Cloud forests, butterfly farms and chocolate bars, Mindo is truly a gem. A village in the Andes Mountains of northern Ecuador, this rich landscape is part of the Mindo-Nambillo Reserve and is packed with unique bird species, delicate orchids and cascading waterfalls.

Known since the colonial era as Cartagena de Indias, Cartagena is made up of a charming walled Old Town, founded in the 16th century, with squares, parks, cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings. The tropical climate also gives way to spending days at the beach but the best are only accessible by boat.

What it means to be in your mid-thirties. A time of transition and a major turning point, the latter half of my thirties have given way to freedom and a deep sense of knowing.