We had the good fortune of connecting with Travel Journalist Maggie Espinosa and we’ve shared our conversation below. Hi Maggie, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of? Since I began as a travel journalist twenty years ago, the industry has significantly transitioned. In the beginning, I predominately wrote for newspaper and magazines, peppered with radio interviews and television appearances. Now, everything has segued online — blogs, podcasts, and videos. Because of these changes, I’ve needed to create a personal website/blog to showcase my work, as well as continually curate content for my social media platforms. Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally? As I write this, the world is in the midst of a pandemic and unrest. All aspects of my travel brand — curating content about far flung destinations for readers, hosting guests at my San Diego Airbnb, purchasing foreign indigenous items to sell on my online store (Global Personal Shopper), etc. — are on hold. For now, along with my travel contemporaries, I’m treading water to see what steps the industry will take next. Because my demographics are women ages 45-65, I cater to those who may be more trepidatious about venturing abroad at the first sign of border openings. The challenge will be determining their comfort level and providing them with the needed information to travel comfortably. I’ve learned through my years in this profession, in order to survive one must learn and then pivot to stay relevant. What ever will become of the travel industry after COVID-19, I will adapt and move forward. If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to? I’m fortunate to live in San Diego,
We had the good fortune of connecting with Travel Journalist Maggie Espinosa and we’ve shared our conversation below. Hi Maggie, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of? Since I began as a travel journalist twenty years ago, the industry has significantly transitioned. In
I can't believe it's been almost a year since I visited Cuba. I amassed so many fond memories during my week on the island. Each town has its own unique personality whether it be Havana, Trinidad, or Cienfuego. If you're thinking of taking a trip to the Caribbean nation, I say go. Here are 10 reasons to visit Cuba. 1. Cuba is so lush & green The tropical climate produces foliage the color of emeralds! Absurdly expansive vistas meet towering green mountains, all swathed in vegetation. One artist highlighted the verdant meadows by painting the limestone cliffs hovering above. Leovigildo González Morillo designed the 395-foot Mural de Prehistoria. It took 18 people four years to complete, resulting in a depiction of world history up to the age of humans. 2. The architecture Colonial buildings with ornate Spanish and Moorish influence sit majestically along the cobblestone streets of Havana. While some have seen the wear of neglect, there are numerous jaw dropping gems. The craftsmanship hardens back to a time when construction was meticulous. Inlaid tile, Greco-Roman columns, and ornate wrought-iron were de rigueur. Hotel Inglaterra, opened in 1875, has preserved its neoclassical style. You don't have to stay there to enjoy its grandeur. The lobby restaurant is open to the public. 3. Cuban coffee With over 270 years of growing coffee, Cuba has perfected the elixir. They've managed to concoct a smooth java with the kick of rocket fuel mostly grown without the use of chemicals. It's said a Cubans day doesn't begin until the aroma of coffee floats through the air. I stayed at Airbnbs' during my visit. Every host brewed copious cups of the deliciousness! 4. Sunsets for miles Cuba may be smaller than the state of Pennsylvania, but it boasts huge technicolor skies as the sun goes down. Seaside
I can’t believe it’s been almost a year since I visited Cuba. I amassed so many fond memories during my week on the island. Each town has its own unique personality whether it be Havana, Trinidad, or Cienfuego. If you’re thinking of taking a trip to the Caribbean nation, I say go. Here are 10
