North and Central America
From the powerful USA to the revolutionary Cuba
My North and Central America travelling adventures were the initial experiences that paved the way for future global explorations.
North and Central America have 23 countries, and I visited every one of them: Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, the United States of America.
The USA is the superpower whose decisions, policies, and cultural influence affects throughout the entire region and beyond. Regardless of personal sentiments towards the USA, it is without doubts one of the most remarkable travelling destinations in the world. The unique national parks are so diverse, vast and attractive that I never get bored of them.
A steady North America versus an evolving Central America
Mexico is my favorite destination in this region, where I travelled around on a motorbike for months. I explored the most relevant pre-Columbian ruins, breathtaking turquoise waters of the Yucatan beaches and immersing for weeks in the vibrant life of the capital, Mexico City.
Central America can be seen as a region filled with danger, turbulence, and complexity; nevertheless, it is rapidly evolving and opening its doors to foreign visitors and investors. El Salvador used to be a no-go country for decades. When I visited in the early 2020s, it was turning into a popular place for surfers and backpackers.
Costa Rica has successfully cultivated a strong PR presence, promoting Pura vida slogan as the birthplace of ecotourism. Panama must show more effort to position as more than just a shopping destination and Panama Canal owner.
Cuba and Dominican Republic are the hottest destinations in the Caribbean, offering sunshine, beautiful beaches, and great cultural experience. Cuba is one of the few truly socialist countries in the world, and it feels very unique. It’s so special that I can easily call it my favorite place in the Caribbean.
The country I explored the least in this region is Canada. There are many reasons to return and undertake a complete overland trip from coast to coast and extend it to Alaska, which would conclude my North and Central America travelling adventures.
Countries visited in North and Central America – 23 of 23
