Hear about a road trip through Central America as the Amateur Traveler talks about traveling overland through Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala in search of volcanoes, tropical birds, colonial cities, crater lakes, Mayan ruins, and a few new countries added to his map.
Thi…Hear about a road trip through Central America as the Amateur Traveler talks about traveling overland through Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala in search of volcanoes, tropical birds, colonial cities, crater lakes, Mayan ruins, and a few new countries added to his map.
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel here.
Why should you visit Central America?
This multi-country journey combines some of the region’s best experiences into one trip: cloud forests in Costa Rica, volcanic landscapes in Nicaragua, changing fortunes in El Salvador, the Mayan ruins of Copán in Honduras, and the lakeside villages and colonial cities of Guatemala. Along the way, Chris finds colorful markets, Scarlet Macaws, crater lakes, beautiful colonial architecture, and more volcanoes than he expected.
In this episode.
Chris shares stories from a 15-day small-group trip that began in San José, Costa Rica, and ended in Antigua, Guatemala. The trip was designed to pick up three new countries for him: Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador, while also revisiting Costa Rica and Guatemala.
Three Big Announcements: Travel With Me + Intrepid To El Salvador, Winging It Productions & Upcoming Adventures
🌋 Announcement #1 – My First Guided Group Tour: El Salvador 2026
That’s right — I’m officially leading my first-ever guided group tour, and we’re heading to El Salvador from November 19 …Three Big Announcements: Travel With Me + Intrepid To El Salvador, Winging It Productions & Upcoming Adventures
🌋 Announcement #1 – My First Guided Group Tour: El Salvador 2026
That’s right — I’m officially leading my first-ever guided group tour, and we’re heading to El Salvador from November 19 to 29, 2026!
This 10-night, 11-day adventure blends culture, hiking, beaches, food, and local connection — designed for curious travellers who want to see El Salvador, far beyond the headlines.
Here’s a sneak peek at what’s included:
🗺️ Highlights
• Explore San Salvador on a walking tour with local legend Dave Méndez
• Camp under the stars at Conchagua Volcano and wake up to sunrise views of El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua
• Learn to cook pupusas, the beloved national dish
• Discover the colonial charm of Suchitoto, visit Alejandro Cotto’s house, and enjoy lakeside sunsets.
• Experience the Civil War Trail in Cinquera with Daniel from Suchitoto Ecotours, ending at a jungle waterfall.
• Hike the stunning Santa Ana Volcano (3rd time lucky for me!) and enjoy coffee overlooking Lake Coatepeque.
• Wander colourful streets and artisan markets in Ataco on the Ruta de las Flores
• Tour a working coffee estate at El Carmen
• Chill by the Pacific coast in El Tunco and El Zonte — think surf, black-sand beaches, and good vibes
🏡 What’s Included
• 10 nights accommodation in twin share rooms (with private room upgrade available for USD 675)
• Private transport throughout the trip + airport transfers
• 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 5 dinners
• Local Intrepid-licensed guide, driver and me as your tour leader
• Activities, walking tours and unique local experiences
💸 Price:
• Early bird rate: USD 3,995 for the first six bookings and $4295 thereafter.
• Full group: 12 people maximum (6 minimum to go ahead)
Flights, insurance, and some meals not included — but I’ll definitely be buying a few rounds of lattes along the way ☕
👉 Book your spot: https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142
This isn’t just a holiday — it’s an immersive experience that will change how you see Central America.
🎧 Announcement #2 – Launching Winging It Productions
After years of helping other creators and brands bring their podcast ideas to life, I’ve launched Winging It Productions— a full-service podcast production business.
We offer:
🎙️ Podcast launch packages (from idea to release)
✂️ Audio editing for solo and guest episodes
👥 Guest and host management
📈 Marketing and growth support
If you’ve always wanted to start a show — or if you’re ready to scale an existing one — I’d love to help.
Learn more and book a free consultation at 👉 wingingitproductions.com
✈️ Announcement #3 – My Upcoming Travels
The rest of the year is stacked with adventure:
• 🇦🇺 Australia: Back to Brisbane for the Ashes cricket test and some coastal exploring around Queensland.
• 🇧🇹 Bhutan: A 10-day journey through the mountains with Breathe Bhutan — temples, trails and local festivals I’ve dreamed of for years.
• 🇹🇭 Bangkok: Rounding it off where my travel journey began back in 2013 — revisiting old spots, tasting street food, and recording fresh stories for you.
🔗 Links & Mentions
• Join the El Salvador Tour: https://intrepid.wetravel.com/i/68fa168c8d157da799033142
• Work with Me: wingingitproductions.com
• Follow My Adventures: Instagram
• Watch the Vlogs: Roaming with Hammo on YouTube
❤️ Support the Show
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on your favourite podcast app — it helps new listeners discover the show. And share this episode with a friend who loves adventure, travel and big ideas.
This week we are joined by Barstool Beach House Star and Americas Sweetheart Tommy Smokes! Tommy came by to discuss his recent international travel to El Salvador and potentially making it onto survivor.
Then his beach house co star Jackie hops in the middle seat to plan out the Ultimate Christmas v…This week we are joined by Barstool Beach House Star and Americas Sweetheart Tommy Smokes! Tommy came by to discuss his recent international travel to El Salvador and potentially making it onto survivor.
Then his beach house co star Jackie hops in the middle seat to plan out the Ultimate Christmas vacation!
Timestamps:
00:00 - Tommy Smokes Interview
39:12 - El Salvador Deep Dive
1:06:00 - Gettin' Cultured with Jackie
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We’ve got something a little different but very special for you today. This episode comes from Winging It, a travel podcast hosted by my friend James Hammond, who you’ll hear from shortly. He takes us on an immersive, on-location audio adventure through San Salvador, El Salvador – and trust me, it’s…We’ve got something a little different but very special for you today. This episode comes from Winging It, a travel podcast hosted by my friend James Hammond, who you’ll hear from shortly. He takes us on an immersive, on-location audio adventure through San Salvador, El Salvador – and trust me, it’s a journey worth tagging along for.
James has a brilliant way of mixing practical travel tips with rich, ambient storytelling. Think the vibe of a Lonely Planet guide meets the easygoing chat you’d have with a mate at the hostel. You’ll hear the real sounds of the city—markets, cafés, public squares—plus firsthand insight into what it’s actually like to travel in El Salvador today.
🔍 In this episode, you’ll experience:
•
First impressions and travel tips for San Salvador
•
Iconic landmarks like the National Palace & Metropolitan Cathedral
•
Amazing street food and coffee culture (yes, including pupusas 🫓)
•
Two walking tours with local guides revealing hidden stories and history
•
A fresh perspective on safety, affordability, and modern life in the city
•
Budget tips for where to stay, eat, and explore
This is a great listen whether you’re planning a trip to Central America or just love exploring the world from your headphones.
🎧 Hit play and let’s discover San Salvador together. And if you like what you hear, check out James’ show: Winging It Travel Podcast. I’ve dropped all the links below.
—
🎙 More from James Hammond and Winging It:
• Winging It Immersive playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/54F2LiBGGcQnikiqInIGEr?si=c2908c541ca64d12&nd=1&dlsi=cff2035f91ad4c6d
• Winging It El Salvador playlist - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/50qthbb5mchSajSDsNfug9?si=b97df815dcd74afc&nd=1&dlsi=1af138406f924183
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.
For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
🎙️ Episode Title: We Hiked Acatenango to See Fuego and Chaos Ensued for Nick!
So we climbed Acatenango together… and that was already intense. But then Nick decided to go one volcano further — literally. Nick and I met in El Salvador, travelled to Antigua in Guatemala, and decided to hike the Acate…🎙️ Episode Title: We Hiked Acatenango to See Fuego and Chaos Ensued for Nick!
So we climbed Acatenango together… and that was already intense. But then Nick decided to go one volcano further — literally. Nick and I met in El Salvador, travelled to Antigua in Guatemala, and decided to hike the Acatenango Volcano together.
In this funny, honest episode, we recount our wild trek up Guatemala’s Volcán Acatenango — a two-day grind through steep trails, freezing nights, and jaw-dropping views. But the real twist? While most sane people watched Fuego erupt from a safe distance, Nick hiked straight toward it with a group in tow.
Yup. He dropped down the saddle and made the bonus climb to stand just a few hundred meters from one of the most active volcanoes in the world — Volcán de Fuego — while it erupted.
For an extra bit of money, you can add a hike to Fuego when you get to base camp, and Nick shares his stories, the good and bad of what to expect when you climb. Nick left at 5 pm for Fuego and did not return until nearly midnight, so there is much to discuss! It should have only taken 3-5 hours, so it didn't go quite as planned.
🏕️ From campfire laughs to hiking-induced delirium and Nick’s death-defying detour, this episode is full of high-altitude absurdity, heart-racing adventure, and a whole lot of ash.
Whether you’re curious about hiking Acatenango, dreaming of volcano views, or just want to hear a story about a guy willingly walking towards an erupting mountain... this one’s a ride.
To add to the drama, there is some great content in here about hiking Acatenango and Fuego in general, so if this is something on your bucket list, you could learn a few things from this episode.
🔥 What’s Inside:
• The Acatenango climb: expectations vs. reality
• Camp life at 3,600m: freezing temps, volcanic light shows, and hot noodles
• Nick’s wild decision to summit Fuego — and what he saw up there
• The sounds, sights, and full sensory chaos of a volcano erupting nearby
• Advice for anyone thinking of doing the hike (and the Fuego add-on)
• A reminder that the best stories come from slightly bad ideas
🎧 Ideal for listeners who love:
• Real, raw, and ridiculous travel stories
• Volcano hiking in Guatemala
• Backpacking comedy with an edge of danger
• Inspiring (and slightly reckless) solo challenges
Timestamps
00:00 Chasing Adventure: The Fuego Hike Experience
02:06 Travel Insights: The Winging It Podcast Introduction
06:04 Traveling for Work: Perks of the Travel Industry
12:09 The Evolution of Travel: From Family Trips to Solo Adventures
17:48 Exploring El Salvador: A Journey of Discovery
30:05 Guatemala Awaits: The Acatenango Volcano Hike
38:46 Booking Adventures: The Importance of Local Knowledge
40:57 Booking and Initial Expectations
43:02 Red Flags on the Journey
49:31 The Volcano Hike Begins
52:00 Challenges of the Ascent
58:29 Reaching Base Camp
01:01:10 Accommodation Realities
01:05:11 The Fuego Hike Decision
01:10:42 The Descent to Fuego
01:13:06 Experiencing Fuego's Eruptions
01:17:54 The Dinner Dilemma
01:21:25 Cold Nights and Stunning Sunrises
01:23:56 The Volcano Experience: Fuego vs. Akatenango
01:28:54 Reflections on the Hike and Company Recommendations
01:35:12 Exploring Antigua: A Tourist's Perspective
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
What happens when you book a last-minute trip, hop on local chicken buses, and wing your way through El Salvador? In this episode, I’m joined by traveler and content creator Leah Arao from Ticket 2 Anywhere Podcast and LA in Flight to talk about our experiences exploring one of Central America’s mos…What happens when you book a last-minute trip, hop on local chicken buses, and wing your way through El Salvador? In this episode, I’m joined by traveler and content creator Leah Arao from Ticket 2 Anywhere Podcast and LA in Flight to talk about our experiences exploring one of Central America’s most underrated destinations.
From wandering the colorful streets of Suchitoto to hiking volcanoes, sipping on world-class coffee, and navigating San Salvador’s vibrant city life, we break down the highs and lows of traveling through this fascinating country. We also discuss safety, budget tips, and why El Salvador should be on every backpacker’s radar in 2025. If you're curious about what it's really like to travel here, this episode is packed with firsthand stories, unexpected surprises, and plenty of travel inspiration!
We break down everything you need to know before traveling to El Salvador, including:
✅ The best places to visit, from vibrant San Salvador to the colonial charm of Suchitoto
✅ How to travel on a budget, including $1 bus rides and cheap-but-amazing eats
✅ Is El Salvador safe? Our honest take on safety, crime, and the country’s transformation
✅ The Santa Ana Volcano hike, why James couldn’t do it, and Leah’s perfect weather win
✅ The beach towns of El Tunco & El Zonte, surf vibes, expensive beers, and hidden caves
✅ Why you should ditch the Uber and take a chicken bus for the full local experience
🌍 El Salvador is changing fast, and now is the time to go! Whether you're a budget traveler, an adventure seeker, or just curious about this rising travel hotspot, this episode has all the insights you need.
🎧 Listen now on [Spotify/Apple Podcasts/YouTube] and don’t forget to subscribe for more off-the-beaten-path travel stories!
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with helmore
🎙 Episode Title: Santa Ana, El Salvador: An Abandoned Art School, Failed Volcano Hikes and Sensational Coffee Views
🌍 Episode Summary:
In this solo episode, I take you through my adventures in Santa Ana, El Salvador—the final stop on my El Salvador trip! From rainy day explorations and vibrant str…🎙 Episode Title: Santa Ana, El Salvador: An Abandoned Art School, Failed Volcano Hikes and Sensational Coffee Views
🌍 Episode Summary:
In this solo episode, I take you through my adventures in Santa Ana, El Salvador—the final stop on my El Salvador trip! From rainy day explorations and vibrant street markets to failed volcano hikes and sensational coffee gems, this episode has it all. Whether you’re planning a trip or just love travel stories, I’ve got practical tips, funny mishaps, and must-visit spots to share.
🗺 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
✅ How to get to Santa Ana from El Zonte & San Salvador
✅ First impressions of Santa Ana’s colorful streets and quiet Sundays
✅ Where to stay: My experience at Altea Hostel
✅ Best food spots: Street hot dogs, Pollo Campero, and the best pupusas
✅ Free walking tours, libraries & abandoned art schools
✅ Failed attempts at hiking the Santa Ana Volcano 🌋 (and why I had to try twice!)
✅ Stunning Coatepeque Lake views at the Crater Coffee Shop
✅ Exploring Tazumal Mayan Ruins & the charming town of Ataco on the Ruta de las Flores Route
✨ Travel Tips & Recommendations:
🏠 Stay: Altea Hostel ($13 private rooms)
☕ Coffee: Cadek Cafe (hidden speakeasy vibes)
🍽 Food: Papuseria Claudia for the best pupusas in town
🏛 Culture: Mariano Mendez Art School & Santa Ana Cathedral rooftop views
🚶♂️ Tours: Free walking tours with Fatima via GuruWalk - https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/55074-discover-the-city-of-santa-ana-with-fatima
🌋 Adventure: Santa Ana Volcano hike—if the weather cooperates!
💬 Final Thoughts:
El Salvador surprised me in the best ways! The people, the landscapes, and the coffee were incredible. If you’re hesitant about visiting, take the leap—this country is so worth it.
📌 Next Episode: A deep dive into El Salvador with Leah from Ticket to Anywhere! We’ll compare our experiences, share more travel tips, and chat about why this country is a rising star in Central America.
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Carlos Guardado - The Ultimate San Salvador Travel Guide
📍 Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Carlos Guardado, a local guide from San Salvador, El Salvador. Carlos shares his personal journey growing up in a country once plagued by gang violence, now…Carlos Guardado - The Ultimate San Salvador Travel Guide
📍 Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Carlos Guardado, a local guide from San Salvador, El Salvador. Carlos shares his personal journey growing up in a country once plagued by gang violence, now transforming into a booming travel destination. We discuss must-visit places in San Salvador, hidden gems across El Salvador, safety tips, local food, and how tourism is reshaping the country. If you’re planning a trip to El Salvador, this episode is packed with valuable insights from a knowledgeable local!
🚀 Episode Highlights:
✔️ Carlos' story—growing up in San Salvador & transitioning into tourism
✔️ How El Salvador has changed in recent years—safety & tourism growth
✔️ Top places to visit in San Salvador, including historic landmarks & nature spots
✔️ Best day trips from the capital—volcano hikes, colonial towns & pristine beaches
✔️ Must-try Salvadoran dishes & traditional drinks
✔️ Essential Spanish phrases for travellers
✔️ Travel safety tips & what NOT to do in El Salvador
🎧 Listen Now On:
🔹 Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Voyascape | YouTube
🔗 Resources & Links:
👉 Book a tour with Carlos on GuruWalk: https://www.guruwalk.com/walks/47629-free-tour-of-the-historic-center-of-san-salvador
👉 Follow Carlos’ tour company, Traveling Souls, on https://www.instagram.com/travelingsouls.sv/
🌍 Join the Conversation!
Loved this episode? Let me know on Instagram @wingingittravelpodcast or leave a review!
San Salvador Immersion Episode
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000690747297
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
El Zonte Adventure: Coffee, Caves, & The Ultimate Beach Escape in El Salvador 🌊
Welcome to another immersive travel episode! This time, I’m taking you to El Zonte, a breathtaking black sand beach town on El Salvador’s Pacific coast. Known for its epic surf, Bitcoin Beach, and laid-back vibes, this …El Zonte Adventure: Coffee, Caves, & The Ultimate Beach Escape in El Salvador 🌊
Welcome to another immersive travel episode! This time, I’m taking you to El Zonte, a breathtaking black sand beach town on El Salvador’s Pacific coast. Known for its epic surf, Bitcoin Beach, and laid-back vibes, this place offers both adventure and relaxation.
But my trip had an unexpected twist—Tropical Storm Sara followed me, making for some wild weather! Despite the rain, I explored stunning coastal landscapes, indulged in incredible local coffee, and found the perfect place for $1 pupusas.
🔹 What’s Inside This Episode?
✅ How to get to El Zonte from San Salvador (Bus tips & stops!)
✅ First impressions of this quiet, dreamy surf town
✅ Cueva El Zonte – A must-visit natural wonder at low tide
✅ The best coffee and food spots (Point Break Café, Merendero El Toco, Pupusería JC)
✅ Staying in El Zonte vs. El Tunco – Which is better for you?
✅ The unique Bitcoin Beach experience & local surf culture
✅ Reflections on my time in El Zonte and what’s next on my El Salvador adventure
🔹 Links & Resources
📍 Places mentioned:
• Point Break Café – Must-try local coffee ☕
• Pupusería Jeisi – The best pupusas for just $1! 🫓
• Cueva El Zonte – The secret beach cave adventure 🌊
• Merendero El Teco - A great lunch option with views of the surf beach
🔹 Support the Podcast
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! Your support helps keep this podcast going.
👉 Next Stop: Santa Ana! Stay tuned as I explore volcanoes, ruins, and more in the next episode.
San Salvador Immersion Episode
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000690747297
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Exploring El Salvador with Local Guide Dave Mendez
🚀 Episode Overview
In this episode of Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Dave Mendez, a passionate local tour guide from San Salvador, El Salvador. Dave shares his personal journey from growing up in El Salvador to moving to the U.S. durin…Exploring El Salvador with Local Guide Dave Mendez
🚀 Episode Overview
In this episode of Winging It Travel Podcast, I sit down with Dave Mendez, a passionate local tour guide from San Salvador, El Salvador. Dave shares his personal journey from growing up in El Salvador to moving to the U.S. during the civil war and then returning to his homeland to help others discover its hidden gems.
🌎 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The transformation of El Salvador from one of the world’s most dangerous countries to a thriving travel destination
✅ Top places to visit in El Salvador, including San Salvador, Suchitoto, Santa Ana, and Surf City
✅ What to eat—pupusas, wild hen soup, and other must-try Salvadoran dishes
✅ The impact of Bitcoin adoption and how it’s shaping the country’s economy
✅ How to travel around El Salvador safely and efficiently using public transport
📍 Featured Locations:
• San Salvador – Historical center, National Library, and markets
• Suchitoto – A charming colonial town full of history and culture
• Santa Ana & The Volcano Route – A must for adventure lovers
• El Tunco & El Zonte – Surf spots and relaxed beach vibes
• Joya de Cerén – The “Pompeii of the Americas” and a UNESCO World Heritage site
🚌 Travel Tips:
• Best times to visit El Salvador (November-December for cooler weather)
• How to use public transport like local buses and Uber
• Currency: US Dollar & Bitcoin – what you need to know before you go
🎙️ About Our Guest – Dave Mendez
Dave is a tour guide in San Salvador, specializing in walking tours, food tours, and cultural experiences. He’s passionate about sharing the beauty of his country and helping travelers explore safely.
🔗 Connect with Dave & Book a Tour:
🌍 GuruWalk: Dave Mendez Tours
📍 Find him on GuruWalk, GetYourGuide, Viator, and FreeTour.com
🎧 Listen & Subscribe:
Find Winging It Travel Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and more!
🌟 Support the Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with fellow travelers!
San Salvador Immersion Episode
Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/winging-it-podcast/id1559489384?i=1000690747297
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Exploring Suchitoto, El Salvador: Stunning Lake Views, Delicious Coffee and A-Must Civil War Tour
Hello and welcome to the second immersive episode in my El Salvador series.
In this episode, I take you on an adventure to Suchitoto, El Salvador, a beautifully preserved colonial town with stunning l…Exploring Suchitoto, El Salvador: Stunning Lake Views, Delicious Coffee and A-Must Civil War Tour
Hello and welcome to the second immersive episode in my El Salvador series.
In this episode, I take you on an adventure to Suchitoto, El Salvador, a beautifully preserved colonial town with stunning lake views, vibrant streets, and deep historical significance. From navigating local transport to discovering hidden gems, this vlog captures the heart and soul of Suchitoto.
🌟 Highlights in This Episode:
✔️ Bus Ride from San Salvador – Taking the local bus ($1) to Suchitoto and experiencing authentic public transport in El Salvador.
✔️ First Impressions – Exploring the cobbled streets, colorful colonial houses, and lively town atmosphere.
✔️ Stunning Views at Casa 1800 – Enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Suchitlán while sipping coffee.
✔️ Historic Visit to Alejandro Cotto’s House – Touring the home of one of El Salvador’s most famous filmmakers.
✔️ Exploring Santa Lucía Church & Town Square – A peaceful spot to reflect and enjoy local vendors, street food, and coffee.
✔️ Trip to Lake Suchitlán – A scenic walk (or taxi ride) down to the lake, with options for boat tours and incredible lakeside dining.
✔️ The Civil War Tour with Suchitoto Eco Tours – A powerful and eye-opening experience learning about El Salvador’s history, hiking to old guerrilla outposts, and meeting ex-rebels.
✔️ Best Cafés in Suchitoto – Trying out some of the best coffee spots, including Ix Canal and Café Abuela.
✔️ Final Reflections – Why Suchitoto is a must-visit when traveling in El Salvador.
📌 Travel Tips & Recommendations:
✅ Where to Stay: Hotel Cafe y Ixmati – $45 for two nights, private room & breakfast included.
✅ Where to Eat: Casa 1800 (for amazing lake views), Café Flamenco, and El Reconcito for budget-friendly local food.
✅ Must-Do Activities: The Civil War Tour, visiting Santa Lucía Church, and relaxing by Lake Suchitlán.
✅ How to Get There: Take the local bus (129) from San Salvador for just $1.
🎧 Listen to More Episodes: Check out my previous vlog from San Salvador and stay tuned for my next adventure on El Zonte’s coast!
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Welcome to the first episode of my series on El Salvador! Join me on an immersive audio journey through the vibrant streets of San Salvador, El Salvador!
From bustling markets and colonial landmarks to hidden cafés and historic squares, this episode captures the sounds, energy, and culture of the c…Welcome to the first episode of my series on El Salvador! Join me on an immersive audio journey through the vibrant streets of San Salvador, El Salvador!
From bustling markets and colonial landmarks to hidden cafés and historic squares, this episode captures the sounds, energy, and culture of the city. I share my first impressions of San Salvador, including its safety, affordability, and must-visit spots.
Plus, I take you on two incredible walking tours with local guides, uncovering the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and modern transformation. Whether you're planning a trip or just curious about El Salvador’s capital, this episode will transport you right into the heart of the city.
👉 Tune in to hear:
✅ First impressions and travel tips for San Salvador
✅ Exploring historic sites like the National Palace & Metropolitan Cathedral
✅ The best coffee spots and must-try local foods (hello, pupusas! 🫓)
✅ Walking tours with expert local guides sharing hidden stories
✅ Why San Salvador is a must-visit for travelers in Central America
✅ Budget tips for accommodation, food, transportation and experiences.
Hit play and experience San Salvador through sound! And don’t forget to subscribe to the Wingin It Travel Podcast for more immersive travel stories. ✈️🎙️
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Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
“In El Salvador, I dropped $5 out of my pocket at the border, and some guy came running up to me. At the beginning of the trip I would have been surprised by that. But by that point I would have been surprised if it didn’t happen.” —Matt Savino
In this episode of Deviate, Rolf and Matt talk about ho…“In El Salvador, I dropped $5 out of my pocket at the border, and some guy came running up to me. At the beginning of the trip I would have been surprised by that. But by that point I would have been surprised if it didn’t happen.” —Matt Savino
In this episode of Deviate, Rolf and Matt talk about how the first version of his travel book was way too long, and what he ended up editing out (6:00); the origins of Matt’s Central America road trip, why he ended up turning it into a book, and how he ended up taking Rolf’s Paris class (12:00); how Matt’s “Spreadsheet of Pain” helped him edit his book down to manageable size, and how historical research helped his narrative (17:00); how he wrote about a road trip that didn’t actually reach its objective, and how he tried to model his narrative on Bill Bryson’s writing (26:00); how Matt used a hybrid publisher to get his travel book into the world in two years (31:00); the challenges, idiosyncrasies, and creative joys that come with creating a hybrid published book (39:00); how AI bots determined that Matt had “plagiarized” what turned out to be his own book (54:00); and Matt’s advice for people interested in hybrid publishing (60:30).
Matt Savino (@ushuaia_or_bust) is the author of Land Without a Continent: A Road Trip through Mexico and Central America. He can be contacted via his website.
Notable Links:
Paris travel memoir writing workshop (Rolf’s writing classes)
No Baggage Challenge (Rolf’s 2010 blog and video series)
Justin’s elephant-poop cold remedy (2010 video)
Walking every single street in NYC (Deviate episode)
The Sweet Superstition of Rooting for the Royals, by Rolf Potts (essay)
Van Life Before #VanLife (Deviate episode)
Developmental editing (pre-publication writing support)
Hybrid publishing (assisted self-publishing)
Jew (comedy special by Ari Shaffir)
Perhapsing (nonfiction narrative strategy)
Illumify Media (hybrid publisher)
Cliff Clavin (fictional character on Cheers)
IngramSpark (self-publishing book company)
Kindle Direct Publishing (e-book publishing platform)
Authors, books, and agents mentioned:
Bill Bryson (author)
Julie Pesano (travel writer and teacher)
Cole Kazdin (writer and writing coach)
Who Killed the Bishop? by Francisco Goldman (book)
Blood of B...more
This week on the pod, Ryan takes us to El Salvador, the land of volcanoes and Bitcoin. Hear about how he almost made it inside a beautiful church and his visit to Hermit Island. Plus, what was the miniature controversy at the Kentucky State Fair?
LAST STOP
Ryan:
https://nypost.com/2024/08/23/us-…This week on the pod, Ryan takes us to El Salvador, the land of volcanoes and Bitcoin. Hear about how he almost made it inside a beautiful church and his visit to Hermit Island. Plus, what was the miniature controversy at the Kentucky State Fair?
