The Traveling Dutchman » South America

South America

Six Interesting Observations About Brazilian Culture

Brazil is one of my favorite countries and I’ve spent a fair amount of time there in the last few years, enough to notice a lot of interesting aspects of Brazilian culture and behavior.

Instead of listing the usual stereotypes, such as Brazilians love soccer, carnival, parties and are always late, I’ve tried to include less-well known and more interesting aspects of Brazilian culture.

Note that Brazil is a very large country and there are big differences between the various states and cities. However, I believe the following is true in most parts of Brazil. Continue reading »

Why Medellin is a great place to live

For years I wanted to visit Medellin. I had heard so much about this city. January 2014 the day had finally arrived, as I touched down at José María Córdova International Airport with a few friends.

The following month I discovered what all the talk was about. Superb climate, stunning scenery, beautiful women, delicious food and fresh mountain air. What else can you wish for? Continue reading »

São Miguel dos Milagres – The Best New Year’s Party in Brazil

You probably have never heard of this place. São Miguel dos Milagres, a small municipality of less than 10,000 inhabitants, located on the north-eastern coast of Brazil, in the state of Alagoas.

It’s part of an area between the cities of Maceio and Recife, that’s know for it’s pristine, long-stretched beaches and warm tropical waters. An unfamiliar New Year’s setting for most of us. Continue reading »

A week in Florianopolis – Nine things you shouldn’t miss

Florianopolis is a popular holiday destination for Brazilians and Argentinians alike. While it is a well known spot in South America, it’s relatively hidden to the rest of the world. Most tourists go to Rio de Janeiro, Natal, or Fortaleza.

Florianopolis is one of my favorite destinations. It has everything I look for: over 40 beaches, magnificent natural beauty, a great climate, a vibrant nightlife scene, and plenty of things to do. If you are lucky enough to make your way to the paradisiacal island, here are nine things you can’t miss. Continue reading »

Why Brazil is my Favorite Country

It’s always one of the first questions I get asked: What’s your favorite country? It’s a very tough question. All countries are different, each having its own unique characteristics.

I adore a number of amazing nations for a variety of reasons, but if I had to pick one, it would be Brazil. Here’s why. Continue reading »

A Santiago Day Trip: Walking from Vina del Mar to Valparaiso

One of the main reasons why I love to travel is to satisfy my curiosity. I want to know what other places look like, how people live their day-to-day lives and what the local habits are. I love to just stroll around and take in the atmosphere.

This is why I much prefer to stay with locals rather than in a hotel or hostel. So when I get the opportunity, I will literally travel half-way round the globe to take advantage. When my sister-in-law’s family invited me to stay with them in Santiago de Chile, it wasn’t long until I booked my ticket. Continue reading »

Fabulous Florianópolis

It had only been two weeks since my arrival, but I still knew. My mother always told me not to be hasty, but when it hits you, it hits you. As I stepped onto the warm, soft sand for the first time and stared across the turquoise water charged with rolling waves, the proverbial question rang out in my head: if you had to spend the rest of your life in one place, where would it be? Right here. Continue reading »