Category: Travel

So, you’re off to Argentina? Great choice! Get ready for world-class steaks, stunning landscapes, and enough Malbec to make you question all your life decisions. But before you start practicing your tango moves in the mirror, let’s talk about five things you absolutely CANNOT forget—unless, of course, you want your trip to turn into an absolute disaster. Trust me, I’ve been there.

1. Cash (And Lots of It!)

Argentina’s economy is about as stable as a drunk guy on a unicycle. Prices fluctuate constantly, and while credit cards work in many places, cash is still king—especially if you want to get the best exchange rate. Enter the dólar blue, Argentina’s unofficial but widely accepted exchange market, where your money stretches much further than at the official rate.

I learned this the hard way when I landed in Buenos Aires with just my debit card, only to find out I was paying almost double for everything. Picture me weeping into my overpriced empanada. Don’t be like me—bring U.S. dollars and exchange them at cuevas (money exchange offices) or through Western Union.

Pro Tip: Use the app Xoom or check the daily dólar blue rate online before exchanging money.

2. A Basic Understanding of Spanish (or a REALLY Good Translation App)

Look, I get it. You survived Paris with just “bonjour” and “merci,” but Argentina isn’t as forgiving. Outside major tourist spots, English is about as common as a vegetarian at an Argentine asado.

During my first trip, I confidently walked into a restaurant and attempted to order “pollo” (chicken). Instead, I somehow asked for “pocho” (which, depending on who you ask, can mean ‘old rag’ or ‘disheveled person’). The waiter’s face said it all.

If you don’t want to end up accidentally insulting someone’s grandmother or ordering cow intestines by mistake (shoutout to my first Buenos Aires dining experience), learn some basic Spanish or download Google Translate (and download Spanish offline—WiFi isn’t always reliable).

Pro Tip: Argentinians speak a unique dialect called Rioplatense Spanish, where “ll” and “y” sound like “sh.” So “pollo” is “posho.” Welcome to the club.

3. A Universal Power Adapter (Because Your Phone Will Die at the Worst Possible Time)

Argentina uses a mix of Type I and Type C plugs, and guess what? Your North American or European charger won’t fit. I once spent half a day searching for an adapter in Buenos Aires, only to end up buying one that didn’t even work. Meanwhile, my phone was at 2%, and I still had to navigate my way back to my Airbnb in the rain.

Don’t make my mistake—bring a universal power adapter and save yourself the drama. Bonus points if it has USB ports so you can charge multiple devices at once.

Pro Tip: Argentina’s voltage is 220V, so if you’re bringing electronics from the U.S. (which uses 110V), check if your devices are dual voltage, or you might fry them.

4. An Appetite (Because You’re Going to Eat… A Lot)

Argentinian food isn’t just good—it’s life-changing. But if you show up without the stomach capacity to handle massive steaks, cheesy empanadas, and dulce de leche desserts, you’re doing yourself a disservice.

I once foolishly thought I could eat “just a small steak” at a parrilla (grill). Spoiler: the portion was roughly the size of a newborn baby. My Argentinian friends laughed as I tapped out halfway through, forever ruining my credibility as a meat enthusiast.

Come hungry, and don’t skip the helado (ice cream). It’s arguably better than Italy’s gelato—yes, I said it.

Pro Tip: Order asado de tira (short ribs) at least once. Your taste buds will thank you.

5. A Plan for Internal Travel (Because Argentina is MASSIVE)

Thinking of “just hopping over” to Patagonia, Iguazú Falls, and Mendoza in one week? Good luck with that. Argentina is HUGE—like, “Texas looks small” huge. Flights can be pricey if you don’t book in advance, and long-distance buses, while comfy, take forever.

On my first trip, I wildly underestimated distances. I figured I’d take a quick bus from Buenos Aires to Bariloche—only to realize it was a 24-hour journey. After one too many hours of watching roadside cows and questioning my life choices, I learned my lesson.

Plan ahead. Domestic flights on Aerolíneas Argentinas or Flybondi are your best bet for saving time. If you must bus it, go for cama (fully reclining seats) on long routes.

Pro Tip: Use Omnilineas or BusBud to compare bus routes and prices.

Final Thoughts

Argentina is an incredible country that will steal your heart (and possibly your waistline). But forgetting any of these five things could turn your dream trip into a logistical nightmare. Pack smart, plan ahead, and most importantly—leave room for steak.

Have you made any hilarious travel mistakes in Argentina? Drop them in the comments so we can all laugh (and learn) together!

¡Buen viaje!

Planning a trip to Colombia? Get ready for stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and some of the most welcoming people in the world. But before you pack your bags, there are a few crucial things you need to know to make your trip as smooth as possible. Don’t leave home without these five essential tips—or risk becoming that tourist. You know, the one who gets scammed, sunburned, or stuck on the side of a mountain because they didn’t read the fine print.

1. Travel Insurance – A Must-Have

Colombia is an adventure-packed destination, but with adventure comes risk. Whether you’re trekking through the Amazon, paragliding over Medellín, or just trying to cross the street in Bogotá’s chaotic traffic (seriously, it’s an Olympic sport), travel insurance is non-negotiable. Medical care can be expensive for travelers, and some activities come with inherent risks. That accidental llama encounter? Not covered by your regular health plan.

On a personal note, I learned this the hard way when I twisted my ankle attempting to salsa dance in Cali. Let’s just say the hospital bill would’ve hurt more than my pride if I hadn’t had insurance. Make sure your policy includes emergency evacuation and trip cancellations—you never know when a spontaneous mudslide (or an even more spontaneous bad decision) might change your plans.

Pro Tip: Check out World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Allianz for solid adventure-friendly coverage.

2. Cash and Payment Methods

While credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, cash is still king in smaller towns and markets. ATMs from Bancolombia, Davivienda, and BBVA are your best bet for security, and while you can exchange a small amount at the airport, better rates are found in the city. Just be prepared for some odd looks if you try to pay for a tiny empanada with a 50,000 peso bill—I learned that one firsthand.

Always carry small bills and change, as many businesses won’t break large denominations. Plus, it makes you look less like a clueless tourist.

Pro Tip: Having a mix of payment options will save you from ATM outages or vendors who “mysteriously” can’t find their card machine.

3. Safety Awareness & Common Scams

Colombia is much safer than it used to be, but like any tourist hotspot, there are risks. Stick to well-known neighborhoods like El Poblado (Medellín), La Candelaria (Bogotá – during the day), and Getsemaní (Cartagena). Leave flashy jewelry at home unless you’re in the market for an impromptu donation. Also, beware of common scams like fake police asking for your passport, the “mustard scam” (someone spills something on you to distract and rob you), and taxi drivers who seem to think their meters run on fairy dust and dreams.

Speaking of taxis, I once had a driver try to charge me three times the normal rate in Bogotá. Luckily, I had checked the fair price on an app beforehand. His face when I called him out? Priceless.

Pro Tip: Use apps like iOverlander or local Facebook expat groups for real-time safety updates.

4. The Right Travel Apps

Technology is your best friend when navigating a new country. Download these essential apps before you go:

• Ride-Sharing & Taxis: DiDi, Cabify, inDriver (cheaper and safer than street taxis).
• Maps & Navigation: Google Maps (download offline maps) and Maps.me.
• Translation: Google Translate (download Spanish for offline use). Also, learn the phrase “Cuánto cuesta?” (How much does it cost?) unless you want to be charged the “gringo tax.”
• Money Conversion: XE Currency or Revolut for real-time exchange rates.

I once got so lost in Bogotá’s La Candelaria that I had to bribe a street vendor with an arepa to help me find my hostel. A good navigation app (or an extra arepa) would’ve saved the day.

Pro Tip: Always have a backup—screenshots of directions, addresses, and important numbers in case of a lost connection.

5. Adapting to the Altitude & Climate

Colombia’s geography means drastic altitude and climate changes. You could be sweating in Cartagena one day and out of breath in Bogotá the next. Bogotá and Medellín sit at high elevations, so give yourself a day to adjust, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol at first (or risk feeling like you’ve been hit by a bus).

I learned this lesson the hard way when I arrived in Bogotá and decided to hike Monserrate without properly hydrating. Altitude sickness is no joke, and neither is the embarrassment of nearly passing out halfway up the mountain while an elderly woman casually overtakes you.

Pro Tip: Sunscreen is essential! Even in cooler areas, the sun is strong due to the altitude. Otherwise, you’ll go home looking like a lobster.

Final Thoughts

Colombia is an incredible destination, but a little preparation goes a long way. By keeping these five things in mind, you’ll ensure a safe, smooth, and unforgettable adventure. Now go enjoy those arepas, dance some salsa (just watch your ankles), and soak in the beauty of this amazing country!

What’s your must-know tip for traveling to Colombia? Drop it in the comments!

So, you’ve got the travel bug, a passport burning a hole in your pocket, and a sudden desire to drink too much Malbec or scale an unreasonable number of mountains. Welcome to the great South American showdown: Argentina vs. Chile. Both are jaw-droppingly gorgeous, culturally rich, and home to some of the best food and wine on the planet. But which one deserves your hard-earned vacation days in 2025? Let’s break it down.

1. Scenery & Nature

Argentina: Patagonia, Iguazú Falls, the Andes, the wine country of Mendoza—Argentina is like nature’s highlight reel. If you want variety, Argentina has it all. Bonus: Perito Moreno Glacier is one of the few glaciers in the world that’s actually still growing. You go, little guy!

Chile: Chile, though, is basically one long nature documentary. The Atacama Desert (driest place on Earth), Torres del Paine (hiker’s paradise), Easter Island (mystical giant heads)—Chile is like a buffet for nature lovers who can’t decide what they want. Also, the entire country is essentially a coastline, so if you love the ocean, it’s a solid choice.

Winner: Chile. Because it has everything from Mars-like deserts to lush fjords, plus those mysterious Moai statues giving you side-eye.

2. Food & Wine

Argentina: Two words: Steak. Empanadas. OK, four words: Malbec. Alfajores. Argentina takes food seriously, and if you’ve never had a proper Argentine asado (barbecue), you haven’t truly lived. Their wine country (Mendoza) produces world-class Malbec, which pairs beautifully with a 2-pound steak the size of your head.

Chile: Chilean food is a bit of a sleeper hit. Their seafood is unbeatable (thanks, Pacific Ocean!), and they’ve got some delicious traditional dishes like pastel de choclo and chupe de mariscos. Plus, Chilean wine—especially Carménère—is wildly underrated.

Winner: Argentina. Because nothing beats an Argentine steak washed down with a bottle of Malbec while watching tango dancers casually flex on you.

3. Cities & Culture

Argentina: Buenos Aires alone could keep you entertained for weeks. It’s got European charm, Latin energy, and more bookstores per capita than any other city on Earth. The nightlife? Legendary. The people? Passionate. The football? A religion.

Chile: Santiago is a cool city, but let’s be honest, it lacks the chaotic magic of Buenos Aires. Valparaíso, on the other hand, is an artistic dream, with colorful street art, funiculars, and a laid-back vibe that makes you want to abandon your life and become a poet.

Winner: Argentina. Buenos Aires is just too much of a powerhouse to ignore.

4. Adventure & Activities

Argentina: Want to hike? You’ve got Patagonia. Want to ski? Head to Bariloche. Want to dance until sunrise? Buenos Aires has you covered. Want to drink wine and do nothing? Mendoza welcomes you with open arms.

Chile: Adventure is practically Chile’s middle name. You can surf, ski, climb volcanoes, explore the driest desert in the world, or go trekking through one of the most beautiful national parks on Earth. Oh, and don’t forget whitewater rafting in the south.

Winner: Chile. Because volcano surfing should be on everyone’s bucket list.

5. Cost & Accessibility

Argentina: Thanks to Argentina’s ever-fluctuating economy, visiting can be incredibly affordable—if you know how to exchange your money the right way (hint: look up the “blue dollar”). Flights, however, are a bit trickier since Buenos Aires is farther from North America and Europe than Santiago.

Chile: Chile is more stable, but also more expensive. Prices are closer to what you’d expect in the U.S. or Europe, but if you’re traveling on a budget, it might sting a little. On the plus side, Santiago is a major hub, making it easier to fly in and out.

Winner: Argentina. Your dollar (or euro, or peso) will go further.

Final Verdict: Argentina or Chile in 2025?

If you’re an adventure junkie who wants nature in all its extreme glory, Chile is your winner. If you’re looking for culture, food, and an overall more budget-friendly experience, Argentina takes the crown.

Overall Winner: Argentina. Chile is stunning, but Argentina has a little bit of everything—insane landscapes, incredible food, vibrant cities, and a currency situation that makes it an absolute steal for travelers in 2025.

But honestly? Just visit both. Your future self will thank you.

Deciding between Argentina and Brazil for your next vacation is like choosing between steak and barbecue—both are juicy, flavorful, and unforgettable in their own way. But which one suits your travel vibe? Let’s tango our way through the highlights of Argentina and samba into Brazil’s allure to help you decide.

Argentina: Steak, Wine, and Tango

Why Argentina Rocks

Argentina is a land of extremes. Want to trek through icy glaciers? Head to Patagonia. Prefer sipping Malbec while staring at sunlit vineyards? Mendoza is your place. Or maybe urban sophistication with a dash of European charm? Buenos Aires awaits with open arms (and likely a glass of Fernet and Coke).

Highlights of Argentina:

1. Patagonia: Imagine walking alongside glaciers that look like they were sculpted by an overachieving ice artist.
   • Personal Note: I once hiked the Perito Moreno Glacier, and let’s just say I earned my wine and empanadas that day.
2. Buenos Aires: It’s like Paris had a love child with New York. The city buzzes with culture, from vibrant street art to the sultry moves of tango.
3. Iguazu Falls: These thunderous waterfalls will leave you drenched—both in mist and awe.
4. The Food: Steak so tender you could cut it with a spoon. Pair it with some of the world’s finest wines, and you’re in foodie heaven.

Why Argentina Might Not Be for You

• If you’re not a fan of meat, wine, or dramatic landscapes, Argentina might not hit the spot.
• Inflation can make pricing unpredictable, so bring a flexible budget.

Brazil: Samba, Sun, and Só Alegria

Why Brazil Brings the Party

Brazil is synonymous with vibrant energy. Whether it’s Carnival in Rio or sipping caipirinhas on Ipanema Beach, there’s a rhythm to life here that’s downright contagious.

Highlights of Brazil:

1. Rio de Janeiro: From the Christ the Redeemer statue to Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio’s beauty is as undeniable as its samba beats.
   • Personal Note: I attempted samba lessons in Rio. Let’s just say my hips don’t lie—they outright rebelled.
2. Amazon Rainforest: Channel your inner Indiana Jones while exploring the planet’s lungs.
3. Beaches: From the iconic Copacabana to the secluded Baía do Sancho, Brazil’s coastline is postcard-perfect.
4. The Food: Feijoada (a black bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and açaí bowls to fuel your adventures.

Why Brazil Might Not Be for You

• If you’re crowd-averse, Rio during Carnival might feel like a colorful (and loud) nightmare.
• The language barrier can be real if you don’t speak Portuguese.

Key Comparisons

Final Verdict: Where Should You Go?

• Go to Argentina if you dream of sipping wine in the shadow of the Andes or dancing tango under city lights.
• Go to Brazil if you want to let loose, feel the samba beat, and lounge on some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Or, why not both? They’re neighbors! Do a dual-country adventure and thank yourself later.

No matter where you choose, one thing is certain: South America has a way of stealing your heart. Just don’t blame me if you end up booking a one-way ticket.

If you’re planning your next adventure in South America and can’t decide between Argentina and Colombia, you’re not alone. Both countries have their charm, quirks, and jaw-dropping landscapes. I’ve had the privilege (and the occasional misadventure) of exploring both, so let me break it down for you with a dose of personal anecdotes.

The Landscapes

Argentina: Picture this—you’re sipping wine in Mendoza with the Andes mountains towering in the background. Next, you’re trekking through Patagonia, where glaciers meet turquoise lakes. And let’s not forget Iguazú Falls, which is so massive you’ll start questioning whether Niagara Falls is just a glorified faucet.

Colombia: From the lush coffee plantations in the Zona Cafetera to the Caribbean beaches of Cartagena, Colombia is all about variety. You can hike the Lost City (Ciudad Perdida), stroll through colorful streets in Guatapé, or get lost in the Amazon. Pro tip: Don’t actually get lost in the Amazon.

Winner: Tie. Argentina wins for dramatic landscapes; Colombia takes the crown for variety.

The Food

Argentina: Steak. Lots of steak. If cows had passports, they’d flee to neighboring countries. Pair that with a Malbec wine, and you’ll be in culinary heaven. Empanadas here are the stuff of legends, and dulce de leche will ruin regular caramel for you forever.

Colombia: Arepas, bandeja paisa, and fresh tropical fruit juices. Colombian food is hearty and diverse, but if you’re not a fan of carbs, this might not be your paradise. I once had three arepas in one day and felt like a human tortilla. Worth it.

Winner: Argentina. Unless you’re a vegetarian—then maybe Colombia?

The People

Argentina: Porteños (residents of Buenos Aires) are passionate, proud, and will talk your ear off about why their country invented tango, football, and possibly the universe. They’re confident—sometimes to the point of hilarity—but they’ll make you feel welcome.

Colombia: Colombians are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. They’re quick to share a laugh, help you with directions (even if their sense of direction is questionable), and teach you to salsa even if you have two left feet.

Winner: Colombia. They’ll win your heart (and possibly your dance card).

Safety

Both countries have improved significantly in recent years, but it’s always good to stay cautious.

Argentina: Buenos Aires feels like any major city—you need to watch your belongings, especially in crowded areas. Outside the capital, it’s generally safe.

Colombia: The days of Pablo Escobar are long gone, but some areas are still a bit iffy. Stick to well-trodden tourist paths, and you’ll be fine. I’ve wandered through Medellín and Bogotá without a hitch, though my Spanish definitely helped.

Winner: Argentina, by a nose.

The Cost

Argentina: Inflation is like a sport here, and it can actually work in your favor as a traveler. Bring U.S. dollars, and you’ll get a great exchange rate on the blue market. Just be ready for some creative accounting.

Colombia: Your wallet will be happy here, too. Accommodations, food, and transport are affordable, and the peso isn’t as volatile as Argentina’s currency.

Winner: Colombia. Consistency is key.

Personal Highlights

In Argentina: I once attended a tango lesson in Buenos Aires, where I discovered that my hips do, in fact, lie. Then, in Patagonia, a curious guanaco (think llama’s sassier cousin) photobombed me. Truly iconic.

In Colombia: Hiking to the Lost City was grueling but rewarding—though by day three, I’d sold my soul for a cold shower. And in Cartagena, I accidentally joined a street salsa party. Let’s just say my moves got me free empanadas.

The Verdict

So, Argentina or Colombia? It depends on what you’re looking for:

• Go to Argentina if you love dramatic landscapes, wine, and have a carnivorous streak.
• Go to Colombia if you’re all about variety, vibrant culture, and beach vibes.

Or better yet, visit both. Life’s too short to choose just one! Plus, you’ll have plenty of stories to tell!

Let’s talk about Colombia, the land of emeralds, coffee, and jaw-dropping landscapes. But honestly, all that pales in comparison to the true national treasure: THE FOOD. If you’re planning a trip to Colombia and you’re not planning to eat like a champ, let me stop you right here. You’re doing it wrong. Here are 10 Colombian foods you absolutely, positively, must try—or risk committing a culinary crime.

1. Arepas

The MVP of Colombian cuisine. These cornmeal cakes are served with everything: breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, existential crises, you name it. My favorite? An arepa con queso that’s gooey and buttery enough to make you rethink every diet you’ve ever attempted.
Pro Tip: Grab one from a street vendor; they’re the real heroes here.

2. Bandeja Paisa

This dish is basically Colombia’s way of saying, “Come hungry or don’t come at all.” Picture this: rice, beans, chicharrón, avocado, fried egg, plantain, ground beef, and a sausage. It’s like they threw a whole pantry onto one plate and called it a day.
Personal Moment: I once attempted to finish a bandeja paisa solo. Spoiler alert: I didn’t, and I’m still full.

3. Ajiaco

This hearty chicken and potato soup is comfort food at its finest. But the real MVP here is guascas, an herb that gives it a unique flavor. Don’t forget the capers, cream, and avocado for the full experience.
Warning: It’s served piping hot. Learned this the hard way when I enthusiastically dove in too soon and spent the next five minutes pretending my tongue wasn’t on fire.

4. Empanadas

You’ve had empanadas before, but not like these. Colombian empanadas are crunchy, golden pockets of joy filled with beef, chicken, or potatoes. Add some spicy ají sauce, and you’re in snack heaven.
Confession: I may have eaten six in one sitting once. No regrets.

5. Lechona

A whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. Yes, it’s as extra as it sounds, and yes, it’s worth every bite. This is a party dish, so look out for it at festivals or family gatherings.
Fun Fact: Watching a lechona being prepared is a commitment, but it’s also mesmerizing—a true culinary art form.

6. Buñuelos

These fried cheese balls are the snack you didn’t know you needed. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside, and slightly sweet. Perfect with coffee, or, you know, just because.
Challenge: Try eating just one. Spoiler: You can’t.

7. Pandebono

Speaking of cheese, meet buñuelo’s cousin, the pandebono. This gluten-free cheese bread will make you question why you ever settled for plain old rolls.
Real Talk: I once bought a bag of pandebonos “for later” and ate them all before I left the bakery.

8. Sancocho

A rich, slow-cooked stew with meat, yuca, plantains, and corn. It’s comfort in a bowl. Pair it with rice, and you’ve got a meal that will make you want to call your mom and tell her you’re doing just fine.
Pro Move: Order it on a rainy day for maximum coziness.

9. Patacones

These smashed, fried green plantains are the ultimate side dish. Think of them as Colombian french fries, only better. Dip them in hogao (a tomato-onion sauce) for peak deliciousness.
Life Hack: They’re also great for scooping up leftover ajiaco or beans.

10. Obleas

Dessert time! Obleas are thin wafers sandwiching arequipe (Colombian dulce de leche), jam, and sometimes cheese. It’s a sticky, sweet mess, and you’ll love every second of it.
Pro Tip: Get one from a street vendor for that authentic vibe. Bonus points if they add sprinkles.

Colombia is a foodie’s paradise, so don’t even think about skipping these culinary delights. Your taste buds will thank you, your waistband might not, but hey—that’s what stretchy pants are for.

What’s your favorite Colombian food? Share your thoughts (or food pics—we’re all friends here) in the comments below!