Nick Peña

Nick Peña

From the LBC Traveling PA-C 36 countries and counting

Best Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia

I was fortunate enough to visit this beautiful city twice and both times were absolutely outrageous — in a fun way. Expect a city where the colors are louder, music spills out of doorways and balconies overflowing with flowers. You’ll find horse carriages roll past Spanish colonial buildings, vendors selling fresh fruit in the vibrant plazas, all while embracing the Caribbean heat as it wraps around you like a very sweaty hug. Cartagena is one of those cities that immediately feels alive. And I am here for it!

A Complete First-Timer’s Guide to Hoi An, Vietnam

Picture this: a glowing ancient town with thousands of colorful lanterns illuminating narrow alleyways, vibrant colonial buildings, and a tranquil river as you weave your bike through locals and travelers as they gather along the Thu Bồn River for food, shopping, and evening boat rides. Doesn’t it seem like a world that belongs in a dream? This is Hoi An, Vietnam.

The Island That Defies Time: Mont St. Michel

There are days while I’m traveling that feel like I’m just ticking items off a checklist. But then there are days that are like a story — you never planned to write. Some places feel like destinations. Others feel like they’ve been waiting for you. On a quiet, cold January morning in 2023, it felt timeless and ethereal to be standing in front of such a place — Mont Saint-Michel.

Kyoto Cherry Blossom Guide: Best Temples, Bamboo Forest & Night Walks in Spring

If Kyoto isn’t on your bucket list yet…this is your sign.

Kyoto during cherry blossom season is unmatched! Soft pink petals drift through ancient temples, lantern-lit streets glow at night, and every corner feels like a postcard come to life. Spring is the most beautiful time to visit Kyoto, and this mini guide highlights the must-see spots to help you experience the best of cherry blossom season in Japan.

Our 3-Week Italy Itinerary: Venice to Rome

Planning a trip to Italy and don’t know where to start?

Here’s exactly how we structured our trip with stops, dates, and what we loved most about each place and what we’d do again.

I feel that it's the perfect - sampler if you will - a mix of iconic cities, slow mornings, smooth train rides, and spontaneous day trips that were highlights of our journey.