexican culture. The values of respect and responsibility are crucial to the way of life.

Typically, Mexican families are quite large–with the concepts of responsibility extending as far as second cousins. You will sometimes find that families live within the same neighborhood too, although this is a changing custom as people adapt to a more contemporary lifestyle.

Tequila

Tequila is the drink most people think of when they think of Mexico. For once, it is a truthful stereotypes: tequila is something Mexicans are immensely proud of. Its production predates colonial rule and so it represents the very essence of Mexican culture, history and nature.

So yes, I will still preach to the choir: take a shot!

Mexican customs and traditions, hat dance

Mexican hat dance by Sage Ross, Creative Commons

The Mexican Hat Dance

Jarabe Tapatío, known as The Mexican Hat Dance in English, is a traditional Mexican dance representing the courtship between a man and a woman.

Fun fact: the dance was banned during the colonial era. Upon Mexican Independence though, many people started to celebrate it more openly by holding fiestas and performing the dance upon Mexican independence. This made the Mexican Hat Dance explode in popularity soon after.

While it may have lost some of its charm in the eyes of youngsters today, the traditional Mexican dance is still taught to children in schools–so everyone at least knows the basics!

Big lunches

Lunch is a big deal in Mexico, so loosen those belts and get ready to tuck in! As the biggest meal of the day, lunch is usually eaten any time between 1 PM to as late as 4 PM.

Work ceases during the middle of the day, so Mexicans often eat a big lunch with their families and return to work later in the afternoon. Rice, corn, beans, wheat, chorizo, tomatoes, and chilli are the traditional staples, although European and American foods can also be found.

One excellent eatery where you can fill your bellies is the Kitchen Table in Tulum. The establishment is so traditional, with an outside kitchen and no electricity. Get the classic refried beans no matter your main entree for a true taste of Mexico.

Tipping

Although a 15% tax is added to the bill – that’s not the automatic gratuity that many of us assume it is! Make sure to leave a 15-20% tip, as customary in the USA, if you don’t want to appear rude.

Like this? PIN this photo and post below!

Mexican customs and traditions list

Feeling inspired? Check out some underrated Mexican attractions here

If you already have your eyes set on this region of Latin America, I highly recommend you check out the following Mexico tours I experienced myself.

I’m Heading to Chiapas, Merida, Holbox! Underrated Mexico Attractions

I’ve been to the Yucatán Peninsula three times already and can’t get enough. From the aquamarine waters of Cancun; to the vibrant, yet small town feel of Playa Del Carmen; to the majestic Chichen Itza all the way to Mexico’s own Dead Sea. Heck, I even partied with the Backstreet Boys in Cozumel! Yet, it’s time I explore some underrated Mexico attractions.

whale sharks, Mexico attractions

I want to go back to Mexico and not be stuck at an all-inclusive resort, though.

For this reason, I have partnered with Karma Trails to explore several gems that are very close to popular tourist attractions in Mexico; yet, very few tourists know about. These are all a short hop from Mexico City and/or Yucatán hotspots such as Cancun and Playa Del Carmen.

Their customized, flexible trips allow you to build the Mexico itinerary you want through local Destination Experts and guides who give it a special touch. To really get to know the cultural, historical, archaeological nuances and activities that are not so cookie-cutter.

I’m heading to explore the national treasures of Chiapas, Holbox Island, and the colonial city of Merida!

Chiapas, Holbox Island, and Merida: Underrated Mexico Attractions

Chiapas, unique Mexico attractions

Chiapas: San Cristobal de Las Casas, Sumidero, Palenque, Zinacatan

I had never heard of the Mexican state of Chiapas–except in the name of one of the hot sauces I like XD Antonello, the owner of Karma Trails, strongly suggested it as it is one of the most naturally-rich, yet underrated attractions in Mexico.

When I saw the pictures, my jaw dropped as low as yours.

It looks like freaking Southeast Asia! Towering peaks and flooded canyons–sprinkled with tropical greenery–hug the Guatemalan border. Ancient Maya cities, nearly swallowed by the rain forest, abound as well.

Speaking of which: more than 80% of all vegetables and fruits consumed within the country come from Chiapas! All electric energy consumed within the Yucatan and some of it even sold to Belize Guatemala, is produced in Chiapas.

San Cristobal de Las Casas, Chiapas, off-the-beaten-path Mexico

San Cristobal de Las Casas by Sofía Martínez Parente García, Wiki Commons

What’s missing? Foreign tourists, mostly.

I will spend 2 nights at San Cristobal de Las Casas (July 20-22)–a sparsely-visited Spanish colonial town in the central Mexican highlands. As you know I’m Puerto Rican, so I’m planning to haggle it up in the markets in my native language!

From my Chiapas base, I’ll be visiting Sumidero Canyon, Agua Azul, Maya city of Palenque, and the indigenous communities of Zinacatan and San Juan Chamula.

The state of Chiapas could easily become the next ecotourism hotspot in Mexico. I can’t wait to explore its colorful culture and natural attractions before most! Expect intense goPro footage from yours truly 😉

Merida: Ek Balam, Uxmal, Coba

Merida, off-the-beaten-path Mexico attractions

Palacio Cantòn – Museo Yucateco de Antropología e Historia in Merida

Merida is the stunning cultural center of the Yucatán Peninsula. While more popular than, say, Chiapas state, it is still overshadowed by its glitzy neighbor on the east: Cancun.

Unbeknownst to most, Merida is a cheaper, better base for the history buffs and cultural explorers who wish to visit all major Maya ruins in the region.

I will spend 3 days and 2 nights based out of Merida, exploring known and lesser-known Maya cities.

While I’m visiting Chichen Itza and Coba again, I’ll do so from a different perspective (and lens!) this time. I wish to catch corners and angles I didn’t notice the first time around.

Ek Balam temple, off-the-beaten-path Mexico

Ek Balam <3

Particularly, I’m anxious to see Ek Balam again. That unique Jaguar Temple left quite an impression on me on my 2012 Mexico trip.

Then, it is off to Uxmal and Tulum for the first time. The former is swallowed by the jungle; while the latter is caressed by the Gulf of Mexico. One is fairly off-the-beaten-path; while the other is more popular than I would like. Two Maya cities, two contrasting locales.

Expect cultural video galore from the Yucatán as well! ;D

Holbox Island: Whale Sharks + Laid-Back Vibes!

Holbox Island, unique Mexico itinerary

idyllic Holbox by Dronepicr, Wiki Commons

One of the most idyllic, incredibly-underrated Mexico attractions is Holbox Island.

Did you know this is one of the best places in the world to swim with whale sharks, the largest fish (and shark) in the world?!

Imagine such a creature: akin a whale, that feeds on tiny plankton, swimming nearby.

It’s been on my travel bucket list forever. I can’t believe it’s finally happening.

OMFG. I’m about to cry just thinking about it…*%$&#@! 😀

Holbox beachfront hotel, off-the-beaten-path Yucatán Mexico

Swimming with whale sharks in Holbox is definitely one of my most anticipated Mexico attractions on this trip. I will also get to explore the.island proper, just a few miles north of the Yucatán Peninsula, with its low-key vibe and virgin beaches.

I plan to mostly chill, as the unique Holbox Dream Hotel has such a character that I’m sure it will suck me in and force me to truly relax <3

This trip will be for the books!

I arrive July 19 and depart July 29. Follow me and #latinabroadMX on Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and Twitter @LatinAbroad for real-time posts from these Mexico attractions!

Unique Mexico Attractions: My 10-Day Itinerary

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Again, many thanks to Karma Trails for sponsoring this epic trip <3

5 Must-See Ruins in Central America: Amazing Ancient Cities

Central America’s amazing ancient cultures, cities and heritage made a tremendous impact on this region’s people’s lives and even looks. Moreover, there are still some people who maintain their ancient ingenious religions and actually kind of look familiar to their ancestors.  But which are the must-see ruins in Central America?

Below are our top 5 ancient sites–which you can still stop by to learn more about Maya, Aztecs or other indigenous Latin American cultures. Some of the best-preserved!

Top 5 Must-See Ruins in Central America: Amazing Ancient Cities

must-see ruins in Central America

Teotihuacán, Mexico

This ancient city should probably be on top of your Central American ruins list, even though it’s technically in North America 😛 Not only because they are some of the best known, but also because they can teach us about Ancient American history like no other.

Teotihuacán is a collection of the ruins of not one, but a couple of different civilizations, all who lived here. First were the Maya and Zapotecs–ending with the Aztecs or Toltecs.

It is then safe to say that this city was a great multicultural center–making a huge influence on other cities surrounding it.

If you pay it a visit (pretty simple from Mexico City), make sure you don’t miss its most famous sites: the Avenue of the Dead and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon.

best ancient ruins in Central America

Copan, Honduras

Another important Maya city is located in Honduras: Copan. The city has a few temples and even a Royal Acropolis with a special court for traditional Maya games.

It is also fun to know that Copan was the primary residence for most rulers and even have a monument called Altar Q — the most famous site of this particular Central American site.

However, the city‘s population radically decreased during 8th and 9th centuries — slowly being forgotten. Nowadays though, it is one of the top Central America Mayan sites and was also named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

best preserved Central America ruins, Tikal

Tikal, Guatemala

It is hard to find a person who has never heard about Tikal! Situated in the Peten rainforest in Guatemala, this city is yet another impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site

The whole complex is full of temples, altars, palaces and pyramids. Therefore, this was not only one of the larger Maya cities, but must have also been an important religious and political center.

Gaze your eyes upon the famous Temple of the Great Jaguar, the Great Plaza, the Central Acropolis, the North and South Acropolises, and the Plaza of the Seven Temples.

best Central America ruins

Caracol, Belize

A lesser-known Maya city is Caracol, located in modern-day Belize.

Did you know, by the way, that it used to be one of the most important cities to the Ancient Maya? And it’s outside of Mexico!

Caracol was one of the most important local political centers as well. In fact, the entire town was bigger than Belize’s current capital and twice its population. So you can imagine how big this city was.

While these Central America ruins were rediscovered in 1937, it wasn’t until 1985 that archaeologists started to work on the site. They found out that the town was abandoned in 1050 — meaning Caracol had already been unoccupied for 500 years by the time the Spanish conquistadors found it.

If you ever visit Caracol, take some time to appreciate the Sky Palace’s ruins — which happens to be the tallest building in all of Belize!

top Central America ruins

Joya de Ceren, El Salvador

Other must-see ruins in Central America include the Maya city of Joya de Ceren. It is beautifully well-preserved — and also known as the “Pompeii of the Americas”.

Why?

As you probably now, Pompeii was an ancient Italian city that was buried by volcanic ashes; sadly, Joya de Ceren had the same destiny. 

The nearby volcano Loma Caldera erupted and dumped about 8 feet of ash on the city, perfectly preserving everything that was in there – ceramics, furniture, and even half-eaten food.

Even farm fields here were preserved, so if you stop by Joya, you will get a rare chance to see how the Mayans really used to live (at least in El Salvador).

Deservedly, Joya de Ceren was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

Ek Balam Mayan ruins panorama

Want to see more of my favorite ruins? Click here for Ek Balam!

So, are you inspired now!? If yes, plan your trip to Central America and stop by these five ruins!  

“5 Must-See Ruins in Central America” was a guest post. Learn more here

Costa Rica Waterfall Rappelling: My Pant-Pooping Experience [VIDEOS]

When I accepted the kind invitation of Yogi Aaron to take part of a week-long yoga retreat in the unspoiled Osa Peninsula, the last thing I imagined is that I would give Costa Rica waterfall rappelling a try. It’s pretty ironic that while I consider myself to be pretty adventurous, I pee my pants whenever I think of sudden drops from higher grounds…

But there I was, hanging from a seemingly-feeble rope, over 100 ft.

Costa Rica waterfall rappelling photo

I went down THAT thing?!

It all started innocently enough, at a ranch a couple of kilometers away. We were told the horseback ride would last about 2 hours—and that we would be delighted by the open fields, jungle, and coastline.

It all sounded great! And theeeen

Costa Rica waterfall rappelling, horseback riding

Scary moment during horseback riding, beautifully captured! Haha

They forgot to tell us that because it was the rainy season, it would be a tad bit slippery in parts. They also forgot to tell us that the horseback ride alone was going to be a great adrenaline build up to the crazy adventure that awaited us at the waterfall…

So even that ride (and consequent hike) was scary to me. I felt like such a bouji city girl as I galloped through the narrow paths, way too steep for my comfort. I almost slipped out of my seat and into the abyss more than a handful of times:

Then I heard the raging river welcoming us. I started to get excited. Finally, in a good way. I was not scared, but giddy.

And then it got scary again REAL FREAKIN’ QUICK!

^ [Start at 4:30 for the crazy drop, without the hiking prologue] ^

Yeah, I did slip. And felt like I would die. But I didn’t. AND IT WAS AWESOME.

Would you give Costa Rica waterfall rappelling a try?

Special thanks to Aaron and the entire team at Blue Osa Yoga Retreat for such an incredible press trip! While tour was complimentary, this post about my pant-pooping experience is my honest opinion. And very, very real.