Recipe to the Road

In this episode of the Recipe to the Road podcast I reflect on the last 14 months in Mexico and Central America. My partner Tom joins me as we unpack our highs and lows of the last year. We talk about preconceptions versus reality, an honest reflection on budget, what we’ve learned, the male and female experience, hitchhiking and our biggest lessons from the road. This is the last episode of season 1. Thank you all for listening and for being so lovely and encouraging. Latin America - preconceptions versus reality Tom says it is way safer than what you hear. On TV shows it seems very different to real life Way more indigenous people and different culture than I’d have thought from what you see on TV and hear Loads of dancing in Mexico but not so much in Central America- more marching bands Budget reflections: Supermarkets are extortionate in CA, worse than Mexico which was also pricey, more than Ireland for some items You need more money than you might think travelling here Tom notes that we were quite specific on where we stayed for wifi so that could have added to accommodation being expensive We also note that because I ate vegan and sometimes we wanted to eat healthy that was more expensive too. Street food is the cheapest option if you don’t mind about diet. Biggest things we’ve realised Maria: privilege is more than money. Growing up with opportunities and education is a huge privilege. White privilege is a big thing- such as being treated differently at checkpoints and borders Tom: People are generally really nice and decent. Experience as a woman versus a man In some countries I experienced sexism and being treated differently to Tom. People would address Tom and not me in conversations. When I was alone men would shout “Hey baby” or whistle or make other sounds if they are with other men In Belize men would often approach me but it felt a lot more respectful. They were usually alone and it felt more like they put women on a pedestal rather than seeing us as something less than. Male experience: nothing ever happened. Tom also notes that because he has a beard he is perceived as a bit rough or messy in Latin American countries. Hitchhiking Not something we planned but just sort of did it when it was convenient It seemed really safe and the people were lovely. It was a great way to practise Spanish because people who pick up hitchhikers are interested in chatting to you Challenges we faced travelling that led to growth For me: fear and germs For Tom: Getting used to being unsettled. As a couple: being together all the time and working together in the same small spaces Maria does quick fire round: Fav country - El Salvador Fav accom- Zephyr lodge in Lanquin, Guatemala Fav food - Mango y Chile Tacos in Bacalar Fav memory - Valladolid pride Links and info Tom and my other episodes together: Ep 12 & Ep 13 My fav accommodations: Zephyr Lodge, Yuri’s place & Co.404 The best taco: Mango y Chile Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of Recipe to the Road, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dennis Morrisseau, an 80-year-old man from Vermont in the US who is temporarily living in a hostel in Hopkins, Belize. Dennis has led a fascinating life, and I was excited to hear his stories, including his experiences protesting the Vietnam War and his travels throughout the Caribbean, Europe and hitchhiking to San Francisco. We also talked about his interest in aesthetics and design and how it influenced his restaurant in Vermont. Dennis expressed his love for colourful and artistic environments, preferring them over sterile ones. Permaculture and sustainable agriculture in Belize Dennis shared his involvement in a project in Belize where he will be practising permaculture on 80 acres of land. Permaculture is a method of agriculture that involves planting a variety of plants together to support each other and enrich the soil, eliminating the need for fertilisers and pesticides. Dennis emphasised the importance of moving away from monoculture and towards a more natural ecosystem in agriculture. Opposition to the Vietnam war as an army officer Dennis recounted his decision to speak out against the Vietnam War as an army officer in uniform. He described escalating his demonstrations, including speaking at a rally and standing in front of the White House with a sign. Dennis was eventually arrested and spent a night in jail before being processed out for Vietnam (spoiler alert: he didn’t end up going). Corruption and money in American politics During our conversation, Dennis told me about his experience running for congress three times. Despite facing opposition, he gained significant voter support but lacked financial resources. Dennis criticised the lack of transparency in political spending laws, stating that everyone cheats and breaks the law. He refused to file a financial report to shed light on the issue, firmly believing that big money controls politics in America. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of Recipe to the Road, I chat to Ebony, a teacher and creator. Ebony shares her experiences as the first person in her family to embark on international adventures. We discuss her solo trip to Bali which she says changed her life, teaching English in South Korea and Somaliland and her unexpected stay in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic. Being the first in her family to travel Ebony takes us back to her roots, with her family hailing from New Jersey and New York for generations. She shares how she is the first in her family. For this reason her family don’t fully understand her lifestyle and often worry about her. But she thinks they are probably proud too. Finding pure joy in Bali Ebony reminisces about her first solo trip to Bali, Indonesia, while still working as a social worker in the US. She was able to take 2 weeks off work but says that was enough to change her life. She describes the overwhelming happiness she experienced in Bali, attributing it to the energy of pure joy, love, and gratitude that permeated the island. Teaching English in South Korea In Bali Ebony met a South African woman who was teaching English in South Korea and Ebony decided to do the same. She explains the process she went through to move to South Korea and start teaching English. She completed a TEFL (teach English as a foreign language) course online, specifically a 120-hour course with ITTT. Additionally, Ebony had to fulfil certain requirements specific to the South Korean program. She highlights the benefits of the South Korea EPIK (English Programme in Korea) programme, which covers housing, flights, pension, severance, and provides tax-free income for US citizens for two years. Ebony encourages aspiring teachers to research and find a teaching English programme in the country they wish to explore. Backpacking in Africa and Europe After a year of teaching in South Korea, Ebony embarked on a backpacking adventure. She began her journey in Johannesburg, South Africa. Ebony spent about a year backpacking in Africa before travelling through Europe and eventually returning to the United States. Teaching in Somaliland Following her time in South Africa, Ebony applied for a teaching job in Somaliland, an independent country formerly part of Somalia. Ebony shares the cultural differences she encountered in Somaliland, such as the reliance on camel milk as a source of hydration due to limited water in the desert region. She also highlights the challenges faced by women in the region, such as being married off by their parents from the ages of 7 or 8 in exchange for “stock” which could be camels or money. She says female genital mutilation is also a big part of the culture there. Education is a ticket out of the life set out for women by society. Ebony adapted to a different way of life, including encounters with camel spiders in her room and bathing with rainwater. She returned to the US briefly and experienced a culture shock, realising the stark contrast between the capitalist society and the simplicity she had grown accustomed to while abroad. Embracing the journey and sharing stories Currently, Ebony travels as a storyteller, exploring Mexico and Central America. She loves connecting with local and indigenous people, sharing their stories through her YouTube channel. Ebony has also authored a book called "Computer Love" available on Amazon. Her biggest tip for travellers is to embrace the journey and remain open to new experiences. Ebony’s details: YouTube: Eb's Migrations Blog: https://ebonysmigrations.wordpress.com/ Instagram: @ebs_migrations TikTok: @ebs_migrations Book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Creativ-E-Press/author/B0BSNYGM1B?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production:...

In this episode of the Recipe to the Road podcast, I continue my conversation with Sandra and Eddie. Sandra and Eddie are the owners of Real Juquilita Hotel in Puerto Escondido. We discuss their vision of creating a hotel with a welcoming and artistic vibe and their longer term goals to replicate it in different locations. This is part 2 of our conversation. In part one we spoke about how Sandra and Eddie met, lessons they’ve learned from travel and a bit about Sandra’s nonprofit. Dreaming of owning a hotel in La Punta Sandra and Eddie share their inspiring story of how they ended up running a hotel and their vision for the future. They learned a lot about hotel administration from their experience as managers in another hostel, which gave them the confidence to pursue their dream of owning their own place. They believe that luck and attracting positive things play a role in achieving their goals, and that commitment and hard work are necessary. They hope to eventually replicate what they have created in La Punta in other locations. Tips for opening a hotel Sandra and Eddie share their tips and learnings from their experience of opening a hotel. For Sandra there is the added experience of doing so in a new country. These tips include: Expanding your network Understanding the culture and expectations Being smart about opportunities They emphasise the importance of making a decision and going all in, even when doubts arise. They also discuss the importance of being in a good mental and emotional state to attract opportunities. Keys to success in running a hotel Sandra and Eddie have learned a lot in their experience in hospitality. For Sandra the most important part of running a hotel is treating guests well and making them feel at home. For Eddie it is important to be on top of the admin side of things, such as costs and turnover. Together their different skills complement each other. Sandra and Eddie both emphasise the importance of being open to feedback. Creating a hotel/hostel vibe in La Punta Sandra and Eddie talk about the balance between relaxation and exploration in La Punta, and how they wanted to create a space where people can chill and stay for longer periods of time. They aimed to create a hotel/hostel vibe where guests can have the comfort of a hotel and the social atmosphere of a hostel. They also talk about their interest in bringing in more creative projects for guests to get involved in. Book into Real Juquilita On Instagram: @realjuquilita On hostel world Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of the Recipe to the Road podcast I had the pleasure of chatting to Sandra and Eddie. Sandra is from France and Eddie is from Mexico and they run a hotel in Puerto Escondido, Mexico called Hotel Real Juquilita (Insta: @realjuquilita). We discuss how Sandra and Eddie ended up in Puerto Escondido, how they met, Sandras homelessness non-profit and some of the lessons they have learned from their travels. Eddie and Sandra's background and travel experiences Eddie is from Torreón, Mexico, but grew up in the United States until he was 13. He studied in Mexico City and later moved to Puerto Escondido, where he met Sandra. Sandra was born in France to parents from Egypt and Morocco. She grew up in Paris but frequently visited her parents' home countries. Before moving to Puerto Escondido, they travelled to the US, France, Portugal, Amsterdam, and Indonesia. Travelling and cultural understanding Sandra discusses her background in travelling to different countries, including Egypt and Morocco, and how it inspired her to continue travelling. She also talks about the importance of understanding different cultures and how it can change one's perception of everyday life. Eddie mentions how meeting people from different cultures, particularly Sandra, has helped him see things in a different way and become more supportive of issues like poverty. Setting up a humanitarian association Sandra talks about setting up a humanitarian association in Paris with friends to fundraise and provide food for those in need. The organisation is called Yes, We Care and Sandra was just 21 when she set it up. How Sandra and Eddie met Sandra and Eddie share how Hotel Real Juquilita was a part of their story long before they owned it. Sandra stayed there for a few months when she first arrived in Puerto Escondido. She made friends with someone there who introduced her to Eddie. Cultural differences in helping the homeless Sandra discusses her experiences with helping the homeless in Paris and how it can be difficult to understand their reality. She also talks about the prevalence of homelessness in big cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara, but notes that it is less common in tourist areas like Puerto Escondido. Eddie mentions the cultural differences in helping the homeless, citing Indonesia as an example where people are willing to offer their homes to those in need. He also notes the impact of religion on this behaviour. He mentions that people are not as charitable in Mexico and sometimes he feels like people like to pretend homeless people are not there. However in natural disasters or in smaller towns people are more open to help. Mexico city earthquake of 2017. The Mexican earthquake of 2017 brought the people of Mexico together, with everyone helping each other out in the aftermath. People saved a lot of lives, and many others went out of their way to help those affected by the earthquake. The earthquake united the Mexican nation, Eddie believes, with people from other states sending medication and other supplies to Mexico City. Next week’s episode This is part 1 of a 2 part episode. Next week we will focus on the business side of running a hotel. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

Welcome to Recipe to the Road podcast! In this episode of the Recipe to the Road podcast, I dive into part 2 of my conversation with my good friend and knowledgeable sociologist Bryan to continue our journey to unravel the dynamics of Mexico. We talk more about the factors that contribute to Mexico being classified as a developing country. We also explore Mexican politics, the strong sense of community, the friendly and helpful nature of its people, the challenges of gentrification, and ways to travel consciously and respectfully in Mexico. Mexico as a developing country Bryan explains why Mexico is considered a developing country. We discuss the historical context, economic disparities, and social challenges that contribute to this classification. Despite being a popular tourist destination, Mexico faces significant economic gaps, with a portion of the population living below the poverty line. We explored the impact of these disparities on local communities and the importance of travellers being mindful of the economic differences they encounter when visiting Mexico. Mexican politics and the importance of community Bryan helps me better understand the political landscape in Mexico, explaining about the right wing party that was in power for almost 50 years and only recently got voted out. There is a left wing party in power now and people around the country are feeling like their voices are being heard. We explore the strong sense of community in Mexico. From close-knit neighbourhoods to cultural traditions and celebrations, community plays a central role in Mexican society. Friendly and helpful people in Mexico Bryan shared his experiences of encountering friendly and helpful individuals throughout his travels in Mexico. From receiving directions to striking up conversations with locals, he emphasises the genuine kindness that permeates Mexican culture. He highlights the value of embracing this hospitality and reciprocating it by respecting local customs, learning basic Spanish phrases, and approaching interactions with an open mind. Challenges of gentrification As areas become popular tourist destinations, locals are being displaced due to rising prices and in some places evictions. We discussed the importance of being conscious of these dynamics and seeking ways to support local businesses, artisans, and initiatives that prioritise cultural preservation and sustainable development. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of the Recipe to the Road podcast, I am joined by Bryan, an expert in Latin American sociology, as we explore the multifaceted nature of Mexico. We delve into topics such as safety, inequality, indigenous cultures, and Mexico's influence in Latin America. Throughout our discussion, we emphasise the importance of understanding Mexico's diverse perspectives, debunking stereotypes, and fostering empathy when travelling. Mexico's rich history, vibrant culture, and ongoing societal challenges serve as a compelling backdrop for our exploration. Join us as we unravel the complexity of Mexico and gain a deeper appreciation for its unique cultural and social dynamics. Is Mexico in Central America? This is the number 1 most frequently asked question on Google. And as Bryan confirms, the answer is no. It is considered part of Latin America though. We delve into the socio-cultural fabric of Mexico, exploring its vast influence in the Latin American region. Mexico's unique history and cultural heritage have left a lasting impact on neighbouring countries, shaping their traditions, cuisine, and social dynamics. Is Mexico city safe? Addressing the concerns of many a Google user around safety in Mexico City, we shed light on the city of 20 million inhabitants. While some areas may face safety challenges, Mexico also stands as a place where vibrant communities thrive, showcasing a strong sense of unity and helpfulness. Is Mexico a third world country? Bryan says yes it is, because of the inequality which is particularly noticeable in healthcare, education and in rural areas. Exploring the topic of inequality, we recognize the stark contrast between different socio-economic realities in Mexico. We shed light on the disparities that exist within the country. Is Mexican an ethnicity? Quick answer is no. Diving into the intricate tapestry of ethnicity in Mexico, we discuss the rich diversity of indigenous cultures and their significant contributions to Mexican heritage. The Anthropology Museum in Mexico City serves as a captivating showcase of this vibrant history. Is Mexico safe? Returning to the topic of safety in Mexico, we highlight the importance of being cautious while travelling and respecting local communities. We discuss the friendliness and helpfulness of the locals, but stress the need for travellers to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Is Mexico a developed country? Taking a broader perspective, we touch upon Mexico's development status as a country. Bryan confirms that despite some areas resembling European cities in appearance, they lack essential amenities and services. We examine the challenges and progress that Mexico has made in various sectors, such as infrastructure, public health, and transportation. Is Mexican a language? Yes, this is one of the most commonly asked questions on Google about Mexico. And for the record the answer is no. Is Mexico in the United States? Yep. This is also one of the most commonly asked questions. The answer, if anyone was confused, is no. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of Recipe to the Road, I had the pleasure of interviewing Emma, a world traveller who has mastered the art of exploring the world on a budget. She shares her experiences and insights on how to travel affordably without compromising on adventure. From her van life journey through British Columbia and Alberta in Canada to her extensive trips across Asia, Africa and Central America, Emma's stories are both inspiring and practical. Emma's experiences living in a van and exploring various parts of the world while keeping expenses in check demonstrate that with careful planning, resourcefulness, and a bit of adventure, anyone can embark on their dream travels without breaking the bank. Emma's travels Emma embarked on an incredible eight-month journey through the picturesque landscapes of British Columbia and Alberta, all while living in a van. She chose to stay in national parks, often opting for the solitude of camping on her own rather than paid campsites. She set up away from civilization, allowing her to fully immerse herself in nature and enjoy numerous hikes each day. Although not initially the fittest person, Emma gradually built up her stamina, hiking miles and miles every day. Emma's budget 8 months van life in Canada: $125 CAD per month insurance $1,200 CAD for the van → sold it for a profit after $50 CAD for the national park pass Gas 400 km → $100 CAD 14 months travelling Canada in a van and backpacking Central America- £12,000 16 months backpacking in Asia and Africa- £10,000 Safety and travelling as a woman When it comes to safety, Emma doesn't worry much, as she trusts her gut instincts and has a lot of experience travelling. She knows what to look out for and believes that people are mainly kind and generous. In fact, she has encountered numerous instances where locals went out of their way to help her. When Emma’s van broke down in Canada, people not only fixed the van but also brought her back to their house for a shower and dinner. Emma acknowledges that incidents can happen, especially as a woman travelling alone. She has encountered a small number of incidents where men attempted to kiss or touch her inappropriately. However, Emma has always been firm and assertive, standing up for herself when necessary. She even resorted to headbutting someone who tried to kiss her and punched another person who crossed the line by attempting to remove her shorts while she was on the beach. She emphasises the importance of setting boundaries and being prepared to defend oneself if needed. Tips for Travelling on a Budget Emma shares some valuable tips for travelling on a budget, which have helped her stretch her funds and make the most of her adventures. These tips include hitchhiking to save money on transportation, asking locals for their cheapest recommendations on accommodations and activities, avoiding expensive bars and restaurants in favour of local and affordable spots and engaging with locals who often offer to show her around for free or at a lower cost than professional tour guides. Emma also uses Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights, allowing her to maximise her travel experiences within her budget. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of Recipe to the Road Gordon Geraghty, sheds light on what it is like travelling the world with autism. He shares his own perspective on how autism benefited him while travelling and he shares some invaluable tips for people, both neurodivergent and neurotypical, who want to travel but might be a bit unsure. Understanding autism Autism, as Gordon explains, is a condition that affects individuals differently. As the saying goes, "When you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism." Each person's experience is distinct, but there are some common characteristics. People with autism often have heightened sensitivity, which can manifest in various ways. For instance, Gordon personally experiences auditory sensitivity, where he can hear all the sounds around him, when in a crowded space. Another aspect is the potential difficulty in accurately interpreting and expressing emotions, leading to a sort of "colour blindness" when it comes to emotions. How autism impacts travel Gordon views travelling as a great equaliser between neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals. When exploring new cultures, there are no fixed cultural norms to rely on, which creates a level playing field. This environment fosters open-mindedness and direct communication, allowing Gordon to feel liberated. Socialising while travelling becomes a safe space where he can fully express himself. Additionally, Gordon's ability to adapt to changes in his schedule, a trait he attributes to his autism, proves advantageous during his travels. Gordon's travels Gordon embarked on an adventure that began in Perth, Australia where he surprised his sister for Christmas in 2017. After spending a month there, he decided to make the most of being on that side of the world and continued his travels. From Japan to South Korea, China to Vietnam, Thailand to Bali, and even California, Gordon explored diverse destinations. Eventually, he settled in Australia permanently. Travel tips from Gordon Gordon shares some practical travel tips based on his personal experiences. To overcome language barriers, especially in China, he carried a mini whiteboard to communicate through drawings. He emphasises the importance of embracing the mantra, "It is better to have remorse than regret." This mindset helps alleviate nervousness about travelling and encourages individuals to take the leap. For those anxious about embarking on a journey, starting small by travelling within your own country or continent allows you to discover what suits you best. Gordon mentions an Instagram travel page from someone we both know who travels everywhere by land. He has some really interesting insights, I would recommend checking him out @smallbagtravel. Planning and organisation While Gordon always had a more detailed plan than most travellers, he acknowledges the need to adapt when schedules change unexpectedly. To handle such situations, he recommends having multiple plans in place. This way, when things don't go as expected, you can seamlessly switch to another option while still having the comfort of following a plan. For example, if a boat arrives on time, follow plan A; if it doesn't, switch to plan B. Accessibility and inclusivity Gordon noticed stark differences in accessibility and inclusivity between countries. Wealthier nations, such as Japan and Korea, excel in providing accessibility features. In Japan, they use pictures on signs, as well as signs in Braille and audio cues for blind individuals. Disneyland even offers headphones for autistic visitors. In Australia, museums have sensory-friendly times in the morning to cater to individuals with sensory sensitivities. These initiatives help create a more inclusive travel experience. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice...

Can you imagine what it feels like to never be able to go back “home” from your travels? But to also have left that home because it just didn’t feel like home anymore. That is Josseline’s story. Born to Mexican undocumented immigrants in the US, Josseline grew up “American”. Her mother left the US when US immigration officers started clamping down on undocumented people and the US started to feel less and less like home for Josseline. She was also trapped by her status under the DACA act and had to make a decision to leave the US for good and finally get to see her mom again, or stay for good accepting that she would likely not see her mother again, unless something changed in one of their statuses. Josseline’s background Josseline was born in Michoacan, Mexico, and moved to the United States illegally with her parents as a child. The US became the only home she knew. Her mother was always careful and even tried to make sure Josseline’s attendance in the special ed class in school wasn’t on her record for fear it would impact her case in getting a greencard in the future. DACA DACA or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals was an act to help children of undocumented immigrants. Josseline describes it as an amnesty for anyone who entered the country illegally below a certain age. It would allow them to work legally. In some states DACA recipients can apply for a driving licence too. At first this was not an option in Arizona where Josseline grew up so for 2 years she wasn’t entitled to apply for a driving licence. The process to apply for DACA is expensive and often requires a lawyer, which Josseline was fortunate to have access to. She says she knew many families who didn't have this privilege. DACA is dependent on recipients not committing any crimes and reapplying every 2 years. They are also not entitled to a passport and if they leave the US they cannot reenter. Why leave? Josseline had a hard time after her mother left and wasn’t happy in the US. She was living with her sister and they weren’t getting along. She also found out that a lot of her friends were pro-Trump and anti-immigration. They didn't realise Josseline’s story. Coming home to Mexico When Josseline moved to Mexico things still weren’t plain sailing. She didn’t have a Mexican passport so had to apply for one. This process was really tough and Josseline had to jump through hoops to provide the passport office with sufficient evidence that she was entitled to a Mexican passport. Since recording this podcast I am delighted to share that Josseline has officially gotten her Mexican passport! Other people in Josseline’s position Josseline says that she hasn't met other people in her position. A lot of people who got DACA stayed in the US. There is a small movement of US citizens renouncing their citizenship and moving elsewhere but they are in a different situation. Josseline’s future travels Josseline says that after she gets her passport she would love to travel abroad more and is particularly excited to see Germany, Japan and Ecuador. She says she isn’t a fan of sightseeing but prefers doing stuff. She recently got certified to skydive and the next thing she wants to do is to base jump, which is jumping off a high place and using a parachute. She wants to jump in different places around the world. Links and info: Josseline’s Instagram @josselinearellano Josseline’s favourite accommodation is called U-Co Roma and can be booked here. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this week’s Recipe to the Road podcast I interview Kesi, a travel blogger who has turned her passion for exploring the world into a full-time lifestyle. In this episode, Kesi will be sharing her story of transitioning from working on Wall Street to travelling the world and how she has built her business over the years. From Wall Street to World Traveller Kesi started her career in finance and decided to take a year sabbatical to travel the world. During her time travelling, she worked at the Yacht Week and made lots of connections all over the world. She continued to make connections as she travelled and made an effort to keep in touch with people. This way she could travel to lots of places and have somewhere to stay or someone to show her around. Her one year of travelling turned into her full-time lifestyle. She used to work at Yacht Week each year and save up and then use that money to travel for the rest of the year. Backpacking in East Africa Kesi spoke to me about her time backpacking in East Africa which she absolutely loved. She visited Kenya, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Mozambique and Tanzania. Kesi loved her time in East Africa and would recommend everyone to visit. We spoke about safety in the countries she visited and she says she felt safe everywhere she went. She speaks about a common attitude that Africa is a country rather than a continent with 54 different countries. If one country is having issues or political unrest, it does not mean the whole continent is dangerous. Building a Blogging Business While Kesi was travelling she kept a blog and used to update her Instagram. This was growing in popularity as she travelled. Once COVID happened and her annual gig at the Yacht week was cancelled she invested more in her blogging and started to really build a business. A connection of hers in Uganda who ran a tour company got in touch with her to work together promoting tours to Uganda. When her first tour went well another company got in touch with her to run a tour to Antarctica. Dating while Travelling Kesi spoke about dating while travelling. She said this lifestyle can put pressure on relationships, especially if one person doesn't want to keep travelling. Although she does think the nomad dating pool is growing due to the increase in remote workers after COVID. Kesi's Tips for anyone in a 9-5 who wants to travel the world Everyone should try out long term travel at least once Do it sooner rather than later Buy a one-way flight because you don’t know how your plans are going to change Less is more Trust strangers but listen to your gut instinct Kesi’s details Website: www.kesitoandfro.com Instagram: @kesitoandfro Or #followthefro Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

Welcome back to Recipe to the Road podcast. In this episode, we continue our chat with Katie, Luke, and their 2-year-old daughter Cora, who are the brains behind the Ungraceful Guide Instagram, Tiktok, and YouTube channel. They share their insights and experiences on travelling with a toddler. Preparing for Travel with a Toddler Katie and Luke always knew they would continue to travel even after having a baby. They made the decision to stay put for a while as they got her vaccines and went to developmental checks. They did some test run trips before starting to travel full-time again, including going camping in Ireland and trips to Turkey and Italy. This helped them to understand how their travel style works with Cora. What it is like travelling with a toddler They still have the same issues that every parent has, such as sleep regressions, tantrums, etc., but they prefer to deal with these issues on the road. Cora goes through phases like every toddler. They still have the same issues that every parent has, such as sleep regressions, tantrums, etc., but they would rather deal with these issues on the road than at home. Luke got some excellent advice from his cousin, who said, "Your kids don't know what normal is, you are your kids' normal." To them making sure Cora is happy and healthy and has happy healthy parents is the number one priority. They've noticed that in Latin America, kids are treated differently than at home in Ireland, where there is still somewhat of a mentality of "children should be seen and not heard." In Latin America, kids are in the forefront, and people are more tolerant. Kids are allowed to be kids. Biggest Surprises of Traveling with a Toddler For Katie, the biggest surprise is how good Cora is on transport. She loves a night bus and they have never had a really bad travel day with Cora. She does long journeys with no screens and is totally entertained by everything going on around her. For Luke, the biggest surprise is how quickly kids pick up languages. Cora is doing great at Spanish and even picked up some Mayan words after hearing someone teach Luke. Schooling and Travelling with a Toddler Katie believes that Cora is already learning so much from travelling that she isn’t too worried about her missing playschool or school. They want to get her into school until she's about 7 or 8. Until then, they plan to homeschool her. They may settle down in other places where she could attend school. Advice for Parents Traveling with a Toddler You don’t need as much stuff as you think you need. Don’t worry about bringing too much stuff, like a pram. And even if you figure out you need something extra you can buy it on the road. Maintain a routine. But not related to location. Katie says you can do their nighttime routine anywhere. Draw inspiration from local cultures and see how they raise their kids. Keep the kids in the loop. Katie and Luke like to always show Cora where she’s going so she knows what to expect on the journey and they let her help make the decisions. Don’t listen to anyone else. Try it and see for yourself because everyone is different. Start with one country and do a shorter trip to try it out and if it doesn’t work you can go home Cora's Travel Experience Cora joined us and shared her experience as a 2-year-old backpacker. She loves travelling on buses, planes, and trains, and when asked her favourite place she’s been on her travels she said it is the bus. She also shares some of the Spanish that she learned. Ungraceful Guide contact info @ungracefulguide on Instagram, Tiktok and YouTube www.theungracefulguide.com Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of the Recipe to the Road podcast, Katie and Luke from The Ungraceful Guide share their travel journey, from budget backpacking to travelling with their two-year-old daughter, Cora. They also talk about how they started working in web development while travelling, their experience travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic and being pregnant while in Thailand. Meeting and Deciding to Travel Katie and Luke met in Dublin 10 years ago. Before they met, Katie had never travelled before, but Luke had travelled and worked in Australia, America and Europe. They decided to go to Thailand for 6 weeks together, and it was an eye-opener for Katie, as she realised there was a whole world out there to see. They wanted to travel some more. On a friends recommendation they enrolled in a CELT course learning to teach English which they could do to earn money as they travelled. Working online as web developers They never really taught English, aside from a small bit online and some volunteering. They got some job offers but it never felt right at the time so they didn't take them. As they were not making money, they started finding ways to not spend money, such as hostel volunteering. They eventually got into web development by building a website for an English school they were supposed to volunteer at. Travelling with a Toddler During the COVID-19 pandemic, they up-skilled and registered their business to have job security, especially since Cora was born. They now live on a slightly less extreme budget when travelling. They travel differently now that they have a daughter, being more safety-conscious and trying to create a home at every stop for Cora. They take their work more seriously too. Travel Burnout Travelling can be mentally draining, especially since you are thinking about so much more than you usually would be thinking of when at home. It can lead to travel burnout, which Katie and Luke have experienced. They recommend taking breaks and slowing down when travelling to avoid burnout. Being in India during COVID-19 Katie and Luke were in rural India when COVID-19 broke out, and they didn't have access to the internet. They realised the extent of things when people were scared of them because they looked foreign. They decided to get out of India and fly to Thailand because they thought it would be difficult to social distance in India, and they didn't want to risk putting pressure on the health system if they did get sick. Pregnant in Thailand After a long and stressful journey, they made it to Thailand just before the borders closed. They spent their first while in Thailand helping Katie's uncle get home to Ireland, which was a nightmare. COVID numbers were also climbing in Ireland, and they decided to stay in Thailand after finding out that Katie was pregnant. After a few hospital appointments, they decided to stay as long as they could and just come home to Ireland to have the baby. Once home they ended up staying in Ireland for two years due to COVID and were content with the time they spent but ready to go again. In part 2 Luke and Katie will be speaking to me about how they made the decision to keep travelling after Cora was born and what it is like to travel with a toddler. We’ll also hear from Cora herself! Make sure and come back next week! Ungraceful Guide contact info @ungracefulguide on Instagram, Tiktok and YouTube www.theungracefulguide.com Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of Recipe to the Road podcast, my partner Tom and I continue our chat about travelling with someone. We discuss the importance of knowing your own boundaries and comfort levels, being honest with each other about any issues that might arise and run through some pros and cons of travelling with someone. Knowing yourself We talk about how, while travelling, you need to be in tune with yourself, understand your need for alone time and be aware of your social battery levels. We discuss the potential consequences of not recognizing these limits, such as irritability, depression, or taking out frustrations on others. Couple time when travelling Tom and I stay in a mix of AirBnBs and hostels so this means we often have time to spend together as a couple. Usually our chill time is spent together as we watch a lot of the same TV shows or might play music together. Every now and again we will get a bit dressed up to go out for dinner together too. Pros and cons of travelling with someone else We discuss some of our pros and cons of travelling together rather than solo. Pros of travelling with someone else: I feel safer travelling with Tom, especially in positions where men are making me feel uncomfortable It's nice to have someone to share new experiences and memories with You have a support system if you’re feeling homesick or receive some bad news If one of you is burned out the other one can step up and take care of planning or other admin things for a while Often you can get a private room or apartment for cheaper than two dorm beds so we usually get private rooms Cons of travelling with someone else: Solo travelling can be an opportunity for personal growth- you may not get that same level of growth while travelling with someone You are each others entire support system If you don’t communicate sufficiently you might burn each other out more Not staying in dorms as much might mean you don’t make as many friends in hostels Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this week’s Recipe to the Road podcast I am delighted to be joined by my partner Tom. We talk about what it’s like to travel with someone else. We discuss route planning, compromise, budgeting together, boundaries and the importance of communication. Tom and I have been together for six years. We moved in together when we moved to Canada just before the COVID 19 pandemic and have been travelling on this trip together since May 2022. Route planning and compromise We planned the trip together. Our destination was somewhat decided for us as COVID 19 restrictions were still in place when we started planning. We knew some people who had travelled in Mexico and Central America and the current COVID restrictions would allow this route. From there, we planned our route in a flexible way, picking out spots using Google maps, blogs and by talking to people we met along the way. Our route was also somewhat dictated by wifi so that we could work online. We were lucky that we usually agreed on a route and havent had to compromise on our route. But we discuss some ways to compromise if you do end up in the situation like taking it in turns or flipping a coin. Booking accommodation We use a mix of Airbnb, Booking.com, blogs, and Hostelworld to find accommodation. We often find when travelling together that it is cheaper to get a private room or apartment than it is to pay for two dorm beds. This isn't always the case but we only look at places with good wifi and a kitchen so that might be why. Budgeting Tom and I usually take note of all of our spending and put it in a shared Google sheet. We do this based on our online banking apps. Tom notes that we are somewhat lenient when it comes to cash withdrawals and just usually split them 50/50 even though it can be hard to track exactly who spent more cash. For people travelling with friends who might want to track this a bit more accurately Tom recommends keeping notes on your phone of your cash spending. Navigating alone time and boundaries while travelling together When travelling together, it's easy to feel like you're attached at the hip. We talk a bit about how to ensure you are getting your alone time and respecting each other's boundaries. The most important things we discuss for doing this are: Understanding your own boundaries and needs Communicating honestly with your travel partner Paying attention to their demeanour Being comfortable in each other's silence We have been working from home for almost three years now, so are used to spending a lot of time together. Even if they go somewhere and do nothing, we are comfortable being in silence with each other, and it's not an awkward silence. We are comfortable doing our own things while still being in the same room. Travel can really drain your social batteries so being comfortable in silence with your travel partner is important. We will continue the conversation in next week’s episode of the Recipe to the Road podcast. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

Welcome back to Recipe to the Road Podcast, episode 11. In this episode, we'll be continuing our conversation with Ama as she shares more about her spiritual and healing journey. Ama talks about stepping into the role of a healer, the concept of the imperfect healer, and the importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies. If you didn’t already listen to part 1 you can catch it here. Balancing masculine and feminine energies Ama discusses how everyone possesses both masculine and feminine energies, regardless of gender. She highlights the need for men to embrace their feminine energy. Ama believes that a balance between masculine and feminine energies can promote healthy expression and prevent abuse of power. Fluidity of gender Ama notes that gender is becoming more fluid and less rigid in today's society. She believes that individuals do not need to conform to traditional gender roles but can instead discover their true selves. Ama suggests that by shedding these roles, people can open themselves up to spirituality and deeper self-exploration. Healing from Trauma Ama talks about the importance of facing the hard truths about oneself and the journey of healing from past traumas. She emphasises that trauma does not give one the right to impact other people negatively and that the past should not inform the present. Ama's Journey of Healing Ama shares that her journey of healing was a long and deep process that involved Ayahuasca. Ayahuasca helped her gain insight and showed her the need to change her life and start leading. She emphasises that one cannot hide in the medicine and that it is not enough to see the epiphanies; one must take action and change their lives. The Role of Imperfect Healers Ama also talks about her calling as a healer. She believes that imperfect healers can still make a difference in people's lives and that the journey of self-discovery and healing is ongoing. By working on herself, she learns more about human nature, which helps her to help her clients even better. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

This week on the Recipe to the Road podcast I am speaking to psychic, urban shaman and life coach Ama. We met in Merída, Mexico where she has been living for the past 2 years. She tells me about how she ended up moving from the US to Mexico and her travels around the world; to the Caribbean, Ireland and Japan as well as her biggest trip to Peru where she spent 4 months learning about the plant medicine ayahuasca. Why Merida? Ama explains that the city chose her, not the other way around. She stumbled upon an Airbnb with an amazing house and a huge pool that caught her attention. When she arrived, she noticed a jaguar on the front of the house, which turned out to be her spirit animal so she took that as a sign that she was in the right place. From Vacation to Relocation Ama came to Merida for a two-month sabbatical with her best friend, intending to work on some things and relax. However, they soon decided that they wanted to stay in Merida permanently. Ama started looking at different neighbourhoods and meeting the locals, experiencing the city's architecture and culture. Personal Growth through Ayahuasca Ama talks about her experience with Ayahuasca, a plant medicine that helped her purge negative emotions and thoughts. She explains how it opened her up to a deeper understanding of herself and how she could approach the world. The journey led her to take steps towards her personal growth and development, including learning Spanish and embracing the local culture. Ama's Psychic Abilities Ama talks about her psychic abilities and how they manifested.While she was working with Ayahuasca she began having profound conversations with a presence that she refers to as "creator." This presence told her to clean up her life, change everything and do healing work. It also told her that she would start seeing and hearing things. Learning about Spirituality through Travel Ama shares that she was willing to travel to find out more about spirituality and to meet shamans and indigenous people. She learned that there were good and bad shamans. Ama shares that she had a bad experience with a shaman who tried to force himself on her sexually while she was on the medicine, but she didn't let it stop her from continuing her journey. She stayed in Peru and had many more amazing experiences exploring different shamans, both men and women, and learning from them. Embracing Personal Growth Through her experiences with plant medicine, travel, and spiritual exploration, Ama has embraced personal growth and development. She now works as a medium, clairvoyant, and holistic life coach, helping others on their own journeys of self-discovery. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad on Instagram and Tiktok. Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

Do you dream of travelling the world and working remotely? Do you want to learn how to make it happen? In this episode of Recipe to the Road, I speak to Laura from Estonia who shares her story of becoming a digital nomad and being able to work from locations all over the world. Spoiler alert: you don’t need a degree to do it! The love of travel Laura always had the travel bug. She started travelling as soon as she finished school and her first big solo trip was to Brazil. She met someone from Brazil in Estonia and that's how she decided to go there. She set up a hostel volunteering position ahead of time which meant she had food and board sorted for part of her travels. Laura googled "ways to earn money while travelling" and found hostel volunteering at Workaway. Laura’s travels were originally supposed to be a year long trip before she went back home to go to university but she met lots of people who had travelled for years and wanted to keep doing it. Working holiday visa After Brazil, Laura went to Australia and New Zealand on a working holiday visa. She travelled and worked there to save money to continue on to Asia. It was during this time that she had an inkling that she didn't need to go to university. She never thought that going to university is the only way to be successful, however her parents were worried that this wasn’t true and she would need a degree. After she started her own business they relaxed and realised she was doing ok. Building a business Laura started studying Adobe programmes and digital illustrations to build a portfolio. She started by selling digital downloads on Etsy. People liked her designs and inquired about custom work. Laura decided to make a website so she could offer these services. While creating her website she realised she loved building websites and decided to start offering this as a service. She now offers website design and development. Mindset is key Laura has always had a strong belief that she can do anything she sets her mind to. She says mindset is important in doing what she does and being an entrepreneur. Where other people make excuses, Laura says "why couldn't I do that?". She recommends just figuring out what you enjoy doing, what you can make money from, and what service is needed and giving it a go. While doing all that you have to believe you can do it. Laura says mindset is so important while doing all that. Believe in yourself Becoming a digital nomad is possible if you have the right mindset and are willing to put in the work. Laura's story is proof that it can be done. She says you just need to be passionate about your craft and believe in yourself. Know that you have something to offer. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

In this episode of Recipe to the Road podcast, we'll be exploring the beautiful country of Ecuador, the bustling city of Cali in Colombia, and the San Blas Islands, where the Guna Yala people have lived for generations with my guest Stephen. This is part two of Stephen’s interview so if you haven’t listened to part one yet you can catch it here. Ecuador and the Amazon Stephen’s next stop was Ecuador, where he and his partner Siobhán encountered some more political unrest, but fortunately, it wasn't too serious. There were no lockdowns this time. One of the highlights of their time in Ecuador was visiting Baños, where they “swung off the edge of the world”. They also ventured into the Amazon rainforest, travelling for over nine hours into the jungle but still really only being in the outskirts. They stayed in a hostel there. While the experience was amazing they felt it was the tourist-friendly version of the Amazon. However, they also learned about the tribes that live deep in the jungle, some of whom have never met people from the outside world before. A potentially dangerous situation in Colombia Their travels took them to Cali, Colombia, where they felt a bit unsafe after accidentally wandering into a bad part of the city. Fortunately, a few locals walked beside them, trying to help them, until the police arrived and put them in a taxi. This experience taught them to be more cautious when wandering around cities in the future. As they were running out of money, they flew to Medellin and visited Pablo Escobar's prison. They also travelled along the north coast of Colombia. However, their original plan to travel all the way from South America to Vancouver became too expensive. The San Blas Islands tour To travel from Colombia to Panama, they took a San Blas islands tour, as they couldn't go by land due to the impassable Darrian Gap. This jungle between Panama and Colombia is a valuable drug trafficking channel, and it's full of wild animals and diseases. It's far too dangerous for people to travel through, and there are no roads. While the Darrian Gap is fascinating, Stephen said they didn't ask too many questions about what was going on there, as they felt it might not be the best idea. The San Blas islands tour was the highlight of their trip, as they spent four nights going between islands, meeting people, and experiencing their way of life. The Guna Yala people taught them about their customs and traditions, and they did the tour with a company called the San Blas Islands tour. Being on the San Blas islands showed Stephen a different way of life. While people there are educated and potentially have the opportunity to leave, they decide to stay because they prefer their way of life. Stephen said it was a transformative experience that will stay with him forever. Route Santiago, Chile→ Mendosa, Argentina → back to Santiago, Chile → San Pedro de Atacama, Chile → Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia → La Paz, Bolivia → Copacabana, Bolivia → Cusco, Peru → Huacachina, Peru → Nazca Lines, Peru → Paracas, Peru → Mancora, Peru → Guayaquil, Ecuador → Baños, Ecuador → Amazon, Ecuador → Cali, Colombia → Medellin, Colombia → Cartagena, Colombia → Santa Martha, Colombia → Palomino, Colombia→ Guna Yala Islands→ Panama Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message

This week on the Recipe to the Road podcast I speak to Stephen about backpacking through South America during times of political unrest. Stephen is from Donegal in Ireland and along with his partner Siobhán he spent 6 months in South America. This will be a 2 part episode. In part 1 we speak about route planning, navigating political unrest in Chile and Bolivia and visiting the world-famous Machu Picchu. Previous travels Stephen starts by telling me a bit about his previous travel experience, before his South America trip. He travelled around South East Asia and absolutely loved it. He didn’t make any plans before the trip other than to go with the flow and found it very easy to navigate. He also spent some time as a digital nomad in Gran Canaria which is one of the Spanish Canary Islands. Backpacking in South America Stephen and Siobhán started their travels in South America in Santiago, Chile. Like Stephens's previous backpacking trip they didn’t have a plan and planned their route based on tips and advice from other travellers, hostel owners and locals. Unlike Asia, travelling in South America this way proved to be slightly more challenging as the distances are much greater and flights were more expensive than in Asia. They mostly used buses to get around for this reason and therefore had to be a bit more organised in their route planning. Navigating political unrest as a backpacker Additionally, they had to deal with political unrest, as both Chile and Bolivia had riots during their travels. However, not having set plans gave them the freedom to navigate these challenges. They found that the unrest in the cities they were in was mostly protests and street parties rather than violent riots. Protesters were conscious of tourists and ensured they could always get through the crowds. Stephen said they never felt in danger. They kept an ear to the ground always asking anyone they could if they were good to go to their next location. Despite what was going on in both Chile and Bolivia they still got to see lots of places, like the famous San Pedro prison in La Paz, Bolivia from the book Marching Powder. Peru was chill In Peru, they found a more relaxed atmosphere, with no political unrest. They travelled along the coast, visiting the Nazca Lines, and enjoyed activities such as sandboarding and paragliding over sand dunes at Huaccachina. They also took a tour to Machu Picchu and visited the Paracas, which is known as a mini Galapagos Islands. Route Santiago, Chile→ Mendosa, Argentina → back to Santiago, Chile → San Pedro de Atacama, Chile → Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia → La Paz, Bolivia → Copacabana, Bolivia → Cusco, Peru → Huacachina, Peru → Nazca Lines, Peru → Paracas, Peru → Mancora, Peru → Guayaquil, Ecuador → Baños, Ecuador → Amazon, Ecuador → Cali, Colombia → Medellin, Colombia → Cartagena, Colombia → Santa Martha, Colombia → Palomino, Colombia Part 2 of Stephens interview will be out on 8th March. Next week he speaks to me about visiting the Amazon rainforest, wandering into a dodgy area in Colombia and island hopping from Colombia to Panama to avoid the impassable Darrian Gap. Contact the show: recipetotheroad@gmail.com or @recipetotheroad Apply to be a guest: https://forms.gle/MbPYGzHxKQvCUfdt8 Podcast production: www.creativelycontenting.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/recipetotheroad/message