Category: Uncategorized

November how

November 30,2024

I spent the past two Quito days running errands and soaking up the city. I feel curious, left out and invited in, because most every park and square I wandered into had music striking up or playing and as I was interacting with the people here while catching up with others on the phone, I wondered what was the meaning of this special holiday.  Re: I decided to ask David if there were celebrations and what they were all about, including the fireworks that came the night before and the next.

David responded “No” to my question. There were no special celebrations. The only recent holiday was the upcoming one he had mentioned during our drive (now a weekend past).

Therefore, the band striking up in the first square I often pass through; the gentleman singing and playing a violin behind me in the small plaza, the percussion band testing mics ahead of me in the historic center square and the numerous vendors of food and otherwise are just part of normal days I have been enjoying here. This does not overshadow the struggle that is also experienced in the country. There was also this mix in Colombia, and though not the same, I also think of the dire situations that persist in the U.S.

I am fortunate to be a traveler now, and I am going to attempt to make the most of it. Bouncing between different countries and their cities has been both more challenging and enjoyable than I imagined it would be. This brings to mind moments like balancing work-life and budgeting, but I also think of interpersonal connections that are sometimes bittersweet because either I or other people are traveling elsewhere. Romance is also up and down.

I am fortunate now and also as a former limited traveler to have all the family and friends who have shaped my life and even fortunate for how I have dealt with all my struggling experiences that have shaped my life just the same.

Happy Thanksgiving

November 28, 2024 By Cassandra Johnson

I am going to write more once I get a new charger for my laptop (right now, I am composing some loose thoughts on my phone notepad). I must say, it is easy to take some circumstances for granted like having a full keyboard..😃

Today, I walked from my new Quito hostel to the Internet Cafe to do some Internet surfing and possibly the side hustle I sometimes do when I’m not translating. Teaching English.

I had spotted this Internet cafe the first day I checked in here and thought it would be a good alternative to work from instead of my phone. At that time, the owner/storekeeper responded to me: Just 0.70 USD an hour. Well, I added the “just” and translated the conversation to English here.

The first hostel I had here in Quito was not far from this one, so a lot already looked familiar from the 2nd day I arrived in Ecuador on the 23rd, and it was easy to find myself back in some part of the historic center, once I finished “working” at the Internet cafe. I was tapped out, missing my own computer, and prepared to go to one of the many panaderías to get some economical baked goods for this particular breakfast or lunch.

The stop there was a nice paragraph to the day however, along with the surprise deal at the cafe the night before, meeting and catching up with other travelers, in a way, all after the not-too-long trip to get here, arriving around dusk from the bus terminal after about a 45 mini taxi ride with the driver, David, that I befriended on the way.

Ar the cafe, a professor (he told me his occupation) first came in to sit next to me, bringing up his file with the help of the owner and they went through some effort to properly print his document. They were so casual, familiar-like and kind.

The professor wished me a good day, almost forgetting to close out his files. The owner reminded him teasingly that it would not be his fault… Not too much earlier, he also advised me to watch my backpack, which though it was in the seat with me, being behind me, he had a very good point.

I set it down in front, beneath me, under the chair.

My second day back in Ecuador, I realized I could really get used to this place.

I visited Guayaquil, Ecuador for a few days in 2019, so I feel like I have a lot more to see. This time I am starting in Quito after getting off the bus from Tulcan, the Ecuadorian city that borders the Colombian city of Ipiales (I decided to spend one day and night) in Ipiales. I will write more about my experience in Ipiales later). By this point, I had taken two other buses from Medellin to Bogota and Bogota to Cali.

My time in the latter cities was quite abbreviated considering the approximate 2 and 1/2 months I had stayed in Medellin. Primarily, I just really enjoy Medellin, Colombia. Additionally, I was not really feeling the idea of spending my income on a flight plus baggage at the moment. I recalled my bus trips in Peru and Bolivia in 2010 and 2011 and thought this could be something I could reprise again. I was right.

When I flew to different cities in Mexico most recently and back to the US, the costs just felt like so much, too much, compared to what I was accustomed. It is nice to catch a break that I can use towards mixing up my stays between hostels, hotels and AirBnBs…

more to come, more on my stays, more to share

more on appreciating your time with me.

Thank you😉

OAXACA

May 29, 2024 by Cassandra Johnson

So much to say but mainly speaking to the energy, I sit in my recent visit to Oaxaca city of Oaxaca state, Mexico. I was mainly swept away by the city’s presence and the immense welcome I encountered.

Primarily, I was bracing myself after not such a great stay in Guadalajara, which followed a great experience in Merida (which no doubt had its obstacles but was overall pleasant).

Now, I am glad that reversing the flight order and visiting Guadalajara first made more sense. Based on the flights available, this was the best choice and my overall Mexican stop ended up being sweeter, having Merida as a soft opening, and Oaxaca close the curtain. Guadalajara was a harsh note. Just the same I would not trade the days. I learned  some lessons there.

Oaxaca, how insistent was it that I fall in love and right away, third city of this tour-go-round: my heart was captured within minor seconds. The city, locals and other visitors held me close until the end, and in parting ways, there was another insistence for me to come back and share you again and again.

OAX – International Airport – I got here fairly early and in all added fairness, even GDL could redeem itself via its outgoing flight from here (Guadalajara, sorry I will limit my experience to the few neighborhoods I was in and try you again later though I have to admit I’m not very tempted … maybe later).

Well, right away, the friendliness at Oaxaca Airport transported me back to the accommodation and encompassing hospitable feelings I found throughout my stay in Merida. The taxi from the airport did not feel so unfamiliar. Flirtation from an Uber and/or Taxi Driver has not been too unusual in and out of  the  States. Flattering? Sure. Yet, to be self-assured, I typically have a “boyfriend”. However I am open to dating and new friendships so I discern through the vibes of situations (not that this always goes well). The Oaxacan taxi driver’s interaction felt sweet in between ideas and notes about his city.

Hotel – It was simpler than the one I booked in Guadalajara (better still). Morning began with a complementary Mexican breakfast and a pleasant staff. “I love your hair” (in Spanish) was one of the first greetings I received as I sat down to enjoy the view and food. The place became more like a cozy apartment throughout each of my 4 Oaxacan days. It was funny to realize the first day, I had actually walked the opposite way of the Zocalo and rest of the city’s historical center after dropping off my bags and wandering away to eat up time before my 3pm check-in. After all, my hotel was conveniently located near the Zocalo area.

I tentatively spontaneously had a walking tour planned (if I could find the meeting point) so the main goal was a veggie place before or following a tour and as I explored, I found a city bus tour company instead. I inquired inside and found out it was just 100 pesos, but the company associate also informed me the next tour would not be until 6 pm and she would have to have a certain number of people. Understandable. She asked for my number and said she would give me a call if it was still going to take place. I had some time before then, so I decided I would go ahead and look for the vegetarian-recommended restaurant. 

On my way there, I saw a Oaxacan homemade chocolate store (making a note to myself to visit later) ). I had been a little lost, but I recently learned a way not to get so turned when this happens like I did in Merida. (I can attribute this new-found knowledge to my time in Guadalajara).

Now, let’s just have a moment for my meal. My veggie taquitos smothered in jamaica (ha-ma-e-ka) were mouthwatering before and after (I dreamed of them later and I dream of them now😊). I dined in but took the vegan mousse to go. I knew the place was going to be eclectic, and the best ones seem to also include a reading material area. This one had a reading and children’s play area. You immediately get the familiar abroad feeling of being able to relax and enjoy your meal before and after – there was not going to be any rush to turn over my table for another customer. There was space and time to savor. The restaurant is Calabacitas Tiernas.

Still taking my sweet time after I left, I strolled back by the chocolate store while noticing I had a missed WhatsApp call. I correctly assumed it was the tour company. I was touched she had taken the time to update me. I was convinced I wouldn’t make it back in time (it was already almost 6 – I pictured the bus leaving) so I visited the chocolate shop Villa Real. There were artisan objects to buy as well as well as a natural multitude of chocolate treats. The storekeeper offered me a chocolate tasting to which I, of course agreed. Easily. He was skilled at this, offering them to me in varying degrees of bitterness and giving me a chaser after the last one so I wouldn’t be left with a bitter taste in my mouth. (I a deliciously so glad I made it there).

I bought my favorite chocolate from the tasting. He chuckled before we began the taste testing when I told him I like all chocolate types. He had given me history and experience. I asked to take photos and gave him a tip because I really felt he didn’t have to do any of this. I thought I would just be exploring the precious store on my own. He didn’t have to do this, nor did he expect the tip.

I started the walk back in the direction of where I thought the tour bus station was located. It was easy to find. I expected nothing but as soon as I popped my head in, the tour associate began preparing my ticket. Although it was about 5 minutes after 6, the bus had not taken off yet. Several ladies (who I later found out were visiting there from Chiapas), were sitting behind me as she took my pesos and printed my ticket. One of them inquired if I was single and/or traveling alone, solita -(affectionate alone). For some reason, instead of my usual “yes” in Spanish, I answered “For now” in Spanish, to which she and I started laughing. She relayed the message to her friends and said the same was true for all of them.

The Oaxacan tour guide was so thorough including the instructions to intermittently duck, as we were in the top of a double decker and some of the tree branches dipped low. I thought that was clever how he inserted the warnings, between the details of the history, gastronomy, buildings and neighborhoods passes us by. Every moment was in Spanish. We stopped at a hielo stand and encountered another docked tour bus that was notably English tour-guided only. Apparently, the hielo-stand stop was baked into the tours so we could try this local treat. I said hi to my fellow country people already in line (well, they were hardly in line), but I graciously let them make up their minds and gather themselves together (after all, they were there first).

Recommended independent coffee shop in Oaxaca: Marito&Moglie’s Cafe. While I do go to Starbucks quite often due to the freelancer-work-conducive vibe, I like a local indy coffee shop that also contains books, art, history and no doubt: inspiration. For guidance, I completely lifted the Marito&Moglie’s recommendation from Google Pictures and ratings. If I was there longer, I would also try others. I took my laptop, ordered my mocha. Familiarity cushioning new experiences. There is certainly a feeling that accompanies finding a specific treasure.

There is another feeling that matches stumbling upon a treasure: I stumbled into CANTINITA and tried not to stumble out of it. 😉

I knew I wanted to enjoy a drink at the bar. I thought it would be a margarita, but suddenly Mexico and specifically Oaxaca’s other libation seemed most appropriate. Cantanita and its mezcal focus was ideal. I went to the bar and was greeted by a very tall bartender who I later found moved from another Mexican city and state to Oaxaca city of Oaxaca state. I ordered the ensemble of agaves which I did not know much about  – which was served with a shot glass serving of water.  He poured that first. The mezcal is strong. I enjoyed the moments, taking it in, tasting the special distilled mix. I felt so calm, invited in by the other patrons who welcomed me in. I followed up with the non-alcoholic kombucha. The bartender and I chatted. He gave me a token for a free shot later that night when there would be live music. Naturally this must be redeemed in a few hours. I knew I would be leaving soon.

I searched for a specific library on another day (I like to visit a local public one). This relates to my first hobby as a human, new to Earth. I am transported back to my childhood fascination with reading and my original home state of Ohio. I’m transported to the days I frequented the library and escaped. I am immersed in the creativity and community which readily emanates and like the chocolate tienda, a local gentleman gave me an impromptu tour. He and other Oaxacan students had been a part of a program that studied in the US, and he was working here now. We were in the room of resources for children with disabilities. He also showed me some English language resources. I wandered to explore some more before heading out, we discussed cultural aspects of our respective countries, and I thanked him before heading out.

I was fortunate my short visit also featured some free local performances in the main center. I did not stay for their entirety, but the energy and excitement exchanged between the artists and the crowd encapsulated the almost indescribable uplifting spirit of being in Oaxaca itself. People, art, spirituality, music, food, drinks. Hope to meet these moments again. Thank you, dear Oaxaca. Dear Oaxacans, Thank you.

Intermission continues

April 30,by Cassandra Johnson

I deferred to Starbucks at first and Starbucks can be easy because it is set up to a certain ambience and convenience but I also like if I can get the same convenience and comfort at a local coffee shop (I like cafe mocha and hot chocolate especially-shameless aside: I got that convenience today when I started my day at “The Coffee Legacy”, instead, right across the street from Starbucks. (They know what they’re doing with that location.

I was unfortunately not getting the most excitable vibes from my first neighborhood experience here in Guadalajara so I am so happy that I stumbled across a nicer more welcoming picturesque neighborhood, more like Merida today, doing more of what I like and more of what I am used to and it makes sense that it was going past a cute little local bookstore, major parks, a commercial center, Asian restaurants, Mexican restaurants and American restaurants. I feel so much more satiated today and a lot of it has to do with the combination of being more welcomed, being accepted, and being appreciated for my differences and the joy of getting to be a guest here. I have many pictures to share but deferring to yesterday’s explanation, due to my computer problems, I am going to stop here and let you know again how much I appreciate you letting me share with you.

On Second Thought

March 29, 2024 by Cassandra Johnson

These March blogs come as a substitute for what I was originally going to present because I’m now working on an older computer (thankful for it, mind you!) while the laptop with all my notes for blogs and writing-inspired moments in general were saved on the aforementioned laptop in dire need of a charger replacement.

The charger needing to be replaced is almost comical in a series of ups and downs I have experienced while attempting to be an organized digital nomad, but truly it’s also another source of frustration or rather a reminder of frustrations and workarounds.

Not wanting to reorder a replacement card from one bank while I was in San Juan and just happening to lose it did not seem like such a big deal (I had my reasons). I thought it would be such a hassle not to have access to it and just came to rely on a second one for all things: payment, withdrawals, etc. That was all fine and good until I attempted to do a mobile deposit but then suddenly, the powers that be of the other bank decides, nope, we are just going to close this account altogether due to “suspicious activities” (Luckily I am now skilled at sending myself money).

It is no joke that as a long-term traveler, one can definitely be hit with the workarounds, so amongst all the pretty pictures and all the ups, there is also the not-so stellar heavy-bag-toting, sweating, thirsty, muscle-aching days.

Therefore, bear with me people. Love you and love that you have been sticking with me through it all, even when it was just a dream of revisiting Peru for a third time.

I will be writing another March happenstance post very soon, again – not what I planned…. But so much of what I had is unplanning itself …. Sometimes even surprisingly well. Self-guided cash pickups. Who knew? Thankfully. You.

Buy me an agua fresca/juice

How not to be hard on yourself

December 31 by Cassandra Johnson (Merida, MX)

You have accomplished a lot and/or been through a lot even to get to this point. Think about it. Life is no easy task. Even if certain parts came easy or without struggle, remaining happy and true to yourself are not always easily prescribed. They don’t always coincide.

I had to ask myself, why not try something new and different, simultaneously noting that different is really more in step with what I imagined my everyday life could be. I am not satisfied with every option or circumstance but bad or good, the steps have informed me about my preferences and even my own power.

Traveling at my own pace for as long as I would like: (How relieved and pleased I was that I did not have to buy an onward ticket when I landed here in Merida). This is the way for the immediate future as it was transitioning from DC to PR. Though I have limitations, this way is so much more indicative of my potential freedom.

Officially making it to the city I was picturing, I hope to also be landing in Oaxaca, Guadalajara (and now Tequila- as added per suggestion), I am now at home in my movement (see prior post) ultimately planning to make it back to Peru (as duly noted – considering my affinity and memories there).

I am following a winding path and why not.

Here’s our chance to find out (after all, we know life can be challenging and we know we can get past difficulty). We will always have a chance of not getting it right. We also have a chance of getting closer to what is right for us.

Two Stories

October 31, 2023 by Cassandra Johnson

Well, that’s life. About October 5th, 6th, 7th, I was feeling pretty optimistic. I was determined not to let the month get away from me. I did a lot but there were still moments that seem to daunt me. Yet, what else could I do and let’s be real, what else did I want to do.

Still I realize all the preparation and busy work of cleaning up, selling, storing and adjusting were also a distraction of how I really will miss DC as well. Having lived there since 2006 and even this last place since 2014 really struck me as I walked out of the echoing rooms and into the lobby to hand in my keys. From surreal to real but then again, there is also this:

I’ll be right back after the flight lands.

Thank You

OCTOBER 31, 2021 BY CASSANDRA JOHNSON

I will be back soon with more details about not knowing what to expect next. Suddenly my efforts to acquire freelance translations are not so much needed as I need more time to finish the work I am receiving. Again, a time where one must say, it is a good problem to have. However, I do look forward to sharing more and therefore need to carve out more time.

Fortunately, I have had the chance to continue teaching students English and to spend a lot of time messaging (when I can) and very much chatting with friends and family, because I’m more convinced than ever that life is really more worth the time I get to be in good company with those in person or otherwise who reciprocate my feelings. That is an appreciation note for you too.

There are times when you realize you are not appreciated. There are times when you realize you are not seen. You cannot always help this between obligations and attempts to participate in your life and we go through it in healthy or productive ways or not so much.

Perhaps it can be taken in stride and there is acceptance dealing with the scars and we survive and/or thrive. All emotions are natural. From time to time, we just do not care.

As my free time gets shorter, I just venture to say there are many times when the opposite is true and I dare to think we are a lot better at knowing who we support and who supports us. I want to look up in between my efforts and when my days are done and keep them in mind.

I Don’t Know

OCTOBER 30, 2021 BY CASSANDRA JOHNSON

I was putting myself out there, doing something I would not normally do, although I like taking risks in other areas of my life. I was taking a risk with someone who likes me (or did previously, or perhaps just thinks they do.) I think I could be wrong about any of that now and I’m more so use to dealing with being the one approached whether there is chemistry or unfortunately no chemistry. For this moment, however, I thought I just needed to be more open so the person would also know it was okay to be more open with me.

I was not going to judge if either of us was awkward. I have been smooth in enough situations. I  was not going to care if either of us did not know exactly what to say next – not because I was in some hurry to be such an evolved person but because sometimes when we play it too safe, we miss out on the fun experiences, simply just trying not look stupid in front of other people.

So we shall see. I usually try to avoid this risk where you are more out of control, where more of people’s reactions and your feelings are involved but on the flip side, if the feelings are matched and you get a true connection, the outcome is always more rewarding than just connecting to things. I run the risk of being hurt but doing nothing often feels a lot like not participating in potential as well.

This kind of reminds me of sandboarding for the first time. Sometimes, personal risks are easier. I know there was someone giving us instructions and advising us to be careful in certain ways but as a new leap, there is no being able to prepare for what the experience feels like. You are in a moment alone. You are in a decision alone and there no going back once you hit the momentum as I did, jetting down the sand dune.

Before a step, you have a chance to opt out. You have a chance to play it safe and change your mind.

I’m glad I didn’t. The first time when a flicker or a great deal of excitement strikes you at the idea of doing something or you feel like interestingly responding to someone special, you’re better off entertaining the thought, even if it takes you a while get there.

…

May Peace Answer the Resilience

AUGUST 23, 2021 BY CASSANDRA JOHNSON

May some peace come in some way for the people of Afghanistan and Haiti. I want to have a moment and space for them. In so much unthinkable uncertainty, danger, fear and loss, I am thankful for the people who have been able to make it. Still, there is so much grief, pain and loss I cannot even begin to fathom, and I am thankful for the people on the ground helping. May there be some solace to answer everyone’s resilience.