From Tijuana, Mexico, to Ushuaia, Argentina (only a few hours away from Antarctica!), Latin America is a melting pot “of Indigenous, African, and European influences”. Latin culture transcends time and geography in a joyous mix of history and contemporary ways of life.
The legacy of Latin culture is a rich tapestry that weaves its way through both geography and culture. The region spans 19 million square kilometers of diverse landscapes that includes rainforests, mountains, deserts, and even glaciers. Spanning these lands are deep historical roots that have inspired music, art, and dance. Its impact has resonated globally for centuries.
How is the Latin Heritage Month celebrated?
- Cultural Events and Festivals: Many communities host festivals, parades, and carnivals to showcase the rich traditions of Latin cultures. These events often include traditional music, dance performances, and regional cuisine (empanadas and tacos are always welcome!). Visit any event and you’ll hear the rhythmic sounds of Cueca, Tango, Merengue, Cumbia, Salsa, or any other Latin music style!
- Educational Activities: Museums, schools, and universities might offer lectures, workshops, and presentations about Latin history, art, and contributions to society. They often invite guest speakers, screen documentaries, and showcase literature from Latin authors. It’s a great time to read a book from popular Latin writers like Jorge Luis Borges, Pablo Neruda, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and many others.
Who started Hispanic Heritage Month?
United States President Lyndon Johnson instituted Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, and in 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded the celebration to last a month between September 15th and October 15th.
Why September and the 15th?
Latin Heritage Month started on the 15th because it is the anniversary of independence (from Spain) for many Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence on September 16th and September 18th, respectively. Before the month ends, we recognize Columbus Day, Día de la Raza, or Día del Respeto a la Diversidad Cultural, on October 12th, depending on the country where we are located.
Latin American Collection
To celebrate Latin Heritage Month and help you relax, discover BetterSleep’s collection of content by Latin creators. Fall asleep to tranquil soundscapes of South and Central America or soothing stories of latin culture and history. Each piece was created to bring to life the spirit and diversity of the region.
The Legend of Mama Quilla
We all deserve a moment of rest, even the Inca goddess of the moon! Let yourself unwind and fall asleep to The Legend of Mama Quilla, our SleepTale, narrated by Latin American voice actress Joana Garcia. In 45 minutes, you’ll find all your worries left behind as you travel along the Andes Mountains and into the night sky.
A Night in Oaxaca
Explore the rich culture of Mexico in A Night in Oaxaca. Let the soothing voice of Sheldon Romero, as Señor Lopez, share his magical encounter with an Alebrije, a Mexican folk art sculpture brought to life! In 28 minutes, you’ll discover the beautiful tradition of Dia de Los Muertos as you drift off.
New Latin Sounds and Mixes
Listen to our 12 new collections from sound artist Erick Ruiz Arellano. These sound loops include field recordings across Latin America, from the Amazon Rainforest to San Pancho Beach. Mix them up to create your customized soundscapes or enjoy our three new soundscapes made just for you!
New sounds that will help you to relax and transport to different landscapes and natural wonders
Find in BetterSleep sounds from all over South and Central America:
- Bats: A quiet flutter of wings as we hear the sound of bats calling out their echolocation at a pyramid in Tikal, Guatemala, in the core of Central American and Mayan civilization.
- Beach: The long rise and fall of ocean waves in clear waters off a sandy beach in San Pancho, very close to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
- Bubbling Magma: Hear the volcanic activity in Sol de Manana, Bolivia.
- Canal: Feel like you are walking along a canal as the water runs through the town of Ollantaytambo, only 2 hours away from the tremendous Machu Picchu in Peru.
- Chachalaca: Listen to the call of the Chachalaca during a day in Coroico, Bolivia.
- Dawn: Morning birds sing songs with the rising sun in Puerto Cortes, Honduras.
- Evening Jungle: The sounds of insects come alive as night arrives in the Amazon, the lungs of the earth.
- Flamingos: A flamboyance of flamingos vocalize as they stand in the shallow waters of Laguna Canapa, a salt lake in Bolivia.
- Grazing Mule: Mules chew on shrubs and grasses while grazing the Isla de Sol in Lake Titicaca, in Bolivia, and very close to the Peruvian border.
- Lake Titicaca: Hear the powerful lapping water and imagine being at the shore of the legendary lake that is said to be the birthplace of the Incas. The lake is located at the northern end of the endorheic Altiplano basin high in the Ande`s on the border of Peru and Bolivia.
- Morning Rain: Soft birdsongs mingle with the pitter patter of light rain in Palenque, Mexico. Located near the Usumacinta River in the Mexican state of Chiapas, about 81 miles south of Ciudad del Carmen, 490 ft above sea level. It averages a humid 79°F with roughly 85 inches of rain a year
- Wind in Palm Trees: Listen to the fronds and leaves of palm trees flutter and wave as solid winds pass through Cabo Pulmo on the east coast of Mexico’s Baja California.
BetterSleep en español
Whether you’re a native (or fluent) Spanish speaker or just getting started, connect your headphones and enjoy the sounds of BetterSleep in Spanish. Listen to our go-to tracks like Astronave-28 or Gizmo, el gato doméstico, or find your favorite by changing the language option in the app. Click “Profile,” then “Settings,” and click on “Change Language” to Spanish. Try for Free BetterSleep today and enjoy and travel with the best relaxing Latin sounds.
