La Carmina

La Carmina

A Transformative Temple Sojourn

A Transformative Temple Sojourn

In 2017, I spent several nights living in a simple Buddhist temple surrounded by trees, high up on Japan’s Mount Kōya. I booked this retreat because several friends had recommended it to me as an intriguing cultural immersion....

How to Style a Face Mask to Look Fashionable

How to Style a Face Mask to Look Fashionable

Masks have become the unexpected must-have fashion accessory for 2020. Some people may grumble about wearing facial coverings, but we’re doing it to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Currently, the Canadian government recommends donning a mask whenever you...

I Beamed into a Telepresence Robot to see Art at the Mass MoCA

I Beamed into a Telepresence Robot to see Art at the Mass MoCA

https://www.tiktok.com/@lacarmina/video/6899972846987054338?sender_device=pc&sender_web_id=6903945952252577285&is_from_webapp=1 I miss flying somewhere and meandering around art museums—activities that are now impossible because of the pandemic. While researching virtual tours, my antenna lit up when I learned of “telepresence robots,” which let us visit far-off places...

The Glory And Greatness Of Greece

The Glory And Greatness Of Greece

Greece is a summer travel destination that lives up to its postcard-perfect reputation. Picture this: crumbling white ruins, blue churches, and sunsets over the Aegean Sea. There’s a laid-back timelessness here that is certain to charm every type...

Exploring the Sands of Time

Exploring the Sands of Time

I’ve been fascinated by Egypt since childhood. Tales of the ancient civilization – a land of cunning queens, cat worship and mummies – grabbed my imagination. After decades of dreaming, I took the leap and booked a flight...

Cuba Libre!

Cuba Libre!

The charming plaza in front of the yellow church of Santo Angel Custodio is shown here from a balcony. This location inspired celebrated Cuban author Cirilo Villaverde to write his novel “Cecilia Valdés.” In this hectic smartphone age,...