Picture yourself breathing in the salty ocean air, your muscles pleasantly sore from a morning surf session, as you gaze at a stunning crescent-shaped cove from your hammock. Nicaragua offers surfers an incredible variety of waves—from powerful barrels to gentle rides and secluded spots ideal for beginners—all accessible from Managua. To the north, the Aserradores region provides less crowded breaks for advanced surfers, especially during the dry season (November to April). Nearby Popoyo fe

Visiting Guatemala? Lake Atitlán (Lago de Atitlán) is an unmissable highlight. Its breathtaking scenery has mesmerized ancient Maya, Aldous Huxley, 1970s hippies, and todays discerning travelers. With diverse towns lining its shores—each boasting unique character—selecting the ideal base enhances your experience. Our expert guide spotlights top spots, vibes, must-sees, and trusted accommodations to secure your perfect lakeside haven. Panajachel In a nutshell: Shop by day, party by night with

Central America is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, but its natural wonders represent only part of its magnetic appeal. Dubbed the sweet waist of America by poet Pablo Neruda, this region brims with rich history and a vibrant mosaic of cultures. Delve into its world-class museums, wander through architectural masterpieces, and immerse yourself in authentic street life in these must-visit urban oases. Panama City, Panama Cosmopolitan Panama City weaves together three distinct eras: th

A pioneering three-day trekking route empowers local communities to guide adventurers deep into Guatemalas lush jungle, through the vast Maya Biosphere Reserve to the majestic ruins of Tikal—the thriving heart of the ancient Maya civilization. Lonely Planet Traveller tested this immersive experience firsthand. A refreshing breeze glides across Lake Petén Itzá, enveloping the island town of Flores. As dawn breaks, streets awaken with market vendors, playful schoolchildren, and the hum of tuk-tuks

Imagine playing table tennis with a stranger in a lush park surrounded by ancient trees draped in vines. By noon, youre at the historic National Theater enjoying a free performance by the National Symphony Orchestra. Later, savor gourmet sliders at a trendy gastropub, followed by craft beers, and end the night watching a local indie band perform in three languages. Yes, this is San José, Costa Ricas capital. Long dismissed by travelers as a gritty stopover en route to beaches and rainforests, Ch

It’s an engineering marvel, a multibillion-dollar commercial behemoth. The Panama Canal, which joins the Atlantic to the Pacific, is certainly Panama’s greatest claim to fame. Moving mountains and carving through dense jungle, the creation of the canal in 1914 literally reshaped the natural landscape of this sliver of Central America. Less well known is that there’s a greener side to the canal, teeming with tropical wildlife, living indigenous cultures and outdoor adventure opportunities – all j

Gorgeous Honduras has a bit of a public image problem thanks to its oft-reported crime stats, but any visitor will tell you that the situation on the ground couldn’t be more different from what’s heard in the media, and most travelers come back raving about a corner of Central America that is frequently overlooked. These, then, are ten reasons why you shouldn’t simply rush through this fantastic destination. Get off the beaten track Sure, every overlander has spent time in the jungles of Co

Museums are often criticized for being dull repositories of history and artifacts. However, these exceptional institutions challenge that notion. Discover a curated preview from our authoritative guide, 50 Museums to Blow Your Mind. Smithsonian Institution – Washington DC, USA The worlds largest museum complex Spanning 19 museums, galleries, and the National Zoological Park, the Smithsonian is the largest museum complex globally, embodying unparalleled scale and depth. Planning your visit All

Adrenaline junkies rejoice: March delivers epic adventures like zip-lining, whitewater rafting, late-season skiing, and even subterranean trampolines. From established favorites such as Costa Rica and New Zealand to emerging gems like North Wales, your ultimate thrill-packed getaway is calling. North Wales: Outdoor Thrills Amid Daffodils and Spring Lambs Spring in Wales brings gamboling lambs and hillsides dotted with vibrant daffodils—a picturesque reality that lives up to the hype. Marchs

Belize is a top choice for family vacations, delivering diverse, accessible experiences at affordable prices in a safe environment. Families rave about its wildlife encounters, action-packed adventures, and endless sunny fun—just like everyone else. Wildlife Encounters Belizes extensive national parks and wildlife sanctuaries offer safe havens for animals that captivate families of all ages. Wildlife can be elusive, but with expert guidance, children can spot them easily without endless wai

December brims with cultural highlights, from mulled wine at festive markets and Scotlands Hogmanay to vibrant Caribbean Christmas traditions. While circling the globe like Santa isnt feasible for most, these expert-recommended destinations offer unforgettable cultural immersion. Indulge Medieval Christmas Fantasies in Tallinn, Estonia Tallinn, one of Europes best-preserved medieval cities, transforms into a winter wonderland in December. Its walled Old Town and Toompea Castle district, alrea

Despite its compact size, Belize captivates with a rich tapestry of cultures and stunning landscapes, proudly blending its Central American and Caribbean heritage while honoring its diversity and extraordinary natural wonders. This ethos fosters robust support for local culture and entrepreneurship. Travelers will rarely encounter chain restaurants or large hotel chains; instead, Belizean tourism thrives on authentic, homegrown offerings. Weve curated some of our top recommendations for immersiv

Panama Citys tropical allure captivates Lonely Planet Local Martina Gili, who cherishes how this jungle-encircled metropolis blends urban excitement with family-friendly escapes. Beyond rooftop bars, artisanal markets, and gourmet dining, Martina seeks out premier road trips to lush rainforests, Pacific beaches, and the Caribbeans myriad islands. When friends visit... I guide them to the Miraflores Visitor Center to watch massive ships navigate the Panama Canal. A bike ride along the Amador C

Panama City boasts a stunning ultramodern skyline, yet its architecture extends far beyond skyscrapers. As vibrant neighborhoods expand alongside historic landmarks, innovative architects are injecting fresh creativity into this tropical hub. Discover five must-photograph buildings perfect for your Instagram feed. BioMuseo Designed by acclaimed Canadian architect Frank Gehry, the vibrant BioMuseo on the Amador Causeway opened in 2014. It symbolizes the formation of the Panamanian isthmus 2.8

Food and festivity go hand in hand across cultures worldwide. Many iconic festivals trace their roots to culinary traditions, transforming ingredients like asparagus, truffles, sardines, chiles, and rum into vibrant celebrations. For gastronauts who travel to savor new flavors or discover cuisines en route, these renowned food festivals deliver unforgettable experiences. Plan ahead, pack comfortably, and dive in. Feast of St Anthony – Lisbon, Portugal Lisbon honors its 13th-century patron sai

Experience the rich tapestry of Panamanian culture by hitting the road. Boasting some of Central Americas finest highways and diverse landscapes, a road trip through Panama unveils the nations surprising gastronomic gems. From coastal eateries to mountain retreats, follow this enchanted route through a tropical paradise for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Southwest Leave Panama Citys upscale fusion spots behind and dive into the heartlands timeless traditions. Along the Pacific Coast, ju

For some travelers, a cruise evokes images of crowded buffets and party games. But it doesnt have to be that way. Select cruises offer immersive cultural and natural experiences, providing a comprehensive view of a destination. Panama, with its lush rainforests, wildlife-rich waters, and iconic canal, is ideal for such adventures. Currents of History The Panama Canal Expedition Cruise and Adventure by EcoCircuitos, a leader in eco-tourism and education, exemplifies this. This seven-day journe

Visiting Guatemalas lost city of El Mirador demands time, meticulous planning, and investment, but the rewards are extraordinary—a rare glimpse into one of the Maya civilizations greatest treasures. Unparalleled vistas deep in the Petén jungle transport you back in time to the height of Maya ingenuity. Soaring Above the Canopy Next time, I vow, as the helicopter lifts off, hovering briefly above the ground before ascending with a rotor whine, Ill hike in. A week-long trek through untouched ju

Honduras enchants visitors with the ancient Mayan ruins of Copán and world-class scuba diving at Utila and Roatán. Yet, its the lesser-known coastal towns, hidden street food vendors, serene lakes, and lush cloud forests that reveal the heart of this Central American gem. Experience it authentically on a road trip along Honduras quieter byways. Cerro Azul Meámbar National Park Approximately four and a half hours drive from Copán lies Cerro Azul Meámbar National Park (PaNaCAM). Hiking trails a

Semana Santa (Holy Week), with its vibrant ceremonies and pageantry, is one of the most sacred observances in Catholicism and a widely celebrated holiday throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Holy Week features elaborate processions and acts of penance. While common themes prevail, each country adds its unique cultural flair to the festivities. Create Stunning Street Art in Ouro Preto Brazil, predominantly Roman Catholic, hosts widespread Semana Santa celebrations. Ouro Pretos events st