Aug 28

Aug 28 Should You Be Worried About Sloth Fever?

After living through 2020 and the onset of the COVID pandemic, any exotic virus stirs up my "panic sensors". So I did some research to find out what's beyond the headlines.

Sloth Fever, endemic to Latin America since 1955, is making headlines because over 20 U.S. travelers returning from Cuba recently tested positive. While this might seem alarming, there’s no need to panic. Sloth Fever has been around for decades without causing widespread concern.

To prevent exposure to mosquito-borne illnesses there are some key tips, including wear long sleeves and pants, choose your colors wisely, and pick the right repellent.

Aug 26

Aug 26 Top Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling

Jenny Desmond

before you go, Colombia, Cuba

Travel Smart: Tips from 30 Years of Exploring Latin America and Europe

As a seasoned traveler with over 30 years of experience in Latin America and Europe, I've learned that the way I travel now is a lot different—and even more enjoyable—than when I was in my 20s. Now, at 51 and as a mother of 20somethings, I prioritize savoring every moment of my trips while also being mindful of my health and comfort. Here are my best tips to help you do the same!

Apr 10

Apr 10 D'Viajeros Step-by-Step instructions (Cuban Customs)

Rachel Desmond

Cuba, before you go

Dec 11

Dec 11 Reflecting on 2023

Jenny Desmond

Colombia, Cuba, Small Group Experience

2023 was a year of tremendous growth for Vive Mas Tours (135%!), and our World Travelers made it a success. We had sold out tours, started Club Dos+ (2+), people are signing up early, and there's a new destination coming soon!

Nov 2

Nov 2 Partnerships: SVP Boulder County

Rachel Desmond

Colombia, Cuba

Her background in fundraising crosses into other avenues as well, as she designs tours in partnership with other nonprofits to help them “raise more to do more”, Jenny’s favorite tagline.

If you know a nonprofit whose donors or volunteers like to travel abroad, reach out to Jenny to create a private tour that will build community within the organization, grow cross-cultural understanding among the travelers, and help raise needed funds for the nonprofit.

Aug 19

Aug 19 A Sweet Connection

Jenny Desmond

Cuba, Historical View, Stories from the Island

Milton Hershey in Cuba: To help ensure a steady supply of sugar for his chocolate, Milton Hershey began acquiring land in Cuba in 1916 and eventually built several mills, a railroad, and the town he named "Central Hershey." This is a unique connection between towns in Cuba and Pennsylvania.

Apr 10

Apr 10 Can I go to Cuba on my own?

Jenny Desmond

Cuba, Small Group Experience

One of the questions I get asked a lot is, “How can I go to Cuba on my own?” After numerous trips and research for the classes I teach on Cuba, the number one thing I have learned is that it is a complex (and ever-changing) system to navigate.

I’ve adventured on my own plenty in Central and South America and am fluent in Spanish, but after years of travel to Cuba and hearing the nightmares of independent travelers to Cuba, here are the reasons I swear tours are the way to go if you want an enjoyable, stress-free experience.

Apr 2

Apr 2 Mojitos with My Mom

Jenny Desmond

Cuba, Stories from the Island

Did I ever tell you about the 2019 Cuba tour where my mom came with me and Steve? It’s a popular trend to take a tour with your mom, and I completely understand why.

You should know, I live 15 minutes from my parents, who are still on the farm that I grew up on. My dad and I have always had a similar demeanor and sense of humor, and we both hate running errands. But I attribute to my mom my love for travel in Latin America and desire to speak…