Into The Arms Of America - Tips for budget travel in Central America and South America by blogger and journalist Bas Timmers

Sunset at El Sunzal beach, El Tunco village, El Salvador

Itineraries for El Salvador

on August 15, 2020October 5, 2020 by Bas

The name 'El Salvador' immediately invokes memories of civil war and violence with older people. Americans connect it to drug gangs, their fears stoked up by racist Donald Trump. In reality, El Salvador is an extreme mix of natural beauty, pristine beaches, a vibrant culture on one side and poverty ... View Post

Ecuador

Quick guide to Ecuador

on January 6, 2021January 4, 2021 by Bas

If you only have two to three weeks for your holiday, go to Ecuador. This one has it all: Andean highlands, cloud forests and Pacific coast. All combined in a compact package, with relatively short distances. Ready to roll? CONTENTS General introduction Food and drinks Highlights Getting there and getting ... View Post

The farmer working the land, descent on day 1 Quilotoa loop

Ecuador

Quilotoa Loop: the long way is the best way

on January 18, 2021January 4, 2021 by Bas Quilotoa, Ecuador

During every hike there is this point of no return. You’re too far along the road to go back to base. You’re too tired to think clearly. You’re definitely regretting what you are doing. And you are wondering how much longer you can go on before hopefully reaching the destination. ... View Post

Ecuador

Quick guide to Banos

on January 12, 2021January 4, 2021 by Bas Banos, Ecuador

When a place is described as the 'adrenaline capital', it's usually not my cup of tea. Too much artificial adventure and not enough nature. But somehow Banos manages to offer both. The location, in a steep valley at the foot of the spectacular Tungurahua volcano, is already a bonus. The ... View Post

Stories from the road

Traveling during the corona pandemic: a diary

on September 6, 2020December 16, 2020 by Bas

When I told my friends of my plans of traveling Latin America during the pandemic, there were only two possible reactions: disbelief/dismay (are you crazy?) and jealousy (I wish I could travel again as well). So when I started this adventure on September 1st by flying to Mexico City, the ... View Post

Nicaragua

Brief history of Nicaragua

on October 15, 2020March 28, 2020 by Bas

Talking about Central America's history has two recurring milestones: the conquest of the Spaniards in the 16th century, and the unashamed geopolitical power games of the United States in the 20th century. The harshest example of the latter is the history of Nicaragua. Should we start with the end? In ... View Post