Galapagos
2023 Vaya Photo Contest Winners
Vaya travelers are known for being genuinely curious and respectful, for delving into the destinations they visit with open hearts and open minds. This approach is reflected in their photographs – images brimming with warm human connection, responsible wildlife encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. That’s what makes judging Vaya’s annual photo contest so much fun. After… Read Full Post
2022 Vaya Photo Contest Winners
Nothing delights us more than receiving photos captured by our travelers throughout the year. Whether it’s up close encounters with wildlife, sunsets over remote and little visited corners of our natural world, or new friends made while traveling, your images transport us—and we look forward to seeing each and every one! To all of you… Read Full Post
2019 Vaya Photo Contest Winners!
Throughout 2019 we were delighted to receive photos taken by our travelers. To everyone who sent us photos, thank you! We look at every one of them, and we appreciate the chance to experience our destinations through your eyes. Whether they’re showcasing outstanding natural beauty, untamed wildlife, or vibrant culture, your photos allow us to… Read Full Post
New Ecuador Entry Requirements (updated)
*UPDATE* As of July 2018 the law requiring tourists to have proof of health insurance has been modified and is no longer required. Effective September 2017, the Ecuadorian government will now require all tourists to carry proof of health insurance that covers them during their stay in Ecuador. While the government has yet to issue… Read Full Post
2016 Vaya Photo Contest Winners!
From the stiff breeze of Patagonia at the bottom of the Southern Cone, to the lush green landscapes surrounding Machu Picchu, all the way up to colorful markets of Colombia and everywhere in between, this year’s photo contest made it difficult for us to choose the winners. In no specific order, here are the winners… Read Full Post
My Grandfather’s Travels Through Latin America with the National Symphony Orchestra in the 1950s and ’60s
When I was young, before I or anyone in my immediate family had been to South America, I remember hearing that my maternal grandfather, Howard Mitchell, had visited South America several times. Originally from Iowa, he had left home at the age of 16 to study music at the Peabody Institute in Baltimore. An accomplished… Read Full Post
Arequipa & Colca Canyon as an Active 3-Night Extension
On a recent trip to Peru I had the chance to visit some places that are slightly further off the radar than the iconic Cusco and Machu Picchu. I spent about a week exploring Arequipa, the Colca Canyon, and Lake Titicaca, which was a nice amount of time for a leisurely exploration of all three…. Read Full Post
Winetasting and James Turrell at the World’s Highest Vineyard in Argentina
I recently took a trip to the northwest region of Argentina, a vast and less-visited section of the country. Some parts are reminiscent of the American southwest, but with many decidedly Argentine cultural twists (well-preserved colonial towns, gaucho culture), and not a few surprises. Among the surprises is Colomé, home to the world’s highest vineyards… Read Full Post
Beyond Ceviche: Mistura and the Diversity of Peruvian Cuisine
Many in-the-know travelers rank Peru among the world’s greatest food cultures, and Peruvian cuisine has begun enjoying widespread international recognition. This is due in part to chefs whose fame has grown outside of Peru, such as Gastón Acurio, whose flagship Lima restaurant Astrid y Gastón has consistently been at the top of Best Restaurant lists… Read Full Post
Savoring a Stay at a Gourmet Hotel in Argentina’s Lake District
Given that the word gourmet is in the name, one would expect Las Balsas Gourmet Hotel & Spa to have a stellar restaurant, but the gourmet experience at this beautiful boutique property in Argentina’s Lake District goes far beyond the food. Of all the Argentina hotels I’ve been fortunate enough to visit over the years,… Read Full Post