While the popularity of Frida Kahlo's art has exploded in the last decade in the U.S., also worth exploring is the work of other artists and the cultural revolution that shaped 1930's Mexico following.

Seldom has a literary work inspired so many adaptions. On the occasion of the release of the new version of The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexander Dumas, rediscover the book and close to one century of both film and TV adaptations. Finally, visit the real Château d'If (text and photos).

It’s not often that you can visit the setting of a favorite movie in real life, hardly unchanged, and experience it just as you imagined it to be. The Bagdad Café is one such place, located off the road between LA and Vegas, in the mystical desert and just off the mythical Route 66. There are no roads less traveled in the illusions found here.

The current surge of interest in Cuban music in the U.S. should come as no surprise. The music of the island has been immortalized by musician Ry Cooder and filmmaker Wim Wenders. Buena Vista Social Club the movie takes us to a crumbling, seductive Havana to meet the musicians of the successful album of the same name produced by Cooder. Read about Buena Vista Social Club (the movie and the music), as well as solo new releases by Ibrahim Ferrer and Ruben Gonzalez (singer & pianist of the band). For some Afro Cuban jazz, techno and Brazilian sounds check out the new compilations The New Latinaires and Beleza Tropical 2. Finally, take in some photographs of Cuba.

Looking for something ghoulish on Halloween and something slightly more spiritual, festive and less macabre on All Saint‘s Day-Dia de Los Muertos? Here's a few suggestions should you find yourself in Los Angeles or Paris.