Americas

February 22, 2025

In The Mix: Where to Party During Rio Carnaval

Often, I get asked how I end up at certain events while abroad. How did I even hear about them when I’m not from there, don’t speak the language, and don’t know anyone who’s going? Well, it’s one of my many skill sets, and something I actually enjoy researching. Keep reading to find out
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February 19, 2025

My Favorite Blocos From Rio Carnaval

Blocos are an essential part of the Carnaval experience in Rio de Janeiro. “But Lil, where do I find information about these blocos?” Glad you asked 😎 There’s an app for that. “Blocos de Rua” is a website and app that can help you locate all the blocos in the city. Pretty overwhelming, isn’t
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February 18, 2025

My Experience Parading Through the Sambódromo

If there’s one experience that I will cherish forever, it’s parading through the iconic Sambódromo. From building out theater sets in high school, to actually rehearsing and parading for a samba school 🤩 what a journey! Behind the scenes If you know me, you know I’m a sucker for the BTS of large events.
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February 12, 2025

A Visit to the Kura Hulanda Museum

Let’s spend a couple hours at Kura Hulanda Museum in Otrobanda, Willemstad. Entry is 12USD, guide is 3USD, but you can work through the museum on your own (it’s pretty small). I was especially interested in the island’s connection with Cabo Verde, given its striking similarities in language, food, music, and culture—which was confirmed
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February 8, 2025

Eating My Way Through Curaçao

Curaçao, the vibrant Caribbean gem, is not only known for its colorful buildings, stunning beaches, and rich history, but also its incredible street food—let’s eat! 😋 Pastechi A deep-fried staple, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, pastechi comes filled with a variety of fillings. Stoba Slow-cooked stew made with tender meats
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January 30, 2025

Samba Schools Throw The Best Parties

When we think of partying, we usually picture a club. But in Rio, samba schools throw spectacular parties all year round. There are several samba schools dotted around Rio, some being older and more popular than others. Leading up to Carnaval, the schools will host a bunch of events in preparation for the largest
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December 19, 2024

Feijoada and Samba: Name a better duo

As I was scrolling through instagram, I was shown an ad for an event hosted by one of the more famous samba schools in Rio—Mangueira. These are the perks of arriving in a city early, your algorithm starts blessing you with events you otherwise would miss. This event peaked my interest for two reasons—feijoada
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December 19, 2024

How to Experience Curaçao on a Budget

Curaçao is a little slice of paradise nestled in the southern Caribbean, just off the coast of Venezuela. It’s part of the Dutch Caribbean and has a perfect blend of European charm and tropical vibes. You might think that such a beautiful destination comes with a hefty price tag, but the truth is, Curaçao
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December 19, 2024

Better Belly Buss: Eating My Way Through Trinidad & Tobago

“Better belly buss than good food waste”—a trini proverb that you’ll surely adopt when you arrive to this country. I took this quote so serious, I left a lot fluffier than I arrived—and it was a thousand percent worth it. What I Ate I didn’t even scratch the surface of everything I wanted to
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About Lilly

Just a nomad embracing cultural events and linking up with cool people along the way.
Where I've Been 🌍
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