El Cafecito Travel Talks
El Cafecito Travel Talks is a travel and cultural podcast hosted by Tony Lloyd, a travel planner, hostel owner, and community builder who has spent more than 25 years living and working in Latin America.
Each episode features real conversations with travellers, expats, backpackers, cultural explorers, community leaders, and people who have chosen to step outside their comfort zone and explore the world in their own way. From short adventures to life-changing moves abroad, these stories highlight the experiences, challenges, connections, and discoveries that come from seeing the world through different eyes.
Along the way, we’ll explore travel, culture, community, identity, and the unexpected moments that connect people across borders. Many conversations focus on Latin America, including the stories, experiences, and contributions of Afro-descendant communities throughout the Americas, but the lessons and connections are universal.
Whether you’re an experienced traveller, dreaming of living abroad, planning your next adventure, or simply curious about the people and places that make our world interesting, there’s a seat for you at the table.
Grab a cafecito or a tea and join us for the journey.
Travel. Culture. Connection.
El Cafecito Travel Talks
#48 What Ecuador Taught a 12-Year-Old Traveller
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What is it like to move to another country at age 10, learn a new language, attend school in a different culture, and build a new life from scratch?
In this episode of El Cafecito Travel Talks, Tony Lloyd sits down with Karmarri and his mother, artist Iyahdae Rose, as they reflect on two years living in Cuenca, Ecuador, before returning to the United States.
Karmarri shares his experiences learning Spanish, adapting to school, making friends, discovering Ecuadorian food, and what surprised him most about life in Ecuador. Iyahdae discusses her decision to leave the United States, the importance of peace and quality of life, and what she believes families can gain from living abroad.
Together, they explore how travel and cultural immersion can shape a young person’s perspective on the world.
Topics discussed:
• Living in Cuenca, Ecuador, as a family
• Learning Spanish through immersion
• School life in Ecuador
• Ecuadorian food and culture
• Raising children abroad
• Independence and personal growth
• Travel through a child’s eyes
• Returning to the United States after living abroad
Guests: Karmarri and Mom Iyahdae Rose (iyahdae.art)
Host: Tony Lloyd
Travel • Culture • Connection
If you’d like to support El Cafecito Travel Talks and help keep these conversations going, you’ll find a contribution link in the podcast notes.
Interested in meaningful travel experiences in Central or South America?
Tony Lloyd also provides independent travel advisory services focused on cultural connection and authentic local experiences.
Thanks for sharing a cafecito or tea with us.
Connect info:
Questions, comments, guest suggestions, or story ideas:
email: cafecitotraveltalks@gmail.com
El Cafecito Hostel - Cuenca Ecuador
email: admincafecito@gmail.com
Travel Advisor - Latin America:
WhatsApp: +593 99 99 39 550
LinkedIn: Tony Lloyd Wilkinson
Support the Podcast:
If you have any problem with the PayPal link, please contact:
WhatsApp: +593 99 99 39 550
New episodes are released every Tuesday.
Thank you for sharing a cafecito or a tea with us...