After a long newsletter pause, we're back!


The Rambler

Culture Insights, Travel Tips, and Inspirational Journeys with Not Your Average American

We're thrilled to reconnect and share new stories and tips celebrating the connections between North and South America. This month, we delve into the heart of the Indigenous peoples of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, share 52 top things to do in and around the vibrant city of Quito, and hike to an inspiring waterfall in our adopted home state, Oregon!

Recent articles

Cultural Insight: Indigenous Peoples of the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

Not many people realize that the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve in Ecuador is home to several indigenous communities. These groups, including the Siona, Secoya, and Cofán, have ancient ties to the rainforest. Their deep knowledge of the ecosystem, traditional practices, and cultural heritage offer invaluable insights to many tourism providers. Understanding how these communities interact with tourism is a positive step towards booking more sustainable travel.

Travel Tip: Experience 52 Places in Quito, Ecuador

Despite security concerns in some parts of Ecuador, Quito, and neighboring towns are high on our list of places to visit on your next vacation. From the cobbled streets of the historic center to the stunning views from El Panecillo, Quito offers a blend of cultural, natural, and culinary delights. Just be sure to take standard safety precautions.

Inspiring Journey: Hiking Wahclella Falls, Oregon

This month, we started adding content about the United States, specifically our new home state, Oregon. A couple of weeks ago, we hiked to the serene Wahclella Falls. Found in the Columbia River Gorge, the trail to Wahclella Falls is relatively short but packed with scenic views, lush greenery, and the soothing sound of cascading water. Whether you're an avid hiker or looking for a peaceful escape, Wahclella Falls provides an inspiring journey into the heart of nature.

We hope this edition of our newsletter inspires you to visit our website and delve into more content aimed at connecting the Americas. Stay curious, travel responsibly, and make new connections!

Until next time, happy travels!

Warm regards,


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Angie of Not Your Average American, LLC

Are you a curious traveler seeking deeper connections? Then I invite you to learn more about transformative travel in the Americas. As cofounder of Not Your Average American, I bridge North and South America through storytelling and heartfelt advice on being a better traveler. Subscribe to our newsletter for cultural insights, travel tips, and inspiring journeys.

Read more from Angie of Not Your Average American, LLC

Not Your Average American, LLC September 18, 2025 We must act today to keep our wild forests roadless. ↓ “The roadless areas are the lungs of our country.” — Ryan Dibala, birding guide and conservationist Roadless forests are under threat - your voice still matters. This morning, I read a message from my colleague and coaching client Ryan Dibala that lit a fire under me. The Trump Administration is once again trying to roll back the Roadless Area Conservation Rule — a safeguard that protects...

Is Kuelap the next Machu Picchu?

THE RAMBLER Occasional Notes from Not Your Average American Some links in this newsletter are affiliate links. Your clicks and purchases help us keep sharing stories and tips. Thank you for supporting our work! Is Kuelap the next Machu Picchu? We hope not. What makes Kuelap special is precisely that it isn’t overrun with mass tourism. If you want a glimpse of what Machu Picchu might have felt like before the crowds, Kuelap deserves a place on your radar. Article coming soon! Hi Reader! We’re...

Scott using the AX Visio binoculars looking into the woods at Sauvie Island

THE RAMBLER Occasional Notes on Responsible Travel, Inspirational Stories, and Great Gear Some links in this newsletter are affiliate links. Your clicks and purchases help us keep sharing stories and tips. Thank you for supporting our work! Scott using Swarovski's AX Visio Binoculars Hi Reader! We’re packing our bags for an adventure in Northern Peru! This trip will take us from Lima’s busy streets to the cloud forests of Chachapoyas, where we’ll hike to hidden ruins and breathtaking...