Expert Guidance for Your American Journey
Travel America: A Vibrant Tapestry of Culture, History, and Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Latin America, where vibrant cultures, rich history, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisine await. Each destination offers a unique blend of experiences, from bustling metropolises to charming colonial towns, all with opportunities for language learning, academic pursuits, and unforgettable adventures.
Peru: Cusco (Population: 450,000, Founded: 1100)
Lifestyle: Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire, is a city steeped in history and culture. The city’s cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant markets offer a unique glimpse into Peru’s past and present.
Transportation: Cusco is a relatively small city that is easily explored on foot. Taxis and buses are also available. The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport serves the city.
Food: Experience the diverse flavors of Peruvian cuisine, including traditional dishes like cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca steak. Cusco is also known for its delicious street food. An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 USD.
People: Cusqueños are known for their warmth, hospitality, and pride in their Inca heritage. They are eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.
Opportunities: Cusco is a popular base for exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. The city is also home to several Spanish language schools and offers a variety of cultural experiences.
Transportation: Cusco is a relatively small city that is easily explored on foot. Taxis and buses are also available. The Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport serves the city.
Food: Experience the diverse flavors of Peruvian cuisine, including traditional dishes like cuy (guinea pig) and alpaca steak. Cusco is also known for its delicious street food. An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 USD.
People: Cusqueños are known for their warmth, hospitality, and pride in their Inca heritage. They are eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.
Opportunities: Cusco is a popular base for exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. The city is also home to several Spanish language schools and offers a variety of cultural experiences.
Nicaragua: Granada (Population: 127,000, Founded: 1524)
Lifestyle: Granada is a charming colonial city with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a relaxed atmosphere. The city’s rich history is evident in its architecture and cultural traditions.
Transportation: Granada is a small city that is easily explored on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and horse-drawn carriages are also available. The Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua is the closest international airport.
Food: Savor the flavors of Nicaraguan cuisine, which features fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5-10 USD.
People: Nicaraguans are known for their warmth, hospitality, and resilience. They are proud of their country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Opportunities: Granada is home to several Spanish language schools and offers a variety of cultural experiences, from exploring colonial architecture to visiting nearby volcanoes and lakes.
Transportation: Granada is a small city that is easily explored on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and horse-drawn carriages are also available. The Augusto C. Sandino International Airport in Managua is the closest international airport.
Food: Savor the flavors of Nicaraguan cuisine, which features fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes like gallo pinto (rice and beans). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5-10 USD.
People: Nicaraguans are known for their warmth, hospitality, and resilience. They are proud of their country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Opportunities: Granada is home to several Spanish language schools and offers a variety of cultural experiences, from exploring colonial architecture to visiting nearby volcanoes and lakes.
El Salvador: Suchitoto (Population: 15,000, Founded: 1528)
Lifestyle: Suchitoto is a charming colonial town located on the shores of Lake Suchitlán. The town’s cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and peaceful atmosphere make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a tranquil escape.
Transportation: Suchitoto is a small town that is easily explored on foot or by bicycle. Buses connect the town to San Salvador, the capital city.
Food: Enjoy El Salvador’s delicious cuisine, which features pupusas (thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or meat), seafood dishes, and tropical fruits. An average meal at a local restaurant costs around $3-5 USD.
People: Salvadorans are known for their warmth, hospitality, and resilience. They are proud of their cultural heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Suchitoto offers a glimpse into El Salvador’s rural life and cultural traditions. Visitors can explore the town’s colonial architecture, visit the local market, and enjoy boat tours of Lake Suchitlán.
Transportation: Suchitoto is a small town that is easily explored on foot or by bicycle. Buses connect the town to San Salvador, the capital city.
Food: Enjoy El Salvador’s delicious cuisine, which features pupusas (thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or meat), seafood dishes, and tropical fruits. An average meal at a local restaurant costs around $3-5 USD.
People: Salvadorans are known for their warmth, hospitality, and resilience. They are proud of their cultural heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Suchitoto offers a glimpse into El Salvador’s rural life and cultural traditions. Visitors can explore the town’s colonial architecture, visit the local market, and enjoy boat tours of Lake Suchitlán.
Mexico: Oaxaca City (Population: 600,000, Founded: 1529)
Lifestyle: Oaxaca City, the capital of Oaxaca state, is a vibrant and colorful city with a rich indigenous heritage and a thriving arts scene. The city’s cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and bustling markets create a unique atmosphere that blends tradition with modernity.
Transportation: Oaxaca City is easily explored on foot or by taxi (around $2-3 USD per ride). Buses also connect the city to other destinations in Oaxaca state. The Oaxaca International Airport is served by several airlines.
Food: Indulge in the diverse and flavorful cuisine of Oaxaca, known for its seven moles (complex sauces), tlayudas (large tortillas), and chapulines (grasshoppers). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 USD.
People: Oaxaqueños are known for their warmth, hospitality, and deep connection to their cultural traditions. They are proud of their indigenous heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Oaxaca City is home to several universities and numerous Spanish language schools. The city’s cultural attractions, including the Santo Domingo Church, the Oaxaca Cathedral, and the Monte Albán archaeological site, offer a glimpse into Mexico’s rich history and cultural diversity. The city is also a hub for traditional crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and alebrijes (colorful wood carvings).
Transportation: Oaxaca City is easily explored on foot or by taxi (around $2-3 USD per ride). Buses also connect the city to other destinations in Oaxaca state. The Oaxaca International Airport is served by several airlines.
Food: Indulge in the diverse and flavorful cuisine of Oaxaca, known for its seven moles (complex sauces), tlayudas (large tortillas), and chapulines (grasshoppers). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 USD.
People: Oaxaqueños are known for their warmth, hospitality, and deep connection to their cultural traditions. They are proud of their indigenous heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Oaxaca City is home to several universities and numerous Spanish language schools. The city’s cultural attractions, including the Santo Domingo Church, the Oaxaca Cathedral, and the Monte Albán archaeological site, offer a glimpse into Mexico’s rich history and cultural diversity. The city is also a hub for traditional crafts, such as weaving, pottery, and alebrijes (colorful wood carvings).
Bolivia: Sucre (Population: 300,000, Founded: 1538)
Lifestyle: Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, is a charming colonial city with whitewashed buildings, cobblestone streets, and a relaxed atmosphere. The city is known for its well-preserved architecture and rich history.
Transportation: Sucre is a small city that is easily explored on foot. Taxis and buses are also available. The Alcantarí International Airport is the closest international airport, located about 30 km from the city.
Food: Enjoy the flavors of Bolivian cuisine, including traditional dishes like salteñas (savory pastries) and sopa de mani (peanut soup). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5-10 USD.
People: Sucrenses are known for their warmth, friendliness, and laid-back attitude. They are proud of their city’s cultural heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Sucre is home to several universities and Spanish language schools. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its colonial architecture and museums.
Transportation: Sucre is a small city that is easily explored on foot. Taxis and buses are also available. The Alcantarí International Airport is the closest international airport, located about 30 km from the city.
Food: Enjoy the flavors of Bolivian cuisine, including traditional dishes like salteñas (savory pastries) and sopa de mani (peanut soup). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5-10 USD.
People: Sucrenses are known for their warmth, friendliness, and laid-back attitude. They are proud of their city’s cultural heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Sucre is home to several universities and Spanish language schools. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit for its colonial architecture and museums.
Guatemala: Antigua (Population: 45,000, Founded: 1543)
Lifestyle: Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is surrounded by volcanoes, offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
Transportation: Antigua is a small city that is easily explored on foot. Taxis and tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) are also available. The La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City is the closest international airport.
Food: Indulge in Guatemalan cuisine, which features Mayan and Spanish influences. Try traditional dishes like pepián (a spicy stew) and tamales. An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5-10 USD.
People: Guatemalans are known for their warmth, hospitality, and rich cultural traditions. They are proud of their Mayan heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Antigua is home to several Spanish language schools and offers a unique cultural experience, with its numerous churches, ruins, and museums. The city is also a popular base for exploring nearby Mayan villages and archaeological sites.
Transportation: Antigua is a small city that is easily explored on foot. Taxis and tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) are also available. The La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City is the closest international airport.
Food: Indulge in Guatemalan cuisine, which features Mayan and Spanish influences. Try traditional dishes like pepián (a spicy stew) and tamales. An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5-10 USD.
People: Guatemalans are known for their warmth, hospitality, and rich cultural traditions. They are proud of their Mayan heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Antigua is home to several Spanish language schools and offers a unique cultural experience, with its numerous churches, ruins, and museums. The city is also a popular base for exploring nearby Mayan villages and archaeological sites.
Brazil: Salvador (Population: 2.9 million, Founded: 1549)
Lifestyle: Salvador, the capital of Bahia state, is a vibrant and colorful city with a rich Afro-Brazilian heritage. The city is known for its lively music scene, colorful colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.
Transportation: Salvador has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and a subway line (around $0.70 USD per ride). Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available. The Salvador International Airport is well-connected to major cities in Brazil and other countries.
Food: Indulge in the flavors of Bahian cuisine, which features African-influenced dishes like acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters) and moqueca (a seafood stew). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $15-20 USD.
People: Soteropolitanos, as the locals are called, are known for their warmth, hospitality, and love for music and dance. They are proud of their city’s rich cultural heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Salvador is home to several universities, including the Federal University of Bahia, and numerous Portuguese language schools. The city’s historic center, Pelourinho, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into Brazil’s colonial past.
Transportation: Salvador has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and a subway line (around $0.70 USD per ride). Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available. The Salvador International Airport is well-connected to major cities in Brazil and other countries.
Food: Indulge in the flavors of Bahian cuisine, which features African-influenced dishes like acarajé (black-eyed pea fritters) and moqueca (a seafood stew). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $15-20 USD.
People: Soteropolitanos, as the locals are called, are known for their warmth, hospitality, and love for music and dance. They are proud of their city’s rich cultural heritage and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Salvador is home to several universities, including the Federal University of Bahia, and numerous Portuguese language schools. The city’s historic center, Pelourinho, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a glimpse into Brazil’s colonial past.
Argentina: Córdoba (Population: 1.5 million, Founded: 1573)
Lifestyle: Córdoba is a vibrant and youthful city known for its universities, cultural scene, and beautiful colonial architecture. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes, offering opportunities for outdoor activities.
Transportation: Córdoba has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trolleybuses (around $0.30 USD per ride). The Ingeniero Ambrosio Taravella International Airport serves the city.
Food: Enjoy the flavors of Argentinian cuisine, including grilled meats, empanadas, and pasta dishes. Córdoba is also known for its artisanal beer scene. An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 USD.
People: Cordobeses are known for their friendliness and relaxed attitude. They are proud of their city’s cultural heritage and enjoy sharing it with visitors.
Opportunities: Córdoba is home to several universities, including the National University of Córdoba, and various Spanish language schools. The city’s cultural attractions, including the Jesuit Block and the Cathedral, offer a glimpse into Argentina’s colonial past.
Transportation: Córdoba has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trolleybuses (around $0.30 USD per ride). The Ingeniero Ambrosio Taravella International Airport serves the city.
Food: Enjoy the flavors of Argentinian cuisine, including grilled meats, empanadas, and pasta dishes. Córdoba is also known for its artisanal beer scene. An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 USD.
People: Cordobeses are known for their friendliness and relaxed attitude. They are proud of their city’s cultural heritage and enjoy sharing it with visitors.
Opportunities: Córdoba is home to several universities, including the National University of Córdoba, and various Spanish language schools. The city’s cultural attractions, including the Jesuit Block and the Cathedral, offer a glimpse into Argentina’s colonial past.
Colombia: Medellín (Population: 2.6 million, Founded: 1616)
Lifestyle: Medellín, once known for its troubled past, has transformed into a vibrant and innovative city. The city is known for its modern architecture, innovative public transportation system, and thriving arts scene.
Transportation: Medellín has an extensive metro system (around $0.60 USD per ride), a cable car network, and buses. The José María Córdova International Airport serves the city.
Food: Savor the flavors of Colombian cuisine, including bandeja paisa (a hearty platter with beans, rice, meat, and eggs) and arepas (corn cakes). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $8-12 USD.
People: Paisas, as the locals are called, are known for their warmth, hospitality, and resilience. They are proud of their city’s transformation and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Medellín is home to several universities, including the University of Antioquia, and numerous Spanish language schools. The city’s museums, parks, and cultural attractions offer a diverse range of experiences.
Transportation: Medellín has an extensive metro system (around $0.60 USD per ride), a cable car network, and buses. The José María Córdova International Airport serves the city.
Food: Savor the flavors of Colombian cuisine, including bandeja paisa (a hearty platter with beans, rice, meat, and eggs) and arepas (corn cakes). An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $8-12 USD.
People: Paisas, as the locals are called, are known for their warmth, hospitality, and resilience. They are proud of their city’s transformation and eager to share it with visitors.
Opportunities: Medellín is home to several universities, including the University of Antioquia, and numerous Spanish language schools. The city’s museums, parks, and cultural attractions offer a diverse range of experiences.
Costa Rica: San José (Population: 1.5 million, Founded: 1738)
Lifestyle: San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a laid-back and friendly city with a “Pura Vida” (pure life) philosophy. It offers a mix of traditional and modern architecture, bustling markets, and numerous parks and green spaces.
Transportation: San José has an extensive bus network (around $0.50 USD per ride) that connects all parts of the city. Taxis are also readily available. The Juan Santamaría International Airport serves as the main gateway to Costa Rica.
Food: Enjoy Costa Rica’s delicious cuisine, which features fresh ingredients like tropical fruits, rice, beans, and seafood. An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 USD.
People: Ticos, as Costa Ricans are called, are known for their warmth, hospitality, and love for nature. They are proud of their country’s biodiversity and commitment to sustainability.
Opportunities: San José is home to several universities, including the University of Costa Rica, and numerous Spanish language schools. The city’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Transportation: San José has an extensive bus network (around $0.50 USD per ride) that connects all parts of the city. Taxis are also readily available. The Juan Santamaría International Airport serves as the main gateway to Costa Rica.
Food: Enjoy Costa Rica’s delicious cuisine, which features fresh ingredients like tropical fruits, rice, beans, and seafood. An average meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around $10-15 USD.
People: Ticos, as Costa Ricans are called, are known for their warmth, hospitality, and love for nature. They are proud of their country’s biodiversity and commitment to sustainability.
Opportunities: San José is home to several universities, including the University of Costa Rica, and numerous Spanish language schools. The city’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.