Everyone has a different concept of the holidays. There are those who really like them, because it is when they are off work and they get to fully enjoy their loved ones. Then, there are those who dread them, because it is a reminder of hectic traffic, busy malls, busy airports, and annoying expectations & obligations. I personally can relate to all the above. Not a fan, but not a hater either.

Although I was born and raised in Perú, I spent my teen years in Caracas-Venezuela. It was then and there that I madly fell in love with its people. Naturally, I will always have a soft spot for the country, and will always think of myself as “Venezuelan at heart” [or a Venezuelan “Wannabe”, as some like to call it]. In addition to that, the fact that Miami is our primary residence, has helped me re-connect with old Venezuelan high school friends, so I find myself often interacting with lively and vibrant personalities. I mean what is not love about our Latin culture? We sure have our cons, but I feel we make up for some of those with our pros!

My three guilty pleasures are described below (with photos of each).

#1. Panettone Classico: An Italian specialty holiday fruit cake

My favorite panettone, for the past couple of years has been Bauducco Classico

#2. Hallacas: A Venezuelan “tamal” of beef, pork or chicken, mixed with raisins, capers and olives, then wrapped in cornmeal dough; all folded within plantain leaves, tied with strings, and boiled or steamed afterwards. It is typically served during the Christmas holiday.

“Hallacas”: A Venezuelan tamal; I prefer these over most other tamales, because I like more filling and very thin to little dough.

#3. Pan de Jamón Venezolano: A typical Venezuelan Christmas bread, filled with ham, fried bacon, raisins and olives, most commonly with red or green pepper.

My favorite Pan de Jamón is from Moisés Bakery in Surfside, Miami Beach, FL.

Lastly, not food related, what I also enjoy during the holidays is: Gaitas Venezolanas [this genre originated from the region of Zulia State, and is very popular during the Christmas season. The gaita, conforms the national representation of the Venezuelan Christmas]. If you have a Spotify account, click on this to get a sample playlist I made.

Today, and every day, I am grateful. Happy Holidays, and stay safe my friends!