Starstruck at Starfish Beach by Ailani Garcia Balderas

As someone from Charleston, SC who had never left the state—let alone the country—our beach day in Bocas del Toro quickly became one of the most memorable and awe-inspiring experiences of my life. For someone used to brown-gray, misty coastlines, the dream of seeing turquoise-blue water had always felt a bit mythical. But that day, it became real. It wasn’t just about studying abroad; it … Continue reading Starstruck at Starfish Beach by Ailani Garcia Balderas

Pursuit of Pura Vida by Elijah Danjoint

To a Costa Rican citizen, “pura vida” is a saying that is as habitual as saying good morning. As Costa Rica’s unofficial national slogan, you can hear this saying at every corner store, every restaurant, and every beach. Meaning “pure life”, pura vida is a versatile saying used in greetings, ways of saying thanks, and many other positive interactions. Hearing this so often and so … Continue reading Pursuit of Pura Vida by Elijah Danjoint

Cahal Pech by Kyle Bowman

Nestled in the lush hills of San Ignacio, Belize, Cahal Pech is a must-visit for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. This ancient Maya site, whose name means “Place of the Ticks” in Yucatec Maya, dates back to around 1200 BCE, making it one of the oldest ruins in the region. Despite its lesser-known status compared to Xunantunich or Caracol, Cahal Pech offers an intimate … Continue reading Cahal Pech by Kyle Bowman