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Meet Valentina Santiago

Author

¡Hola a todos! I'm Valentina, a software developer by day and a passionate traveler by night (and weekends!). Born and raised in the beautiful Arecibo, Puerto Rico, I now call Heidelberg, Germany, my home. This blog is my way of sharing my adventures, cultural insights, and sustainable travel tips with you. Join me as I explore the world, one carefully planned and culturally immersive trip at a time. I hope to inspire you to embrace new experiences, connect with different cultures, and travel responsibly.

Personality Traits:
  • Passionate
  • Loyal
  • Warm
  • Friendly
  • Assertive
  • Curious
  • Adaptable
  • Organized
Bucket List:
  • Various, Norway, Iceland, Canada
  • Cusco, Peru
  • Queensland, Australia
  • Various, Maldives
  • Agra, India

Latest Travel Diaries by Valentina Santiago

More about Valentina Santiago

Valentina grew up in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, surrounded by a large, close-knit family. After graduating from the University of Puerto Rico with a degree in Computer Science, she felt drawn to explore new horizons and experience life beyond the island. She moved to Heidelberg, Germany, five years ago, initially for a job opportunity in a tech company. She quickly adapted to the German culture, embracing its efficiency and appreciation for work-life balance. She met her husband, Maximilian, at a tech conference, and they bonded over their shared passion for technology and travel. While she enjoys her career as a software developer, she misses the vibrant culture and warmth of Puerto Rico. She started her travel blog on Evendo as a way to stay connected to her roots and share her experiences with others, hoping to inspire them to explore the world.

  • icon Age
    33
  • icon Gender
    Female
  • icon Occupation
    Software Developer
  • icon Birth Country
    Puerto Rico
  • icon Birth City
    Arecibo
  • icon Current Country
    Germany
  • icon Current City
    Heidelberg
  • icon Marital Status
    Married
  • icon Spouse
    Maximilian Schmidt, Male, 35
  • icon Children
    • None

Interest

  • Technology
  • Sustainable living
  • Cultural exchange
  • Linguistics
  • History

Hobbies

  • Salsa dancing
  • Cooking traditional Puerto Rican dishes
  • Learning German idioms
  • Hiking in the Odenwald forest
  • Visiting local farmers markets in Heidelberg

Recent Articles & Tips by Valentina Santiago

Travel Essentials

  • Passport and necessary visas
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Universal adapter
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Camera and equipment
  • Spare batteries/charger

Travel Tips

  • Embrace sustainable travel practices by supporting local businesses and minimizing your environmental impact.

  • Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to connect with people and show respect for their culture.

  • Pack light to reduce your carbon footprint and make navigating airports and train stations easier.

  • Be open to spontaneity and unexpected adventures – some of the best travel experiences are unplanned.

  • Always research local customs and traditions to ensure you're being respectful and culturally sensitive.

Recent Memories from Valentina Santiago

This Explorers Travel Highlights

  • My Travel Highlight

    One of my most cherished travel memories is hiking through the El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico. The vibrant green canopy, the sound of coquis (tiny frogs), and the refreshing waterfalls made me feel deeply connected to my roots. It was a powerful reminder of the natural beauty I carry within me.

  • Favourite Destination

    Heidelberg, Germany, without a doubt. It's where I've built my life with Maximilian, and the city's blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it endlessly captivating. From exploring the Heidelberg Castle to strolling along the Neckar River, every day feels like a new adventure.

  • Best Hotel

    The Hotel Santa Isabel in Havana, Cuba. Staying there felt like stepping back in time. The architecture was stunning, the courtyard was peaceful, and the staff treated me like family. It was an immersive cultural experience that truly enhanced my visit to Cuba.

  • My Adventurous Destination

    Ecuador! The sheer variety of landscapes and experiences is unparalleled. I spent a month exploring the Amazon rainforest, the Andes mountains, and the Galapagos Islands. Staying with an indigenous tribe in the Amazon was a humbling and unforgettable experience.

  • My Food Destination

    Rome, Italy. The pasta is divine, the pizza is heavenly, and the gelato is simply irresistible. Every meal is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients and time-honored culinary traditions. I could spend a lifetime exploring the trattorias and savoring the flavors of Rome.

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