Meet Gina Cornell

If you handed me a map of Latin America, I would genuinely have a hard time picking just one place to go.

I spent six years living in Mexico, which basically rewired my brain and my heart. The aroma of a sprig of fresh cilantro has the power to transport me to street tacos and open-air marimba music next to the Plaza Central in Merida, Yucatán.

That stretch of time turned into a deep love affair with the food, the people, the colors, the beauty, and the absolute magic of moving through the world while speaking a new language.

Now I chase that feeling everywhere I can, from the Bay of Banderas in Puerta Vallarta to the glacial coastlines of Patagonia to the lush and relaxing thermal spas in Pucon, Chile, and everywhere in between. I’m an adventure traveler and a proud believer in the “race-cation,” which means I will absolutely sign up for a triathlon, local five-kilometer event or an off the beaten path trail run in a different country and call it a vacation.

That’s where I’ve had my most memorable experiences and made lifelong friendships. Not to mention, seeing a place at ground level, on my own two feet (or two wheels, for that matter).

Most recently I went paragliding in Temuco, Chile, and I’m still not over it. Launching off a hillside with ancient volcanoes in the background while soaring with the birds is the kind of thing that makes you rethink your entire life in the best possible way.

When I’m not mid-flight or mid-race, you’ll find me wandering through local neighborhoods, eating whatever looks most interesting or something I’ve never tried but am hearing is a “must taste.”

Latin America has my whole heart, and I’m always looking for the next city, the next dish, and the next adventure to fall in love with. Let’s go find yours.