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Growing Up Bilingual

Paula Bendfeldt-Diaz

Paula moved from her native Guatemala to SW Florida with her husband and two children and together they are discovering what it means to live life between two languages. Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer, traveler and amateur photographer. She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala. She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel, food and bicultural and bilingual parenting . When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.

Great Wolf Lodge Naples With Teens: Best Thrill Rides, VR Fun, and Hangout Spots

Disclosure: Our stay was hosted so I could share our honest experience of Great Wolf Lodge Naples with teens—all opinions are my own. When you think of Great Wolf Lodge, you probably picture families with little kids running from the water slides to the arcade. That’s what I imagined too. So when we planned a … Read more

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Traditional Thai longtail boat anchored near a dramatic limestone karst island with turquoise water and blue skies.

Thailand Island Hopping Itinerary for Families: Easy, Fun, and Budget-Friendly

Planning a Thailand island hopping itinerary for our family felt a little intimidating at first. Would it be too chaotic? Too much packing and unpacking? Too hard with kids in tow? But from the moment we stepped off the plane and into the thick, warm air scented with jasmine and grilled meat, I knew we … Read more

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Things to Do in Palm Beach with Teens That Go Beyond the Usual

When I first started planning a quick escape with my teens, I was just hoping for a few fun beach days and maybe some time to recharge together. But what we found completely shifted how I think about things to do in Palm Beach with teens. Yes, there’s sun, surf, and plenty of photo-worthy spots—but … Read more

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girl with cell phone: Kids first mobile phone

Best Apps for Learning Spanish for Kids: A Guide for Bilingual Families

As a bilingual Latina mom raising bicultural kids in the U.S., keeping Spanish alive at home is one of my biggest parenting goals—and challenges. If you’re like me, you know how important it is for our kids to grow up connected to their roots, able to speak to their abuelitos, and proud of their heritage. … Read more

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Best Things to Do in Daytona Beach with Teens: A Meaningful Family Getaway Before College

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Daytona Beach with teens—and want a trip that blends connection, quiet moments, and a little adventure—I have some thoughtful recommendations. But more than that, I want to share how this vacation became a quiet celebration of time with my almost-grown kids. Not just planning for … Read more

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back to School JCPenney

Back-to-School Tips for Latino Families: How to Get Your Kids Excited and Ready

Back-to-school season always comes with mixed emotions—but for Latino families in 2025, it carries even deeper layers. We’re not just prepping for notebooks and school lunches. Many of us are helping our kids navigate identity, language, uncertainty, and—let’s be honest—fear. As a Latina mom raising bilingual children, I’ve experienced the excitement and the stress. I’ve … Read more

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Street food in Antigua Guatemala ceviche

A Local’s Guide to the Best Street Food in Antigua Guatemala

If you’re looking for the best street food in Antigua Guatemala, this guide brings you the real deal—straight from local Antigüeños who know exactly where to go, what to try, and how much it costs. From late-night tostadas outside La Merced to chile relleno sandwiches served on the sidewalk next to Domino’s, this isn’t your … Read more

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Festival of Light in Antigua Guatemala 2025: Everything You Need to Know About the Festival de Luz

The Festival of Light in Antigua Guatemala 2025 is one of the most magical events I’ve ever experienced, and it’s something I look forward to every year. This amazing light festival takes place in July as part of the Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apóstol, and it transforms Antigua’s historic streets, churches, and parks into glowing … Read more

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Celebrate the Fiestas Patronales de Antigua Guatemala: A Local’s Guide to Antigua’s Patron Saint Celebrations

Every July, the streets of Antigua come alive with music, flowers, fireworks, and faith during the Fiestas Patronales de Antigua Guatemala. If you happen to be in town around July 25th, you’re in for a special treat — this is one of the most heartfelt patron saint celebrations in Antigua Guatemala, honoring Santiago Apóstol, the … Read more

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AKA West Palm: All the Comforts of Home with Boutique Hotel Perks

When I was planning a quick trip to West Palm Beach with my two teens, I wasn’t looking for a basic hotel room. We needed space, a kitchen to prep a few easy meals, and a place where we could actually relax—not just sleep. That’s what brought us to AKA West Palm, and honestly, it … Read more

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About Paula



Hola! I’m Paula—welcome to my little corner of the web! I’m a Guatemalan-born writer living in Florida with my two teens and two goldendoodles. I love sharing my love for travel, delicious recipes (especially Guatemalan ones!), and tips for connecting with culture.

From exploring my Guatemalan roots to discovering family-friendly adventures in Florida, this blog is all about celebrating food, travel, and life’s little joys—in both English and Spanish. I’m so happy you’re here!

Questions or comments email me at: paula@growingupbilingual.com

Most Popular Posts

  • best guatemalan tamal recipeLa Mejor Receta De Tamales Colorados Guatemaltecos
  • Chicken pepian from GuatemalaReceta Guatemalteca de Pepián De Pollo
  • El canto de la posadaCanto para las Posadas Navideñas
  • Guatemalan chiles rellenosChiles Rellenos Guatemaltecos, una Receta…
  • best Guatemalan Chuchitos recipeChuchitos: Una receta tradicional de tamales guatemaltecos

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