Hello friends,

March can feel like winter just won’t let go—grey skies, chilly winds, and the longing for sunshine. But here’s a little reminder: brighter days are ahead!🌞

March 4th marks International Pancake Day (Shrove Tuesday), a time-honoured tradition of indulging in rich, golden pancakes before Lent begins. In many cultures, pancakes symbolize the return of the sun, making them the perfect way to brighten this lingering winter.

Last month in Guatemala, I whipped up a stack of fluffy pancakes for my mother-in-law, Mama Tayo, who had lost her appetite after a serious fall. It worked like magic—she’s been asking for pancakes ever since! Proof that a little warmth on a plate can do wonders.

To help you channel the sunshine of the tropics, we’re sharing a delicious pancake recipe we enjoyed in Curaçao. This taste of the Caribbean is perfect for escaping the winter blues.

Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going

February was a whirlwind!

We wrapped up our media sponsorship of the Oaxaca Food & Wine Festival, explored remote beaches in Huatulco and ventured deep into the mountains to chase a jungle waterfall (it was so incredible, we’re dedicating a full post to it!).

Now, we’ve rented a car to head up the coast to Puerto Escondido, a place we’ve loved for over 20 years. To follow along, join 4,500 Puerto fans on our Puerto Escondido Facebook Page for tips on places to eat, new hotels and inspiring stories!

In this issue, we’re also sharing the latest travel news and a surprising destination where you can get a shamrock passport stamp!🍀

Ready to break free from winter?

Let’s dive in!

Michele

Travel Tips and Planning

An Amazing Huatulco Experience Some places stay with you long after you leave. Las Cascadas Mágicas is one of those places. Tucked in the Sierra Madre Sur mountains of southwestern Oaxaca 🏞️, these waterfalls are completely unspoiled. But getting there? That’s another story. We almost didn’t go. After finally making the journey, I can say without a doubt: it was so worth it. Discover why you should put this experience on your bucket list! Click to Read Article

Timely Travel

Get a Shamrock Stamp in Your Passport!☘️ In Montserrat, you’ll find more than just a modern-day Pompeii set in the shadow of Soufrière Hills volcano.🌋 You’ll also get a shamrock stamp in your passport! 🛂 ☘️ The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean has a deep Irish and African heritage and is the only place outside Ireland to recognize St. Patrick’s Day as an official holiday. Expect traditional Irish food, music and events marking the island’s 1768 slave uprising. Music lovers should stay at Olveston House, once home to Sir George Martin, whose AIR Studios hosted legends like Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton and the Rolling Stones. Read about my experience on Montserrat and why this island is so unforgettable—passport stamp and all! ✈️☘️ Click Here to Learn More

Tropical Table

Arepa di Pampuna (Pumpkin Pancakes) We'll be returning to Curaçao this spring and can't wait to tuck into an order of their national treat - Arepa di Pampuna. But you don't need to go there to try these delicious pumpkin pancakes! International Pancake Day or Shrove Tuesday (March 4) is the perfect time to whip up a batch. Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and packed with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, you can't stop at eating just one. Click to get this easy recipe! Get the Recipe

Beach & City Buzz

Notable news, updates, and happenings

• Spring is a special time in Valencia, Spain. From March 1, 2025, you can experience the spectacle of Las Fallas at the Atenea Sky Lounge. Watch the festivities from above, enjoy regional specialties, cocktails and live music until March 19th.
• Sargassum seaweed season has already started in the Mexican Caribbean. If you're planning a beach vacation, be sure to check out our Insider's Guide to Seaweed Conditions in Cancun and Riviera Maya.
• Hyatt Hotels is launching MasterChef Junior-inspired culinary programming to select Dreams Resorts & Spas in Latin America and the Caribbean featuring interactive Mystery Box challenges, surprise events, and a For Kids, By Kids menu. This unique collaboration enhances family vacations with creativity, bonding opportunities and hands-on gastronomic adventures.
• More Caribbean? Our Budget Caribbean series is packed with insider tips on ways to save $$ on travel in the Caribbean! Click here to subscribe.​

P.S. Don’t forget to check out our Subscriber Benefits page for exclusive deals and free ebooks—perfect for planning and sharing!

Disclosure: Links in this newsletter may be affiliate in nature. Get more details on our Disclosure page.