Tag: travel
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High Streets and Higher Spirits in La Paz

La Paz marked a meaningful milestone as my 90th country visited, and the city felt like a fitting place to pause and take it all in. Set deep within a canyon and rising sharply toward the plateau of El Alto, La Paz carries an intensity shaped by altitude, history, and resilience. I began at the…
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Machu Picchu: Stone Steps at the Edge of Time

The night before reaching Machu Picchu was shaped by motion and anticipation. I left Cusco by bus, winding through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, where the mountains pressed close and the air felt heavy with history. From there, a late train carried me along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes. The rhythm of the tracks…
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A City Built to Move the World

Panama City unfolded as a place where global history and daily life intersect at a remarkable scale. I began at the Panama Canal, taking a full tour that revealed the engineering brilliance behind one of the world’s most important waterways. Watching two yachts and a massive cargo ship rise and fall through the locks made…
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High Altitude and Higher History in Quito

Quito revealed itself as a city of altitude, faith, and layered history, perched high in the Andes with centuries etched into stone and street. I began at Independence Square, the political and symbolic heart of Ecuador. This plaza marks the site where Ecuador declared independence from Spanish rule in 1809, an early and courageous act…
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Exploring the Paris of South America: Three Days in Buenos Aires

Exploring Buenos Aires over three days provided a deep dive into the city’s rich architectural, cultural, and historical landscape. Buenos Aires, often referred to as the “Paris of South America,” lived up to its reputation with an array of impressive sights and exquisite neighborhoods. The adventure began in Plaza San Martín, a leafy refuge in…
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The Charms of Montevideo From Historical Sites to Scenic Shores

Wandering through Montevideo, Uruguay’s capital, provided a rich immersion into the city’s cultural heritage and architectural grandeur. The day began with a visit to the Palacio Legislativo, a monumental site that stands as a symbol of the nation’s political life. Constructed in the early 20th century, this palace is not only a key governmental hub…
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Nature’s Majesty at Iguazu Falls

Exploring Iguazu Falls, located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, proved to be an awe-inspiring experience, showcasing one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. The falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature, reflecting their global significance and breathtaking beauty. My adventure started…
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Bridging Cultures in Ciudad del Este

Crossing the border from Brazil into Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, offered a day filled with unexpected cultural encounters and historical perspectives. As one of the most bustling border cities in South America, Ciudad del Este is renowned for its shopping scene and as a melting pot of various cultures. My visit began at the Catedral…
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Cultural and Natural Splendors of Rio de Janeiro

Exploring Rio de Janeiro proved to be an unforgettable adventure, led by the enthusiastic local guide, Carla, and our adept driver, Jorge. Their deep pride and knowledge of the city enriched every moment of the day as we visited iconic landmarks and experienced the dynamic local culture. Our tour commenced in the lush expanses of…
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The Elegance and Antiquity of Charleston

Exploring Charleston, South Carolina, immerses one in a city rich with colonial history and beautifully preserved architecture. My accommodations at the Francis Marion Hotel set the tone with its grandeur, epitomizing the charm and elegance of the 1920s, providing a perfect starting point for frolicking into the historic downtown. One of my first visits was…