Tag: Ecuador

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.

Paradise is Less

June 28, 2023 by Cassandra Johnson

Other than some of the logistics for temporarily volunteering abroad, I could never have clearly imagined what all the time in between would look like. I had fantasies of tastes and pretty landscapes from my research, but nothing can compare to the actual experience overtaking your senses.

I knew what I should see around Pisco, Ica and what more I would like to see. I wanted to visit the Afro Peruvian town of Chincha, about an hour bus ride away. I also knew I wanted to leave the desert town after a while to make sure I did a mini trek to Machu Picchu.

Still, there were more ruins, historical sites and architecture I would experience through Arequipa. There was still the nightlife. I had planned for a substantial amount, hoping to make it to every desired stop.

I would reach many milestones. I was determined and inspired by my National Geographic travel guidebook. However, what I did not expect was so much more abundance coupled with a true sense of peace. I did not know how naturally we would be on the beach, down by the water where the Peruvian fishermen were (some of whom we knew from working together). I did not know the city of  Paracas was also going to serve up some of the best ceviche I would ever have on a one-day trip with four other friends and I did not know that just across the street from our shared volunteer hostel, there would be a home doubling as a delicious Peruvian cuisine spot. This could be any day abroad then and yet it was the food I would find especially sought after back in my new DC home.

Taking a tuk tuk ride into the market area also greeted us with some delicious Peruvian and chaufa (Chinese food) options. ..… and the town of Huacachina’s reasonably priced dune buggy rides and sandboarding were an easy 1 and a half day weekend away for most of the group. We took an abbreviated mini break from hostel living to this oasis before jumping back into our weekly routines. I recall the epicurean pasta and other cuisines still being reasonably priced although the activities and views could have made our stop much more costly, especially since we were beginning to touch upon a touristy area.  

The cities of Havana, Viñales, Trinidad, Cienfuegos, and Matanzas in Cuba each had their own luxury as well. Tobacco fields and honey harvesting farms. Staying in private well maintained homes with local people through casasparticulares.com. The popular Coppelia ice cream parlor. Chatting and getting tips from local people while mixing in official tourist activities.

It is ironic how finding something special and equally relaxing has gotten to be more allusive back in the States. Whereas sometimes I am homesick for certain comforts where I grew up in Ohio, where I attended college and where I now live in DC, I am often more easily distracted by the picturesque landscapes and breathtaking sights like Colca Canyon. I am more ready for the easy access to sandy beaches, savory foods and dancing. Even more, I am not surprised to get this satiation at a fraction of the cost. I do not readily expect the same when I try a new state-side spot.

In another instance, I was so busy adjusting to my new position at my last in-office job (only side-freelancing at the time) that I let the IHVQ organization choose my accommodations in Puerto Rico. I had wanted to do something in relation to Hurricane Maria for some time and once I got all my requirements in, IVHQ offered some discounted accommodations. Relief. I didn’t have to exhaust myself in a detailed search this time. Immediately not lost on me was the beach just up the street. Restaurants spanned the block and there was a chance to enjoy coincidental events and island activities.

True enough, I have not always ended up in simply enjoyable spots or the safest areas. My accommodation were in a nice location, however, and I knew a beach within walking distance would have hit my wallet so much more back home on vacation and/or in touristy/getaway destinations.

Guayaquil, Ecuador’s  boardwalk was also easily accessible and lined with restaurants leading to a cool museum while facing a breathtaking view of the Guayas River. I walked along the boardwalk to the amusement park area and to the artsy cultural neighborhoods of Las Peñas. I wandered down to the market and Iguana Park, where the animals roam freely, sheltered in their selected spot.

It is also duly noted that higher price can complement luxury and I have enjoyed such venues mostly due to my previous work.  Still, I am struck how much the scenic routes and the vibe of community and serenity can also be so much less. The views, the food, the weather, the water, the people relaxing, playing. Trading in my fast-paced schedule for a co-touristy and local vibe is an unexpected part of the exchange rate. Paradise can be less. Some parts are free.