We postponed our flights to Chile by a couple of weeks, which gave me the perfect opportunity to experience my first Halloween in the United States. Halloween isnt traditionally celebrated in Germany—though its gaining popularity there—and its not a big deal in Britain either. I was thrilled to dive into the real American tradition, even if Jess insists Im too old for trick-or-treating. In Chicago, the city came alive with Halloween spirit over the past few weeks. Front yards featured spooky c

When we returned to New York last week for the third and final time this year, we were treated to exceptional fall weather: temperatures climbed into the low 70s°F, skies stayed brilliantly blue, and sunshine dominated—all except one day.Our main worry for a November trip was freezing cold forcing us indoors (with limited warm clothing), but we thrived outdoors. We joined a walking food tour in trendy Williamsburg—and savored this breathtaking sunset from East River Beach. We biked across Manhat

Were back in San Pedro de Atacama, picking up where we left off in April before heading to the U.S. and Europe for the summer. We adore this high-altitude haven and are thrilled to return before embarking on a 3-day jeep tour to Bolivia via the Salar de Uyuni. While many travelers pass through just once, its easy to see why so many choose to stay longer. San Pedro and its surrounding Atacama Desert boast some of Chiles—and the worlds—most breathtaking scenery. Driving into this surreal terrain f

One highlight of our South America journey was the Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia. After traveling north through Chile to San Pedro de Atacama, we joined a three-day off-road jeep tour to Uyuni. We anticipated vast white salt flats stretching endlessly, which we explored on the tours final day. However, the salt flats occupied just half a day. The preceding two days revealed some of the worlds most stunning landscapes: red, green, and white lagoons; volcanoes; striking rock formations; hot spring

After an unforgettable entry into Bolivia via the stunning Salar de Uyuni salt flats, we found Uyuni—the tours endpoint—underwhelming. After a restorative night with a hot shower and ample sleep, we boarded the bus to Potosí, our first true destination in the country.Potosí, a colonial gem, was once among the worlds richest cities, fueled by the silver-laden Cerro Rico (Rich Hill). Though pure silver is depleted, miners still endure hazardous conditions daily, inhaling silica dust and asbestos t

After months of bland white bread, toast, and rolls in Chile and Argentina, arriving in Bolivias potato heartland was a true relief. This Andean nation boasts over 400 potato varieties, making them the cornerstone of Bolivian cuisine. Strolling through Sucres bustling central market, we marveled at the vibrant array: tiny purple gems, elongated brownish tubers resembling radishes, and every shape and hue in between. While health enthusiasts worldwide rave about Bolivias quinoa exports, locals f

Have you ever spotted a lone shoe by the roadside and wondered, Wheres the other one? At our beach house in Mexico, weve found not just one—but thousands of its mates, washed ashore amid paradise. This coastal haven boasts stunning Caribbean views from the front and a serene freshwater lagoon behind. Red-headed woodpeckers, vibrant bluebirds, pelicans, herons, and palm trees create a natural symphony, while snakes and blue crabs navigate the sandy yard dotted with coconuts. Yet, daily 2km beach

Our final stop in Bolivia before entering Peru was the enchanting Isla del Sol in the vast Lake Titicaca, spanning over 3,200 square miles. A quick boat from Copacabana allows a day trip, but we stayed overnight to fully explore. It ranked among our top Bolivia highlights!The rugged, rocky island supports about 800 families living off farming, fishing, and modest tourism. No roads or motorized vehicles exist—steep paths make even cycling impossible. Locals use donkeys and llamas for transport, w

U.S. citizens face significant reciprocity fees for many South American countries, as these nations mirror U.S. visa charges. Chile requires a $160 tourist visa, with Bolivia at $135, and Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay each at $160. As full-time travelers with my partner Dani for nearly four years, we prioritize maximizing value from every expense. Returning to Santiago in November on our round-trip ticket, we resolved to explore more of Chile before crossing into Bolivia, ensuring the visa fee

As a seasoned and responsible traveler, booking a mountain bike tour down Bolivias Camino de la Muerte—known as the Death Road—for my partner Jess and me wasnt my most prudent choice.Recognized by the Inter-American Development Bank in 1995 as the worlds most dangerous road, it claimed hundreds of vehicles over its sheer cliffs. This narrow gravel track, often just 3m (10 ft) wide, handles two-way traffic on a single lane with virtually no guardrails.Despite the risks, rave reviews convinced us.

Our hike to Machu Picchu was flawless—one of the most exhilarating adventures of our global travels. Two days later, a harsh reminder of lifes unpredictability: I rolled my ankle descending the hostel stairs and heard it snap. Id love to spin a heroic yarn of chasing thieves or dodging traffic, but it was a simple, all-too-human misstep. This setback stung deeply, coming right after our recovery from a grueling three-week stomach bug in Bolivia, just as we were eager to dive back into exploring.

On my journey from Peru to Germany, I couldnt resist a brief stopover in New York City, my favorite city in the world. Unbeknownst to me, it coincided with a major snowstorm that canceled hundreds of flights over the next few days—fortunately not mine!I arrived feeling underprepared, wearing Converse canvas shoes and a light rain jacket in -13°C (8°F) with 10 cm (4 inches) of snow on the ground.Despite my unsuitable attire, I layered up and wandered through Central Park, transformed into an ench

Do you find yourself comparing every new destination to places youve visited before? We certainly do—not just the overall vibe, but specific streets, neighborhoods, and corners. It took time to warm up to Iquique, a vibrant city in Northern Chile, but comparisons started immediately. The unfinished concrete skyscrapers along the coast evoked Panama City, Panama—a place we only partially embraced. Wandering the Centro Histórico, the colorful clapboard houses amid grand Spanish colonial architectu

As we wrap up our two-month adventure in Germany, time has flown by. This Saturday, were flying back to New York City for a long weekend before heading to Tucson, Arizona, to housesit for one of our favorite families—our third time with them. The past week was a whirlwind drive along Germanys picturesque country roads. We housesat in Leipzig for Dani’s brother, visited friends in Munich and Fürstenfeldbruck (including a BR2 radio interview), and now were in Erfurt, Dani’s hometown, saying goodb

Welcome to our Hotel Tip of the Week series. As full-time nomads with over 500 nights in hotels worldwide, weve experienced the best (and worst) accommodations from budget to luxury. We only recommend hotels weve personally stayed in on Globetrottergirls.com – those that are comfortable, clean, offer great value, and treat guests like family. After a bustling day in New York City, Dani and I relaxed in our room at Hotel Casablanca with feet up and wine in hand, watching Broadway and 7th Avenue

From timeless classics like Manhattans and Old Fashioneds to innovative and inventive creations, exceptional cocktails are true works of art. New York City stands out as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts, boasting stylish venues that elevate the drinking experience. If youre planning a trip to NYC and seeking top cocktail bars, here are expert recommendations for unforgettable spots. Rogue & Canon Where: 128 West Houston Street Originally a pub, Rogue & Canon offers a relax

If youre planning a U.S. road trip, New Mexico might not top your list—overshadowed by neighbors like Colorado, Arizona, and Texas. But dedicating two weeks to this vast, diverse state reveals endless wonders. Our journey began with uncertainty about the time investment, but planning quickly revealed an abundance of must-see spots. Upcoming posts will detail our visits to charming towns, thrilling activities, delectable local cuisine (hello, Hatch green chiles!), and honest impressions. With ju

As another unforgettable year draws to a close—this marks our second full year as full-time travelers!—weve circled the globe. Rather than listing every destination, this recap highlights our favorite 2011 photos, from Central America to Thailand, with stops in Europe, the U.S., and Canada. January 2011 As shared in our 2010 year-end post, we began 2011 at Lake Yojoa in Honduras, the only guests at our hotel—a perfectly laid-back start. For more January highlights, see our Facebook album Best of

When we arrived at Montevideos sleek, modern airport two days ago, it felt worlds away from the rugged Patagonian landscapes we left behind that morning. Standing outside the bright, spacious new terminal with cars speeding by on the nearby highway, it almost felt like being back in North America or Europe. We anticipated a bustling capital like Santiago, complete with gleaming office towers and shopping malls.Imagine our surprise, then, when the bus entered the city outskirts and we spotted dir

Nestled in a valley midway between southern Germany and northern Italy, Innsbruck masterfully blends the rustic charm of the Alps with Italys dolce vita lifestyle. Our spring drive from Munich took under two hours, navigating thrilling hairpin turns through 3,000m snow-capped peaks and lush valleys where cows and sheep grazed on vibrant green pastures. In Innsbruck, the journey rivals the destination in breathtaking beauty. Though home to just 120,000 residents, Innsbruck belies its serene appea