Explaining my typical gringo transformation from seeing “Latino” as a race, which it’s not, to a culture. Inspired by a poem by Noel Quiñones.
Let’s Go to Cuba … Before It’s Ruined!
A few less-than-ringing endorsements from recent visitors to Cuba, followed by why I’d still like to go (before it’s ruined).
Keeping an Open Mind About Human Trafficking
Asking some tough questions about the seemingly open-and-shut case of human trafficking in Arequipa which involved Peru’s former top cop, Raul Becerra.
TIA: Free Hugs for Hipsters
Anecdote from a hipster bar in St. Louis and the “blue bubble” which are a bit of culture shock for an expat on a visit home from Latin America.
TIA: ‘US Bank Needs to Get Their Sh*t Together’
Anecdote from a bank in suburban St. Louis illustrating a bit of culture shock for an expat on a visit home from Latin America.
The Latin Music Continuum for Expats
Describing the two extremes when it comes to gringo expats and Latin music, from the Idiot Abroad who doesn’t like anything to the Full Retard who is trying too hard to be liked.
Time for Latin America to Show Its Virility
Latin America must show it is not impotent in the face of dictatorship in Venezuela. It’s time for South America to clean up its own back yard!
Say No to Cocaine Shaming
A rebuttal against a Guardian op-ed which argues that white, middle-class cocaine users are complicit in the violence of narcoterrorism and the drug war.
Cumbia: Colombia’s Heartbeat Rhythm
A brief overview of Colombian cumbia and playlist featuring Lucho Bermudez, Pedro Salcedo, Jose Barros, Gabriel Romero, Toto la Momposina and more.
American Hardcore: A Training Playlist
All-American hardcore playlist for intense training. Rap/hip-hop, metal, rock rap, reggaeton, trap and more. Ladies, this may not be for you.
Expat Chronicles Inspires ‘Manosphere’ Meme
Detailing how Expat Chronicles planted the seed for the common “manosphere” meme, “soy boy,” in a 2012 article disparaging reggaeton artist, Farruko.
Just Checked, Restaurant Service Still Sucks
A look at the inferior restaurant service in Peru and greater Latin America, with anecdotes from the cities where I’ve lived: Lima, Bogota and Arequipa.
A Pinch of Politically Incorrect Peruvian Art
A look at politicially-incorrect artwork produced by indigenist painter and drawer Camilo Blas, whose later worked featured city life in Lima, Peru.
Do You Really Believe in Your New Country?
An overview with links for country-specific ETFs (exchange-traded funds) for expats looking for a relatively low-risk way to invest money in their new countries.
