Bienvenidos a Panama

Panama is one of my favorite places to visit because it's such a beautiful country. It also helps that I have family there.

Check out my latest post for Being Latino that shows great images of this must-see country.

Traveling Alone

Have you ever traveled by yourself to a place you really wanted to visit?

Some might think it weird to travel alone, just as they might think it weird to go out to dinner or to the movies by yourself. I know of people who have traveled by themselves and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. They were able to experience things and meet other people they may not have had they traveled with friends or family.

You may ask why would people travel alone. It may simply be the fact that no one else wants to go to the same place you do or may not be able to afford it. But should that be a reason to not go? Here are some benefits to traveling without a companion.


These thoughts were inspired by the following video:

Why do you travel?

After a short break, I'm back to explore the world of travel even further and will open with the question of why you travel.

That is the ultimate question. There is no doubt that travel is enjoyable. It gives us the time to get away from ins and out of daily life and to experience a whole new world.

But what is your actual goal for traveling? I have nothing against relaxing on a beautiful beach that can be considered paradise, but there is more to traveling than taking all you can get for your money.

While you are taking and experiencing, what mark are you leaving on the place you're visiting? Do you make the ever effort to speak the native language and learn the customs? Are you aware of important issues and events taking place?

Or if you're on business, do you have the time to get outside of your hotel - even if only for a 20 minute walk?

Oktoberfest in the USA

As mentioned in my post about Oktoberfest in Germany, it is possible to celebrate this festival within the U.S. Many cities, breweries or bars host events.

In La Crosse, Wisconsin the fest is recreated as it can be experience in Germany. Philadelphia, a city proud of its micro brews will not leave you dry with Free sampling of German beers at Bell Beverage on Sept. 24, McGillan's month-long celebration which started on Sept. 2.

Not only does Philly celebrate Oktberfest, but Sept. 16 also marks the start of Philly Beer Week, which is actually a 10-day celebration of the acclaimed "Best Beer-Drinking City in America".

For other festivals across the U.S. check out this top 10 list of events.

The right luggage

An important part of traveling is choosing the type of luggage that suits your trip, you and your budget. With the plethora of luggage types available it can be a daunting task (as is any shopping trip) to choose the right one if you don't know what you're looking for.

Personally, my favorite is the Samsonite Spinner. These pieces have four wheels instead of the regular two and allow for easier transport. However, traveling over cobblestone or through snow is not the easiest. Second in ine to the spinners would have to be duffel bags, which I feel allow for easy packing. If you risk making you bag heavy it is also possible to find duffel bags with wheels.

How to pick the right luggage offers some great advice as does this eHow article.

What is your favorite piece to travel with?

Safe travels.

Oktoberfest 2010

There are only three days left until Munich's official Oktoberfest (Sept. 17 - Oct. 04) begins with the tapping of the first beer barrel at noon on September 18. Oktoberfest lovers will be glad to hear that the celebration of beer is actually extended by two days this year. On September 17, visitors will be treated to reconstruction of Oktoberfest as it was celebrated in past centuries.

Originally, the fest celebrated the marriage Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig's marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. It has now evolved into a celebration of the drink that Germany is well known for and brews in many varieties. For more info check out Oktoberfest.de.

As this is a well-known fest in Germany, especially among those who love beer, it might be a little late to make a last-minute trip to Munich. But don't worry, this is an annual event which will take place from Sept. 17 - Oct. 03. 2011 and Sept. 22 - Oct. 07. 2012. If you want to go, I recommend you start planning now.

But not to worry, Oktoberfest is celebrated world-wide. Stay tuned for more info.

Safe travels.

Latino Heritage Month in Philly

September and October are great months to be in Philadelphia (actually any month is) because they mark the celebration of Latino Heritage Month. This is a chance to get acquainted with, closer to and to celebrate the Latino culture; a celebration that can then be continued throughout the year.

There are parades, shows, art, dancing and much more as is detailed in Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month en Filadelfia.

Do you know what's happening in your area to celebrate Latinos this month?

Also, don't forget to check out the blog BeingLatino for coverage of everything Latino.

Safe travels.