Travel to Central America to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work,

or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

Image

Image

Image
 Central America

Intro

Backpacking in Central America?

  • Central America is one of regions where backpackers can alternate a lot of culture and nature in a short period of time.
  • Characteristics: Mayas, tropical rainforest, exotic islands, volcanoes, lots and diverse wildlife.

Travelling in Central America?

  • A versatile travel area with lots of culture, white beaches, colorful (capital) cities, hospitable people, traveling by bus and special coffee fields.
  • Cities and island spotting: Mexico City, Panama City, Antigua, Granada, Léon, Bay Islands, San Blas archipelago.
  • Animal spotting: including sloth, toucan, jaguar, howler monkeys, sea turtles, tapir, quetzal, ocelot.
  • Nature spotting: Monteverde Cloud Forest (cloud forest), Tikal National Park, Arenal volcano, Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Lago de Atitlán (volcanic lake), Isla de Ometepe, Bocas del Toro archipelago, Semuc Champey limestone pools and waterfalls.

Studying in Central America?

  • Studies: basically all subjects and forms of education can be found. Additional opportunities regarding anthropology, tropical biology, Spanish language & culture, international relations, environmental and sustainability studies, archaeology, marine biology, development studies.
  • Study cities: San José & Heredia, Panama City, Antigua, Managua, Tegucigalpa, Léon.
  • Characteristics: education varies in quality by country and location, but of reasonably good level. Many study cities offer vibrant cultural scenes. Studying in Central America often also means aanda
  • Characteristics: education varies in quality by country and location, but of reasonably good level. Many study cities offer vibrant cultural scene. Studying in Central America often means paying attention to social and political context in the country where you study.

Internship in Central America?

  • Internships: internships can be found in all sectors of society. The (eco)tourism, conservation, international relations/development cooperation, health, education, microfinance, archaeology and ICT sectors have the most offerings.
  • Destination cities: San José, Panama City, Antigua, Managua, Tegucigalpa, Léon, Guatemala City, Heredia, Granada.
  • Characteristics: The work culture in many Central American countries is quite informal, but sometimes hierarchical. Cooperation and team spirit are important. Being an intern in this region often means being physically present and able to adapt.

Doing volunteer work in Central America?

  • Volunteer projects: particularly in education, healthcare, community development, childcare, ecotourism, nature management and cultural and heritage conservation.
  • Animal and nature projects: protecting monkeys, birds, sea turtles, jaguars, coral reefs and the tropical jungles.
  • Characteristics: volunteer work possible from 1 or 2 weeks to several months. Much attention to mutual social relationships.
  • Characteristics: volunteering possible from 1 or 2 weeks to several months. Much attention to social relationships. Especially in Central America, flexibility and adaptability is a must, as is paying attention to culture and mutual respect. Do not always expect strong organizational structures, although this varies from project to project.

Working in Central America?

  • Jobs: temporary work is mainly found in the sectors: hospitality, education, healthcare, agriculture, development cooperation, ICT and (eco)tourism.
  • Characteristics: The work culture can vary considerably from country to country and location to location, but in general the atmosphere is informal, social relations between colleagues are important and sometimes it demands a lot of your adaptability. Basic Spanish is a must, depending on the location and type of company.

Working as a digital nomad in Central America?

  • Favorite cities and islands: San Jose, Tamarindo, Panama City, Granada, Antigua, Léon, Bocas del Toro.
  • Characteristics: growing number of places where the good and working life are often well combined. Work facilities are good, you work in a rich culture, nature is always nearby and digital nomad community is already large. And of course: top coffee!

Living in Central America?

  • Language: without Spanish it is difficult to function. English is not widely spoken.
  • Living environment: in general, the lifestyle is considered very positive by expats in many Central American countries. Relatively low cost of living.
  • Issues around safety and healthcare: the quality of healthcare can vary greatly and having your own health insurance is necessary everywhere. Be well informed about housing locations; safety is an issue in some neighborhoods/regions.
  • Seek advice on insurance policies that provide adequate coverage for proper care and also repatriation in case of emergency.

Supporting content

Supporting content:
What is the best time to go to central America, and what is the worst time?

What is the best time to go to central America, and what is the worst time?

What is the worst time and what is the best time to go to Central America?

What is the best time to travel in Mexico, and what is the worst time to go?

What is the best time to travel in Mexico, and what is the worst time to go?

What is the best travel and departure time for Mexico?

  • In Mexico City, year-round temperatures fluctuate between 20 and 26 degrees during the day. Nights can be cold, but it almost never freezes. Merida (Yucatan) has a different climate. Here the temperature does not often fall below 28 degrees during the day. It also stays around 20 degrees Celsius at night almost all year. The higher-lying Monterrey in northeastern Mexico has greater fluctuations in temperature. In the summer months it gets 32 to 36 degrees during the day here, while in the winter months it is barely 20 degrees.

Best travel time in Mexico

  • The best travel time is from October to April, during the dry season.

Worst travel time in Mexico

  • In May, the rainy season begins in southern Mexico which continues in the north until October. This period is also hurricane season. It does not rain all day during the rainy season, but there are heavy showers daily. These are often heavy and short-lived. During this period it is often very hot and humid.

Hours of sunshine in Mexico

  • The number of sunshine hours in Mexico is between 2100 (Yucatàn) and 2300 (Plateau of Mexico) per year.

Sea temperature in Mexico

  • Between 20 and 25 degrees.
What is the worst time to go to Belize, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the worst time to go to Belize, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the best travel and departure time for Belize?

  • Northern and central Belize have a tropical climate with dry and wet seasons, from June to November. Southern Belize has a tropical climate with year-round rain.

Best travel time in Belize 

  • November through May is the best time to go. During that period it is very sunny.

Worst travel time in Belize

  • From June to November there is high rainfall and tropical storms and hurricanes can occur. Travel is cheaper during this period though.

Hours of sunshine in Belize

  • The average number of sun hours per day is 7 hours.
What is the worst time to go to Costa Rica, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the worst time to go to Costa Rica, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the best travel and departure time for Costa Rica?

  • Costa Rica, like most other tropical countries, has two seasons.
  • The dry season lasts from December through April. The rest of the year is the wet season.
  • Actually, only in the highlands is the dry season really dry; in the rest of the country you can always count on a shower.
  • In central Costa Rica the average temperature is 22°C , on the coast and northwest the temperature is higher.

Best travel time in Costa Rica

  • March is the driest and least clammy period of the year, and the temperature is just right.
  • April and May are also pleasant.

Worst travel time in Mexico

  • June and July see the most rain, and it is especially muggy on the coast.
What is the worst time to got to El Salvador, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the worst time to got to El Salvador, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the best travel and departure time for El Salvador?

  • El Salvador has a climate with relatively few major temperature fluctuations throughout the year.
  • Precipitation is a more limiting factor for those traveling, living, studying or working through the country.
  • Altitude is also an influence, with stably warm conditions on the coast and in the lowlands, cooler mountain areas and freezing temperatures at the highest elevations.

Best travel time in El Salvador

  • From November to April is the dry season in El Salvador. It rains little then and the roads are in good condition.

Worst travel time in El Salvador

  • In the months of March and April it can get quite warm, before the wet season starts in May (through October).
What is the worst time to go to Guatemala, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the worst time to go to Guatemala, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the best travel and departure time for Guatemala?

  • Because of the differences in altitude, there is much difference in Guatemala's climate. Within a few hours you leave the cold mountains and arrive in the humid warmth of the coast. The higher you are, the cooler it is. Especially after the sun goes down, it can get chilly and even cold quickly. This starts as early as Antigua which is at about 1,700 meters. On the coast it is almost always sunny and humid hot, sometimes with intense but liberating thunderstorms.

Best travel time in Guatemala?

  • The most ideal time to travel is between mid-November and January. The rainy season leaves behind a green country, but the drawbacks of the rainy season (storms, impassable roads, flooding) are pretty much over.

Worst travel time in Guatemala?

  • The months of March and April, especially in the lower areas (Pacific coast, Tikal, Livingstone), are quite hot.

Hours of sunshine in Guatemala?

  • Count on about 8 hours a day of sunshine in the months of January and February and 2 hours a day in the months of June and July.

What is the worst time to got to Panama, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the worst time to got to Panama, and what is the best time to travel?

What is the best travel and departure time for Panama?

  • Panama has a tropical climate, ranging from a tropical rainforest climate along the border areas with Costa Rica and Colombia to a monsoon climate in the west and a tropical savanna climate in central Panama. Wherever you go in Panama, everywhere is tropically warm with temperatures around 30 degrees.
  • In spring, from February to May, temperatures can reach 34-35 degrees. Because there is always a fairly high relative humidity, Panama always feels clammy and stuffy.
  • Most of Panama has a rainy season, which runs from early May to mid-December. With the exception of the rain forests, most rain falls in the form of often very heavy showers, which can sometimes last for several hours during the rainy season. In the tropical rain forests, there is a very good chance of prolonged rains during the monsoon period.

Best travel time in Panama

  • From December to April it does not rain as much, but during the rainy season from May to November there are a lot fewer tourists.

Worst travel time in Panama

  • Tropical storms and hurricanes can occur in Panama from June to November. Traveling in Panama is possible during this period, but it rains more and there is a greater chance of violent storms.

Hours of sunshine in Panama

  • Panama has an average of 6 to 7 hours of sunshine per day.

Sea temperature in Panama

  • The sea water temperature in Panama averages 27 degrees.
Central America: emigration, moving and living abroad per country

Central America: emigration, moving and living abroad per country

Questions and answers per country in about emigration, moving and living abroad in Central America

Why live in Belize, why emigrate to Belize or stay for a long time?

Why live in Belize, why emigrate to Belize or stay for a long time?

Why should you live in Belize as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • because of the kind and often tremendously hospitable locals.
  • because of the cultural diversity, beautiful natural parks and tropical beaches/islands and coral reefs!
  • because of the relaxed social life in Belize.
  • because of the wonderful tropical climate (especially between January and May).
  • because of the government of Belize which is eager to attract foreign investors (no restrictions on foreign ownership).
  • because of the low cost and reasonable standard of living; especially compared to some other countries in Central America.
  • because of the extra leisure time of one's own due to domestic and other help.
  • because of the absence (for now) of corporate income tax, capital gains tax and property tax in Belize.

What should you pay attention to?

  • that Belize has a stable political climate, but a still fragile financial system.
  • that in the months between June and December you may experience heavy rains, occasional hurricanes and high humidity.
  • that you sometimes have to adjust your demands in terms of efficiency and diligence.
  • that the still poor infrastructure conditions can sometimes make it more difficult to run a business in Belize.
  • that the reputation of the southern part of Belize City is still far from optimal (opt for the north side).
  • that for more radical care, you often have to go out of the country, to Mexico or Panama, for example.
  • that local products are generally quite affordable, unlike imported products.
Why live in Panama, why emigrate to Panama or stay for a long time?

Why live in Panama, why emigrate to Panama or stay for a long time?

Why should you live in Panama as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • because of the friendly and often very hospitable inhabitants.
  • because of the activities you can do in nature or under water.
  • because of the fact that Panama is a relatively safe, politically stable country in Central America; especially compared to some neighboring countries in the region.
  • because of the extensive, often vibrant, expat culture in Panama; with a combination of Spanish and international cultural influences.
  • because of the well-functioning, fastest and most stable Internet network in Central America.
  • because of the extra free time of your own due to domestic and other help.

What should you pay attention to?

  • that the roads between major cities are quite good, but that in the more rural parts a four wheel drive is really a must.
  • that health care is generally good in the cities, but can still sometimes be mediocre outside of them.
  • That you sometimes have to adjust your demands in terms of efficiency and diligence.
  • that housing in the larger cities can be costly or problematic, especially in Panama City.
Why live in El Salvador, why emigrate to El Salvador or stay for a long time?

Why live in El Salvador, why emigrate to El Salvador or stay for a long time?

Why should you live in El Salvador as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • because of the fact that El Salvador is a relatively small country (shorter travel times) and at the same time has "everything": nature, culture, beach, mountains.
  • because of the kind and often enormously hospitable inhabitants.
  • because of the cultural diversity.
  • because of the many beach activities you can do, such as surfing and diving.
  • because of Salvadorans' need for conviviality and the fact that they are extremely hospitable.
  • because of Salvadoran cuisine and tropical fruits.
  • because of the lower costs and reasonable standard of living; especially compared to most other countries in Central America.
  • because of your own extra leisure time due to hired domestic and other help.

What should you pay attention to?

  • when invited to a meal, keep in mind that these are social occasions: meals can be quite long and expect lively conversation while eating.
  • that Salvadoran women often pat each other on the right forearm or shoulder, rather than shaking hands.
  • men shake hands with other men and women, although they usually wait for the woman to extend her hand.
  • that social inequality and poverty is still significant in many places.
  • that a direct communication style is by no means always appreciated. Salvadorans can be sensitive to comments or actions that may compromise their status.
  • that you sometimes have to adjust your demands in terms of efficiency and diligence.
  • that Salvadorans are relatively formal in their business dealings. Handshakes are generally not very firm.
  • that health care is generally good in the cities, but can still be mediocre outside of them.
  • that housing in the larger cities is generally fine, but you have to be careful which neighborhood you arrange housing in.
Why to live in Costa Rica, why to emigrate to Costa Rica or stay for a long time?

Why to live in Costa Rica, why to emigrate to Costa Rica or stay for a long time?

Why live in Costa Rica as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • because of the relatively easy language so you can quickly make yourself understood.
  • because of the friendly and often hospitable inhabitants.
  • because of the enormous amount of beautiful islands and beaches.
  • because of the activities you can do in nature or under water.
  • because of the coffee culture and its social life.
  • because of the tropical fruits.
  • because of the relatively high standard of living and good health care.
  • because of the eternal spring climate and tropical environment.
  • because of the relative safety.

What should you pay attention to?

  • that in Costa Rica you need to be patient when arranging everything. The pace in Costa Rica is different than in the Netherlands.
  • that with longer stays you may have to deal with earthquakes or tropical storms.
  • that a strike (which occur regularly) can affect transportation, fuel supplies and other government services.
  • that that "helpful passerby," when you get a flat tire along the way, may well have plans not only to help you but to rob you.
  • that tropical diseases are present in parts of the country (vaccinations!)
Why live in Guatemala, why emigrate to Guatemala or stay for a long time?

Why live in Guatemala, why emigrate to Guatemala or stay for a long time?

Why should you live in Guatemala as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • because of the friendly and often very hospitable locals.
  • because of the cultural diversity and beautifully rediscovered Mayan culture.
  • because of the activities you can do in nature or under water.
  • because of the Guatemalan coffee culture and its social life.
  • because of Guatemalan cuisine and tropical fruits.
  • because of the low cost and reasonable standard of living; especially compared to most other countries in Central America.
  • because of the extra free time of your own due to domestic and other help.

What should you pay attention to?

  • that public transportation is not equally well regulated and/or safe in all parts of Guatemala.
  • that social inequality and poverty is still significant in many places.
  • that you sometimes have to adjust your demands in terms of efficiency and diligence.
  • that the quality of wifi connections can sometimes falter.
  • that health care in the cities is generally good, but can still be poor outside.
  • that housing in the larger cities is generally fine, but that you have to be careful which neighborhood you arrange housing in.
Why to live in Mexico, why to emigrate to Mexico or stay for a long time?

Why to live in Mexico, why to emigrate to Mexico or stay for a long time?

Why should you live in Mexico as an expat, emigrant or working nomad?

  • because of the climate.
  • because of its diverse nature with volcanoes, jungle, mountains and beaches.
  • because of its culture, traditions and rich history.
  • because of the gastronomy.
  • because of the emphasis on teamwork and cooperation and achieving results together. Being loyal and fulfilling your commitments is considered important.
  • because it is a popular destination and more expats reside in Mexico.

What should you pay attention to?

  • that the standard of living is much lower than in developed countries and there is a lot of poverty.
  • that the country (in some parts more and some parts less) has a lot of crime.
  • that the culture can be experienced as rigid.
  • that there are clear lines of authority in the workplace.
  • that respect for authority is important and being polite and patient is important.
  • that communication is indirect. It is common to be reserved with criticism and to avoid conflict.
  • that it is a popular destination and more expats reside in Mexico.
Central America: typical Central American habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies

Central America: typical Central American habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies

Central American habits, food customs and remarkable philosophies

    What are typical Belizian habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Belize?

    What are typical Belizian habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Belize?

    What are the customs in Belize regarding food?

    • In Belize, rice and beans are mainly eaten. In addition, Mexican meat dishes such as tacos, empanadas, tamales are also available everywhere. Turtle and lobster are regularly on the menu. Belizean cuisine is a blend of Mayan, Garifuna, Creole, and European influences.

    What are the best recipes in Belize?

    • Fry Jacks: deep-fried pieces of dough, often with beans, egg, jam or honey. (In Mexico, they are called Sopapillas).
    • Garnaches: deep-fried tortilla topped with beans, cabbage, carrots and cheese.
    • Marie Sharp's Hot Sauce, a sauce found on the table everywhere in Belize to spice up the food for Belizeans.

    What are the best drinks in Belize?

    • A local drink is called Seaweed. A mix of seaweed, milk, sugar and cream.

    What are notable holidays and festivals in Belize?

    • September celebrations: The vacations begin in Belize on the Battle of St George's Caye Day. For the 10 days that follow, there are celebrations, ceremonies, concerts and carnival parades all over the country.
    • Garifuna Settlement Day: This is a celebration of the arrival of the Garifuna people in Belize on November 19, 1832. Many celebrations with music, dancing and drinking. This festival is celebrated lavishly in Dangriga, Hopkins and Punta Gorda.
    • La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge: This is a four-day canoe race on the Macal and Belizer River from San Ignacio to Belize City.

    What are the remarkable habits in Belize?

    • Especially the people with Mayan ancestry, believe in the power of the full moon. They avoid cutting wood or thatch for their roofs during this time as they believe it weakens the materials. Planting is also done based on the lunar cycle, with the belief that planting close to the full moon leads to better crops.
    • It is common to sleep in a hammock. In rural areas it is the way to go.
    • Community spirit is an important value in Belize. People help each other.
    What are typical Costa Rican habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Costa Rica?

    What are typical Costa Rican habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Costa Rica?

    What are the customs in Costa Rica regarding food?

    • As in most Central American countries, rice and beans are the main ingredients of the meal.
    • Fresh seafood and fish are also plentiful on the coast.
    • For vegetarians, it can be difficult to find varied food.
    • Thai and Chinese restaurants can be a welcome change.
    • Delicious and inexpensive fresh fruit is available in many places.
    • Some endangered animals do appear on restaurant menus. If you do not want to contribute to the extinction of an endangered species, do not eat the following foods: tortuga (sea turtle), huevos de tortuga (sea turtle eggs) and iguana (lizard).

    What are the best recipes in Costa Rica?

    • A traditional Costa Rican breakfast consists of Gallo Pinto (spotted rooster), a mix of beans and rice, often served with a tortilla and/or a fried/scrambled egg. 
    • In the afternoon, hot food is served. Most popular is the casado, a dish again consisting of beans, rice, meat, often served with lettuce and fried banana and egg or avocado.
    • In the evening, casado is also the most favorite (and inexpensive) dish.
    • Picadillo: Braised vegetable and meat dish.
    • Sopa negra: Black beans with egg.

    What are the best drinks in Costa Rica?

    • Coffee is widely drunk in Costa Rica, usually black with lots of milk.
    • Batidos (fresh fruit shakes: ice mixed with water or milk, fresh fruit of your choice and honey) are very tasty, inexpensive and in hot weather a refreshing treat.
    • Pipas are fresh coconuts served with a straw. Also not expensive and delicious.
    • Alcoholic drinks are available in many places for little money and then taken heartily. For example, rum cola with lemon (Cuba Libre).

    What are notable holidays and festivals in Costa Rica?

    • Costa Rica (like other Central American countries) was officially declared independent by Spain on Sept. 15, 1821. This day is celebrated every year throughout the country with nationalist parades and the singing of the national anthem.
    • A large cathedral now stands on the spot where a statue of a black Mary (La negrita) was found in 1635. Every year pilgrims from all over the country make a 22-kilometer pilgrimage to this cathedral, the last part usually on their knees. All in honor of the Virgin de los Angeles, the patron saint of Costa Rica.

    What are the remarkable habits in Costa Rica?

    • Pura Vida is the unofficial motto of Costa Rica, and it means "pure life." It's a way of life that emphasizes living in the moment, enjoying the simple things, and being grateful for what you have. Pura Vida is reflected in the way the people from Costa Rica approach everything in life.
    • When meeting someone for the first time, it is appropriate to address them by their title and last name. For example, you would say Señor(a) Ramirez. Once you get to know someone better, it is possible to use their first name.

     

    What are typical El Salvadoran habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in El Salvador?

    What are typical El Salvadoran habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in El Salvador?

    What are the customs in El Salvador regarding food?

    • Although El Salvador's cuisine is often still referred to as "pretty basic," today that is partly obsolete. Many chefs have trained internationally and employ creative cooking techniques around ingredients from around the country.
    • Of course, you'll still find traditional corn, beans, plantains and cheese in many dishes.
    • You will also find the fried plantain, in many sub-forms, everywhere in El Salvador; certainly on buses, at bus stations and on the streets.

    What are the best recipes in El Salvador?

    • The "must try" national dish of El Salvador is "pupusas": a type of tortilla/arepa (corn or rice flour dough) filled with cheese and/or beans, seafood, meat and/or vegetables. You often get it served with a coleslaw mix and tomato salsa.
    • Tamales, which you find all over Central America-and thus also in El Salvador. Often sold in a roadside stand or around local and regional buses. In El Salvador, tamales are pretty "standard": a cornmeal dough filled with meat, usually chicken or pork. The whole mixture is wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed for several hours, until the filling forms a soft but dense "bread.
    • Yuca con chicharron: yuca is literally a "starchy root vegetable" and chicharron is fried pork belly with (tasty) bits of crispy skin. The yuca is boiled or fried, topped with pork and served with the same curtido that accompanies pupusas. It is almost always served at room temperature, which is why it is sometimes called a salad.
    • Chorilonza: cross between Spanish chorizo and longiza sausages: the spicy chorilonza snack is found mostly on the "Ruta de Flores" (western part El Salvador).
    • Ceviche is also widely eaten in El Salvador: raw fish, mussels, clams or shrimp that are "cooked" with acid, usually lime juice and then mixed with fresh shallots and other ingredients.

    What are the best drinks in El Salvador?

    • Horchata is a sweet, spiced drink in which jicaro seeds are used as a base in El Salvador. The ground seeds are mixed with cocoa, cinnamon and coriander seeds before being mixed with milk or water, vanilla and sugar. It is often served over ice cream.
    • Beer from the artisanal Cadejo brewery (Zona Rosa in San Salvador or at El Tunco on the coast) holds its own internationally.
    • Like Guatemala, El Salvador produces very good coffee. The rich, volcanic soil and hilly landscapes are a good base for this coffee. Visit a coffee plantation along the Ruta de las Flores and learn about the entire coffee production process.
    • Ponche is a simple mixture of milk flavored with cinnamon, sugar, nutmeg and vanilla. A dash(s) of rum is added; it is a festive drink often encountered in all kinds of celebrations or special occasions.
    • Salvadoran rum is inexpensive but often of high quality. The cultivation of sugar cane is important to the Salvadoran economy.
    • Popular non-alcoholic drinks include "pinol," roasted ground corn mixed with water, and "tiste," a variation made with cocoa beans and corn.
    • You can go anywhere in El Salvador for a fresh liquada or batida; a mix of fruit with water or milk. For health reasons, it is advisable to ask for chilled milk or water from a new, sealed bottle.

    What are notable holidays and festivals in El Salvador?

    • On January 16, 1992, the Salvadoran government and the FMLN guerrilla signed peace accords in Mexico, ending the brutal armed conflict. Every year on this date they celebrate the "National Day of the Victims of the Armed Conflict."
    • As in many other (Catholic) Central American countries, the week around Easter is a real "celebration week" in El Salvador, with many (flower) processions ("alfombra de flores"). Many people are free and visit family or go to the beach.
    • Annually on August 31, Las Bolas de Fuego (Balls of Fire) are celebrated in Nejapa, a small municipality just north of San Salvador. Las Bolas de Fuego is both one of the best and craziest festivals in El Salvador. Crowds gather along both sides of the main street and watch as the people of Nejapa hurl flaming (kerosene!) rag balls at each other for a few hours. The more than 100-year-old tradition commemorates the eruption of the volcano El Playón (1658).
    • Día de Independencia (Independence Day) is celebrated in El Salvador on September 15. Independence from the Spanish is the focus of this national holiday: parades, fireworks and (lots of) food.
    • A young girl's 15th birthday is considered a special date in El Salvador...and is celebrated extensively.

    What are the remarkable habits in El Salvador?

    • Salvadoran women often pat each other on the right forearm or shoulder, instead of shaking hands. Men shake hands with other men and women, although they mostly wait for the woman to extend her hand.
    • Meals shared together with big families included extended family is a part of the culture.
    What are typical Guatemalan habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Guatemala?

    What are typical Guatemalan habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Guatemala?

    What are the customs in Guatemala regarding food?

    • Guatemala's cuisine is a bit like Mexico's. With lots of tortillas and tacos. The daily pot of many Guatemalans is based on corn, which is sacred to the Mayans, served with a combination of rice, chicken, potatoes, fried banana and beans.

    What are the best recipes in Guatemala?

    • For meat lovers, there is the churrasco, a steak roasted on charcoal with a sauce of tomato, onion and mint leaves.
    • On the coast you will find delicious seafood dishes.
    • Corn cakes wrapped in corn leaves (tamales) are a delicacy traditionally eaten at New Year's Eve.
    • For the brave among us, there is borracho; cake dipped in rum.
    • Note: In Guatemala, some endangered animals regularly appear on menus. If you do not want to contribute to the decline/extinction of an endangered species, it is better not to order the following dishes: tortuga (sea turtle), huevos de tortuga (sea turtle eggs), cazón (shark), neque (agouti), venado (deer) and iguana (lizard).

    What are the best drinks in Guatemala?

    • Guatemala produces the best coffee in the world. However, brewing coffee often goes the following way: you get a cup from a large pot, which has been simmering for hours. Even in the better places, the coffee is either too weak or too strong. The coffee we drink in the Benelux often comes from Guatemala. That this coffee is tasty has to do with the fact that the Guatemalans export their best coffee beans to Europe, the second choice to the U.S. and keep the worst quality beans for their own use.
    • You can go anywhere for a fresh licuado, a mix of fruit with water or milk. Hygiene sometimes leaves much to be desired so ask for refrigerated milk or water from a new, sealed bottle.
    • Furthermore, Guatemala is known for Zacapa, awarded for two years as the world's best rum!
    • The national pride Gallo (rooster) is perhaps the tastiest beer in Central America and won first prize at a major Amsterdam beer competition in the late 1980s.
    • Furthermore, cocoa is native to Latin America, but good chocolate (milk) is oddly hard to find.
    • Atol is a hot corn drink flavored with cinnamon sticks, for those colder moments.

    What are notable holidays and festivals in Guatemala?

    • Most of the celebrations in Guatemala stem from the Catholic religion.
    • On many holidays, colorful processions are held in each city and the plaza in the center of the city is buzzing with activity.
    • There's also the interesting tradition of worshipping Saint Maximón, a wooden folk saint venerated by some indigenous communities.
    • In the month of March/April Semana Santa is Holy Week. This is the week before Easter.
    • November 1 Todos Santos, the day of All Saints' Day.
    • November 2 Dia de los Muertos, the day of All Souls. 
    • December 25 Navidad, Christmas.

    What are the remarkable habits in Guatemala?

    • Guatemalan culture is a blend of Mayan traditions and Spanish influences. This is reflected in many aspects of Guatemalan life, including their habits.
    • People in Guatemala live in general day-by-day.
    • Wait for the host to start eating, before you start as well. Finishing everything on your plate shows appreciation for the meal.

     

      What are typical Mexican habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Mexico?

      What are typical Mexican habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Mexico?

      What are the customs in Mexico regarding food?

      • Mexican cuisine is very diverse. Originally a combination of Indian and Spanish traditions. Supplemented in the last century by Asian dishes and American fast food. Traditional Mexican food includes: tortillas, tacos, chili peppers, fresh fruit (mango, banana, pineapple, guava and papaya), chocolate, jumiles (beetles) and chapulines (grasshoppers).
      • Characteristic are the many kinds of salsas that you eat together with almost anything. The salsas are hardly ever called spicy, just try for yourself.

      What are the best recipes in Mexico?

      • Picadillo is a dish from Latin American (and Filipino) cuisine. The dish is made from minced meat and sliced tomatoes or tomato sauce. It is often served with rice, tacos, potatoes or even croquettes.
      • Guacamole (Literally it means avocado mousse) is a well-known (dip) sauce, originating in southern Mexico. Besides avocado, the ingredients often include tomato, onion and/or garlic, juice of a lime or lemon, chili pepper (especially jalapeño peppers), coriander leaf and various other spices. It is usually eaten with corn chips, but can be added to almost any Mexican dish.
      • Quesadillas are to Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine what "toasts" are to Dutch. Literally, the word means "cheese thingy. They are made from corn or flour tortillas and are popular when combined with spicy salsas, chili sauce or with guacamole. The filling contains at least cheese, sometimes also strips of cooked chicken, chorizo, mushroom or ham, for example.
      • Try the real Mexican chili con carne; a stew that traditionally consists of chili pepper, garlic, onion, cumin and minced meat. Usually beans (brown beans, kidney beans, black beans or others) and tomatoes are also added. There are all kinds of variations in which other types of meat or different ingredients are chosen.
      • A burrito is a Mexican dish that comes from northern Mexico or southwestern United States of America A burrito consists of a tortilla, usually filled with beans and meat (usually minced meat or chicken, sometimes cheese), and rolled up so that the filling is inside the tortilla. The name "burrito" comes from the Spanish burro, which means donkey. So a burrito is a donkey.

      What are the best drinks in Mexico?

      • Well-known Mexican drinks/brands are Tia Maria, Kahlua, pina colada, Mezcal and the beer brands Corona and Sol.
      • Mexican wine is not yet at a level of quality that it can be exported. Currently, there are nine major wine regions. Baja California is the most well-known. True quality wines are very pricey in Mexico.
      • Xocoatl - Chocolate: Centuries before the discovery of the Americas in 1492, cacao (the cacao bean) was being grown in Mexico and Central America. Theobroma cacao means "food of the gods" and that is how it has been used ceremonially for centuries by the Incas and Mayans. The cacao bean comes from a small tree that grows in the tropical jungles of Mexico and Central America. The Mexican Indians were the first people to ever make chocolate from the cacao bean, which was also used as currency to buy and sell things with. Instead of coffee, many Mexicans today still drink chocolate milk or use the Mexican cacao for cacao ceremonies. 
      • Drink a Tequila, the famous Mexican alcoholic drink made from the Agave tequilana, a particular Mexican species of agave.

      What are notable holidays and festivals in Mexico?

      • On average, there are four holidays per month in Mexico. Each day on the calendar is actually a holiday in Mexico. Calendar days are dedicated to saints with names. Also called "name days." It's similar to a birthday. If you as a Mexican have the same name as the saint the day is named after, you are congratulated and receive gifts. For example, June 24 is the name day of San Juan.
      • In Mexico, they celebrate the "Day of the Dead" (El Dia de los Muertos). Also called All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. This national holiday is on November 1 and 2, and Mexicans celebrate on this day that the dead come back to earth to visit the living. The dead are then the guests of the living on that day. Cemeteries are crowded, picnics are held at gravesites and skulls are used as decorations. Bakers sell the bread of death on this festive day.
      • December 12 is the most important feast in Mexico. Mexicans then celebrate the national feast of the Virgin of Guadalupe. This patron saint of Mexico is said to have been beheld as a Marian apparition in 1531 by Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin. Pilgrims in Mexico walk with torches and wear tunic referring to Juan Diego's clothing. Tens of thousands of Mexicans climb the mountain that day to the basilica "Iglesia de Guadalupe" in Mexico City. Throughout the day, Mexico celebrates with music and fireworks.
      • Constitution Day is a national holiday in Mexico. Originally, Feb. 5 was the fixed date for this. In 1857 and 1917, Mexican constitutions were adopted on this date. In 2006, it was decided to celebrate it on the first Tuesday of the year.
      • On May 5, Mexicans celebrate the day Mexico defeated a French army in the Battle of Puebla.
      • The discovery of America by Columbus used to be celebrated grandly in Mexico. However, after 300 years of misery by Europeans, it was decided to celebrate something else on Oct. 12. Today, Mexico celebrates Race Day. This refers to the new race that emerged from Europeans and Indians.

      What are the remarkable habits in Mexico?

      • Food is important, taking time to share meals together. By preference with the whole family around big tables on sundays with all family included extended family around.
      • Politeness, table manners and formalities are normal. It is commont to always greet a person, when you meet. Mexican workplaces tend to be hierarchical, with clear lines of authority. Respect for superiors is crucial.
      • Festivities and celebrations are definitely celebrated by Mexicans.
      • Sombreros provides shade from the hot Mexican sun, protecting the face and neck. It also holds a significant cultural meaning. The sombrero represents pride in Mexican heritage and traditions. It is also a fashion item.
      • Pinatas is more than a fun party decoration. The act of breaking the piñata symbolized triumph over evil or temptation.
      • Mariachi is a group of musicians, playing ranchera music. This genre has roots in 18th-century western Mexico.
      • Machismo is still very common. The core of the macho culture is of masculinity and dominance by men. Traits like strength, virility, and being the head of the household. 
      • Indirect communication is part of the Mexican culture. Don't take "no" at face value, and pay attention to non-verbal cues.
      What are typical Panamese habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Panama?

      What are typical Panamese habits, food customs, recipes and philosophies in Panama?

      What are the customs in Panama regarding food?

      • Because there are so many different cultures in Panama, the country has a very varied cuisine. At small cafes you can often taste local specialties further, top international restaurants and American fast-food chains have also penetrated Panama.

      What are the best recipes in Panama?

      • Try the specialty Ceviche. This is fish marinated in lime juice, onions and peppers.
      • Sancocho is a characteristic stew with chicken, meat and vegetables.
      • Gallo pinto is a dish consisting of rice and beans with pork sometimes added.
      • A popular dessert is a Raspado; a kind of white scones with condensed milk and syrup on top.

      What are the best drinks in Panama?

      • The Ron Ponche is highly recommended. This is a milk and vanilla cocktail with rum.
      • Panama is rich in many fresh fruit juices: pineapple, papaya, mango and passion fruit juices are available everywhere. Both pure, and mixed with ice.
      • Panama produces Panama, Atlas, Soberana and Balboa beer.

      What are notable holidays and festivals in Panama?

      • 'Feria de las Flores y del Cafe' is held every January and is the largest (and perhaps best) flower festival in the world. There are beautiful flower exhibits, food stalls and lots of live music.
      • During Santa Semana (holy week around Easter), religious processions are held throughout the country where participants wear beautiful colored clothes and hold up church statues.
      • The “Festival de los Diablos y Congos” is the festival of devils and Africans. It is held annually in March. It is historically the representation of good versus evil, or the struggle between the African slaves (good) and their Spanish overlord (the devil). Drumbeats and drumbeats depict escape attempts, rebellions and freedom songs are sung.
      • On Aug. 31, the “Feria Internacional del Mar” is celebrated. This annual festival celebrates all things sea, beach and fish.
      • Panama has no less than three independence days, but the most important celebration is on Nov. 3 and 4 in which lots of fireworks and parades celebrate the country's independence from Colombia.

      What are the remarkable habits in Panama?

      • Family is key, it is all about the family, including extended family. Grandparents are often involved in raising children.
      • Fiestas are tradition, between 1 PM and 3 PM all shops are closed. People are resting.
      • Baseball is a very popular sport.
      • Strong sweet coffee is the way of life and drinking it included in daily habits.
      Central America Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

      Central America Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

      Central America Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

      Image ACTIVITIES

      Check courses, jobs, projects, recipes, suggestions and tips related to: 'Central America'

      ACTIVITIES
      Image

      When traveling is your hobby and want to keep your personal stuff safe in the airplane, train, bus, boat or when u sleep in a hostel. Use a travelsafe! Find out what kind of travelsafe is usefull for you, click here!  

      CHECK MORE ACTIVITIES

      Select any filter and click on Apply to see results

      Recipes from Latin America or with a Latin twist by WorldSupporters - Bundle

      Recipes from Latin America or with a Latin twist by WorldSupporters - Bundle

      Recipes from Latin America shared by WorldSupporters

      Recept: Buñuelos de Nicaragua

      Recept: Buñuelos de Nicaragua

      Image

      This recipe is traditionaly made around the holiday season, it compares to the Dutch "Oliebollen". It is a sweet, deepfried treat made from Yuca's (a cassave root) served with sugary topping called miel (honey) made from water, sugar and cinnamon.

      Peel the yuca (note this is not easy, you need a sharp knife and a bit of persistence) then cut the yuca up in smal pieces and put them in the blender. Add the quarter cup of water and mix until it is a smooth mush, add the crumbled cheese and mix it in well.

      Heat a pot with olive oil, while doing that put on a pot with the cups of water, sugar and cinnamon stick in it. Make sure it is kept just below boiling point.

      When the oil is heated take two spoons to shape a little bit of the dough into a ball every time. Deepfrie them until golden brown. Let them drip of and serve while still hot with the sirup over it, enjoy!

      Ready In: 50 min.

      Ingredients:

      • 1 big yuca (cassave root)
      • Salty cheese (feta would do)
      • 1/4 cup of water for the dough
      • 1 Cinnamon stick
      • 1.5 cups of sugar
      • 3 cups of water
      Recipe: Classic Guatemala Enchiladas

      Recipe: Classic Guatemala Enchiladas

      Image

      You’ve probably heard of enchiladas before, but you might be thinking about a rolled tortilla filled with chicken, or beef, topped with melted cheese and sauce, which is more like a Mexican enchilada. These enchiladas -Guatemalan enchiladas- are made by topping a fried or toasted tortilla (called a Tostada) with lettuce, beets, onions, tomato sauce, fresh parsley, an egg slice…and the last touch, a sprinkling of dried Guatemalan cheese (Queso Seco). Parmesan cheese can also work. Sometimes people also add ground beef or chili spice.

      Buen Proveche!

      Ingredients for 25 Enchiladas:

      • 25 tostadas
      • 2-3 lbs fresh lettuce
      • 6-8 red beets
      • 6 boiled eggs
      • 4 dill pickles (optional)
      • 2 sliced onions (optional)
      • 1 large bunch of fresh parsley
      • pepper, salt
      • Queso Seco (dry cheese)
      • Sauce: 3 diced onions 5 diced tomatoes

      Procedure:

      • Some of the steps need to be made a day ahead, once these ingredients are ready you can start assembling the Enchilada.  Those ingredients are the filling, the onion escabeche, vegetable mix and tomato sauce.  The recipe calls for 1 head of garlic, which you will use in the filling recipe, in the vegetable mix recipe and the tomato sauce recipe. Feel free to adjust the garlic amount to your own personal taste.

      Filling:

      • Chop one of the red bell peppers, with half of the green beans, half of the carrots, half of the chayotes, half of the garlic head (or your adjusted amount of garlic), and half of the cabbage. No onions, beets, celery or tomatoes here.
      • Add a bit of oil to a large hot pan, and brown your beef.
      • Season with salt and pepper and add all the chopped vegetables.
      • Let it cook until all the liquid has evaporated.

      Onion “Escabeche”

      • Cut onions into quarters, and then slice and separate the pieces.
      • Mix olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper to taste.
      • Add onion rings and let them sit for at least 24 hrs in a covered jar.

      Vegetable Mix:

      • Julienne or chop the rest of the vegetables you had left over. You’ll use the remaining carrots, chayotes, garlic (to taste), and cabbage this time you’ll include the beets.
      • Cook them in boiling water, with the 2 bay leaves, except for the beets.  Those are cooked in a separate pot.  Don’t over cook them, it should only take a few minutes.
      • Mix the vegetables, and let them cool.
      • Refrigerate and mix with the onion escabeche.
      • Let this mixture rest for at least half a day.

      Tomato Sauce:

      • Cook the tomatoes, celery stalks and remaining red bell pepper and garlic (to taste).
      • Pure in the blender, return to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste

      Assembly:

      • Take a tostada, cover with a lettuce leaf.
      • Top the lettuce with the vegetable and escabeche mix.
      • Top this with the beef filling.
      • Next, top with tomato sauce.
      • Decorate with a few sliced hard boiled egg, sprinkle with dried cheese, and chopped cilantro.

      Ready In: 0 min.

      Ecuadorian Fruits :D

      Ecuadorian Fruits :D

      Image

      Hola Amigos!

      Fruits are one of the main parts of a healthy diet, but also just simply DELICIOUS. Well, if you want a good choice of fruits, head out to South-America. It's FRUIT HEAVEN! The fruits here are sweet, fresh, without travel pollution and cheap, what else do you want? Well, today for you, my fruit amigos, I will describe some typical fruits which you can find in Ecuador and other parts of South America. I will not talk about the easily recognisable ones like pineapple, mango, grapes etc, but about the ones I was super curious about. Fortunatelly, there are so many that I can't even describe all of them so you'll still have to go on an adventure yourself. Hopefully, however, this blog can help you to get through an Ecuadorian market a little bit easier than I did, if you happen to be at one sometime.

      Maracuya (E: Passion fruit)

       

      YES! Let’s start with my ultimate favorite; the maracuya. Even though it looks totally different from the purple small passion fruits we get in Europe, it tastes somewhat the same and is a lot bigger (so better! ;)). This one is yellow with sometimes a little bit of green, and feels quite hard on the outside. To find the best ones on the market, I always pick the biggest and heaviest ones! They usually contain the most seeds. To start eating, either cut it through the middle and eat both halves, or take the top side off and use the maracuya as a bowl and just scoop out the inside. Some people prefer to swallow everything without chewing, however, I like the texture of the seeds since it makes it a little bit crunchy so I prefer to chew on it.

      Use: mostly used for juices since it’s a very sour fruit. But if you’re like my sisters and I, you’ll probably prefer to eat it like this!
      Price: 5/6 for 1 dollar

      Granadilla (E: Sweet passion fruit)

       

      Another passion fruit, yay! It’s an orange fruit with some light brown speckles on it and can be found at most markets. While the maracuya is sour and has a pretty strong flavour, the granadilla is a lot sweeter and the texture is even more like spawn. It might look a bit disgusting at first, but the taste makes up for it. If you like both, but find the granadilla not strong enough (flavour wise) and the maracuya to sour, then do like I do sometimes and mix them together in one of the fruits to get a combination of the two flavours

      Use: I think just for eating, and you can put it in some dishes too.
      Price: 4/5 for 1 dollar

      Taxo (E: Banana passion fruit)

       

      Yes, there is another one for you, passion frutas lovers! Where the name comes from? Well, I think you can take a guess while looking at the picture. The fruits are usually yellow/orang and quite soft when you touch them. Even though I cut it differently in the picture, I think the best way to cut and eat it is longitudinally. The texture is a little bit more tough (and so are the seeds, better just swallow them) than that of the maracuya and granadilla, and therefore it’s also a little bit more difficult to eat, but the flavour resembles that of the maracuya the most. Again it’s quite sour and it has a tangy taste.

      Use: it can be eaten raw (although that is rarely done), but it is mostly used for juices and ice-cream
      Price: 5/6 for 1 dollar

      Tomate de árbol (E: Tree tomato)

       

      Tree tomato is a strange fruit of which I haven’t really figured out how to eat it yet, except for just drinking it as a juice with a lot of sugar. It’s a kind of red-orange fruit that is more oval-shaped than a tomato, but when you open it, you do realize why they call it tomato anyway. When you eat it fresh, the fruit tastes very sour and kind of like a mix between tomato and papaya. I wouldn’t recommend doing this. However, the fruit can be used for juices and desert when boiled and mixed with sugar. In that way it still is a flavour I’m not used to, but it tastes quite good.

      Use: Juices/desserts/sauces
      Price: 6-8 for 1 dollar

      Lemons/limes/oranges

       

      I still haven’t been able to figure out which one is which. While the oranges are quite clear and have a bit of a dirty orange-green look, there are also other oranges that again look different. The same in terms of lemons and limes. There are so many that I can’t even start describing them all. I recommend you just buy and try some to find out for yourself!

      It’s BANANAs!

      There are several types of bananas in Ecuador (what else would you expect in a tropical country) of which I will describe the most common ones:

      Platana Verde (E: Green plantain)

      This banana is HUGE and NOT to eat raw. It’s an unripe green plantain with no flavour but it has a great texture for cooking. They go crazy for it here and you can find it everywhere. You can try to prepare it yourself by cooking and baking it, or by making patacones (one of the favorite dishes here), but I recommend you to just go out on the streets and get some ready made, because it’s a lot easier.

      Use: Many dishes, but not raw
      Price: 8 for 1 dollar

      Platano Maduro (E: Ripe plantain)

      The ripe version of platana verde. Again it’s huge, but this time it has a yellow colour due to the ripening process. Now it’s a lot sweeter, but still not very good to eat raw. They are eaten grilled, from the oven, with cheese, fried and they taste very good. While this one is a bit easier to prepare yourself, I would still recommend to buy it on the streets (you can see people selling them outside from the grill while you walk on the streets), since they know how to prepare it the best.

      Use: many dishes but again not raw
      Price: 8 for 1 dollar

      Orito (E: Baby banana)

      Orito is a tiny banana (about 1/3rd of a normal one) and contains just as much, if not more, flavour but more concentrated. It’s full of sugar and delicious to eat and the best of all, they are super super cheap. I use them to cook banana bread, or I eat them raw. They contain a lot of sugar though so don’t eat too many or you’ll start bouncing all over the streets.

      Use: raw! and I use it for banana bread
      Price: depends, but usually a bunch (about 15-20) for 1 dollar

      Platano Rosado (E: Red banana)

      Platano rosado is a banana with a red/purple-ish skin. It's full of antioxidants, beta-carotene and vitamin C and therefore very healthy. Additionally, many more health benefits are attributed to it, although I always remain a bit sceptical. What I know for sure though, is that these bananas are so sweet and delicious. I have eaten the big ones (I heard there are also small ones) and even though it was a bit too much for me at one, since I'm not very fond of bananas, it was soooooo good. So I would really recommend you to eat one if you find them :) 

      Use: raw, just peal it like a normal banana
      Price: Around 5-10 for one dollar

      Mora (E: blackberries)

      Blackberries in Ecuador are very different from the ones I’m used to in the Netherlands. The ones here are more sour and not very juicy, but they still taste good. They look basically the same, but are a little bit bigger and generally quite ‘expensive’ compared to other fruits.

      Use: juices, ice-cream
      Price: 2 dollars a pound

       

      Next to these frutas, there are of course many others like mango, pineapple (piña), strawberries (fresas), apples (manzana), watermelons (sandia), grapes (uvas), coconut (coco), guanabana, dragon fruit (pitahaya), prickly pear (tuna), papaya and so on. Maybe I'll describe some of the smaller fruits (tamarindo, some kind of small mango and another thing) which are eaten raw as snacks on the street in one of my next blogs or vlogs so if you want to know about that, make sure to follow me!

      I hope this blog helped you to get an idea of Ecuadorian fruits! At least I got to eat all of them while writing this haha. Have fun trying them out too if you get the opportunity!

      Chao! Hannah

      - this is a blog adjusted from my personal website https://hannahchanstravels.wordpress.com/2017/09/25/ecuadorian-fruits/ - 

      Recipe: Guacamole

      Recipe: Guacamole

      Image

      Guacamole: easy, quick, delicous, healthy and vegan! Who doesn't love it? You can dip your nachos in it, spread it on toast or put it as a topping on your rice bowl!

      Here's how I make mine:

      Ingrediënts

      • 2 Ripe avocados
      • Jalapenos or chili peper to preference of heat (I prefer fresh, but you could use chili powder)
      • Half a (red) onion or a small shallot
      • 2 Garlic cloves (or less, or more)
      • Koriander
      • 1 Lime
      • Salt and black peper
      • Ground cumin

      Unlike many others, I prefer my guacamole without tomatoes because I feel it can make it to thin/watery sometimes.

      1. Slide open your avocados, take out the pit and put the flesh in a medium size bowl.
      2. Smash the avocados with a fork until desired consistency (I like mine chunky and not too smooth)
      3. Chop half the onion or the small shallot and the garlic in very fine pieces.
      4. Add the onion and garlic together with a pinch of salt and black peper, a pinch of ground cumin, a tablespoon of chopped koriander leaves, and the juice of half a lime.
      5. Mix well
      6. Add the jalapenos or chili peper to preference of heat
      7. Taste to see if you need more of anything: Salt? Lime? or a bit more heat?

      That's it! And so easy.

      Let me know when you try it! What is your guacamole recipe?

       

      Ready In: 7 min.

      Recipe: Peruvian Lomo Saltado

      Recipe: Peruvian Lomo Saltado

      Image

      The first peruvian recipe that I learned how to make is 'Lomo Saltado'. This signature dish consists of meat, rice, fresh patatoe fries and various herbs and spices that are characteristic for the popular Peruvian kitchen. Try it out and discover the rich flavours for yourself!

      Ingredients for 4 persons

      • 500 gr of veal
      • 1 (red) onion
      • 1 green pepper
      • 1 tomato
      • 1 spring onion
      • 1 yellow aji (online or in specialised stores), or a fresh chilli
      • 2 cups of rice
      • 500 gr firm boiling patatoes
      • vegetable oil
      • soy sauce
      • 3 teaspoon of applecider vinegar
      • cilantro
      • garlic

      Instructions

      Preheat the oven at 200 degrees. Clean the patatoes and cut them lengthwise. cover them with a little oil, salt and pepper and bake them in 20 minutes. Boil the rice. Then cut the pepper, onion, chilli (without the seeds), the tomatoe and the garlic in small pieces. Cut the meat into strips, let it marinate for a little while in the soy sauce, vinagre, garlic, chilli and half of the cilantro. After that, bake the marinated meat for a short period on high fire. Add all the vegetables except for the tomatoe and bake for a little more. Finally, add the tomatoe and bake for a few more minutes. Serve together with the rice, fries and top with the cilantro. Buen provecho!

      Ready In: 30 min.

      Recipe: Quick and Easy - Ceviche

      Recipe: Quick and Easy - Ceviche

      Image

      Ingredients for 4 people :

      -700g of White fish (eg. Seabass)

      -8 limes

      -1 onion

      -2 table spoons of evaporated milk

      -3-5 table spoons of fish stock (optional but highly recomended)

      -Parsley

      - you might put chillis if you want to spice things up

       

      Recipe:

      1- cut the onion in juliennes (thin stripes)

      2- cut the parsley in really small pieces and the chili in circles (remove the seeds so its not too spicy)

      3- make sure the fish does not have any bones and remove the skin, then cut it in bite size cubes

      4- put the fish in a bowl, add salt and pepper to taste and the juice of all the limes. then mix it all

      5- add the parsley, the chilli, the evaporated milk and the fish stock (optional) to the fish and mix

      6- let it rest in the fridge for at least 10 minutes before serving

      7- put the fish on a plate, then mix the onions with the juice that is left on the bowl and put them on top of the fish

      Tip: for a truly peruvian style ceviche, you can put some tosted corn around the fish.

       

      Ready In: 15 min.

      Ingredients:

      • 700g of white fish (eg. seabass)
      • 1 Onion
      • 8-10 Limes
      • Chilli (optional)
      • Parsley
      • 2 table spoons of evaporated milk
      • 3-5 table spoons of fish stock (optional but highly recomended)
      • salt and pepper to taste
      Travelling in Ecuador as a Vegan

      Travelling in Ecuador as a Vegan

      Image

      As a vegan who loves travelling, you've probably heard that it's impossible to do it if you want to stay healthy. Well, I'm here to change that view and give you some tips for travelling as a vegan in Ecuador.

      When I went to Ecuador, I was doubtful about whether I would manage to stay vegan. I had been vegan for a year, and while it was rather easy in the Netherlands, I always thought that I would never be able to keep being vegan while abroad. Nevertheless, I did it with the help of some tips/tricks. 

      1. Cook yourself
      The easiest and best way (if you can use a kitchen) is cooking yourself. There are so many delicious recipes that contain some meat, but it's easy to substitute this meat for beans. Check out the arepas recipe on my page for example. Arepas are totally vegan, and if you combine them with vegetables and beans, very nutritious as well. The plantain recipe is also a very easy recipe for vegans which can be combined with all kinds of things. Basically, you can cook anything you were used to cooking at home as well, just check the ingredients. 

      2. Eating out? Ask for something specific. 
      This might sound strange, but it works better than asking "do you have something vegan?" or "can I have this without meat?". These questions often lead to misunderstandings, or even more questions. If you ask for rice with salad, or rice with beans or rice with beans and avocado, you will get it. Of course, in bigger or more international restaurants you might get away with asking for a dish without meat, but if you're at a bus station, or a smaller town or just local restaurants, ask for a specific thing. 

      3. Look for vegan restaurants
      Nowadays many places have some vegan restaurants, or restaurants with vegan options. Especially in the bigger and more touristic places in Ecuador (Cuenca, Quito, Otavalo, Banos, at the coast) you might have a chance of finding vegan things. For a start, in Tena, where I stayed for 3 months, is a great vegan restaurant next to Cafe Tortuga (which also has some vegan options). It is owned by a wonderful cheff and she makes just great dishes! In Baños there is a restaurant called Healthy Food which you can't find on Google Maps, but it is near Ponche Suizo and they have many vegetarian and Vegan options. Also in Baños is Zumo, a great restaurant at which they offer all kinds of dishes, also vegan, and if you ask they might even be able to make some adjustments to the non vegan dishes. But since Ecuador is a popular travel destination, you can find many options nowadays at more international restaurants. 


      Food at Zumo                                                                                   Vegan Streetfood

      Hopefully, this can encourage you and aid you in your vegan travels! Also in the rest of South America! Let me know if you have any more recommendations :)

      Cheers, 
      Hannah

       

      Activities abroad: home bundle

      Main content and contributions for activities abroad

      ,,,accommodations, adventure activities, courses, internships, jobs and volunteer projects

      ...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn

      ........Read more
      Activities abroad: home page

      Activities abroad: home page

      From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

        What social activities can you do abroad?

        • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.

        What work related activities can you do abroad?

        • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.

        What sports activities to do abroad?

        • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
        • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

        Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

          Activities Abroad: for work and intern abroad

          Activities Abroad: for work and intern abroad

          Work Abroad, Work Experience Abroad & Intern Abroad

          Access: 
          Public

          Image STORIES

          Check blogs, experiences and information related to: 'Central America'

          STORIES
          Study Spanish @ Lago de Atitlán

          Ofcourse, when travelling around in Guatemala and Central America, a basic knowledge of Spanish is 'a must' to connect with local Guatemaltecos. Guatemala has several hotspots if you decide to slow down and learn some Spanish -or improve your existing knowledge. Main Study Locations

          • Antigua...

          boston sun

          Boston is one of the most historic and oldest cities in the United States. It offers a spectacular contrast between the old and new. With trendy boutiques dominating the 18th century brownstones, there is no American city that does history better than Boston. From the moment visitors first enter the...

          Image

          1. What are the issues to bear in mind when emigrating?

          • Keep track of the emigration process; for example write down what to do and what you are going through in an emigration diary.
          • Make use of the media and guidebooks when researching possible destinations.
          • Get an i...

          I AM Organic - banaan met een duurzaam verhaal

          In mijn regionale krant BNDeStem lees ik een artikel over de Organto eerlijke banaan. Organto is bekend van het merk I AM Organic en heeft als slogan Eat the world better. Je vindt producten o.a. in de shops en kiosken van NS. Vaak denk ik bij dergelijke merken en slogans 'tja, de zoveelst...

          CHECK MORE STORIES

          Select any filter and click on Apply to see results

          Countries & Destinations: home bundle

          Bundled content, suggestions, stories and tips about the countries and destinations in the world

          ...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn to share and inspire........Read more

          Africa: country bundles

          Africa: country bundles

          Access: 
          Public
          Asia: country bundles

          Asia: country bundles

          Country bundles of Asian countries

          Access: 
          Public
          Europe: country bundles

          Europe: country bundles

          Country bundles of European countries

          Access: 
          Public

          Image ORGANIZATIONS

          Check sectors and organizations related to: 'Central America'

          ORGANIZATIONS
          Spanish at Locations

          Bij Spanish at Locations kun je Spaanse les volgen in Costa Rica en Panama. Spanish at Locations is in 1998 opgericht door de Nederlandse Ingrid Lommers en heeft inmiddels taalscholen op meerdere locaties in beide landen. Spanish at Locations biedt zowel taalcursussen als taalcursuscombinaties aan, ...

          Hostel Casa de Lis

          Hotel Casa de Lis is a hotel located east of San Jose (1.5 hours), near the Turrialba volcano. The hostel is located in a beautiful valley and aims to offer travelers a place where they can relax and enjoy the Turrialba environment.

          CHECK MORE ORGANIZATIONS

          Select any filter and click on Apply to see results

          Organizations & Services: home bundle

          Bundled content, suggestions, stories and tips about organizations and their products and services

          ...to help another, travel with care, work together, learn to share and inspire with

          ........Read more
          Organizations: home page

          Image

          SPOTLIGHT & FAVORITES

          SPOTLIGHT
          Study Spanish @ Lago de Atitlán

          Ofcourse, when travelling around in Guatemala and Central America, a basic knowledge of Spanish is 'a must' to connect with local Guatemaltecos. Guatemala has several hotspots if you decide to slow down and learn some Spanish -or improve your existing knowledge. Main Study Locations

          • Antigua...

          Image

          Rigoberta Menchú is een Guatemalteekse mensenrechtenactiviste. Ze is als Maya actief als voorvechtster voor de rechten van inheemse Guatemalteekse groepen.

          • In de regio waar Menchú geboren werd en in haar jeugd leefde, Quiché, leven vooral indianen, die grotendeels hun e...

          Image

          1. What are the issues to bear in mind when emigrating?

          • Keep track of the emigration process; for example write down what to do and what you are going through in an emigration diary.
          • Make use of the media and guidebooks when researching possible destinations.
          • Get an i...

          FAVORITES
          Image

          1. What are the issues to bear in mind when emigrating?

          • Keep track of the emigration process; for example write down what to do and what you are going through in an emigration diary.
          • Make use of the media and guidebooks when researching possible destinations.
          • Get an i...

          I AM Organic - banaan met een duurzaam verhaal

          In mijn regionale krant BNDeStem lees ik een artikel over de Organto eerlijke banaan. Organto is bekend van het merk I AM Organic en heeft als slogan Eat the world better. Je vindt producten o.a. in de shops en kiosken van NS. Vaak denk ik bij dergelijke merken en slogans 'tja, de zoveelst...

          Stories, tips and experiences from specific countries in Central America

          Belize - Costa Rica - El Salvador - Guatemala - Honduras - Mexico - Nicaragua - Panama

          Image ALL CONTENT

          Search all related content within the topic: 'Central America'

          ALL CONTENT WITHIN TOPIC

          Select any filter and click on Apply to see results

          Check or search within: topics, countries and studies only

          Search only via club, country, goal, study, topic or sector

          Stay safe and insured
          Go abroad!

          Image

          TOPICS : check associated topics and more activities

          Selected Worldsupporter pages in relation with the topic
          Crossroads in the field of:
          More crossroad and side roads:
          Themes: main theme pages for activities abroad (intern, study, travel, volunteer, work or emigrate)

          WorldSupporter Theme pages for activities abroad

          Intern, study, travel, volunteer, work or emigrate

          Best travel time for weather, climate and activities abroad, and the worst time to go!
          Backpacking and travel your way around the world - Theme
          Emigration and moving abroad - Theme
          Gap Year, Time out and Sabbatical - Theme
          Internship Abroad - Theme
          Learning languages and language courses abroad - Theme
          Remote working abroad and digital nomads - Theme
          Study Abroad - Theme
          TEFL: Teaching English as a Foreign Language and learning English - Theme
          Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
          Travel gear and packing lists for going abroad - Worldsupporter Theme
          Volunteer abroad - Theme
          Work abroad and working holidays - Theme
          Page type:

          WorldSupporter: Topic Page