,After visiting the Pyramids at Giza, Machu Picchu moved to number #1 on the ole’ travelling bucket list. On the day of the summer solstice, (winter for the northern hemisphere) I am proud to announce, it has come down! Ultimately, I would have loved to have done the Inca Trail as well, but in this context we are travelling with a 4, 7, 10 and 71 year old, some of whom had a hard enough time doing the regular tour. I am not sure what I can add about this place that hasn’t already been said, but I will reflect on our family experiences, and provide some travel insight nonetheless.

​One of the most significant, unique and beautiful cultural traditions in Colombia happens on the eve of the Immaculate Conception (Catholic recognition of the immaculate conception of Mary and a public holiday in places around the world). On this night, everyone in towns and cities all over Colombia sets out candles and lanterns to pay hommage to The Virgin Mary. Beyond that it is an opportunity for community building, revelry, and is seen as the festive, but unofficial, beginning of the Christmas season.