Stories: Stories

This past August, I visited the Galapagos with my son for the first time in many years. I first visited the Galapagos twenty years ago, and then again ten years ago, so I was due for another visit. My son is 16, and the last time he visited the Galapagos was ten years ago. He was just six years old, and though he loved every minute of it back then, he certainly didn’t remember the trip! We were both excited to create new memories around experiences in the Galapagos this time around. The Galapagos islands are maintained and managed in a sustainable way, but there are certainly more environmental pressures on the islands these days than ten years ago. The islands are facing an influx of visitors, so there is more focus than ever on making sure that the destination's delicate ecosystem is treated with care.   What To Know About The Galapagos The Galapagos Islands sit high at the top of most people's bucket lists, and for good reason: they're the ultimate immersive travel experience. This archipelago of volcanic islands sit more than 550 miles off the western coast of Ecuador, and is known for its high concentration of species that can only be found on the islands. The wildlife of the Galapagos is so extraordinary that Charles Darwin studied there while compiling his theory of evolution. The subtropical climate of the islands makes for consistently warm temperatures and soothing waters. The warmest months are December through May, when you'll mostly find high-temp forecasts and afternoon rains. The rest of the year, from June to November, is cloudier and slightly less warm. As if the warm weather weren't calming enough, the islands look like a scene from a postcard. Bright blue waters, high peaks, and stunning snapshots of the natural

If you’re a fan of chocolate, Peru is the perfect place to visit. Chocolate has been part of life in Peru for centuries, so it's no surprise that chocolate in Peru is known as some of the best in the world. Chocolate, cocoa butter, and cocoa all come from cacao, which grows as seeds on tropical evergreen cacao trees. The trees are relatively environmentally friendly to grow, as they are shade crops and can help protect soils. Cacao trees first originated in the Amazon, and chocolate became an important part of cultures like the Aztec and the Maya. The Spanish brought chocolate to Europe from South America and added in sugar to the mix for a sweeter taste. The Origins Of Chocolate To make chocolate, the bitter cacao seeds are fermented, dried, and cleaned. Then, the cacao seeds are roasted, shells are removed, and they are ground into what's called a cocoa mass. This cocoa mass is heated until it becomes a liquid chocolately heaven (known as chocolate liquor), and then is often combined with sugars and oils to ultimately become a delicious chocolate bar. Ten Peruvian regions harvest cacao: Cajamarca, Junín, Huánuco, Ayacucho, Cusco, Ucayali, San Martín, Piura, Tumbes, and Amazonas. Peru's wide range of diverse soils and climates makes for a variety of different flavor possibilities.   Cacao is grown in many places, but only a small percentage of cacao harvested in the world is considered to be of high quality - and that's the caliber you can find in Peru. Peru is known for growing three main varieties of cacao: Amazon foreign, Creole, and Trinitary, all of which lead to excellent chocolate. The Creole variety is especially growing in popularity because of its high fat content, which equates to high-quality chocolate. Peruvian chocolate is receiving more and more recognition on

When you're shopping in Lima, you’ll come across unique treasures that you can't find anywhere else in the world. Whether you love Peruvian textiles, art, local gourmet treats, or anything else in between, there’s something for everyone on the Lima shopping scene. Here’s where to find the best Lima shopping. Shopping In Barranco Escudo The designs created at this atelier are in inspired by the past. Each clothing piece is woven and embroidered with traditional textile skills at Escudo's workshop in the Peruvian mountains before the finishing touches are added in Lima. The designers are two bold, stylish sisters who aren't afraid to try new looks. Be especially sure to check out Escudo's fringed cotton ponchos! Cajamarca 219 Cajamarca 219 was first opened in 2014 by designer and creator Thibault Van Der Straete, who has been in Peru since 2008. Since then, it’s become a treasured space that offers fantastic clothing, alpaca furniture, and a whole host of Peruvian treasures. It's an experience in itself, and even includes a cafe where you can enjoy snacks, coffee, chocolates, and Pisco. When shopping in Lima, you won't want to pass it by. Bodega MATE If you love fashion, design, and seeing how the two come together, you'll adore this boutique at the Mario Testino Museum. In addition to displaying Testino's photography books, the store includes beautiful Peruvian clothes and accessories, like purses, jewelry, baskets, and clothes. It's an art experience in itself, and it's on the leading edge of Latin American style. Dédalo This delightful artistic hub has provided a space to buy art and celebrate craftsmanship for two decades. The shop sprawls across a historic mansion, with enticing showrooms around every corner. As you wander through Dédalo's maze of gorgeous color and design, you’ll find handmade creations and awe-inspiring works that