This year, I embarked on a solo journey through Colombia and Peru, and these two countries utterly transformed my perception of South America! From the enchanting world of “One Hundred Years of Solitude” to the breathtaking cloud-topped ruins of Machu Picchu… Here’s my personal list paired with hard-earned insights:
🇨🇴 **Colombia**
1. **Medellín**
The Comuna 13 Graffiti Zone was an eye-opener. I joined an English-speaking tour, where the guide painted a vivid picture of Comuna 13’s history—how it evolved from one of the most perilous areas into one of the safest. It’s a testament to resilience and creativity!
2. **Cartagena**
Strolling through the old town felt like stepping into the animated world of “Coco.” The colorful houses were mesmerizing! As evening fell, sipping coconut rum atop the city walls became a ritual. Don’t miss out on trying Arepa con huevo—a crispy corn cake topped with a perfectly runny egg.
3. **Coffee Triangle**
In Salento Town, you can hop on a donkey ride through lush cocoa plantations, roast your own coffee beans, and dive deep into the intricate process of crafting some of the world’s finest coffee. A must for any caffeine enthusiast!
🇵🇪 **Peru**
1. **Machu Picchu**
Arrive early in the morning to be among the first visitors. Witness the “Lost City” emerge from the morning mist—an awe-inspiring sight! And don’t forget to snap photos with the charismatic alpacas—they’re naturals at posing!
2. **Cusco**
Plaza de Armas is a hub where Incan and Spanish colonial cultures collide in fascinating ways. Wander through its cobblestone streets and soak in the rich history. Meanwhile, in the San Blas District, shop for exquisite handmade alpaca wool products and stunning silver jewelry crafted by local artisans.
3. **Lake Titicaca**
Spending a night on the floating islands is an unforgettable experience. Learn how to weave reed boats alongside the Uros people, and they might even teach you to sing traditional folk songs in Spanish. Their warmth and hospitality are unmatched!
To truly immerse yourself in Latin America, knowing some Spanish is invaluable. Here are my top tips for mastering the language:
1. **Online Learning Platforms**
Dive into YouTube and Bilibili videos. Use Bilibili for foundational grammar lessons, while YouTube offers engaging channels like Easy Spanish and travel vlogs from Spain or Latin America. Watching travel vlogs not only aids in trip planning but also enhances your Spanish skills simultaneously.
2. **Practical Immersion**
Seize every opportunity to practice with locals. Whether ordering food, buying tickets, asking for directions, or shopping, commit to speaking only Spanish. This immersive approach is hands-down the most effective way to learn—not just for Spanish but for any language, including English.
3. **Language Apps**
Experiment with various language learning apps to maximize your phone time. One standout app I’ve tried is Context AI Oral Practice, which features:
1⃣ A video function that simulates real-life conversations, making you feel like you’re practicing with actual people.
2⃣ Pronunciation correction tools to refine your accent, ensuring authenticity—even if native speakers don’t always notice, it matters during exams!
3⃣ Scenario-based practice, such as travel mode or job interview mode, complete with response prompts so you never run out of ideas. They currently offer a membership promotion, and I highly recommend giving this app a try if you’re eager to pick up a new language.
