I've long followed the writings (and recipes) of a fellow travel writer, Marina Villatoro. Her excellent site? http://www.travelexperta.com/ - All you need to know about Traveling in Central America. From the aforementioned recipes to weekly videos, from photos of the day to exploring expat living, and from hotel and tour recommendations to my favorite article, 4 Ways to be Shadier than a Pickpocket, Marina shares excellent travel and geographic tips. It's always fun to dig in to her site and explore - you will enjoy it, too! We were lucky enough to sit down and talk with Marina about her site, traveling in Central America, and more. Here's what she had to say...
WE: Please tell us about your site, http://www.travelexperta.com/...
MV: Travel Experta was started to form a community with my fellow travelers and offer tons of info about life and travel in Central America, predominantly in Costa Rica and Guatemala, the countries that I have lived in and still do and know the most about.
WE: What was the genesis of your site?
MV: My family and I have done so much traveling around Costa Rica and Guatemala, that I wanted to introduce the world to this part of world. Many people don't think that Central America is a family friendly place to travel, but it so is! Plus, I've been a serial expat in these parts for over 7 years and wanted to share my experiences as well.
WE: What can readers find on your site?
MV: Everything Costa Rica and Guatemala travel! Places to go, what to see, what to do!
WE: What is your travel history - and philosophy?
MV: I've been traveling since I can remember. But one of my life's goals was to travel for an extended period of time. So back in 2001 I quit my job and took of with my backpack, with no time frame at all. I've done lots of backpacking travels before, but they were short bursts 2 weeks to 1 month.
This one was supposed to be never ending! It lasted for 1.5 years. During that time I met my husband and back packed all throughout US, Mexico, Central and South America!
WE: Do you have travel tips, for heading to Central America?
MV: Basically, come prepared, but to an extent. Don't start gulping down malaria pills, but definitely bring lots of repellent. Don't show off your jewelry and toys. These are not the countries to do so. It's better to be
humble and simple. Leave all the fun stuff at home, this way when you return, you can actually enjoy it rather than cry about why it was stolen.
For kids, you don't need to bring tons of diapers, these countries have population growths way over ours and they are fully stocked for all kid needs.
As much as it seems like a good idea, try to not eat from the vendors on the street too much, especially your kids. The sanitary restrictions are limited
and it's not odd to see the women counting money and then choosing your tortilla with the same hand that will later rest on the dirty asphalt.
WE: How do you suggest people give back, while traveling?
MV: These countries are so poor. You would be surprised how far a little will go. If you have clothes that you want to give away in the States and have enough room in your luggage bring them here and give it to the people in
need. If you can believe it the majority of the donations we give in the States end up in Ropa Americana stores, where the poor have to buy it.
If you have a week that you can offer to volunteer the opportunities are endless from helping orphans to street kids to working with endangered animals.
Also, if you're going to be buying souvenirs try to buy from the actual locals. They might not take credit cards, but that money will go directly to the needy - them!
WE: Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?
MV: I just want to say that traveling is one of the best experiences in the world. When you're single or childless there can be a lot more spontaneity, but with a child I recommend to prearrange at least most of the trip.
Going to these countries is a great experience and one that you and your family will remember forever!
WE: Thanks so much, Marina! You've got such great advice for our readers.
For more information, please see:
http://www.travelexperta.com/
Photos courtesy and copyright of Marina Villatoro