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Life in Puerto

Kiara claiming her barrel

Kiara claiming her barrel

Our life in Puerto Escondido, revolves around surf and this summer, was a little bit more fun than usual.

Silvia from Brasil, Mada from Uruguay, Polly from Guatemala and Totis from Uruguay ready to join the guys in the lineup.

Silvia from Brasil, Mada from Uruguay, Polly from Guatemala and Totis from Uruguay ready to join the guys in the lineup.

Zicatela is known to be the barrel paradise for most surfer guys. 

Since the conditions are gnarly its not very common to see many girls out in those waves.

 

 

However, this summer, more girls start to charge at Zicatela.

Not just surfergirls, also bodyboarders and waterphotographers!

 

 

A normal day for us would start with an early surf check, while having a light breakfast.

Originally from Venezuela now a Puerto local, Simone charges at Zicatela

Originally from Venezuela now a Puerto local, Simone charges at Zicatela

Polly loves Zicatela and she has fun in small days as well as big ones.

Polly loves Zicatela and she has fun in small days as well as big ones.

Silvia is not a newbie at Zicatela, she enjoys the mexican waves every summer.

Silvia is not a newbie at Zicatela, she enjoys the mexican waves every summer.

It was first summer at Puerto Escondido for Mada but she got comfortable right away.

It was first summer at Puerto Escondido for Mada but she got comfortable right away.

Then, we would go out and surf/shoot, till it was too hot or the wind start messing up the waves.

Surfer Marcelo Mota from Brasil charging on real Zicatela summer bomb.

Surfer Marcelo Mota from Brasil charging on real Zicatela summer bomb.

 

For our well deserved lunch, we would usually take a "Colectivo" to get to the "Mercado in town.

A "Colectivo" is a pick up truck, with a tent-like cover and benches in the back, so the passengers can hop in and out as easy and fast as possible.

This is the most inexpensive way of transportation and the funnest.

You get to experience the real local Puerto Escondido lifestyle.

Vegetarian Tlayuda - a typical Oaxacan plate and Polly's favorite

Vegetarian Tlayuda - a typical Oaxacan plate and Polly's favorite

Once we get to the “Mercado” we go to our usual spot for authentic delicious mexican food.

The place is called “Vanessita”.

They have typical food from Oaxaca and all kinds of fresh fruit juices.

Since Polly, Maria Fernanda are regulars, the people at "Vanessita´s"  already know what our favorite dishes are.

The friends we bring with us, is what changes every time!

After lunch we would buy groceries. You can choose from a big variety of fresh veggies, and fruits.

After buying our beloved 3 kilos of mangoes (which we will devour in a couple days), we headed home for “Siesta” time.

We would wake up from our “Siesta” and have another surf sesh or go for a walk before sun down.

Me and Kiara watching the evening surf sesh

Me and Kiara watching the evening surf sesh

 

 

 

Then we headed to the gym for our daily workout routine. 

Dinner time was always fun, we would hangout with all our friends.

On the weekends we would go out for a little dancing, or to the movies.

 

Watching the evening surf sesh was almost a requirement, its more entertaining than the movies

Watching the evening surf sesh was almost a requirement, its more entertaining than the movies

I can say that this season in Mexico, was a total success :)

Perfect barrels for local boy, Jafet.

Perfect barrels for local boy, Jafet.

South African Matt Bromley getting some mexican shade

South African Matt Bromley getting some mexican shade

Oscar Mocada's backyard 

Oscar Mocada's backyard 

Coco Nogales always encouraging the younger generations

Coco Nogales always encouraging the younger generations

Not every day is that perfect at Zicatela, some days are pretty gnarly and once you are back in the beach you can just thank God to come in safe in one piece.

Not every day is that perfect at Zicatela, some days are pretty gnarly and once you are back in the beach you can just thank God to come in safe in one piece.

When the waves arent that good in Zicatela there are always other options.

You can always drive south.

This summer we decided we wanted to go to 

Barra de la Cruz 

for our mini surf trip.

The wave hunting squad.

The wave hunting squad.

After all,

 

Who doesnt like road trips? 

 

Specially when you go hunting for some waves!

 

Our weapons of choice

Our weapons of choice

And sadly another Mexico season came to an end.

Its time to get our bags packed and our passports ready, for our next destination.

Thanks for coming along for the ride!

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Puerto Escondido Challenge

Kai Lenny, getting ready for his heat. The 23 year old from Maui, is the best waterman, no wonder why he did such an amazing performance.

Kai Lenny, getting ready for his heat. The 23 year old from Maui, is the best waterman, no wonder why he did such an amazing performance.

All the big names, in the big wave surf community, gathered up in mainland Mexico (Oaxaca).

They where ready to compete at the first Puerto Escondido Challenge ever. 

 

 

 

Puerto Escondido local, Jimel Corzo, showing everyone that this is his playground

Puerto Escondido local, Jimel Corzo, showing everyone that this is his playground

With waves ranging on the

9 - 10 ft range.

Zicatela, decided to say

good morning.

Thanks to the perfect

conditions the contest was

called ON.

 

 

The organizers,

decided to divide

the contest. 

Two days of 4 hours each.

They started it

with 4 heats with

 4 surfers in each.

 

 

Rogercin Ramirez Jr, the local wildcard, on a bomb. 

Rogercin Ramirez Jr, the local wildcard, on a bomb. 

 It was such a show!

 

Big water mountains,

being ridden

by the best big wave riders

of the world. 

Makua Rothman from Hawaii, slicing that beauty

Makua Rothman from Hawaii, slicing that beauty

Everyone in Puerto came down to the beach to be a part of the contest, watch the show and cheer their favorite surfers.

 

Some other people decided to get a better view of the contest, from the rooftops of the hotels and buildings with ocean view.

 

 

One thing

was for sure,

no one

in town

missed this event!

 

 

 

The South African Grant “Twiggy” Baker won!

With runner up Greg Long

and brazilian Pedro Calado taking 3rd place.

Such an amazing event with great waves!

Hopefully, next year will happen again.

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Summer is right around the corner

 

You know summer is getting closer when its almost time to head to mainland, Mexico. 

In this case, it means, Puerto Escondido in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico.

How could you say no to that cute face?

How could you say no to that cute face?

I already had everything planned: dates, tickets, accomodiation, etc.

This time I decided to bring my dog, Kiara, for the ride, since she loves the ocean as much as I do.

I thought, why not let her tag along, this way she can enjoy the warm water too.

 

View from the entrance of Bungalows Zicatela

View from the entrance of Bungalows Zicatela

 

As soon as I saw, the Puerto Escondido Challenge was a ON, I had to change the flight tikets.

We left a couple days earlier, so we could be in Puerto, on time, for the contest.

 

 

The pool at the hotel is the best! specially at night since it changes colors!

The pool at the hotel is the best! specially at night since it changes colors!

 

We finally arrived to our favorite hotel, Bungalows Zicatela.

Which has the best location, is pet friendly, the staff is the best, and the owners are the just the coolest people ever!

No wonder why it was the official hotel for the WSL during the contest.

Beautiful Zicatela and its colorful life.

Beautiful Zicatela and its colorful life.

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End of the season!!

One of the events that Friends of Bethany (the non-profit of Bethany Hamilton) has, is the Hawaii Elite Surf Camp. 

It consists of building lasting mentorship relationships, with the Top up and coming surfer girlsfrom Hawaii.

From left to right: Sara Wakita (Oahu), Tatiana Ebro (Maui), Gabbi Bryan (Kauai), Bethany Hamilton, Keala Tomoda-Bannert (Kauai), Kahanu Delovio (Big Island).

From left to right: Sara Wakita (Oahu), Tatiana Ebro (Maui), Gabbi Bryan (Kauai), Bethany Hamilton, Keala Tomoda-Bannert (Kauai), Kahanu Delovio (Big Island).

Working out with Dustin Dillberg

Working out with Dustin Dillberg

 

 

It was so great to work and be part of this camp, by taking photos of every activity of the girls though it. 

 

Shane Beschen reviewing the earlier surf sesh with the girls

Shane Beschen reviewing the earlier surf sesh with the girls

 

 

I got in the water with them to take photos of them surfing, got to see and follow them around as they did their training on land.

 

 

The girls with Eric Arakawa after the talk he gave them

The girls with Eric Arakawa after the talk he gave them

 

It was so cool to see them learn from some of the best in the surf industry and see them just fellowship between them and with Bethany too, and see how they learned and gained so much (we all did) through the camp.

 

 

 

 

And with this another amazing winter season came to an end for me.

 

I am so happy that got to experience and live so much, during this months of great times,

crazy good waves,  

 

 

 

 

amazing views,

 

 

 

 

fun adventures,

 

 

 

 

 

beautiful sunsets,

 

 

 

 

relaxing times,

 

 

 

 

 

 

new friends,

 

 

 

 

 

till next season North Shore!

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Apnea and Surf Survival Training

To be able to survive in big waves you have to be as prepared as possible. You are never in control of the ocean, anything can happen. You want to be as ready as you can be, to survive if something doesn't goes as you expected. 

For this reason I decided to take the Apnea and Surfing Survival Training with Hawaii Eco Divers. Two intense days of training and understanding to control your body and mind. Learning to maximize your oxygen, so you can survive in critic situations was so important.

 

 

Those two days were such an amazing experience training and learning alongside great watermen and waterwomen. 

At the end you realize how much potential and how incredible the human body is, how much we are made to endure if we know how to use it.

I really recommend to anyone thats constantly in the ocean specially in big waves, to take the training.

 

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Exploring the North Shore a little bit more

You cannot deny Hawaii's beauty.  Anyone that sets foot on the islands experinces that beauty. Not so many people get to experience it from above though.

 

There is so much unseen land and beauty.

 

I decided to take a helicopter tour. Trust me those 15 minutes around the North Shore, where so worth it. So much beauty and not the common views.

 

 

The next day, we went hiking. We got a group of friend together and went to one of the waterfalls we saw on that helicopter ride.

 

Needless to say, it was incredible. So much green everywhere, we also got to jump to the waterfall even though the water was really cold.

 

 

Such a fun day with a great crew!

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Eddie Went

February 25th a day for history, the Eddie Went. Finally, the biggest (rideable) swell of the year, and the first Eddie since 2009. Waimea bay gave the best show ever. 

John John ended up taking the 1st place with an amazing performance.

John John ended up taking the 1st place with an amazing performance.

Legendary surfer, Clyde Aikau, brother of Eddie, surfed also at the contest. At his 66 years, Clyde´s  surfing was of the charts. 

Legendary surfer, Clyde Aikau, brother of Eddie, surfed also at the contest. At his 66 years, Clyde´s  surfing was of the charts. 

Definitely a day to remember, with waves Ive never seen before. The waves look so angry and majestic at the same time.

Definitely a day to remember, with waves Ive never seen before. The waves look so angry and majestic at the same time.

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“El Niño”

So, since it was the “El Niño” winter the big swells where non stop, it was a season that has made history as one of the greatest big-waves seasons. 

So many amazing waves ridden...

So many amazing waves ridden...

… and some just didnt want to be ridden.

… and some just didnt want to be ridden.

On February 8th everyone thought the Eddie Would Go, but that morning the swell wasn't as expected, the swell got in late and it didn't show till the afternoon.

Some of the Pro’s went to Jaws but some stayed and surfed Waimea that evening once the swell filled in.

Mark Healey on bomb split seconds before getting barreled

Mark Healey on bomb split seconds before getting barreled

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Back to the North Shore!

After a nice trip to Mexico, I came back to Hawaii just in time to start training for all the big swells coming this way.

Getting in shape after the holidays!

Getting in shape after the holidays!

Waimea Bay woke up and its been non stop waves.

Ted on a nice one at Waimea Bay.

Ted on a nice one at Waimea Bay.

Polly Kai Ralda Slicing a giant 

Polly Kai Ralda Slicing a giant 

Starting the year with a lot of events and things going on. Lots and lots of surfing too.

Have you ever surfed at night?

Have you ever surfed on a river?

Well imagine doing both at the same time!

Everyone works to open the Waimea river so it can flow towards the ocean allowing it get bigger and bigger through the night till it carries enough water to let everyone play on it, either on a boogie board or a surfboard. 

Everyone works to open the Waimea river so it can flow towards the ocean allowing it get bigger and bigger through the night till it carries enough water to let everyone play on it, either on a boogie board or a surfboard. 

Its that time of the year for the Volcom Pipe Pro, this year the waves where amazing

View from the water

View from the water

Koa Rothman on a blue gem.

Koa Rothman on a blue gem.

 We got to experience some epic surfing during the contest...

Cory Arrambide dropping in.

Cory Arrambide dropping in.

..with a great final and perfect barrels, where Kelly Slater took the first place, demonstrating that even in his forties he is the King of surfing.

This lucky kid Getting a selfie with Kelly Slater and Bruce Irons after the final.

This lucky kid Getting a selfie with Kelly Slater and Bruce Irons after the final.

 

 

 

 

 

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Mexico = Parties

There is few people in the world that know how to celebrate and party as the mexicans, since I'm from Mexico, I decided to go back to where everything started to spent the Holidays.

So first stop was the beautiful city of Mexico. So much culture, diversity, people, traffic, beauty, history, etc. I could go on and on but I guess you will just have to come and experience it for yourself, I cant make justice just by writing a couple paragraphs and posting some pictures of the place. 

Anyways the building behind me is the World Trade Center of Mexico City. The fourth largest building in the city.

Anyways the building behind me is the World Trade Center of Mexico City. The fourth largest building in the city.

Since I cant stay away from the water that long, I decided to pay a visit to the resort townon the Pacific coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta. 

Puerto Vallarta has a more interesting past than any other mexican beach-town tourist destination, it is close to an important agricultural valley and mining centers. Its known for its beaches and nightlife.

I got to stay at the Mayan Palace resort and got transported to Mayan times ...

I got to stay at the Mayan Palace resort and got transported to Mayan times ...

… with beautiful gardens and pyramids.

… with beautiful gardens and pyramids.

I decided to stop on the way back, at the colorful surf town of Sayulita for breakfast, definitly going back to explore some more next time!

I decided to stop on the way back, at the colorful surf town of Sayulita for breakfast, definitly going back to explore some more next time!

Driving back to Mexico City from the state of Jalisco we had to stop and admire the rows and rows of Blue Agave, these are used to make Tequila!! 

Driving back to Mexico City from the state of Jalisco we had to stop and admire the rows and rows of Blue Agave, these are used to make Tequila!! 

So pretty much this sums up my trip to my home town and Mexican beaches, stop by again to see whats next for me this 2016!!!

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There is always something going on at the NS

Winter in the North Shore is always so eventful and crowded there is so many events and things going on, besides good waves if we get lucky. Every year, Surfing The Nations (STN - humanitarian organization based in the heart of Oahu, Wahiawa) organizes the Annual Surf Art & the Surfer Art Festival, and this year it was their 3th! It was great to go an experience all the great art of the local artists and see how the community gets involved with this event.

En el invierno, el North Shore siempre está lleno de surfístas y turístas, ademas de buenas olas, hay muchos eventos y cosas que hacer. Cada año STN (organización humanitaria situada en el centro de Oahu, Wahiawa) organíza un Festival de Arte y este año fue el tercero que hacen, donde artistas locales muestran sus obras y la comunidad se integra para apreciar y convivir.

The Quicksilver Eddie Aikau Invitational Opening Ceremony takes place at Waimea Bay where Aikau's family maintains an ancestral tradition as caretakers of the Waimea Valley.

The Invitees to the event, all of them big wave rider legends, gather up for the event where Clyde Aikau (Eddie´s brother) leads the “Blessing of Eddie Aikau” and with this the waiting period for the contest starts.

The Invitees to the event, all of them big wave rider legends, gather up for the event where Clyde Aikau (Eddie´s brother) leads the “Blessing of Eddie Aikau” and with this the waiting period for the contest starts.

They all paddle out in the middle of the Bay and make a circle holding hands and thanking for the honor of being part of this.

They all paddle out in the middle of the Bay and make a circle holding hands and thanking for the honor of being part of this.

There are some waves that are way too big to be paddle into or the position of the wave is extremely critical, so you need to be assisted by a Jet-ski to be able to catch faster and bigger waves.

It was such a new experience to go to the outer reefs and get to be part of the whole tow in crew and see this huge water mountains chasing us, while my friend Polly and some other awesome surfers caught this waves documented by photographer Maria Fernanda

At the end of every year, the Surfer Poll Awards take place, this is the biggest night in surfing.The world’s best surfers come together to celebrate surfing excellence. It was great to see this year John John take couple of the awards and Carissa Moore be the winner on the women division. 

It was great to see this year John John take couple of the awards and Carissa Moore be the winner on the women division. 

John John proving that he deserved all his awards.

John John proving that he deserved all his awards.

The Pipe Masters is one of the longest running events in professional surfing, today is called the Billabong Pipe Masters and is the final stop of the Vans Triple Crown and the final event of the WSL Men’s World Tour. Its like the Super Bowl of surfing, every surfer dreams to surf and every surf fan around the world dreams to go to the North Shore and watch the best surfers drop into the perfect heavy barreling Pipeline. This year´s winner was brazilian Adriano de Souza.



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Hawaii here we go.

Since winter season is here and with it bigger waves I decided it was that time of the year to head to Hawaii.  I naturally stay at the North Shore (famous during this time of the year since all the surfing world comes for the waves and contest that take place through this season), at the little touristy town of Haleiwa.

Ya que el invierno llego y este trae las olas grandes, decidí que es es epoca de el año tan esperada, donde el North Shore de Oahu en Hawaii se convierte en mi casa por algunos meses, ya que todos los que estan involucrados con la industría decide reunirse aquí. Todas las competencias importantes en Hawaii se llevan acabo en esta temporada. Por lo que decidí quedarme en el pequeño pueblo turistico de Haleiwa.

My first adventure in the island was on the west side since there where no waves the first couple days, so it was perfect to go snorkeling with some mermaids and visiting my underwater friends! 

My first adventure in the island was on the west side since there where no waves the first couple days, so it was perfect to go snorkeling with some mermaids and visiting my underwater friends!

 

Here local mermaid and "honu" investigating giant 

Here local mermaid and "honu" investigating giant 

Mi primera aventura fue en el lado oeste de la isla ya que no había olas grandes los primeros dias, así que las condiciones eran ideales para snorkelear y visitar a algunos de mis amigos acuaticos. 

Mi primera aventura fue en el lado oeste de la isla ya que no había olas grandes los primeros dias, así que las condiciones eran ideales para snorkelear y visitar a algunos de mis amigos acuaticos.

 

Incluyendo a las tortugas marinas o "Honu" como se les dice en Hawaii.

Incluyendo a las tortugas marinas o "Honu" como se les dice en Hawaii.

So finally we had a swell and it was awesome to be able to get back in the water with big waves.

So finally we had a swell and it was awesome to be able to get back in the water with big waves.

Finalmente llego el primer “swell” y con este un par de días de buenas olas, así que fue increible volver a disfrutar olas grandes!

Finalmente llego el primer “swell” y con este un par de días de buenas olas, así que fue increible volver a disfrutar olas grandes!

And with it all the important and famous names of the surfing world appear in the north shore to come surf this waves

And with it all the important and famous names of the surfing world appear in the north shore to come surf this waves

Y así puedes ver a los mejores nombres de el surf del mundo domar las perfectas olas azul turquesa.

Y así puedes ver a los mejores nombres de el surf del mundo domar las perfectas olas azul turquesa.

 

 

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Eternal City

Finally we got to explore the magical city of Rome where in every street corner there is something beautiful and historical to discover.

COLISEUM or The Roman Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commisioned in AD 72 by Emperor Vespasian. It was completed by his son, Titus, in 80, its 80 arched entrances allowing easy access to 55,000 spectators, who were…

COLISEUM or The Roman Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheatre, was commisioned in AD 72 by Emperor Vespasian. It was completed by his son, Titus, in 80, its 80 arched entrances allowing easy access to 55,000 spectators, who were seated according to rank. Vespesian ordered the Colosseum to be build on the site of Nero's palace, the Domus Aurea, to dissociate himself from the hated tyrant. His aim was to gain popularity by staging deadly combats of gladiators and wild animal fights for public viewing.

CASTELO DE SANTO ANGELO it is also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, it is a cylinrical building in Rome ,Italy. It was erected on the right bank of the Tiber. Originally built to be a mausoleum, but later was used as a military fort, and today it …

CASTELO DE SANTO ANGELO it is also known as the Mausoleum of Hadrian, it is a cylinrical building in Rome ,Italy. It was erected on the right bank of the Tiber. Originally built to be a mausoleum, but later was used as a military fort, and today it is open to the public as a museum. The castle is connected to St. Peter´s Basilica by a cover fortified corridor

CASTELO DE SANTO ANGELO también se le conoce como Mausoleo de Adriano,es un edificio cilíndrico localizado en Roma, Italia .Esta situado en la orilla derecha del Rio Tiber. Iniciado por el emperador Adriano para ser su mausoleo pero despues se convirtio en edificio militar y actualmente es un museo. El castillo esta comunicado con la Ciudad del Vaticano por un corredor fortificado.

LAGO DI BRACCIANO is a lake of volcanic origin in the italian region of Lazio, 20 miles northwest of Rome. Is one of the cleanest lakes in Italy.LAGO DI BRACCIANO es un lago de origen volcánico, en la región italiana de Lazio, a 32 km al noroeste de…

LAGO DI BRACCIANO is a lake of volcanic origin in the italian region of Lazio, 20 miles northwest of Rome. Is one of the cleanest lakes in Italy.

LAGO DI BRACCIANO es un lago de origen volcánico, en la región italiana de Lazio, a 32 km al noroeste de Roma. Es uno de los mas limpios de Italia.

FONTANA DELLA BARCACCIA is a baroque  fresh –water fountain in "Piazza di Spagna", just below the steps of  “Trinita dei Monti"in Rome, Italy. It was built by Pietro Bernini and his son.It´s so named because it is in the shape of a half-su…

FONTANA DELLA BARCACCIA is a baroque  fresh –water fountain in "Piazza di Spagna", just below the steps of  “Trinita dei Monti"in Rome, Italy. It was built by Pietro Bernini and his son.It´s so named because it is in the shape of a half-sunken ship.

FONTANA DELLA BARCACCIA es una fuente de agua potable, situada en la "Piazza di Spagna" , al pie de la escalinata “Trinita dei Monti” en Roma, Italia. Fue construida por Pietro Bernini y su hijo. Se le da ese nombre porque representa un barcaza a medio hundir.

Walking in Rome at night is just magical. In the yellowish street lights of the old Roman neighborhoods, you can hardly miss the feeling of over twenty centuries of history, art and beauty. At night, the city is lit like a theater, and in the warmer…

Walking in Rome at night is just magical. In the yellowish street lights of the old Roman neighborhoods, you can hardly miss the feeling of over twenty centuries of history, art and beauty. At night, the city is lit like a theater, and in the warmer months, it should be enjoyed like one.

Caminar por Roma en las noches es simplemente mágico. En las calles alumbradas de los barrios antiguos de Roma, puedes sentir los veinte siglos de historia, arte y belleza. En las noches la ciudad se convierte en un teatro y en los meses calidos de verano es así como se debería de disfrutar la ciudad.

FONTANA DEI QUATTRO FIUMI is located in “Piazza Navona” in Rome. It was designed in 1651 by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It was built with travertine rock;, there is an ancient obelisk at the center, and the representation of the four major rivers of the f…

FONTANA DEI QUATTRO FIUMI is located in “Piazza Navona” in Rome. It was designed in 1651 by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It was built with travertine rock;, there is an ancient obelisk at the center, and the representation of the four major rivers of the four continents, on the sides.( the one we see is Rio de la Plata representing America) There are two more fountains in the “piazza”, at the southern end "Fontana del Moro", and at the northern end " Fontana de Nettuno”.

FONTANA DEI QUATTRO FIUM se encuenta en la “Piazza Navona”en Roma.Fue diseñada por Gian Lorenzo Bernini en 1651. Contruida con piedra de travertino; al centro tiene un gran obelisco de marmol, y la representacion de los cuatro principales rios de los 4 continentes.( el que vemos en la foto es el Rio de la Plata que representa America) Hay dos fuentes mas en la “piazza”, al sur la “Fontana del Moro” y al norte la“Fontana de Nettuno”.

In 1870, Rome became the capital city of Italy as a unified country, taking the title from Florence.  Modern Rome has 900 churches and 280 fountains, Rome its known for its drinking water fountains since you can drink water from most of them. R…

In 1870, Rome became the capital city of Italy as a unified country, taking the title from Florence.  Modern Rome has 900 churches and 280 fountains, Rome its known for its drinking water fountains since you can drink water from most of them. Rome attracted in 2013 12.6 million tourists. The Vatican Museums welcomed 5.5 million and the Colosseum 5.1 million visitors. 

En 1870, Roma se convirtió  en la ciudad capital de Italia como un país unificado, tomando el título de Florencia. La Roma modern tiene 900 iglesias y 280 fuentes, Roma es conocida por sus fuentes con agua potable ronde los turistas pueden tomar agua de estas. Roma en el 2013 recibió 12.6 milliones de turistas. Los museos de el Vaticano recibieron a 5.5 millones  y el Coliseo 5.1 millones de visitantes.

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The Vatican

Finally we make it to Rome, which was the first city we had in mind to visit when we planned our trip, but we decided to pay a visit to the Vatican City before adventuring into Rome.

The Vatican City is a landlocked urban enclave, surrounded by the city of Rome, it is the smallest intertnationally recognized independent state in the world by both area and population. 

The Vatican City is a landlocked urban enclave, surrounded by the city of Rome, it is the smallest intertnationally recognized independent state in the world by both area and population.

 

The unique economy of the Vatican City is supported financially by the sale of postage stamps and tourist mementos, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications.

The unique economy of the Vatican City is supported financially by the sale of postage stamps and tourist mementos, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications.


It has famous cultural sites such as St. Peter´s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, where they feature some of the world´s most famous paintings and sculptures.

It has famous cultural sites such as St. Peter´s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums, where they feature some of the world´s most famous paintings and sculptures.

The state is free of poverty. Although it is the smallest of all countries in terms of population, its estimated GDP per capita of $21,198 makes Vatican City the 18th wealthiest nation in the world per capita.

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Leaning, not falling. PISA

We decided to keep driving down towards Rome, but when you drive right by Pisa, it would be almost a crime not to stop and take some pictures with the Tower of Pisa or Leaning Tower.

 The Tower of Pisa is the third oldest structure in Pisa’s Cathedral Square. It began to tilt during its construction, the ground was so soft and the foundation was not proper to support the structure’s weight. The tilted increased in decades b…

 The Tower of Pisa is the third oldest structure in Pisa’s Cathedral Square. It began to tilt during its construction, the ground was so soft and the foundation was not proper to support the structure’s weight. The tilted increased in decades before the structure was completed and finally stabilized between the 20th and 21st century.

The Piazza del Duomo or Piazza dei Miracoli (square of miracles) is recognized as one of the best architectural complexes in the world and its mainly formed by 4 great religious buildings: the Pisa Cathedral, the Pisa Baptistry, the Camposanto Monum…

The Piazza del Duomo or Piazza dei Miracoli (square of miracles) is recognized as one of the best architectural complexes in the world and its mainly formed by 4 great religious buildings: the Pisa Cathedral, the Pisa Baptistry, the Camposanto Monumentale and by the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. In 1987, the square was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Road-tripping through … Liguria

Since I wanted to visit as much as I could, during my summer in Europe; I did some research and found out, that the best way to do it, while saving money and stoping wherever I wanted, was to rent a car and just do a Euro-roadtrip. So I rented the car in Paris and started to make my way down to Italy.

The bright turquoise warm water of the Liguria Coast in Italy is so inviting, you can't resist to jump in!

The bright turquoise warm water of the Liguria Coast in Italy is so inviting, you can't resist to jump in!

So my first stop was at the Liguria Coast, which in my opinion is the most gorgeous place in Italy. Weather is perfect during the summer, warm, but not too hot, since all this colorful villages are built alongside the coastline.

Resting on the breathtaking cliffs, connected by super narrow and scary roads, some of the most famous destinations are Cinque Terre, Portofino and Santa Margherita, which are cute, little, stylish, fishing villages.

Its normal to see huge yachts coming in and out of the little ports, where people come to grab a bite and shop in the boutiques before returning to their vessel.

Its normal to see huge yachts coming in and out of the little ports, where people come to grab a bite and shop in the boutiques before returning to their vessel.

View from my room was just breathtaking, I stayed at this gorgeous hotel in the municipality of Rapallo in Liguria called Excelsior Palace. 

View from my room was just breathtaking, I stayed at this gorgeous hotel in the municipality of Rapallo in Liguria called Excelsior Palace. 

So this was the pool view, not bad to relax after a day of walking through the pretty colorful streets.

So this was the pool view, not bad to relax after a day of walking through the pretty colorful streets.

You can either walk or ride the bus, car or a Vespa between each village depends how much time you want to take to admire the coast!

You can either walk or ride the bus, car or a Vespa between each village depends how much time you want to take to admire the coast!

And there is off course the public tanning beaches...

And there is off course the public tanning beaches...

Finally after a long entertaining walk I got to the stunning PORTOFINO, pictures can't even portray the magic that this place has.

Finally after a long entertaining walk I got to the stunning PORTOFINO, pictures can't even portray the magic that this place has.

Its a MOST to sit down to enjoy a pizza, gelato or an expresso and admire this view and also go though the boutiques for a little shopping.

Its a MOST to sit down to enjoy a pizza, gelato or an expresso and admire this view and also go though the boutiques for a little shopping.

And don't forget to get back to your hotel in style!!

And don't forget to get back to your hotel in style!!

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EuroTrip first stop…Paris

Since I love traveling I decided to take a trip to Europe.  First stop - Paris.

About to take off.

About to take off.

Capital of France and probably the most famous city in the world. Known for its beautiful architecture, culture, arts, romantic vibe, museums, fashion, desserts and so much more! That´s why it seemed just right to start with this city my travels through the old continent.

My first photo shoot in Paris, was at the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg a garden with 23 hectares. Which is located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris and was created in 1612 by Marie de' Medici, the widow of King Henry IV of France. The garde…

My first photo shoot in Paris, was at the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg a garden with 23 hectares. Which is located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris and was created in 1612 by Marie de' Medici, the widow of King Henry IV of France. The garden today is used and owned by the French Senate. 

There is so much culture represented in all the different types of arts, music is one of them and thats why, it was a MUST to visit the Academie Nationale De Musique. Where everyone can enjoy the beauty of the building and MUSIC since you don't need…

There is so much culture represented in all the different types of arts, music is one of them and thats why, it was a MUST to visit the Academie Nationale De Musique. Where everyone can enjoy the beauty of the building and MUSIC since you don't need to be inside to listen to talented musicians, you can also enjoy some music in the street! Many people gather at the outside stairs to listen to street musicians play and give a free and public street concert.

Nothing beats an afternoon stroll down the Seine River. specially if you are planning on watching the sunset from the bridges full of "love locks". Where visitors for years have attached locks with sentimental value, throwing the keys into the …

Nothing beats an afternoon stroll down the Seine River. specially if you are planning on watching the sunset from the bridges full of "love locks". Where visitors for years have attached locks with sentimental value, throwing the keys into the Seine River.

Museum visits and cool photos at the Pyramide du Louvre, which was designed by a Chinese architect and its located in the main courtyard of the Palais du Louvre and serves as the main entrance for the Musée du Louvre.  

Museum visits and cool photos at the Pyramide du Louvre, which was designed by a Chinese architect and its located in the main courtyard of the Palais du Louvre and serves as the main entrance for the Musée du Louvre.  

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The ultimate surf town

The surf town that never sleeps. 

Zicatela

Where you can surf all day and party all night, while eating the best Mexican food, at the best price ever.

Colorful shacks everywhere, where you can get delicious food...

Colorful shacks everywhere, where you can get delicious food...

…. and party till the morning at the bars by the beach.

…. and party till the morning at the bars by the beach.

Where international Pool Parties are a usual…

Where international Pool Parties are a usual…

… and getting shacked a given!

… and getting shacked a given!

But the best part is when you get to share the perfect warm waves with friends.

But the best part is when you get to share the perfect warm waves with friends.

This surf trip was such a success, so I´m off to my next adventure!  Cant wait to see where´s my next stop!

The Floating Pineapple

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More than just good waves

There is so much more to Puerto Escondido than just world class waves.

There are so many beautiful beaches and look outs all around Puerto

There are so many beautiful beaches and look outs all around Puerto

Carrizalillo is a beautiful beach where you can swim, learn to surf or just relax at the beach and have a cold coconut and some fish tacos.

Carrizalillo is a beautiful beach where you can swim, learn to surf or just relax at the beach and have a cold coconut and some fish tacos.

Who wouldn't want to spend a day here?

Who wouldn't want to spend a day here?

Even when the sun goes down everything is gorgeous.

Even when the sun goes down everything is gorgeous.

There is also the Lagoon of Maliantepec where depending of the conditions you get to see the water glow! The plankton in the Lagoon becomes fluorescent at night so you can even see little fishes jumping like if they where Glow in the Dark toys!…

There is also the Lagoon of Maliantepec where depending of the conditions you get to see the water glow! 

The plankton in the Lagoon becomes fluorescent at night so you can even see little fishes jumping like if they where Glow in the Dark toys!! It´s pretty cool. You can also jump in the water for a swim!

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Wave after wave

Even though we where not in Puerto for the huge swells, we always had nice waves to work with.

Local Pro Oscar Moncada, getting some shade.

Local Pro Oscar Moncada, getting some shade.

Peruvian Hurley surfer Gianni getting inspired.

Peruvian Hurley surfer Gianni getting inspired.

Representing … Lucha Libre in the ocean. After all this is MEXICO!

Representing … Lucha Libre in the ocean. After all this is MEXICO!

This summer there where a lot of Australian chargers in Puerto.

Australian Charger Freya Prumm

Australian Charger Freya Prumm

And Brazilians...

Brazilian surfer, Thiago Testinha traveling through a small blue barrel.

Brazilian surfer, Thiago Testinha traveling through a small blue barrel.

Victor Lucas flying, without a care in the world.

Victor Lucas flying, without a care in the world.

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