Victoria Leandra
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As seen on WaPo, Food&Wine, VICE | Words on HuffPost, R29, TripAdvisor, Thrillist, TripSavvy, Business Insider + 📧VLHM13@gmail.com ✈️ 55K+ followers on IG + TT
Articles by Victoria Leandra
Everyone Wants a 'Third Place.' For Us, It's Always Been The Salon.
Victoria Leandra Fri, October 9, 2026 at 4:24 PM EDT 7 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Add Yahoo on Google Hairdresser washing a young adult woman's hair in a ceramic basin at a modern hair salon, providing a relaxing beauty treatment and professional self-care service Like this article? Keep independent journalism alive. Support HuffPost.
Older Puerto Ricans Are Battling The Water Crisis Head-On
Residents collect water from a tanker truck at a distribution point during a government imposed water rationing amid a severe drought in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on August 6, 2026.
Older Puerto Ricans Are Battling The Water Crisis Head-On
Residents collect water from a tanker truck at a distribution point during a government imposed water rationing amid a severe drought in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on August 6, 2026.
Would You Travel to Costa Rica to Understand Yourself Better? I Tried It
The Vessyl (The Vessyl) We live in an era of unprecedented self-knowledge, or at least unprecedented self-measurement. A watch can tell me how deeply I slept. A ring can track my recovery. Continuous glucose monitors can reveal how lunch affected my blood sugar. We quantify steps, stress, heart rate, REM cycles and readiness scores with a precision that would have been unimaginable to previous generations. And yet the questions underneath all that data have barely changed: Who am I?
Brides Spend Thousands on Their Dress But They Rarely Think About This Wedding Detail
Victoria Leandra and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. @VictoriaLeandra By the time I found my wedding dress, I assumed the hardest part was over.
The Chic Bridal Fashion Finds Every Stylish Bride Needs on Her Radar
Victoria Leandra and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Two cheerful women in bathrobes and sunglasses take a selfie while lounging on a hotel bed surrounded by makeup. This playful scene illustrates female friendship, modern travel, and a fun morning routine. (Maria Korneeva via Getty Images) There’s a certain kind of bride redefining wedding style right now.
I Tried the Internet's Most Talked About Self-Care Products, Here's What's Actually Worth It Original
Victoria Leandra and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Woman wearing led facial mask for skincare treatment at home. Concept of beauty technology, anti aging therapy, cosmetic device usage, skin rejuvenation routine, modern self care.
Europe's Best Wellness Hotel Is in a Quiet Swiss Town You've Probably Never Heard Of
Victoria Leandra and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Grand Resort Bad Ragaz After the adrenaline of wedding planning, months of logistics, and the emotional high of saying I do, what you crave on a honeymoon is not always more adventure. Sometimes, what you need is stillness, a place where the schedule softens, the phone stays on ‘Do Not Disturb,’ and the only real plan is to rest. And that is precisely what Grand Resort Bad Ragaz gave us.
I Thought I Was Visiting Sicily—Then This Hotel Became the Entire Trip
Some hotels are where you sleep while exploring a destination. And then there are the rare few that become the destination itself. Il San Corrado di Noto belongs firmly in the latter category. Set in the heart of the Mediterranean, in Sicily’s Val di Noto, the property occupies what was once an ancient masseria, a fortified farmhouse that once belonged to Prince Nicolaci.
How Non-Spanish Speakers Fell In Love With Bad Bunny's Music
I spoke with six non-Spanish-speaking fans across the United States and revealed what drew them to Bad Bunny's music. Photo: Devon Ashby / Antoine Bardet / Camille Easy Fordecades,the American music industry operated under a largely unquestioned assumption: global superstardom required English.
Rauw Alejandro’s 'Besito En La Frente' Is A Love Letter To Afro-Caribbean Roots
“Puerto Rico doesn’t just export music, we export culture, history, and spirit,” Rafael Cepeda Rivera says. Photo: Victoria Leadra RauwAlejandro’sfuturistic era, once marked by the album releases of “Saturno” and “Playa Saturno,” has now taken a clear turn toward home. With “Cosa Nuestra” and his latest album, “Cosa Nuestra: Capítulo 0,” the Puerto Rican singer/songwriter shifts his gaze from outer space to the island that raised him, grounding his sound and visuals in Afro-Boricua tradition.
The Destination Travel Experts Are Quietly Obsessed With
From the moment I stepped onto the cobblestone streets of Antigua Guatemala, I felt transported into a storybook version of itself — colonial facades painted in bright colors, archways framing volcanoes, cafés spilling onto plazas, and a vivid sense that I had stumbled upon a “hidden gem.” That’s a rarity for a travel journalist and content creator who’s seen a lot.
Puerto Ricans Tell Us - In Spanish - How Excited They Are For Bad Bunny At The Super Bowl
Bad Bunny attends the premiere of "Caught Stealing" at Regal Union Square on Aug. 26 in New York. Evan Agostini via Associated Press Foryears,the Super Bowl Halftime Show has been one of the most-watched performances in the world, a stage reserved for global icons who define American culture. In 2026, that moment will belong to Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio aka Bad Bunny — the first male Latino artist and the first Boricua to headline the show solo.
This Part of Japan Is Packed With Hidden Gems-But Tourists Rarely Go
Victoria Leandra and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this story. Pricing and availability are subject to change. Japan has long drawn travelers to its neon-drenched cities and ancient temples, but the farther north you go, the more a different rhythm emerges. Summer festivals, volcanic hot springs, Indigenous culture, and unspoiled nature define northern Hokkaido—regions that remain under-explored compared to Tokyo or Kyoto.
You’re Starting to Think About Engagement Rings - Here’s What to Know About Diamonds
Victoria Leandra and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this story. Pricing and availability are subject to change. Shopping for an engagement ring can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with one of the biggest questions in today’s market: should you choose a natural diamond or a lab-grown one? Both are real diamonds, but they differ in origin, price, and perception. What Defines a Diamond?
Visiting Puerto Rico? Here’s How to Do It Safely, Respectfully, and Authentically
Bad Bunny’s “No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí” residency isn’t just the hottest concert ticket of the 2025 summer, it’s also sparking a wave of tourism unlike anything Puerto Rico has seen before. With over 600,000 visitors expected during the three-month run, the island is buzzing with fans who want to experience more than just the music. But amid the excitement, locals are being direct: come ready to party and respect Puerto Rico.
Bad Bunny Is Giving Us His All In Puerto Rico - So We Had to Dress Accordingly
"Our attire was a wearable love letter to Benito’s latest album, ‘DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS,’" says Victoria Leandra, writer and resident of Puerto Rico. Illustration: HuffPost; Photos: Victoria Leandra InPuertoRico, attending a Bad Bunny show means more than a ticket and a set list — it means stepping into your most authentic self and showing the world that el flow de nuestra isla is as bold and unapologetic as our global superstar himself. In our culture, dressing with intention is a priority.
As a Latina Bride, I Had to Unlearn What Marriage Should Look Like
Story from Somos ADVERTISEMENT Getting married was never part of my vision board. I was busy carving out a life of solo flights, financial autonomy, and career success. When my fiancé and I decided to say “I do,” it wasn’t driven by the need to check another box on life’s to-do list. It was because I had found someone whose ambitions matched my own, someone who saw partnership not as surrender, but as two full lives coming together.
For Latinas, Glam Isn’t Vanity — It’s Legacy, Armor & Self-Love
Story from Somos ADVERTISEMENT Whether it’s hiring a makeup artist for a speaking engagement or doing a full face before running errands, many Latinas know the power of showing up polished. But this isn’t just about vanity — it’s cultural muscle memory. In many of our households, being "presentable" isn’t optional; it’s expected. It’s a learned behavior passed from one generation to the next, but most of all, it’s deeply tied to notions of pride, self-care, and even survival.
For These Culinary Tastemakers, It All Starts With Being Unapologetically Latino At Work
“My food isn’t defined by geography. It’s defined by technique. My cuisine isn’t about pleasing everyone,” the 2025 James Beard Award-nominated chef Carol Reyes says. Courtesy of Carol Reyes Inrestaurantsand bars across the country, a generation of Latines in the hospitality industry are quietly but powerfully resisting erasure. With intention and authenticity, these culinary visionaries are reshaping narratives about Latinidad — on their own terms.
How Samaná Taught Me to Slow Down-and Love the All-Inclusive Life
As a travel journalist, I’ve always leaned toward the kind of trips that keep me on the move—immersive, spontaneous, a little unpredictable. All-inclusives have never been my scene. I pictured rigid schedules, crowded pools, and experiences that felt too curated. I chase stories, culture, and the messy magic of local streets—not buffet lines.
The Ultimate Bridesmaid Gift Guide
Your bridesmaids are your ride-or-die crew, supporting you through every step of your wedding journey. Show your appreciation with gifts that are as special as they are. Bridesmaid Proposal Box Essentials Adina Eden Adina Eden Jewelry Delight your bridesmaids with elegant pieces from Adina Eden. Their collection features beautifully crafted earrings, necklaces, and bracelets that add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Prices range from $50 to $100, making them perfect for gifting.
The Ultimate Bridesmaid Gift Guide
Your bridesmaids are your ride-or-die crew, supporting you through every step of your wedding journey. Show your appreciation with gifts that are as special as they are. Bridesmaid Proposal Box Essentials Adina Eden Adina Eden Jewelry Delight your bridesmaids with elegant pieces from Adina Eden. Their collection features beautifully crafted earrings, necklaces, and bracelets that add a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Prices range from $50 to $100, making them perfect for gifting.
Inside the Marketing Mecca of Coachella: Where Brands Go to Win Over Gen-Z Original
From free flights to denim customization and surprise celeb drop-ins, brands turned the desert into a competitive playground for consumer attention. Victoria Leandra Apr 17, 2025 Thu, April 17, 2025 at 1:24 AM UTC 3 min read Coachella might be best known for its headlining acts and boho-chic fashion, but for brands, it has quietly become the Super Bowl of marketing — a place where corporate cool is measured by activation square footage, influencer RSVPs, and TikTok virality.
Essentials Every Bride Should Own Before the Wedding Day Original
You’ve got the ring, the Pinterest board, and maybe even the date—but what about everything else that comes with planning a wedding? No one really tells you just how many little things go into feeling prepared, confident, and stress-free as a bride. From the moment you get engaged to the final walk down the aisle, there are a thousand moving pieces—and the right products can make all the difference.
Inside Spring 2026 Bridal Fashion Week: Basque Waists, Corsetry & Separates
New York Bridal Fashion Week has always been about dreams woven in silk and stitched in tulle, but Spring 2026 felt particularly emotional. Maybe it was the intimate show settings, maybe the soft return to classic elegance—but more likely, it was the undeniable presence of designers who understood the modern bride’s desire for both tradition and edge.
Restaurants in Puerto Rico You Can't Miss, According to a Local Food Journalist
Puerto Rico offers a rich tapestry of flavors, blending traditional ingredients with modern innovation. Each of these local restaurants highlights the creativity and passion of its chefs while staying rooted in Puerto Rico’s culinary traditions. 1919 Restaurant Located in the luxurious Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, 1919 Restaurant is led by Chef Juan José Cuevas, who previously worked in Michelin-starred kitchens around the world.
The Ultimate Style Guide for the Newly Engaged: What to Wear for Every Bridal Event
From your engagement party to the rehearsal dinner, the bachelorette to the big day itself, this moment in your life deserves outfits as unforgettable as the memories you’re about to make. In this curated guide, we’re spotlighting the best in bridal fashion—elevated, on-trend pieces from the brands every stylish bride should have on her radar. Whether your vibe is modern and minimalist, romantic and ethereal, or fashion-forward with a touch of drama, these pieces were made to celebrate you.
Restaurants in Puerto Rico You Can't Miss, According to a Local Food Journalist
Puerto Rico offers a rich tapestry of flavors, blending traditional ingredients with modern innovation. Each of these local restaurants highlights the creativity and passion of its chefs while staying rooted in Puerto Rico’s culinary traditions. Note: The restaurants are mentioned in no particular order, as each offers a unique and exceptional culinary experience. Puerto Rico's best food 1.
The Stakes Are High And Becky G Is Not Backing Down
“This is my city, the place that raised me," says Becky G. "It sometimes takes great tragedy striking our own backyards for us to realize how much showing up really matters." Photo: Ramona Rosales for Fabletics BeckyGhas never been confined to a single sound. Effortlessly moving between reggaetón, Latin pop, and most recently, regional Mexican music, she embodies the genre-blending spirit that defines today’s Latin music scene.
The Best Valentine’s Day Gifts for Avid Travelers in 2025
Victoria Leandra and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this story. Pricing and availability subject to change. VDay Whether your loved one is always catching flights, documenting their adventures, or just needs a chic and practical travel setup, these gifts are sure to impress. For the Book-Loving Traveler: Kindle Paperwhite Buy Here ($134.99, 16% off from 2/7 – 2/14) For travelers who love to get lost in a good book, the new Kindle Paperwhite is a must-have.
Puerto Rico’s Music Is Still A Powerful Weapon Against Erasure
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Seguimo’ Aquí: Puerto Rico’s Music Is Still A Powerful Weapon Against Erasure
Overthepast decade, Puerto Ricans have endured a relentless string of challenges that have left the island bruised but unbroken, including a crippling economic crisis, Hurricane Maria’s devastation, earthquakes and ongoing power grid failures. Schools have shuttered and health care systems have faltered while rising gentrification and tourism-driven displacement loom large over our local communities.
13 Restaurants in Puerto Rico You Can't Miss, According to a Local Food Journalist
Yahoo Creator Victoria Leandra Updated Thu, December 5, 2024 at 7:26 PM UTC 4 min read Puerto Rico offers a rich tapestry of flavors, blending traditional ingredients with modern innovation. Each of these local restaurants highlights the creativity and passion of its chefs while staying rooted in Puerto Rico’s culinary traditions. Note: They are mentioned in no particular order, as each offers a unique and exceptional culinary experience. 1.
Tequila’s Future Is Female
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Tequila’s Future Is Female
“Tosucceedas a woman — particularly 30 years ago, when I started — you have to be extremely dedicated to the craft and fight to prove yourself every day,” says Ana María Romero. In the heart of Mexico’s tequila-producing regions, Romero is now one of the most respected authorities on the spirit.
A Travel Journalist's Guide to Marbella and Tenerife Original
@VictoriaLeandra travels to Spain's Marbella and Tenerife. (Victoria Leandra) Nestled along the sun-drenched shores of southern Spain, both Marbella and Tenerife offer an enchanting blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and authentic culture. Picture this: you’re strolling through the charming streets of Marbella’s old town, where whitewashed buildings are adorned with bougainvillea.
Is The Term 'Latinx' Inclusive Or Imposed?
Victoria Leandra September 17, 2024 at 1:41 PM·3 min read "For younger Latinos like myself, country-specific identifiers reflect our desire for individuality within the larger framework of Latinidad," says writer Victoria Leandra. Illustration: Damon Dahlen/HuffPost; Photos: Getty ArecentPew Research Center report found that almost half of U.S. Latino adults say they’ve heard of the term “Latinx,” yet very few — 4% — have used it to identify themselves.
Bad Bunny Is A Folk Artist First And A Pop Artist Second
Despite Bad Bunny’s colossal crossover into the mainstream, his work will always signify something different to our community. Illustration: Benjamin Currie/HuffPost; Photo: Getty Askanyyoung Puerto Rican where they were and who they were with when Bad Bunny dropped his first album back in 2018. It was Christmas Eve, and to many, it was a gift to his island. I was in a car in Puerto Rico when I listened to “X 100PRE” for the first time, vibrating with a childlike excitement.
Women Are Flying To Turkey For Hair Transplants Too - And It's Time We Talk About It
GlendaKennethvividly recalls the day she noticed that her hair was falling out. “I had my hair shoulder-length, and within six months of [moving to the U.S.] I had lost half of it,” she says. Kenneth, a 38-year-old woman in Fort Worth, Texas, had just emigrated from Nigeria to attend graduate school when the issue began. Initially attributing her hair loss to stress, Kenneth tried various remedies, including her own homemade hair oils, but the problem persisted.
How to Celebrate a Wedding in a Latino Country, Respectfully
I've been fortunate enough to witness a diverse range of weddings—from a lively Cuban-Puerto Rican celebration to a beautiful Puerto Rican-Syrian fusion and of course, a classic Puerto Rican affair, each of which was a unique showcase of rich customs and rituals.
The Ultimate 7-Day Turkey Itinerary, According to a Travel Journalist
Turkey is a land of contrasts, where ancient history meets modern luxury, and East blends seamlessly with West. This past summer, I had the chance to cross the country off my bucket list with a trip to Istanbul and Antalya.
Madeira's Hidden Gem: A Lavish Experience at The Reserve Hotel
An autonomous region of Portugal, Madeira is renowned for its exquisite viniculture and subtropical climate. Unlike its Mediterranean counterparts like Ibiza and the famed Greek islands, the archipelago offers attainable luxury. On a recent trip, I experienced this firsthand with a stay at The Reserve, an exclusive boutique hotel where the attention to detail is unmatched. Upon landing in Madeira, a hotel escort ensured my airport arrival was as smooth as possible.
10 Latin America hidden gems you need to visit before they become too popular
As a Latina born and raised in Puerto Rico, traveling around Latin America for the past three years has been more than a dream come true. It’s allowed me to educate myself about my roots further while exploring different parts of my identity. My career as a travel journalist has taken me to some of the region’s most breathtaking hidden gems—places still off the beaten path but bursting with beauty, adventure, and, most importantly, authentic culture.
The gay-friendly guide to Cape Cod (beyond Provincetown)
When people think of Cape Cod’s LGBTQ+ scene, Provincetown immediately comes to mind. Known for its vibrant nightlife and theme weeks packed with non-stop summer events, P-Town is undeniably the party capital for queer travelers. However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, intimate experience, Cape Cod has many other welcoming towns that offer unique charms and a warm embrace for the LGBTQ+ community year-round.
Black & Brown Women Are The Driving Force Of This 800-People Island — & It’s Thriving
Story from Somos ADVERTISEMENT With a population of just 800, Little Corn Island is a hidden gem in the Caribbean, and it holds an inspiring secret: Women keep it going. Hailing from diverse backgrounds and spanning different generations, these women are pioneering entrepreneurs who, through community initiatives and sheer determination, have transformed Little Corn Island into a model of sustainable, women-and-family-led tourism and way of life.
How Chef Carlos Portela Captures The Real Puerto Rico On A Plate
"Our job is to absorb [our] energy, place it on a dish and bring it to the people," says chef Carlos Portela, pictured here to the right of sous-chef Christian. Photo: Victoria Leandra AsIwalk into chef Carlos Portela’s restaurant, Orujo, nestled in the swanky restaurant district of Miramar in San Juan, Puerto Rico, I’m greeted at once by John Lee Hooker’s blues. It shatters any expectations I had for a sterile environment often associated with fine-dining establishments in this area.
I visited the island that's been called the 'Hawaii of Europe.' Here's why it's a must-see hidden gem. Original
Travel I visited Madeira, Portugal, which has been called the "Hawaii of Europe." Victoria Leandra This story is available exclusively to Business Insider subscribers. Become an Insider and start reading now. Have an account? . I visited Madeira, Portugal, which is often referred to as the "Hawaii of Europe." Madeira offers a mild climate all year, rugged coastlines, and a bustling city center. I recommend checking out places like Monte Palace and the Cabo Girão skywalk.
Puerto Rico 2024: All You Need to Know Before You Go
What is the timezone? Atlantic Standard Time What are the voltage/plug types? The standard voltage in the United States is 120 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz. The plug has two flat parallel pins. What is the currency? The U.S. Dollar Are ATMs readily accessible? Yes. Are credit cards widely accepted? Yes. How much do I tip? Tipping is not obligatory in Puerto Rico, however, a tip for exceptional service is always appreciated.
I climbed a terrifying 1,200 feet to stay in a transparent pod suspended off the side of a cliff in Peru
Travel I climbed a via ferrata to the Starlodge hotel. Victoria Leandra My dad and I stayed in a Starlodge hotel pod in Peru, which hangs off the side of a cliff. We climbed up 1,200 feet on a via ferrata to reach the capsules. The climb was terrifying but worth it for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Advertisement The first time I saw a photo of the transparent hotel pods overlooking Peru's Sacred Valley, I added them to my travel bucket list.
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