Do I Kiss or Hug?

Had a collab with Kuya_travels from New York this weekend. We had a great time and produced so much content that we had to stop. Otherwise, we would have to create a separate Instagram page!

We'll definitely collaborate more in the future.

We already created a video. Watch it here. 

Greeting someone can feel both natural and unnatural, depending on the cultural context. What feels right in one country might seem foreign in another. For instance, it's common for Americans to hug or shake hands. Meanwhile, in Latin America, people often kiss each other on the cheeks. 

Not knowing the proper greeting could make you seem aloof or create an uncomfortable interaction. However, with a little research, you can quickly connect with the locals. 

Want a cheat code?

Start coughing heavily and say that you're sick. People will be happy to keep their distance. I mostly use this trick at home when I don't want to talk to someone I know.

Here are some common ways people greet each other:

• Handshakes
• Kisses
• Bows
• Fist bumps
• Joining hands in front of the chest and bowing
• Nods

Your relationship with the other person also plays a role:

• Are they a friend?
• A close friend?
• A stranger?
• A business acquaintance?

For instance, friends in America might have a different handshake than those in Colombia.

Cali, Colombia - Can you guess which handshake is American and which one is Colombian?

If you're unfamiliar with local customs, here are a few tips that might be helpful:

• Ask a local for advice; they're usually willing to help.
• Imitate others. If you're unsure, observe the other person's actions while moving slowly. This will give you time to mimic the appropriate gesture.

Learning about different greeting customs is a fun way to learn about a culture. Give it a try!

What is your favorite way to greet someone?

Cocktail of the Week

Fernet con Cola, a popular cocktail in Argentina, has its roots in Italian culture. Fernet, a bitter herbal liqueur, was introduced to Argentina by Italian immigrants in the late 19th century.

Recipe:

• 2 oz Fernet
• 4-6 oz Cola (to taste)
• Ice

Preparation:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour Fernet over the ice.
3. Top up with cola.
4. Stir gently.
5. Optionally, garnish with a lime wedge.
    

Random Travel Thought

When at a restaurant, the camera always eats first.

Follow me on Instagram.

The Plug

Cheap flights:

• Going.com: This might be the only discounted flights website you need. It’s a paid service that sends you notifications when deals become available, but they expire in a couple of days so Act Fast!! 
• Secret Flying 🤫: This website emails you about free flight opportunities and even better… it doesn’t cost a thing!!
• Skyscanner: An older, but still reliable website that’s also *FREE* so there’s no reason not to use it. Use the "Explore the World" feature and set your departure date to "Whole Month" to find the cheapest deals.

Insurance:

• Safety Wing: I use Safety Wing as my travel insurance because the plans are flexible. You can easily insure a 1-week trip for like $11 dollars which is less than the cost of a cocktail at the bar.

Travel Gear

• Compression socks: Sitting for extended periods of time is not good for the body, so keep yourself healthy enough to go on more trips. Link
• Apple AirTags: Consider getting Apple AirTags for the peace of mind of always knowing where your luggage is. Link
• Smart Phone holder: It's a foldable sheet that can be used as a stand for your iPhone or iPad.Link
• Packing cubes: Having a separate container works wonders for keeping clothes wrinkle-free. It also makes packing/unpacking much easier.Link
• Donut Power Strip: Power outlets are always in demand, but sometimes they're in weird spots. I use this bagel because it's lightweight, and I don't have to think about it. Link
• Travel Case Organizer: Cable organizers can be a pain, but this is what I use to keep my cables organized. Link
• Backup batteries: I like these backup batteries because they have three important components for me: 1. They have enough power to recharge my phone multiple times at once, 2. Are small enough to put in my pocket, and 3. Are sturdy enough to survive a fall. Link
• Yoga Mat: I use this thin mat to get my stretching in even when I'm traveling. Link
• Jump Rope: It's so easy to bring a jump rope with you for exercise because it weighs almost nothing and takes up no space. Link
• Liquid IV: Great for hydration to keep you from dying. When you're traveling, it's time to live it up!  Link
  
  *Above are Affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

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