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Three 3-week Themed Travel Itineraries for Guatemala - Backpacking, Hiking and Culture
I have travelled in Guatemala for over eight months and have crafted three unique travel itineraries for backpacking, hiking, and cultural immersion in Guatemala if you have only three weeks. Including more popular places such as Antigua and Lake Atitlán, but also underrated places such as Xela, Uaxactún, and Huehuetenang!

Ilse
Mar 3020 min read


Slow Travel Guide to Ometepe, Nicaragua - From a Female Traveler's Perspective
Where to stay on Ometepe, Nicaragua, how to get there, things to do, and my reflections on animal welfare, traveling there as a female, and eco-ethical tourism. Including FAQs.

Ilse
Mar 2113 min read


9 Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala Beyond Walking Tours and Volcano Hikes
Not sure what to do in Antigua, Guatemala besides hiking volcanoes Acatenango and Fuego? Here are 9 things to do in Antigua beyond walking tours and volcano hikes. Dive into local culture through workshops, visit underrated museums, and learn where locals swim! Based on my various visits to Antigua over a total of eight months of slow travel in Guatemala over the years.

Ilse
Mar 159 min read


A Guide to (Solo) Travel Guatemala - From a Female Traveller's Perspective
The ultimate Guatemala travel guide based on my 8+ months of solo travel experience in Guatemala. Including practical advice on safety, transport, best destinations, digital nomad life in Guatemala, budgeting, language and customs, and how to travel Guatemala more slowly and responsibly.

Ilse
Mar 124 min read


Mayan Weaving Traditions and Ethical Travel
While living in Xela, Guatemala, I volunteered for women-led Mayan weaving cooperative Trama Textiles. I learned about Mayan weaving history, Mayan weaving patterns and colours, and the role of Mayan weaving in ethical travel.

Ilse
Sep 10, 20255 min read


Why I Skipped Popoyo Secret Party in Nicaragua and What It Brought Me (My First Paid Writing Gig)
In an attempt to go beyond the usual hostel small talk, I asked a fellow backpacker what activities or places they had consciously skipped. It led to a great conversation in which I shared how I had skipped Popoyo's Secret, supposedly one of Nicaragua's must-do activities, when backpacking in Nicaragua and how it brought me my first paid writing assignment. Continue reading for that story and other examples.

Ilse
Jul 22, 20255 min read


A Guide to (Solo) Travel in Nicaragua - From a Female Backpacker's Perspective
Although many backpackers and other travellers consider Nicaragua one of their favourite destinations, after visiting I could not disagree more. In this Nicaragua travel guide, I share my experiences, travel tips for Nicaragua and specific recommendations of what I would do differently if I were to visit again.

Ilse
Jun 11, 202522 min read


10 Days to Make a Documentary (Uaxactún)
Forestry concession community Uaxactún (Guatemala) invited us to co-create a documentary in 10 days via Actuality Abroad. How did that go?

Ilse
Jan 19, 20254 min read


How To Ride a 'Chickenbus' in Guatemala - All You Should Know About Prices, Routes and Safety
How to ride a chickenbus, how to pay, how much they cost, where to find the schedules and bus stops, and where in Guatemala they go.

Ilse
Sep 30, 20247 min read


Top Things to Do in Popoyo, Nicaragua: A Slow Traveller’s Guide
Everything you should know about Popoyo - Nicaragua's best surf town: where to stay, where to surf, where to eat, and when and how to visit!

Ilse
Aug 1, 202411 min read


Top Things to Do in El Paredon, Guatemala: A Slow Traveler's Guide
Uncover upcoming backpacking and surf destination El Paredon, Guatemala with this Slow Traveller's Guide.

Ilse
Jul 4, 20247 min read


Top Things to Do in Quetzaltenango (Xela) Guatemala - A Slow Traveller's Guide
From Spanish language schools to traditional weaving classes and scenic hikes, this city is a must-see for travellers in Guatemala.

Ilse
May 23, 202410 min read


Hiking Volcan Santa Maria in Guatemala: A Guide with Personal Stories and Photos
The ultimate guide to hiking Volcan Santa Maria near Xela, Guatemala (either by yourself or with a guide)

Ilse
Jan 30, 20246 min read


Hiking Acatenango and Fuego Volcanoes in Guatemala: A Guide with Personal Stories
A guide to hiking Acatenango and Volcan Fuego (which actively erupts each hour, shooting lava) with essential tips and personal anecdotes

Ilse
Jan 23, 202410 min read


The Good and the Icky: An Honest Look at San Marcos La Laguna, Guatemala’s Hippie Town
My experience of the good and the icky sides of San Marcos La Laguna, Guatemala's Hippie Town. And how to travel ethically.

Ilse
Jan 17, 20249 min read
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