Flight of the Sea Turtle | Coral Sea Dreaming | Great Barrier Reef Australia Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-27 | Snorkeling and sea turtles in the Great Barrier Reef with Coral Sea Dreaming! travelpulse.com/news/cruise/a-deep-dive-into-the-great-barrier-reef.html Get there bit.ly/2Jb5XsXSet Sail bit.ly/2Jauu1j Travel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevalleraDigital Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com[Music licensed via GoPro/Quik]
Sita Sings the Blues | Animated Film (Full Movie) | India Ramayana Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2019-06-06 | Stunning full length animated film created by Nina Paley. This captivating story takes place in India with a narrative paralleling musical interpretations of the Ramayana. [Public Domain]~ Experience the Ramayana ~Private tour (4 days) bit.ly/2XyOf6gPrivate tour (8 days) bit.ly/2K42IEfJoin a group (8 days) bit.ly/2HYXozzPlan a trip: agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevalleraInstagram@KatValleraTravel | Twitter@katvalleratrvlFull movie (available for download) bit.ly/2WKWhvP
PADI Scuba Diving | Marine Iguana | Galapagos Ecuador Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2019-04-30 | Planned a trip to #Ecuador for one of my clients, a wildlife photographer and videographer. While scuba diving with #PADI, he captured this breathtaking imagery! It features a variety of creatures from hammerhead sharks to the fascinating marine iguana, a rare species unique to the #Galapagos Islands. The Experience - bit.ly/2VubG3CThank you, Mike! It was a joy to share in your passion not only for world travel but for wildlife conservation and sustainability. Such an honor to have been a part of your incredible journey!Video by Mike Quinn:quinndigitalimagery.zenfolio.com(Media used with permission)Itinerary by Kat Vallera:agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallera(Travel planning services)
World Music | Chinese Dulcimer Yangqin | Banyan Tree Macau Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2019-04-27 | Woman plays the Yangqin aka Chinese dulcimer at the Banyan Tree Macau! #wowmacao bit.ly/2vNfyO5 - bit.ly/2PUGuEITravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevalleraPortfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvl
Cat Video | ScubaSpa Maldives | PADI Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2019-04-13 | The amount of cat video on my hard drive is borderline excessive. Happy #Caturday! #ScubaSpa #Visit MaldivesTravel Planningtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Digital Portfoliomuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Visit Maldives | Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru | PADI Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-12-31 | #VisitMaldives to explore this tropical island atoll paradise. Discover beauty in sunset beach pool suites and sunrise lagoon overwater bungalows at the new Mövenpick Kuredhivaru. It was an honor to be the first travel journalist to experience this brand new five star resort! Read More bit.ly/2QetzvZ and check out their PADI dive center!As for the music, that's me playing percussion live with the Columbia College Latin Jazz Ensemble :-) Don't miss Part 1: Seaplane Journey bit.ly/2QcPqnfGet There bit.ly/2W2hpNPTravel Planning bit.ly/2GR1juvDigital Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Maldives Islands | Seaplane Journey | Mövenpick Resorts Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-12-31 | Watch the Maldives islands from above on a seaplane journey to the Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru! #VisitMaldives As for the music, that's me playing percussion with the Columbia College Latin Jazz Ensemble. Don't miss Part 2 youtube.com/watch?v=UKieVQAtbeMRead Moretravelpulse.com/news/hotels-and-resorts/immerse-yourself-in-aquatic-life-at-movenpick-resort-kuredhivaru.htmlTravel Planningtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054Digital Portfoliomuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my Work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com
How to Uber | Delhi India | Crazy Traffic Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-12-21 | Get There bit.ly/2LzWNIJTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Portfoliomuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Canoe Expedition | Satpura Tiger Reserve | Incredible India Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-12-21 | Would you ever think of spending your vacation on a wildlife expedition to India? What if your trip included an adventure through the jungle by canoe? 🐒🛶🐅 bit.ly/2vRC6wQExploring Madhya Pradesh's Satpura National Park & Tiger Reserve with Ibex Expeditions and the Adventure Travel Trade Association! #ANextIndia #IncredibleIndia"Rhythm Jetlag" performed by Eric Olson, Mark Anderson, John Boharic, & Kat Vallera 🎶 Download this and other songs for FREE! babymensch.com/the-vaultReady to plan your trip? https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/ travelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054Digital Portfoliomuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Chapada Diamantina Waterfalls | Poco Azul Cave Snorkeling | Lencois Bahia Brazil Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-11-03 | Exploring the spectacular waterfalls and vast hidden caverns, including an emerald blue cave prime for snorkeling, with Aniyami DMC in the Chapada Diamantina National Park, Brazil. bit.ly/2VdcBR5Read more travelpulse.com/news/destinations/hidden-brazil-lencois.htmlTravel Planning travelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054Digital Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com[Music licensed via GoPro/Quik]
Palestine CoExists | The West Bank | Censorship & Sustainability Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-28 | Challenging censorship, this film begs the question: why is the mere existence of Palestinians controversial and how does this impact sustainability for the Holy Land? #PalestineWhile attending a tourism conference in the Middle East, a travel agent chronicles her journey via Facebook live. Her broadcasts feature hiking, cycling, swimming in the Dead Sea, as well as interviews with colleagues in adventure tourism. From the West Bank, her livefeeds share a humanist perspective that embraces hospitality and religious tolerance. Responding to this positive portrayal of tourism to Palestine, Facebook removes the videos and she is locked out from her social media accounts. Changing the narrative about Palestine through sustainable tourism, it's the story Facebook doesn't want you to see!More on Film Freeway: filmfreeway.com/projects/1527498Music by Chiah: itunes.apple.com/us/artist/chiah/340745687Special thanks to George Rishmawi of Masar Ibrahim al-Khalil, the Siraj Center, Madees Khoury of the Taybeh Brewing Company, and members of the Adventure Travel Trade Association. Also, to colleagues who donated added footage for this film in response to Facebook's neglect to respond or restore the filmmaker's live videos.About the Filmmaker: muckrack.com/katherine-valleraEmail: Kat@TravelOrchestra.comInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineVallera
Behind the Scenes | Drone Footage | Adventure Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-27 | Behind the scenes with filmmakers Genevieve Hathaway and Juan Lema from ArchaeoAdventures as they shoot drone footage of the Wadi Rum desert landscape from the back of a moving 4x4 in Jordan! #MyJordanJourney bit.ly/2Jrx6Hz bit.ly/2LBoK2ATrek Jordan with Intrepid Travelbit.ly/2GBLnPRDrone video by ArcheoAdventureyoutube.com/channel/UCQYfco1I2cnD130mKDwZ61QAlso featured in a cameo is adventure journalist Morgan Tilton. Special thanks to the Adventure Travel Trade Association and Jordan Tourism Board for bringing this fun group of travel agents and media creators together. #ANextNearEast Travel Planninghttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Digital Portfoliomuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Brazil Food | Steak & Moqueca | Bahia Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-27 | Savoring the delicious flavors of Brazil with Aniyami DMC! bit.ly/2VdcBR5Travel Planningtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054Digital Portfoliomuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEmailKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Resonant Stone | Prehistoric Percussion Instrument | Queen of the Stone Age Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-27 | Playing the Resonant Stone in Gobustan National Park. Archeologists believe this prehistoric percussion instrument dates back to the Mesolithic or even late Paleolithic period. It was during this era that early human hunter gatherers were migrating north across Transcaucasia. By exploring this site, located in modern day Azerbaijan, we're able to observe evidence of the earliest developments in human culture. Artwork on the walls of caves where they dwelled, hollows in the rock where they brewed their beer, and of course, the Resonant Stone. bit.ly/2YkEKrs TRAVEL PLANNINGtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/DIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Tahiti Travel | Drift Snorkeling | French Polynesia Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-26 | Drift snorkeling in Tahiti and hey! I'm playing the bass in this song. bit.ly/2ViuAWs - bit.ly/2Yd8430"Rikki Tikki Tavi" from District Red Eric Olson - Lyrics & Vocals, Mark Anderson - Lead Guitar, John Boharic - Drums, Kat Vallera - BassDownload this and other songs for FREE! babymensch.com/the-vaultWatch another classic from Crooked Door Studio youtube.com/watch?v=A2hVbhqXlE4&t=33sTRAVEL PLANNINGtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/DIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Samba Music | Brazil Salvador Bahia | World Percussion Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-25 | Exploring the rich musical heritage of Brazil and participating in a percussion workshop in Salvador Bahia with Aniyami DMC 🥁 bit.ly/2JbNY5E - bit.ly/2VdcBR5TRAVEL PLANNINGtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054DIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Caribbean Shipwreck | Aruba Snorkeling | One Happy Island Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-24 | Snorkeling with DePalm Tours in Aruba, the shipwreck capital of the Caribbean! bit.ly/2YjRi21 - bit.ly/2YieY6XTRAVEL PLANNINGtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/DIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Steel Drum Band | Antigua & Barbuda | Caribbean Music Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-24 | Steel drums (also known as steel pans) originate from Trinidad and Tobago. They're a quintessential component to Caribbean culture. Go bit.ly/2HdZsUgStay bit.ly/2VTtGDPDo bit.ly/306HgTMTRAVEL PLANNING agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Scuba Diving | Rainbow Reef & Great White Wall | Fiji Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-23 | Scuba diving the world renown Rainbow Reef and Great White Wall dive sites with Paradise Taveuni Fiji travelpulse.com/news/hotels-and-resorts/finding-paradise-on-fiji-s-garden-island.htmlGo bit.ly/2WABOX8Do bit.ly/2vQkGAQTRAVEL PLANNING agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com[Music licensed via GoPro/Quik]
Costa Rica | Rainforest Yoga Music | Pura Vida Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-23 | Relaxing music for yoga in the tranquil rainforest of Nayara Springs. bit.ly/2Vxa9tTTRAVEL PLANNINGtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/DIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Tahiti | Polynesian Dance & Fire Show | Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-23 | Compilation of Tahitian dance and fire shows captured while traveling French Polynesia Go bit.ly/2Yd8430Do bit.ly/2ViuAWsTRAVEL PLANNINGagents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Darth Vader | Daft Punk Bass Busking | Melbourne Australia Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-23 | The dark lord sure knows how to slapadabass! bit.ly/2VixFG0TRAVEL PLANNINGtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/DIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Monuriki Island Fiji | Castaway Tom Hanks Location | Snorkeling Adventure Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-22 | Journey to Monuriki Island with Likuliku Lagoon Resort. This uninhabited tropical paradise in Fiji served as the filming location for Castaway with Tom Hanks. Today, it's part of Likuliku's ecological initiative for wildlife conservation, which aims to rescue an endemic species of iguana from extinction: bit.ly/2WABOX8 - travelpulse.com/news/destinations/likuliku-s-crested-iguana-program-on-monuriki-island.htmlPORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraTRAVEL PLANNING agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Support my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Taveuni Fiji | Swimming in Waterfalls | Adventure Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-21 | Read travelpulse.com/news/hotels-and-resorts/the-many-faces-of-fiji.htmlGo bit.ly/2WABOX8Do bit.ly/2vQkGAQTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Portfoliomuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSUPPORT MY PATREONpatreon.com/katherinevalleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
South Africa | Djembe Music Lesson | Kruger National Park Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-21 | My new friend Lulu teaches me how to sing traditional songs in Bantu and play the african djembe! This music lesson took place in Kruger National Park in South Africa, home to the Zulu and Ndebele. bit.ly/2YdMc7w - bit.ly/2JqhBQ6Travel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/PORTFOLIO muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Weird Food | Watch me Eat a Chicken Head | Thailand Adventure Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-21 | Go bit.ly/2VTwkJL | Eat bit.ly/2WyWsXv | Do bit.ly/2PWanEJTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/PORTFOLIO muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Behana Canyoning | Adventure Travel | Cairns Australia Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-20 | Canyoning is the up-and-coming adventure experience that allows travelers to immerse themselves in spectacular river settings and enjoy nature during an up close encounter unlike any other. It combines a variety of activities such as cliff jumping, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, bouldering, down-climbing, abseiling/rappel rope work and sliding down waterfalls. (Read More at TravelPulse travelpulse.com/news/features/canyoning-the-next-big-thing-in-adventure-travel.html)Go bit.ly/2Jb5XsXDo bit.ly/2VUz7CETravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevalleraPorfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Bombs Over Bangkok | Thailand Protests (2014) | World News Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-20 | First published Jan 28, 2014 Gawker MediaOn Friday afternoon, a grenade bomb was dropped from an abandoned building in Bangkok, Thailand, onto a crowd of marching protestors. According to The Guardian, over thirty people were injured in the explosion. We were at the demonstration Friday, talking with protestors about what was happening.Protestor Saowalux Poshyamandama explained how the conflict all started with a woman named Yingluck Shinawatra. According to this protestor, Prime Minister Shinawatra, as well as other associated government officials, have used money to gain power and instill corruption. While these politicians claim to be doing good for the people, the protestors believe that their leaders are only further lining their own pockets.They believe that Shinawatra and her party are using money and clout to bully other parties right out of their offices. What's worse is that government officials like Shinawatra have been outright convicted of crime, yet remains in positions of power in the nation.According to another protestor, who wishes to only be known as "Kong", the protests are a direct response to the recently passed Amnesty Law, which allows government officials immunity from criminal penalties. This means that when Thai government officials violate the law, their convictions can be nullified simply because they are government officials.As a result of the Amnesty Law, Shinawatra has been refunded the money she was fined for not paying taxes. Furthermore, she refuses to resign as Thailand's Prime Minister. Protestors believe that elections are fixed, and call for a legal and truthful democracy."I want to reform first," said one protestor by the name Sam, "Before [the] election. If [they do] not reform, they buy [the] votes." Protestors are calling for stricter policies in parliament and government official accountability. They call for a government shut down and restart – they call for an entire Thai revolution."We want respect in elections and a real democracy," remarks another protestor who listens intently to public speakers from Bangkok's Lumpini Park.According to Kong and his associate, there is a campaign in Thailand to spread a belief that in order for government to function effectively, it is necessary to have a reasonable amount of corruption. Yet, instead, the highly promoted idea that government corruption is the key to social order is partly the cause for social unrest.The impact of this outrage is visibly phenomenal as thousands of protestors gather around Thailand's MBK shopping complex and Lumpini Park. The sheer numbers have effectively shut down the heart of Bangkok, the highly commercialized Silom district, crippling both local commerce and transportation. English teacher Carly Forsaith explained how school was canceled as a result of the incredible crowds who have gathered to support a revolution in Thailand.Yet, protestors remain peaceful. They wear "Shutdown Bangkok" t-shirts and wrap bands that read "nonviolent" across their foreheads. They lay out sheets to sit upon as they share noodles and curry. They listen to passionate speeches by revolutionary leader Suthep Thaugsuban and sing along to music as they wave giant Thai flags."This movement is different than the red shirts of 2010," remarks Kong, "Because we are unarmed and refuse to use violence. As you can see, our protests are more like a festival."This remains true even after Friday's bomb explosion. According to various protestors, the grenade attack was a direct hit from the government to suppress the people's right to speak out. Several protestors claim to have seen men in "SWAT" hats surrounding the abandoned building where the grenade was dropped from, as well as SWAT team catering and other equipment. (Katherine Vallera)DIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Ring of Fire | Volcano Eruption | Tanna Vanuatu Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-18 | bit.ly/2JcC1wI My journey to capture images of an erupting Mount Yasur, one of the world's most active volcanos. Hidden within the Ring of Fire, one must travel to the remote island of Tanna, Vanuatu in order to witness this stunning display of sparkling embers and geological wonder!Film by Katherine Vallera ©2018 all rights reservedTRAVEL PLANNINGtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/DIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Oaxaca Mexico | Cooking with Casa Crespo | Food Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-10-17 | The ultimate culinary tourism experience! Mexican food market tour and mole cooking class in Oaxaca with Oscar from Casa Crespo. Hungry? #VisitMexicoSpecial thanks to Jordan Amandes and Chef Oscar of Casa Crespo www.CasaCrespo.comGo bit.ly/2JvNHKnExperience bit.ly/2HbPvGMTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/PORTFOLIO muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Swimming with Sharks | Solo Music Video | Adventure Travel Fiji Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-09-06 | Journey to Fiji and swim with the SHARKS in my new video! 🐠 Music by Clean Bandit feat. Demi LovatoRemix by Jimmy Boy FijiFeaturing South Sea Cruises & Barefoot Kuata Island[This video was created for personal development as an exercise in learning how to edit film. Not intended for commercial use, music used with permission.]EXPERIENCEtravelpulse.com/news/destinations/swimming-with-the-sharks-in-fiji.htmlbit.ly/2YiPwhGPORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Off the Beaten Path | Kat Vallera | Adventure Travel Show Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2018-01-22 | Travel the world with award winning travel agent and journalist Katherine Vallera! bit.ly/2UEJyW8This demo reel was made possible thanks to associate producers Daniel Cameron Leach, Melissa Mlynek, Kell Eno, Jess L. Schsl, and Un Tiempo D Oyeshola. Edited by Yatin Parkhani.Affiliate of Lonely Planet bit.ly/2W78iYTTravel Planningtravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSocial MediaInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlContactKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Georgian Music | Tbilisi Georgia | Culture Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2015-09-24 | t's all about that Georgian bass! Live music in the city of Tbilisi. bit.ly/2Wz5kfZ - bit.ly/2YkEKrs LINKSagents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/travelpulse.com/bio/katherine-valleraDIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Music for Lombok | Final Concert (2014) | Indonesia Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2014-03-06 | Music for Lombok volunteer teacher Luke MacRoberts accompanies the children of Banu Sanusi on accoustic guitarMusic for Lombok Final Concert (2014)Sesela Gunung Sari - Lombok IndonesiaLEARN MOREissuu.com/thelombokguide/docs/the_lombok_guide_issue_164/40wbez.org/shows/worldview/bringing-music-art-and-english-to-an-indonesian-orphanage/d2c87a26-a260-4c62-8b5f-17a1712e371a
Music for Lombok | Children Sing Yoshime (2014) | Indonesia Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2014-03-05 | The students of Banu Sanusi perform "Yoshime"Music for Lombok Final Concert (2014)Lombok, IndonesiaLEARN MOREissuu.com/thelombokguide/docs/the_lombok_guide_issue_164/40wbez.org/shows/worldview/bringing-music-art-and-english-to-an-indonesian-orphanage/d2c87a26-a260-4c62-8b5f-17a1712e371a
Music for Lombok | Volunteers Learn the Ancient Art of Stick Fighting (pt 2) | Indonesia Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2014-03-02 | Sesela Gunung Sari - Lombok IndonesiaLuckily, our demonstration was noncompetitive and there was no bloodshed - just a lot of fun had by Music for Lombok volunteers and students! It was a great way for Music for Lombok volunteers to learn more about Sesak culture and enjoy one last great Lombok experience before the conclusion of our program.When they weren't stick fighting, Music for Lombok volunteers were helping underprivileged children learn English through the creative medium of music education. Music for Lombok volunteers were trained musicians who spent four weeks in the village of Sesela - Gunung Sari teaching guitar, piano, voice, and basic theory ("bahasa musik"). In fact, following the stick fights, the students performed English songs "In the Jungle", "Yoshime", and "Stand by Me".MUSIC FOR LOMBOKissuu.com/thelombokguide/docs/the_lombok_guide_issue_164/40wbez.org/shows/worldview/bringing-music-art-and-english-to-an-indonesian-orphanage/d2c87a26-a260-4c62-8b5f-17a1712e371a
Music for Lombok | Volunteers Learn Ancient Art of Stick Fighting (pt 1) | Indonesia Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2014-03-01 | Sesela Gunung Sari - Lombok Indonesia (2014)As a precursor to Music for Lombok's final concert, the village of Sesela - Gunung Sari stepped it up a notch by introducing MFL volunteers Lucas "Lukeman Hakim" MacRoberts and Andrew "Kitch-a-Prek" Delneky to the ancient art of stick fighting.It was explained to us that stick fighting derives from an ancient exercise once used to train Sesak warriors. It helped them build reflexive skills and physical endurance, which was necessary in order to defend their island from invading kingdoms.Today, stick fighting demonstrations are referred to as "Presian Dance". They are considered an art form and cultural tradition on the island of Lombok, located in the region of West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. The stick fights were accompanied by traditional percussion based Sesak music.Stick fighting is also a competitive sport on the island of Lombok. In a competitive setting, the objective is to aim for the opponent's head. Money is thrown to the center of the tournament, and the first fighter to bleed loses the fight.MUSIC FOR LOMBOKissuu.com/thelombokguide/docs/the_lombok_guide_issue_164/40wbez.org/shows/worldview/bringing-music-art-and-english-to-an-indonesian-orphanage/d2c87a26-a260-4c62-8b5f-17a1712e371a
Bangkok Thailand | Street Food Exploration | Adventure Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2014-02-01 | Thailand has some of the best food in the world. If you don't gain weight while traveling in Thailand, you're doing it wrong. It's starchy, it's sweet, it's spicy, it's meaty. Who could ask for anything more? The first thing to recognize about Thai food is that it is spicy. I'm not talking Sriracha spicy. I'm talking holy god make it stop my mouth is suffering first degree burns and my ass is about to be like a projectile flame thrower spicy. Mmmmm we love you chilli pepper 'cuz you hurt so good. The best Thai food uses extreme spice in a way that is complimentary to whatever other flavors are involved, thus enhancing the dish, and thereby ensuing sensational awesomeness.GO bit.ly/2YjY3AVEAT bit.ly/2VVOtXuSTAY bit.ly/2vLtHLFEAT MORE bit.ly/2Yf8qG8Travel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevalleraPortfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Culinary Delights (pt 2) | Mexico Food Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2014-01-05 | In Oaxaca, I took a Mexican cooking course at a culinary school called Casa Crespo, so that I might further indulge my obsession with Mexican cuisine. It was there that I learned how to make a dark mole sauce (with seventeen ingredients!), hand-made tortillas, mescal sorbet, black bean soup, various guacamoles, and other kinds of Mexican fare.In this video, we'll learn how to make black bean soup, agua fresca, and other Mexican fare from Oaxaca. We'll even learned how to fry up some flowers! Culinary classes are a great way to have hands on experiences and learn more about local culture, no matter where in the world you find yourself eating.Part 1 - youtube.com/watch?v=hSD5WOBp7a8Cinematography and editing by Jordan AmandesMusic by Jaime Garza RodriguezSpecial thanks to Chef Oscar of Casa Crespo http://casacrespo.comGo bit.ly/2JvNHKnEat bit.ly/2HbPvGMTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/PORTFOLIO muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Culinary Delights (pt 1) | Mexico Food Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-12-25 | One of my favorite things to do when traveling abroad is to take cooking classes in local cuisine. In this video, we'll learn how to make tortillas and mole in Oaxaca, Mexico.One of the nice things about Mexican food is that you can control your own heat as spicy sauces are provided as a condiment on the side. Therefore, even those without intrepid taste buds can enjoy this flavorful cuisine to their own flavor preferences. Don't forget – if you make it too spicy; squeeze a few lime wedges on top to tone down the heat!Part 2 - youtube.com/watch?v=WToxN5ouq9UCinematography and editing by Jordan AmandesMusic by Jaime Garza RodriguezSpecial thanks to Casa Crespo http://casacrespo.comGo bit.ly/2JvNHKnEat bit.ly/2HbPvGMTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Local Markets (pt 2) | Mexico Food Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-12-11 | The food in Mexico is out of this world. When ordering tacos, I like to load them with red and hot verde salsa, diced onions, assorted vegetables, fresh cilantro, as well as the creamy green sauce that's often served from a pestle. I relish in these rich smoked and picante flavors as the contents spill from my tortilla. To learn more about Mexico's most fresh ingredients, I toured a local market in Oaxaca with Chef Oscar of Casa Crespo, where I even ate a grasshopper!Cinematography and editing by Jordan AmandesMusic provided by Jaime Garza RodriguezSpecial thanks to Chef Oscar of Casa Crespo www.CasaCrespo.comGo bit.ly/2JvNHKnEat bit.ly/2HbPvGMTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Local Markets (pt 1) | Mexico Food Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-12-04 | One of the reasons I was so thrilled to visit Mexico was for the food. I am obsessed with Mexican food. I'll eat just about anything wrapped in a tortilla! I walked around Mexico City, where culinary influences from this country's various regions merge, resulting in an absolute foodgasm of flavor and sabor. I went from food stand to food stand, stuffing myself silly full of tacos and tortas. Imagine peppers, avocados, grilled onions and mushrooms. Pork, chicken, beef, and seafood. Melted cheese, tomatoes, potatoes, and lime. Pungent spices and savory herbs...Cinematography and editing by Jordan AmandesMusic provided by Jaime Garza RodriguezSpecial thanks to Chef Oscar of Casa Crespo www.CasaCrespo.comGo bit.ly/2JvNHKnEat bit.ly/2HbPvGMTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Why We Backpack | Mexico Travel | Cental America Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-11-10 | Whenever people come to me for travel advice, my number one tip is to go it alone.Why? Because when you travel in groups, or especially in pairs, it is isolating. Part of the existential process of travel comes from meeting new people and sharing new experiences. When you travel with people who you already know, you are significantly less likely to seek out new friends and learn about other cultures. Group travel makes it easier to retreat into your comfort zone, thus missing out on opportunities to make new friends and fully immerse yourself in whatever surrounds you. By traveling solo, you are forced to open your mind, and to put yourself out there. You will have no choice but to meet new people, and these are the people you should want to meet!Also keep in mind that, while traveling solo, you are instantly part of a larger community. Backpackers team up on the road, at hostels, and at transit hubs. You might find yourself traveling with someone you just met from halfway around the world, and spend the next eight hours exchanging great tips and stories. For example, I met a Danish girl at the bus station in Santiago de Cuba who rode with me all the way to Veradero. When we talked, it was interesting, and when we slept, we watched each other's belongings. For the most part, backpackers look out for one another because we're all in this strange world together. This means that when you travel solo, you never truly travel alone.Don't use the fact that your friends can't or don't want to travel as a reason to miss out on a great opportunity.Of course, there are those who dismiss all of this because they are scared, especially Americans. It is quite evident that international travel is not a prominent part of our culture, as it is for many Europeans and Australian citizens. According to CNN, only thirty percent of Americans even have passports."30% is still low compared to Canada's 60% and the United Kingdom's 75%. 'Not taking the leap is comforting, because this is the American life,' said Matthew Kepnes, international traveler and creator of NomadicMatt.com…'Breaking outside anything that is your norm is scary'" (Avon: 2011).Fear mongering is most certainly a part of US culture. This is especially true when it comes to the media, as they bank on the insecurities of the American people. It seems that everywhere you turn; there is a story about terrorists, drug cartels, murders, and disappearances. I asked a few American friends to tell me why they found travel so frightening. Phil Cerza replied,"[I'm] afraid of what i don't know." In response, I must quote:"If you don't know, the thing to do is not to get scared, but to learn" (Rand: 1957).Meanwhile, Marilin Velez said she's afraid of diseases and kidnappings, while Jessica McShane stated that she's more worried about being robbed while traveling. Phooey! These worst case scenarios are fantastical and uncommon. I cannot reiterate this detail enough. Yes, bad things happen, but every day, thousands of people are traveling without any ill fortune. When the media blows the few shocking stories way out of proportion, it overshadows the beauty and glory that is being discovered by backpackers across the globe. All too often, the mainstream media doesn't aim to inform. We must remember, they are aiming for ratings.This is one of the reasons I wanted to film the first "Backpack NomadiKat" in Mexico. I feel like this country gets a seriously bad rap from American media, when fact, it is absolutely beautiful and fantastic to travel through. Mexico has amazing food, culture, as well as incredibly warm and welcoming locals. However, this is a side of Mexico that is difficult to see beyond Cancun and Puerto Vallarta.Seek out information, that which is true and just, in search of a better world full of friendship and splendor. Don't use fear as a reason to miss opportunity. Solo travel is the path to conquering your fears: of the unknown, and of being alone. I once met a girl on a plane from Guatemala City to Florida, a solo traveler who'd traversed all ends of the earth. She told me,"The only limitations we have are the limitations that we set for ourselves."There's no need to be afraid of new people or new experiences, unless we chose to adhere to our own apprehensions. Fear is an emotion, not a reality. It is in our heads. We can overcome fear if we chose to do so. If we do, indeed, set our own limitations, then why not raise the bar to the sky? Why not go around the world, and do it on our own, and chase our dreams, and live for ambition? Why not work hard and do whatever it takes, why not live courageously for passion, for love?Let us leave fear behind in the dust.Cinematography and editing by Jordan AmandesMusic provided by Jaime Garza RodriguezSpecial thanks to Tower Bridge Hostel, Cielo Rojo Hostel, & all the backpackers!GO bit.ly/30bICNgDO bit.ly/2JvGV7gInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvl
Mexico Travel | Trailer Preview Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-10-15 | Meet the backpackers. Eat the tacos. Drink the tequila.Travel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlContact Kat@TravelOrchestra.com
Mexico City | Sunday Stroll through El Zocolo | World Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-09-08 | bit.ly/30bICNgTravel Planning agents.travelleaders.com/katherinevallerahttps://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/Portfolio muckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFollowInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlContact Kat@TravelOrchestra.com
Pura Vida | Swimming in Costa Rica | Adventure Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-06-03 | Learning how to surf was the number one reason I traveled to Costa Rica. It was something I had never done, but always wanted to do. I hoped that since it was a water sport, and because I'm a swimmer, I might be able to pick surfing up with relative ease.So amped was I to try my hand at surfing, I had trained vigorously ever since booking my flight four months prior. I started a regimen at the gym where I worked, swimming half mile to a mile, two to three times a week. I did push-ups from a set of parallel bars in anticipation of having to push myself up onto a surf board. I tirelessly worked my core muscles, a part of my body that I really despise working, in hopes of improving my sense of balance. I practiced diligently upon a rolling balance board to further develop my abdominal strength and ability to balance. By the time I got to Costa Rica, I was in fantastic shape and ready to take on the ocean.My surfing instructor couldn't help but take notice of the unexpected strength I displayed as we proceeded with our lesson. He remarked that I was in fact much stronger than I appeared. While lying upon the sand, my instructor taught me the basics of finding a good wave and crawling along side it before pushing up with my arms, and then using my core to hop to my feet in a position somewhat similar to the yoga asana of Warrior II. He was an excellent teacher, instructing with clarity and making it very easy to understand the basic technique. My instructor emphasized that once I was ready to dismount, it was important to simply step off, as opposed to hopping, from the board. Once he felt confident I understood the process, we took to the sea.My instructor helped me tow my board out to where my feet just barely touched the sandy bottom. He taught me how to put my hand on the back of the board to guide it over the waves, while ducking my body well beneath it. Then it came time to ride my first wave. In anticipation of the crest, I paddled alongside the long white surfboard, and when the time was right I attempted to confidently pop up and ride. My first try was unsuccessful, while my second attempt was an absolute success. I rode the wave unshakably while gazing off into the tropical horizon with a grin stretched from ear to ear.As I glided closer to shore, so enthusiastic was I with my success, that I completely forgot my teacher's words of warning. I leapt from the board, losing my sense of balance as the board flipped out from beneath me. I felt a searing pain rip through my kneecap. My right leg twisted as it collided with the ground below the shallow surge.At first collision, I cried out in agony. I then cringed and bared the terrible sensation as I dragged myself whimpering out from the billowing waters, struggling to contain any verbal release for fear of coming off as a wimp. I limped pathetically upon the shore before collapsing upon the beach. My instructor rushed to my aid."I'm OK," I said, holding back tears, "just need a couple minutes to recover. A little break, that's all, I'll be fine." I gritted my teeth and attempted to suppress the pain. I couldn't even bend my knee because the pain was so incredibly excruciating. I didn't want to miss out on the lesson or waste my instructor's time. He waited patiently with me as I tried to heal my leg using the power of my mind. Within ten or fifteen minutes, I had increased mobility and felt willing to continue on with my lesson. I paddled out and tried once more to pop up upon the board, but the resulting pain compelled me to collapse.I thanked my teacher for his excellent instruction, and blamed myself for not heeding his advice. Thanks to my knee injury, I was only able to tolerate one additional day of surfing. I was determined to demonstrate inner strength and get back on the horse. The one piece suit I'd worn for my surfing lesson had been completely destroyed. It was stretched to the point of disrepair as a result of the forceful tide surges. Although I only succeeded at catching waves a few times, the entire experience was fun and invigorating.Despite the fact I was injured, I do not regret that learning how to surf. I understand bad things happen in life. They're a part of our world, and although we can take care to make conscious decisions, there are bad things in life that cannot be avoided. I was probably as likely to be injured slipping on the ice or being hit by a car in Chicago as I was to go surfing in Costa Rica. Sticking to what you know isn't going to stop bad things from happening; in fact, it might make things worse when they break your routine. This is why I'd rather try something new.Call me a thrill seeker or adrenaline junkie, but when it comes down my heart, adventure feels right. We must proceed with caution, while living to honor our best aspirations. The moral of this story isn't the injury – the moral of this story is the experience. I got to go surfing, and it was totally knarley.bit.ly/2VcGlO7
Cuban Music | Conga lessons in Cuba (part 2) | Culture Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-06-01 | LINKStravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/travelpulse.com/bio/katherine-valleraDIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraFOLLOWInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Cuban Music | Conga Lessons in Cuba (part 1) | Culture Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-06-01 | LINKStravelleaders.com/travel_agent/agent-details.aspx?id=87054https://www.adventure.travel/travel-advisors/katherine-vallera/travelpulse.com/bio/katherine-valleraDIGITAL PORTFOLIOmuckrack.com/katherine-valleraSupport my work!patreon.com/katherinevalleraPaypal.me/KatValleraVenmo@KatherineValleraSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram@KatValleraTravelTwitter@katvalleratrvlEMAILKat@TravelOrchestra.com
Bogota Colombia | Salt Cave Light Show | World Travel Kat Vallera Travel Orchestra 2013-05-28 | "Colombia is dangerous…if you're drunk or high," Matilda remarked as we ate a breakfast of stuffed maize in banana leaf with coffee. Meanwhile, her affectionate schnauzer vied for our attention. Matilda was dressed in a business suit, ready to take on another day at the office in the bustling capital city of Bogota, Colombia. "I work at a hotel," she went on, taking a sip from her coffee, "One day, we received a room service request from a gringo in an upscale suite. When we arrived, he was so coked out that his face was beet red and he was dripping with sweat. Many tourists come here for drugs. They party too hard, and don't care about anything else. Then, they act surprised when they get robbed.""The foreigners I'd met in La Candelaria were telling me that everyone gets held up at knife point in Colombia," I retorted, "Like it was a rite of passage.""That's not true," Matilda continued, "Maybe if you're walking around by yourself late at night and you're heavily intoxicated, but if you keep a level head, you'll be alright.""I've found that to be true all over the world," I replied, "If you go looking for trouble, you're going to find it. Yet, if you go looking for local culture, you can certainly find that too!""My country wasn't always so safe," Matilda went on, "When I was growing up, Colombia was a scary place. It's gotten a lot better in recent years."Not long ago, Colombia was one of the most dangerous places in the world. Fortunately, Colombia has come a long way in the past decade, thanks to proactive political and social reform. Yet, it is obvious that their reputation for conflict still sticks. When first I told my family and coworkers that I was going to Colombia, a lot of them responded with grave concern for my safety.The other reaction I got was one of suspicion, as if I were only going to consume mountains of cocaine. Was it so hard to believe that I was going to Colombia for the culture? That I wanted to experience the food, the music, and to practice my Spanish with the people of this nation? There are a lot of misconceptions about this country. The truth is Colombia's rich with historical, architectural, and culinary experiences. There are numerous museums and colonial structures, not to mention the gorgeous Andes Mountains, which are hollowed by salt caves and blanketed by rolling green pastures. Perhaps I shouldn't even be saying any of this, because in my opinion, Colombia is one of the world's best kept secrets. I'll be damned if I'm the one who lets the cat out of the bag. Yet, people seem eager to blow it off faster than a line of cocaine.I found the people of Colombia people to be most kind and hospitable when given the chance to present their culture beyond the negative stereotypes. Furthermore, in the interest of sustainability, visitors should consider the consequences of drug tourism and how this impacts the local community."Colombia has a bad reputation mainly because of the drug issue, but the reality is that Colombia is a beautiful country," comments musician Diana Mosquera, "Our bad reputation is mainly because of ignorance about the true Colombia. By promoting our culture, food, traditions, music, to the world, [we can] show the other face of Colombia to the world."I found Colombia to have an extraordinary culture, rich in music, art, and historical value. Thanks to the many Colombians who found pleasure in teaching me about their language, I learned new terms and vocabulary while gaining confidence in casual conversation. Most Colombians expressed awe in encountering a young tourist who was interested in their food, language, and culture, as if this were out of the ordinary. This was beneficial to my own self-interests, because it meant that locals were willing to go the extra mile to share all of their knowledge and to make me feel welcome in their beautiful country.On the plane, I'd met a woman named Alejandra, who invited me to her family's home for dinner. When I arrived, it was clear her family had gone all out to make feel welcome. As her brother and father flipped through a coffee table book featuring pictures of Colombia, they described the history behind each location. Then, they pulled out several albums and proceeded to teach me about their traditional music and dance, with origins in the fusion of African and indigenous rhythms. As we gathered around the table for supper, the entire family laughed and giggled as they urged me to try one of their traditional dishes, which was revealed to be cow intestine and wasn't half bad!"The most dangerous thing about Colombia," remarked Alejandra's father, as he peeled away at an exotic orange fruit, "Is that you will never want to leave!"It was true. I loved Colombia. During my stay, I never once felt threatened. I spent the majority of my trip engaging with locals, who were eager to share their lives and customs. I wouldn't have traded this experience for all the drugs in the world.
