There are places you go and things that you see that make you scratch your head. The dress of the women of Bolivia is one of these cultural phenomenon that leave you wondering…why?

I had to find out how this peculiar fashion statement came about. Here’s what I learned:

Known as the “White City,” Arequipa is Peru’s second largest city and one of my favorite in South America! Designated as an UNESCO heritage site, the colonial-era town is encircled by the Andes Mountains.

Sound pretty? It is! Here’re 7 fabulous activities to do in Arequipa:

Most travelers never set foot in a hostel, and for good reason. Hostel – or hostile – living is an acquired taste. As I near the end of my trip and funds are getting tight, I almost always find myself sleeping in a bunk bed.

Here’re 8 ups and downs of hostel living: