Our Favorite Sites


Arts and Literature 

  • Galeria Flores
    Located in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Contemporary Mexican artists - Nube, Octavio Ocampo, Ian Sanchez and more.
Ecology 
  • Die Off
    This site is apocalyptic, gory and erudite all in one package. The authors' basic premise is that we are consuming fossil fuels at an unsustainable rate, and poverty or mass starvation lie ahead if we do not change our ways. We recommend this site for its trove of research articles on energy use, and its implications for sustainable development. Disappointingly, the website's authors blame America's "unique system of corporate socialism" for the problem, rather than addressing the imbalance between population growth and energy resources.
  • Hubbert Peak
    Great source of information, research and presentation of contrasting views of the energy crisis. Easy-to-navigate site and balanced presentation of research.This site stresses the need for conservation and education.
  • Utz Kapeh
    Utz Kapeh is a Guatemalan foundation that has established standards of social and environmental responsibility for coffee growers. To be certified, growers must accept a code of conduct in their business practices, and in turn receive benefits such as entry to new markets and access to capital and credit. As stated on the website: The motives were the desire to improve the social, environmental and cultural conditions of Guatemalan coffee farms, their workers and families, and to respond to a growing consumer demand for responsibly produced products and for environmentally responsible business.
  • Eco Travels in Latin America
    Claims to be the Internet's foremost clearinghouse of environmental news and ecotourism information for the Americas. A traveler's resource center and promoter of "responsible tourism." Short articles and in-depth reports on tourism and development.
  • Engender Health
    Engender Health is an organization for providing and improving international family planning services. They also provide information and are advocates for such services. They are a nonprofit organization that has been working internationally for more than 30 years to support and strengthen sexual and reproductive health services for women and men worldwide. Since population growth is a ecological issue, they are listed here.
  • The Nature Conservancy
    Every year 40 million acres of tropical rainforest is lost and 50 to 150 plant and animal species become extinct. The Nature Conservancy conserves rainforest and habitat throughout the hemisphere by purchasing land outright, or through forming trusts and partnerships to own and manage it. Learn more about their activities and projects.
  • American Council on Science and Health
    January 2007: The past twelve months produced a bumper crop of health scares, according to physicians and scientists with the American Council on Science and Health (ACSH). In a new roundup, ACSH describes the genesis of 10 of the most outrageous ones, and explains why they are scares with little or no basis in scientific fact...
  • Center for Global Food Issues
    The Center for Global Food Issues staff conducts research and analysis of agriculture and the environmental concerns surrounding food and fiber production. The Center uses its worldwide overview of food and farming to assess policies, improve farmers' understanding of the new globalized farm economy, and heighten awareness of the environmental impacts of various farming systems and food policies. The Center is a source of critical study and analysis on the controversial topics of biofuels, organic farming, and free trade in agricultural products.
  • Transfair USA
    Transfair awards the Fair Trade Certified™ guarantee so that consumers know strict economic, social and environmental criteria were met in the production and trade of a product. Fair Trade Certification is currently available in the U.S. for coffee, tea and herbs, cocoa and chocolate, fresh fruit, flowers, sugar, rice, and vanilla. "Credibility is precious for groups like Conroy's TransFair USA, which sets an above-market floor price for coffee sold by co-ops of small growers, and then licenses the "Fair Trade Certified" label to roasters like Green Mountain and retailers like Starbucks and Whole Foods. Those U.S. businesses sold an estimated $730 million in Fair Trade Certified coffee in 2006, up 31% from the prior year. TransFair USA and its affiliates in other countries monitor the co-ops they help, to ensure Fair Trade money reaches deserving farmers." (From Barron's November 12, 2007)
  • The Rainforest Alliance
    "The Rainforest Alliance's sustainable forestry division works to reconcile the growing demand for trees and other forest flora with a shrinking supply by encouraging better on-ground practices. Its sustainable agriculture program attempts to combine productive agriculture, biodiversity conservation and human development. Farmers, cooperatives, companies and landowners who are certified by the Rainforest Alliance are required to meet comprehensive social and environmental standards...The program also maintains a directory of various certification programs directed at promoting sustainable tourism." (Wikepedia)
Latin Periodicals 
  • From Cuba - Generation Y
    Generatión Y is a Blog inspired by people like me,Born in the Cuba of the 70s and the 80s, marked by the "schools to the countryside." From MSNBC: "Cuban blogger Yoani Sanchez has something to say and she thinks the government is trying to gag her." In English and Spanish.
  • Proceso
    Proceso magazine has one of the best on-line magazine sites. Coverage of everything from movies and sports to politics and economic policy. Editorials from scholars Luis Rubio and Enrique Krauze and frequent contributions from authors such as Carlos Fuentes make this an interesting stop while surfing for news of Latin America. (In Spanish)
  • LUCERO
    A Journal of Iberian and Latin American Studies published by the University of California, Berkeley.
Policy and Research 
  • The Avina foundation
    A research, news and development assistance project centered on sustainable development and entreprenurial education.
  • Project USA
    Most Americans are shocked to learn that if current immigration levels are not reduced, our country's population will double within the lifetime of the average college student. NINETY Percent of our nation's population growth in this century will be a direct result of the current wave of mass immigration. This site raises some important questions about making U.S. immigration policy more rational and consistent.
  • The CATO Institute
    CATO is a foundation for research and public policy. They have some of the best research available on political and economic issues.
  • Ideas on Liberty
    A site with a great selection of books on free-market economics and the philosophy of liberty. Great Prices! Check out the "Essentials Book Set," which includes "The Law" by Frederic Bastiat and "Economics in One Lesson" by Henry Hazlitt.
  • National Center for Science Education
    NCSE is a nonprofit organization working to defend the teaching of evolution against sectarian attack. The Center opposes the teaching of "creationism" as a scientific theory. They are a nationally-recognized clearinghouse for information and advice to keep evolution in the science classroom, and to defend the scientific process as "a way of knowing." When teachers, parents, school boards, the press and others need information and help, they turn to NCSE.
  • Latin American Network Information Center
    The Latin American Network Information Center (LANIC) is affiliated with the Lozano Long Institute of Latin American Studies (LLILAS) at the University of Texas at Austin. LANIC's mission is to provide Internet-based information about Latin America to people living in Latin America, as well as those around the world who have an interest in this region. This site has become an important gateway to Latin America for primary and secondary school teachers and students, private and public sector professionals, and anyone looking for information about this important region.
  • The Independent Institute
    The mission of The Independent Institute is to transcend the all-too-common politicization and superficiality of public policy research and debate, redefine the debate over public issues, and foster new and effective directions for government reform. "In order to realize this aim, we had to establish a new kind of research institute - one of a kind, frankly, in the public policy field, which is dominated by partisan advocacy groups every stripe imaginable." Today, the influence of partisan interests is so pervasive that public policy debate has become too politicized and is largely confined to a narrow reconsideration of existing policies. The Institute’s program is pursued to rigorous standards without regard to any political or social biases. Unlike others who make the claim, the Institute’s research actually is fair and balanced. For an archive of research and opinion papers, go to: http://www.independent.org/archive.html.
  • A World Connected
    "Technology and trade are connecting people in all corners of the globe much faster and cheaper than ever before, creating previously unimagined opportunities and new kinds of challenges. The increasing integration of people around the world has had innumerable consequences... Are these changes good or bad? Who are the winners and losers? Do the processes of globalization help poor people or increase poverty?" Affiliated with the Institute for Humane Studies, this website offers a chance for you to get involved through volunteer opportunities, seminars and essay contests!
  • The Institute for Humane Studies
    The Institute offers seminars for undergraduate students in topics such as liberty and society; the rule of law; political theory; and current events. The Institute has a Constitutional Studies Program to re-introduce students to the principles of limited government that underlie our Constitution. Scholarships are available.
  • The Jefferson School
    The Jefferson School exists to further "philosophical and scientific knowledge that is necessary to the existence of a capitalist society." A source of articles, books and tapes that offer a philosophical defense of free markets and individual liberty. (See Dr. George Reisman's article on multiculturalism and its impact on education in Cafe Mundo's Bookshelf section.)
  • The World Bank
    You have heard a lot about the World Bank. Now hear from them directly. In their mission statement they define themselves as “a development Bank which provides loans, policy advice, technical assistance and knowledge sharing services to low and middle income countries to reduce poverty.” This is a very comprehensive site about the World Bank’s activities, including annual reports and archives of project files.
  • Students for Academic Freedom
    This website is a forum for discussion on academic bias in U.S. universities; for reporting academic bias; and for commentary on issues of students' intellectual freedoms. The website's sponsors advocate an "Academic Bill of Rights" to address political indoctrination, and to promote more open discussion in the classroom. There is an interesting dialog on the site between the American Association of University Professors and author/acitivist David Horowitz.
  • Liberty Tree
    "LibertyTree® is where you will find books, audio and video tapes, collectibles, games and many other items related to personal and economic freedom, American history, politics, current hot issues, education and home schooling, and political humor. You'll also find news and essays about important issues, along with links to other Web sites."
  • The Bureau of Labor Statistics
    Site of the U.S. Departmenr of Labor Statistics - "the principal fact-finding agency" for information on labor, wages, unemployment, social and economic conditions in the U.S. Where can you get information on job gains and losses? Where can you find maps showing unemployment rates? Where can you find average earnings by industry? Right here.
  • The Internet History Sourcebooks Project
    “The Internet History Sourcebooks Project [IHSP] is a world wide web project designed to provide easy access to primary sources and other teaching materials in a non-commercial environment. It was developed and is edited by Paul Halsall with the aid of numerous other contributors…. The Internet History Sourcebooks are collections of public domain and copy-permitted historical texts presented cleanly (without advertising or excessive layout) for educational use.” The website has an extensive archive of articles for historical or contemporary research.
  • FAMSI - Foundation for the Advancement of Mesoamerican Studies, Inc.
    The Foundation for Advancement of Mesoamerican Studies (FAMSI) provides research funds and Pre-Columbian educational resources for scholars and anyone with an interest. Resources include an extensive collection of images; Grantee Reports; and Mesoamerican Bibliography. Contact: Jim Davis 268 S. Suncoast Blvd. Crystal River Fl 34429 USA Email: jim@famsi.org
  • The National Center for Policy Analysis
    The National Center of Policy Analysis (NCPA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy research organization, established in 1983. The NCPA's goal is to develop and promote private alternatives to government regulation and control, solving problems by relying on the strength of the competitive, entrepreneurial private sector. Topics include reforms in health care, taxes, Social Security, welfare, criminal justice, education and environmental regulation.
  • The American Prospect
    The American Prospect was founded in 1990 as an authoritative magazine of liberal ideas, "committed to a just society, an enriched democracy, and effective liberal politics." This is a site with cogent essays, critical of conservative policies.
  • Bureaucrash
    If you think "student" = "liberal" or is synonymous with anti-globalization protestors, then you need to check out this website. Dismissing the anti-globalization movement as "an amalgam of labor unions, socialists, environmentalists and the spoiled, disaffected children of the wealthy," Bureaucrash is both entertaining and serious. Bureaucrash lampoons government, rails against regulation, and foments "libertarian" activism.
  • Capital Research Center
    A watchdog over non-profits, charities and other NGOs. CRC has a searchable database with hundreds of non-profit organizations. Find out who is on any group's board of directors; who are their corporate, union or government sponsors; and see their financials! This is a very good resource for any one working on public policy issues.
  • No Indoctrination
    Featured in a USA Today article about freedom of speech at U.S. universities. From their mission statement: " Too often college courses and orientations promote blatant sociopolitical agendas with alternative viewpoints being ignored, dismissed, or ridiculed. Frequently the course content is so politicized that it has no relation to the course catalog description. Many of these courses are mandatory for freshmen or are required for graduation. Students can become intimidated, frustrated, and angry -- with backlash a possible consequence. NoIndoctrination.org provides students an opportunity to express their supported opinions through postings on our Web site..."
  • FIRE
    "The mission of FIRE is to defend and sustain individual rights at America's increasingly repressive and partisan colleges and universities." The foundation takes an activist approach to freedom of speech on campus, including legal challenges. They have an internship program.
  • The Center For Public Integrity
    The Center for Public Integrity is a nonprofit organization dedicated to producing original, responsible investigative journalism on issues of public concern. The Center is non-partisan and non-advocacy. We are committed to transparent and comprehensive reporting.... The Center extends its dedication to public policy journalism around the world. Created in 1997, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalist network includes 92 leading investigative reporters and editors in 48 countries.
  • InflationData.Com
    Interesting comparison of inflation-adjusted prices of agricultural products, oil, stocks, gold... plus educational articles on finance. Check this: College tuitions rise every year, far in excess of the inflation rate. Based on statistical research by InflationData's Tim McMahon, overall prices have doubled since 1986 in the U.S. College tuition has increased 343.8%.
  • War Made Easy
    War Made Easy brings to the screen Norman Solomon's insightful analysis of the strategies used by administrations, both Democratic and Republican, to promote their agendas for war from Vietnam to Iraq. By familiarizing viewers with the techniques of war propaganda, War Made Easy encourages us to think critically about the messages put out by today's spin doctors - messages which are designed to promote and prolong a policy of militarism under the guise of the "war on terror." Based on the book by the same title. Ed.'s note: I watched this documentary on PBS on September 17th, 2007 and was so impressed that I went to the website to order the DVD. It is a well reasoned and well researched description of the consensus thinking and suppression of anti-war voices that leads us unwisely into entanglements such as Vietnam, Central America, and Iraq.
  • The Deaf Claque
    This is blog that I was introduced to by a poster on Facebook. It’s a pretty good blog, and I don’t usually recommend blogs. Nathan Schmitt has news and video clips on… just about everything. Check it out.
  • Shadow Stats
    “Have you ever wondered why the CPI, GDP and employment numbers run counter to your personal and business experiences?” The problem lies in systematic manipulation of government statistics - a practice that has been institutionalized by three successive administrations. The CPI, for example, is understated by about 2.7% each year. The federal deficit is actually about ten times greater than reported, as government figures do not account for unfunded Medicare and Social Security liabilities. Economist John Williams offers adjusted measures of the elements of the Consumer Price Index, employment statistics, trade statistics, and the level of the federal deficit. In each case, he shows how the government’s data is “rigged” to provide a favorable bias. Williams is no crackpot. His thesis that the government’s reports are deliberately inaccurate was confirmed recently on CNBC by the chief investment strategists for Bank of America securities and Charles Schwab.
  • The Reform Institute
    The health of a free society can be measured by the willingness of ordinary people to take an active role in the nation’s democratic institutions and the extent by which elected officials conduct the government’s business with transparency and accountability. What began as a campaign finance reform organization in 2001, has grown into a multi-issue think tank that champions the national interest by formulating and advocating meaningful reform in vital areas of public policy...The Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) educational organization dedicated to achieving those goals by promoting policies that build an open, healthy democracy, economy, society, and environment. The Institute was founded in 2001 by a group of people knowledgeable about campaigns and elections who were deeply disillusioned with corrupt fundraising activities and the political “closed shop."
Travel 
  • Surf Maps
    Very good coastal maps showing surf spots for Hawaii, Central America, Baja, and the West Coast of Mexico.
  • Mexican Laws in English
    Mexicanlaws S.A. de C.V. is a Mexican corporation that provides English translations of current Mexican legislation. The site has information on Mexico's minimum wage law; citizenship laws; environmental laws; and links to other resources.
  • Escape Artist
    Interested in traveling, living, or working abroad – especially in Latin America? This site is a one-stop experience. They have information on real estate abroad; vacation rentals; country and regional profiles; links to overseas job opportunities; investment advice; and articles about expatriate living. They have four different e-magazines (eZines) you can subscribe to on-line for free.
  • Vallarta Blog
    Subtitled, “A Slice of Puerto Vallarta Life,” this site is a photo journal of interesting things in this Mexican resort town: points of interest, charities, galleries, activities and restaurants. It is kept by a Puerto Vallarta resident, and updated often. Check it out if you are planning a visit, or if you live in Vallarta and want to know more about your town.
  • Vacation Rentals By Owner
    “Most private vacation rental homes offer considerably more space than you will find in the typical hotel room often at a reduced cost. Now, families can vacation together and still have room to breathe. Private homes offer excellent flexibility. Unlike a typical hotel room, most private vacation rentals include kitchen facilities. You don't have to eat out for every meal.” This is a very popular vacation rental site, with hundreds of listings all over the world. I have friends who use VRBO to find vacation homes in Southern Marin – sometimes for just a week or two. They recommended this site to me.
  • Transitions Abroad
    If you want to work, study, travel or live abroad, this site is a great resource of opportunities and advice. This site really has it all: job and internship listings; English teaching positions; overseas education; books and articles on studying/ living overseas.
  • Mexico Vacation Travels
    A travel information website for visitors interested in Mexico Vacation Destinations. Photos, articles and recommendations for destinations in Mexico - whether just for shopping or retirement living. Check it out before you book your next trip.
  • Expat Focus
    Global relocation advice for expatriates covering visas, residency, overseas employment, buying property abroad, international schools, offshore finance and more.
  • Learn Spanish Guide
    LearnSpanishguide.com is a website for Spanish study programs and travel agencies in Spain and Latin America. Click-through ads in the margins send you to interesting resources such as study abroad programs; Spanish courses on tape; travel guides; hotel and tour links… links as diverse as “Surf and Spanish Immersion.”
  • Hotel Santo Tomas
    Website hosted by a hotel proprietor and entreprenuer in San Jose, Costa Rica. Principally travel planning, in-country information, and legal services. Worth a look if you are planning a trip to Costa Rica, or plan to retire or purchase a home there.
  • Mexico Connect
    "The most comprehensive resource about Mexico, on in the Internet or anywhere, in English." And it is! Find books, links to vacation rentals, advice about starting a business, employment, teaching and numerous links to related sites.
  • Spanish Programs
    Learn spanish through interactive instruction and home study courses.
  • World Wide Classroom
    WWC is "part of the largest consortia of international schools in the world." They have an extensive database of educational programs organized by field (anthropology, languages) or by profession (executive, teaching) and by country. They also have resources to help you with travel planning. There are interesting work and volunteer opportunities posted under "Internship, Work & Field Study."
  • Eco Travels in Latin America
    Claims to be the Internet's foremost clearinghouse of environmental news and ecotourism information for the Americas. A traveler's resource center and promoter of "responsible tourism." With short articles and in-depth scholarly reports on tourism and development.
U.S. Periodicals 
  • Latin Trade Journal
    An on-line marketplace for companies and customers to exchange products and services.
  • Hoover Institute Weekly Essays
    This site could go under "policy and research," but I am including it for its collection of essays, which are short analysis and opinion pieces on current events. They cover a wide range of topics, and are more interesting and well-reasoned than what you typically find in the media. This is a great place to get ideas for research papers.
  • Bloomberg Financial News - Latin America
    The section of Bloomberg's website that pertains to financial news in Latin America. Bloomberg has some of the best analysis and commentary on world economic events. This section zeros in on the top financial stories in Latin America.
  • Latin American Studies
    This is a great site for current events and news, including archived news articles, on all the countries in Latin America... so we put it in the U.S. Periodicals section. (It's in English). Cool format with the flags of Latin American countries in the left and right margins. Click on the flag of your choice to open news and articles about current events in that country. Interesting reading!
  • The Economist
    One of the best financial and news magazines in the world, and their website has a section on The Americas. The link will take you there.