San Miguel de Allende
With my little Spanish and his little English, we made our journey from Queretaro to San Miguel de Allende. My driver took the care to use Google translate to go over the different landmarks we were passing. Pointing out the modern homes on the hilltop that he said were occupied by Americans. Pointing out the Queretaro hospital. Showcasing the valleys as we ascended upon San Miguel de Allende and being proud to talk about the old historical buildings.
I was equally in awe and felt like all the videos I had watched did this small city no justice! San Miguel reminded me of a mixture between Oaxaca and the walled city of Cartagena. Cobble streets; while beautiful, need to be walked with caution especially during the rainy season. The beautiful old buildings and their weathered colors. The noe-Gothic church that is La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel. I was only in this city for approximately two days, a long travel day having taken all of my valuable time to explore. But, I knew I would be fine since the last leg of my Mexico adventure was meant for carelessly wandering about.
I checked into Casa Hoyos, a boutique hotel with great attention to design detail. The contemporary furnishings not clashing with the old world charm of San Miguel. And while I was impressed by the hotel design as well as the comfort of the room, I was disappointed by the music echoing from the lobby. The ambience the hotel tried to create left for an uncomfortable nights rest.
Casa Hoyos
The next day I woke up, ready to take on this city! Breakfast was had at Rustica about 2 miles outside of Centro. The restaurant was…rustic and the food matched with fresh local ingredients. Once back in Centro, a quick hotel switch was completed to one I should’ve stayed at from the start…Meson Hidalgo. This hotel epitomize the richness of San Miguel with muted color tones and furnishings that take its cue from all Mexican elements. I was impressed by this cozy three bedroom hotel and knew that upon my returned to San Miguel, this would be the place to stay.
I wander about, turning right and left on cobbled streets. Avoiding the steep hills that reminded me of San Francisco. Popping in and out of boutiques and one too many coffee shops. Asking myself if I was going to take the time to rest until my early dinner or keep going. I decided to rest. I sat outside on my private rooftop balcony until the rain forced me back inside.
The weather had been overcast all day so, by the time my dinner at Luna Rooftop came, there was not much of an iconic sunset view I was going to witness but, it was enjoyed nonetheless. After an evening stroll, I returned back to Meson Hidalgo feeling antsy as the streets of San Miguel were very much still alive and while I didn’t feel an immediate need to call it a night, my day had to end.
The next morning, I awoke to my alarm going off at 6AM. I wanted to head out and see all that I could see before the streets became bustling with locals going about their day and tourist taking in the sights. The streets were active with people going about their day to day getting to work and dropping their kids off to school. It was nice to see a different energy of the city not normally expected. I did accomplish the many hills of San Miguel and took in some breathtaking views. On my last day, the sky was clear after yesterdays mild rainfall. I continued to marvel at the colors of the architecture. I was impressed by the street signs, written in beautiful cursive on even more beautiful tile. I had a latte at Ki’Bok and took in the most breathtaking view of La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcangel.
Walking around, it’s hard to feel anything but contentment in such a beautiful city. And while I was sad that my trip was soon coming to a close, I was excited about my future return to San Miguel de Allende. As I made my way back to the airport, my driver asked me how I enjoyed my time and I let him know that this city is special and I could not wait to return. San Miguel truly was the star of my Mexico Adventure and it has stolen my heart!
Paradero Hotel
There is something to be said about being off the grid. Cell service is shaky, forcing you to disconnect. Staying in a remote location making you appreciate the amenities that surround you. And with no vehicle to get around, you really have to appreciate everything! Such was the case on my recent visit to Baja California by ways of both Todos Santos and San Jose Del Cabo. My first two nights in beautiful Baja California; where the desert meets the ocean, was at Paradero Hotel. A luxurious hotel that boosts itself on its experiences it offers for its guest. I honestly wish the experiences they offered were on a daily basis and not sporadic but, there in lies the joy of disconnecting. The hotel did a great job of offering a brutalist design in the desert oasis. The curvature of the buildings seemed harmonious with the mountains in the backdrop. Upon entering, I was surprised at how quiet the hotel was! Definitely not something you would experience if you were staying in Los Cabos. I checked in and quickly settled in after having a delicious mezcalita upon arrival. I indulged my palate with soft shell crab tacos, the freshest daily fish one could ever experience and even fresher juices in the morning. And of course, I had to enjoy the wine from Valle De Guadalupe . My experiences included a morning hike that lead to ocean views on one day and outdoor yoga. I remained lazy at the hotel, enjoying a book at the pool that overlooked the desert, here and hanging out on rooftop deck of my room that offered a sneak peak of the Pacific Ocean, there. It was nice to be able to seize the opportunity and stay at Paradero. The perfect reset when one is necessary.
Travel Diary #1: Sedona
I feel like I have been singing the same tune lately and that tune is in the key of burn out. I enjoy traveling to explore something new and unknown but lately, I’ve been craving escapes more than ever. Escapes that include both indulgence and nothingness.
Arizona has been on my list of places to visit. Only visiting once as a kid to the Grand Canyon, that memory was null and void. This time around, I wanted to make new memories while allowing myself to be at ease. I embarked on the two hour drive from Phoenix to Sedona. Watching the smog covered city of Phoenix shift to the beautiful scenery of saguaros lining the freeway. Once I arrived to Sedona, I was at a total loss of words as I marveled at the red rocky mountains. I grabbed my phone to quickly take photos and videos, being cautious as not to swerve off the one lane road. Sedona is known for its vortexes, and some will say to experience the vortex “you may feel a range of sensations from a slight tingling on exposed skin…” The weight from the stress in my shoulders I had been feeling for a few weeks suddenly seemed to melt away. I felt lighter and my body begin to relax.
Hunger struck so, I took a quick glance at my not so itinerary to see what restaurants I had listed. A quick stop at Local Juicery for a satisfying and fulfilling smoothie until dinner held me over. I headed back to my accommodations at Sky Ranch Lodge. The once scary drive up to the hotel feeling not so scary as I ventured in and out of the property. With the hotel offering stunning views of Sedona, I indulged in the landscapes of the mountain, making sure to breathe throughout the process.
I became unsettled to know that I can hear my neighbors above me as they thudded back and forth across the room. The trauma from past living experiences creeping in and I was beginning to regret not keeping my original booking which included a top floor room.
But, not wanting to dwell or better yet, stress myself over a one night stay, I headed back out to explore Tlaquepaque Village, a small shopping destination filled with unique shops to cater to ones souvenir desires. I came, I saw and I conquered and made my way for an early dinner at Mole.
Morning came and that’s when the real Sedona adventure begun. A sunrise hike on Summit trail followed but a moderate to rock to wall scaling climb to Devil’s Bridge; which I wasn’t originally planning on hiking based off the name but, glad I did. The views were breathtaking and I wish I would’ve allowed more time at the top but, my fear of getting down had me rushing. Also, believe what the reviews say and plan a trip earlier as the crowds will begin to form. I arrived around 6ish in the morning and there were only a few people. I felt proud of myself as I hiked back to the car, greeting each person I passed by with a warm good morning.
I grabbed a latte at Freeform Coffee Roasters and shortly after, breakfast at Wildcraft Kitchen before making one final stop at Chapel of The Holy Cross . I would have regret not stopping to view this amazing architecture before leaving Sedona.
When all is said and done, there is something about extremely peaceful about being at peace. Peace with oneself. Peace in nature. Peace that everything can and will be ok. Sedona was the peace that I knew I needed. It allowed me to conquer my limits but most importantly, allowed my mind to escape and be at ease and for that, I am grateful.
Santa Barbara
Lately, life has been go, go, go! And by go, go, go I mean home…work…home…work with very little dispersed in between. It was time for a much needed escape to clear my mind. Having only visited Santa Barbara once for a few mere hours, I wanted to re-visit this coastal destination so that I could experience it in slow motion. With a flight and a cozy room at Drift hotel booked, I made my way down south, opting to fly into LAX and take the Amtrak Coast Starlight down to Santa Barbara. It was on that train ride I didn’t realize just how much I needed to get away, even if it was only for 24 hours. My mind, body and soul sank into the leather seats while I gazed out the window. Watching the scenery change from a Los Angeles downtown skyline, to the boulder rocks and then, the ocean waves welcomed by Ventura County, letting me know Santa Barbara wasn’t too much further.
I self checked myself into Drift hotel and took a comfortable walk to La Super Rica Taqueria for some mildly flavored tacos. I wasn’t able to indulge to my fullest potential because this is a cash only establishment but, thankfully I had some cash on hand for two tacos. The handmade tortillas would have me going back to this establishment for more! I then headed to the Funk Zone to enjoy a curated list of wines at Pali Wine Co. which was followed by a cocktail at the Drift hotels bar, Dawn. At this point, I had reached a level where I wanted to sit and rest until my dinner reservation but, the Santa Barbara sunset was calling me. So, I headed down to the pier to gaze longingly at the sunset.
Next up on the Santa Barbara itinerary was dinner at Loquita, a tapas inspired restaurant comfortably located on State Street. As this was a solo trip, my selections were limited as I didn’t want to order more than I could handle. The ostion was different, a charred oyster settled in a warm saffron butter. The gambas al ajillo were delicious! I was left wanting to try more items from the menu but again, solo trip.
Night had ended and a new day had begun! I woke early, craving a sunrise but mother nature had other plans which limited the early morning sunrise to an overcast sky. Still, it was nice walking along the ocean, greeting other early morning risers on my walk. Watching skaters enjoy having the skate park to themselves. I grabbed a coffee at Dart Coffee where the upbeat tempo sounds of Sza instantly woke me up more than an Americano could.
Being that I did not have a car while on this trip, my views were limited to what I could see while on foot! I stumbled across beautiful secret gardens, the beauty that is Santa Barbara City Hall. Had a light breakfast at Goat Tree followed by more coffee at Dune Coffee Roasters and once all was said and done, I checked myself out of Drift hotel and headed to the Santa Barbara airport. Feeling full and satisfied by this short and sweet trip and ready to get back to the norm that is my life.
Dawn
Loquita
New Mexico
It is no wonder why they call New Mexico the “land of enchantment.” This state is marvelous with its invigorating landscape! This time of year, the leaves are turning a golden hue of yellow as it gets ready for the winter season. The way the colors of the mountains change as the sun passes throughout the day, incredible! And if you’re staying in a remote part of New Mexico, the stars shine vividly and bright in the darkest of the nights…they are quite literally the star of the show!
I found myself saying I’m going on a trip to Santa Fe when in actuality, I took myself on a mini New Mexico excursion. Starting the trip with two days in Santa Fe followed by a quick stay in Taos where I buckled down and stayed in an old RV turned cool concept hotel. I ended my trip staying entirely on a farm located in ABQ…which was quite the contrast from the city itself. It was the road trips to each destination that made me more enraptured of this state! Taking this journey alone, the rich landscape I took in as I winded down roads kept me at ease. The slowness of this state causing me to stop and reflect. The ease of talking to a stranger; whether it be waiting in a line or sitting at a bar, it was all very pleasant.
SANTA FE
There are a decent amount of places to stay in Santa Fe. I would highly recommend staying in Santa Fe’s historic district; especially if your trip is short and sweet, such as my time in Santa Fe. It takes the pressure out of driving as you can comfortably walk to restaurants and museums. I would recommend the Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi however, I was told by a couple that I chatted up that the Hotel Chimayo was a pleasant stay as well! I actually stayed about ten minutes outside of the historic area at El Rey Court, a small bustling elevated motel that becomes very lively on certain days of the week. Otherwise, it’s pretty chill, low-key no fuss stay.
El Rey Court
EAT
One does not come to Santa Fe or New Mexico for that matter, and not indulge in the red and green chilies that are on display and on every menu you look at! You also have to indulge in a classic margarita during your time in Santa Fe!
Tia Sophia’s
Tesuque Village Market (about a 15 minute drive outside of Santa Fe and quite possibly, the best food and margarita I’ve had! Plus, they have a cool market to shop at as well)
TO DO
Spend your time walking around historic Santa Fe, popping in and out of the gift shops that lined the street. Take some time checking out a museum such as the Georgia O’Keefe Museum or Institute of American Indian Arts. Take a long stroll on Canyon Road where more art galleries await! Catch an amazing sunset at the Cross of the Martyrs. Spend a few hours or a day relaxing at Ojos Santa Fe. Or quite frankly, spend a day do nothing at all but relax with a good book!
Ojos Santa Fe
ABIQUIU & TAOS NEW MEXICO
My most memorable time in New Mexico was taking the journey to Taos followed by the drive to Abiquiu, New Mexico. My time was short in each town but, totally worth the time spent on the road as the ride to each destination was absolutely stunning! I took the low road to Taos; although I hear the high road is equally stunning but since I was taking this journey alone, I stuck to the low road. Taos is small and known to receive a lot of tourism in the winter due to it being a great ski location. I checked into Hotel Luna Mystica, a concept hotel turning vintage trailer homes into cozy stays! I found it to be very cool, very cozy and an incredible experience to be able to watch the Sangre de Cristo mountains change its tone at sunset and then watch as it glowed at sunrise! You can explore the small town of Taos, taking in local shops or visit Taos Pueblas that has been in place for over 1000 years! You can also make your way to the Rio Grande River to make the most of your time! I awoke early the next day and checked out to head to Abiquiu where a visit to Georgia O’Keefe’s home awaited! Before heading out, I stopped by The Coffee Apothecary for a really great iced Americano for the journey.
Hotel Luna Mystica
I understand why Georgia O’Keefe set roots in Abiquiu, New Mexico. A small town with 360 degree glorious views of nature. Her adobe hacienda is one for the books! A place I too would call home for the rest of my time. There is also Ghost Ranch, her first place that she loved before settling in to Abiquiu. Do plan accordingly and book this house tour…it does not disappoint at all. The storytelling, the beautifully set decor that was truly before its time, the views from the top…a perfect time spent!
Georgia O’Keefe Home & Studio
ALBUQUERQUE
I wish I had an abundant list for my time spent in ABQ but sadly, I do not! Here’s what I can tell you…absolutely stay at Los Poblanos Historic Inn, you will not need or want to leave! Do dine at Los Campos located at Los Poblanos where they serve a nice farm to table fare…the breakfast was my favorite the margaritas are a must!
If exploring is a must, you can do the following:
Old Town ABQ
Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (in October only)
New Mexico is one of those states that will take you by surprise!
OAXACA
When one thinks of Oaxaca; food, festivals, mezcal…mezcal and food, all come to mind!
I visited Oaxaca for the second time, the first being January 2022 when the streets were relatively quiet due to COVID. This time around, the city was alive and thriving! Weddings were being had and celebrations took over Zocalo square. The cobblestone streets were filled with both locals and tourists alike. You felt the exuberance of this magical place, which is the many reasons why I’ve come to love Oaxaca!
I checked in once again to the beautiful Casa Antonieta, where a temporary stay feels more like home. The hospitatlity warm and welcoming. The service above and beyond. Muss cafe is a great way to start your day in Oaxaca while Ama is the perfect wind down before heading out to the many delicious restaurants Oaxaca has to offer. From rooftop restaurants such as Casa Oaxaca to local eats found throughout Mercado de 20 Noviembre or dining in beautiful outdoor gardens like Criollo or my personal favorite Alfonsina…the options are limitless.
If venturing out of Oaxaca Centro, there are options. From visiting Hierve De Agua (which I was told it is truly beautiful during the rainy season) or visiting the local artisans in Teotitlan de Valle, it makes for a wonderful day trip. I took the time to visit a local mezcal distillery that I learned about from research. Woman owned. Family owned and most importantly, supported by the local community as well! Mezcal Desde la Eternidad is a great place to visit if you want to learn about the orgins of mezcal as well as taste and support the local distilleries.
Being one of the smaller cities in Mexico, I find that I discover something new during my visits to Oaxaca by just walking around. Beautiful clothing boutiques, amazing cafes…Oaxaca is truly a gem!
Jamaica
Jamaica wasn’t my original plans when it came to my next vacation. Oh no! I had plans of traversing through the streets of Paris and Barcelona. Challenging myself to speak languages that I’m familiar with but, still not well versed in.
But as the months continued to pass and my workload became more than I had anticipated, I craved nothing more than a vacation of nothingness. A vacation where days were not planned but rather lived for in those moments. I’ve always wanted to visit Jamaica. To step my feet into its warm waters and turquoise blue lagoons. To set my tastebuds on fire with delicious jerk chicken and cool it down with a refreshing rum cocktail.
Not one for a resort style hotel; which pretty much is what you may come across when traveling to Jamaica, and AirBNB’s seemed a bit questionable for this solo excursion. I suddenly came across a gem in the form of seclusion. A gem that I had seen pop up here and there but, was never tagged so with deeper research, I discovered GoldenEye. Tucked away two hours outside of Montego Bay where only the guest are in the know.
I paid little mind to the fact that I was the only solo guest and allowed myself to breathe, to rest and to detox my mind. I appreciated the relax culture I opted for in choosing to travel to Jamaica. I appreciated how I could slow down. And I look forward to my next visit to Jamaica.
Colombia
I have often been ask why I chose to visit Colombia to which I want to respond, “why not!” But no, I always had a desire to visit Colombia, primarily the Caribbean city of Cartagena. But during 2020, my urge to visit Colombia became stronger as times spent at home during the pandemic had me watching telenovelas based in Colombia as well as listening to an abundance of Colombian musicians! I wanted to see this city in its purest form! I wanted to visit “The City of Eternal Springs” aka Medellin. I wanted to get lost in history, flavor and culture in Cartagena. I wanted to learn more of the history of Colombia beyond the history of what we have come to know what Colombia has been known for! With only a week to visit this country, I had a heavy itinerary to knock most things off my list. I flew into Bogota with a connecting flight into Medellin. I see Medellin becoming a richer city as the years pass but for now, the options for hotel accommodations are still slim. I booked a stay at El Cielo Hotel located in Medellin’s El Poblado neighborhood. The hotel was pristine and modern and I loved the idea of walking into a restaurant as opposed to a lobby that is typical of most hotels. Plus, it was filled with plants and various vegetation, giving it a full richness of color. Days in Medellin were spent exploring the culture. A quick visit to Plaza Botero to take in the works of Fernando Botero, an artist known for depicting people and figures in an exaggerated form. Another day, I booked a tour through AirBnB experience to explore Comuna 13 and so grateful for the tour to learn the true history of this community! Gaining insight about Comuna 13 as it is a community rebuilding themselves due to guerrilla warfare. Nights in Medellin were spent eating and drinking at the following restaurants Carmen, El Cielo, Alambique.
After two short yet sweet days in Medellin, it was time to head to Cartagena.
El Cielo Hotel
Plaza Botero
Comuna 13
Cartagena was everything I expected it to be…lively, colorful, humid! And while there was much to be seen; which you can find in full detail on my Cartagena Guide, it was a trip to the town of San Basilo De Palenque that had me in such awe! A trip that I was second guessing whether I wanted to visit or not but, I’m glad I did. The Afro Latin culture in Colombia is very apparent and learning more about its history opened my eyes. The history of the music and how the drums were used as a guide and warning sounds for the people in the mountains. Once the use drums were caught on by the masters, women would braid their hair and use that as a map. It was so great to meet the local artist of Palenque such as Kombilesa Mi, using nothing but drums and sounds for their music and introducing the world to the sounds of Palenque! And while Palanque was not the first freetown, their history is rich. A culture that is strong. And a culture that is thriving!
This amazing tour would not have been made possible without Black Legacy Experiences.
With only a few hours left of my time in Colombia, I decided to end it with a long layover so to speak in Bogota, checking into a hotel in the Zona G neighborhood. My time was limited in Bogota and there was no exploring but, I managed to book a reservation at El Chato which happened to be by far the best meal I had in Colombia in terms of fine dining experiences.
I am eager to revisit Colombia in the future! I want to visit the fincas where coffee is grown. To dive deeper into the culture. To to eat more traditional Colombian food that was missed during my first visit. To dance to the rhythm and soul of Latin music. Until next time, Colombia.
Mexico City
I feel like nowadays, there isn’t a soul who hasn’t visited Mexico City; like Paris and London, it is a city to be discovered. But when I first visited CDMX in 2017, that was not the case. It was a city still filled with mystery and discovery. It hadn’t been over exposed to the way it is now. But exposure aside, Mexico City has become one of my favorite cities to visit! I love getting lost and becoming found when I stumble across a place I have never visited before during previous visits. I love revisiting the places that I have become accustomed to. And if the opportunity presented itself, I would move to Mexico City with no hesitations.
Flying into Mexico City, where the sky is wrapped in smog and you can see peaks of famous museums such as Museo Soumaya peaking through the skyline. There is so much to take in when visiting Mexico City…its glorious culinary scene which ranges from upscale dining to street food. There’s art to immerse yourself in. There is the richness of culture and the history that is easily told through the facades of old buildings in the neighborhoods to the rich pyramids a drive outside of the city. Each neighborhood is connected in some way, making it easy to navigate and see all or, most of all that the city has to offer.
Morocco
It all begins with an idea.
My idea of Morocco was filled with exoticism; exotic spices, exotic music, exotic nights under the North African stars and while most of it held true, it wasn't my time spent in Fes nor my time spent in Chefchaouen or even Marrakech rather, it wasn't until my departure for the Sahara desert that my soul was completly awaken in regards to what Morocco is about. Our driver picked us up at 8AM on Tuesday to embark on our journey from Fes to Marrakech, a journey that would be filled with camping in the desert as well as unknown cities along the way. The long car ride gave me a bit of anxiety plus the idea of having no cell service whatsoever but all of that quickly changed once we left the city of Fes and made our way on the highway. The roads constantly twist and turned but the scenery was breath taking; our driver comparing the rocking cliffs and mountains to those of the Colorado Rockies...I couldn't agree more!
I was grateful to be disconnected on this trip, learning about the areas and Moroccan culture from my driver. Learning about the Nomads or what some may know as Berbers that lived throughout different regions of Morocco. Finally, we arrived to the desert, a gust of wind gently blowing sand in my direction and with a quick change, I was on my way for my first ever camel ride excursion to take in the sunset but, the sunset did not happen. Rain clouds greeted us instead but I was comforted by our guide who opened my eyes in words that can not be described. He was humble and which seems to be taken for granted here in the states. We sat, surrounded by nothing but sand dunes and the peace of the wind and the following day was the same as we woke early to see the sunrise, sitting on the perch of the sandy hills, watching the sun slowly rise to awaken one side of the world!
I left the desert saddened but deeply grateful for the people I met along the way. The music that was played for us during the nights. Laying underneath the desert stars. Arising to the morning light. Feeling the glory of prayer calls throughout certain parts. The beautiful babies. The delicious food. The smiles. Putting things into perspective with the hopes that I can keep this feeling forever...
Morocco, I cherish you and as I write with tears filling up my eyes, I hope that I will soon be back to bask once again in all that you have to offer.
Sincerely yours
Portugal
It all begins with an idea.
Portugal is an absolutely beautiful place to visit; with coastal views and hilly city terrain, there is quite a lot to take in when it comes to this majestic country! But what stood out the most for me during my visit to Portugal was the culinary scene. Having done some research prior to my visit, I was impressed by both the restaurants and wineries that resided in Portugal and of course with a full word of mouth list and knowing I wasn't going to be able to tackle every restaurant in the amount of time during my visit, I was definitely going to try my best to do so! Below are the highlights to my Portuguese food guide...Bon Appetite!
Highlight: Local, Alma, Combi Coffee, Food Tour
Now for that bonus round, if you are looking for a truly remarkable place to stay while in Porto that is in the heart of everything with a staff that goes above and beyond to make your home away from home (because thats truly what it felt like) feel like home, I'd recommend Torel 1884 Suites and Apartments. I really lucked up on this search, a new boutique hotel that offers both suites in their establishment and offsite apartment style rooms. This was a treat considering how most European style hotels offer twin beds only that are pretty close proximity to one another so, being able to retreat to your own separate room but having a living room and a kitchen to share...I did not want to leave!
FOOD
Pedro Dos Frangos (the fast food of Portugal according to our guide)
DRINKS
Cinco Lounge (beautifully well crafted drinks in the most intimate of environments although if cigarette smoking is not your thing...you've been warned)
Costa Rica
It all begins with an idea.
It's amazing what solo travel can do for a person and I highly recommend all to travel solo; not meeting up with a group of friends or knowing someone in the destination you are traveling to but, just pure solo travel. Regardless of age or where your mindset is, just go for the experience! This year for my birthday, I travelled to Puerto Viejo Costa Rica, a country that I heard so many pleasurable memories about and wanted to experience it for myself. I stayed at the Samasati Rainforest Retreat and Sanctuary and I'm not going to lie, upon my arrival, I was ready for my trip to be over! I was overwhelmed with fear as I made the steep, bumpy ride up the hill to the rainforest sanctuary and while the ride was a fun filled Indiana Jones adventure, when I was taken to my guesthouse and the door to my room opened I said, "Fuck, what did I just sign myself up for!" The noises of the rainforest kept me up most of the night and the humidity had me tossing and turning but on my second day, I was able to venture off into town and really explore the culture, and boy did I love what I seen. Fruit vendors peddling plantains and pineapple, small children climbing on top of tables, the salty smell of the ocean and flavorful sounds of reggae and cumbia music filled the air...I was finally understanding the meaning of "Pura Vida". When I arrived back to Samasati, I just sat in the dining area, overlooking the rainforest with views of the ocean in the distant and it finally hit me, I had to become disconnected in this sanctuary in order to reconnect with myself! And while I won't go into depth of what that means to me (another post perhaps) I appreciated it and would highly recommend staying at Samasati if you are looking for that same reconnection because it is a remarkable place for peace, cultivating new relationships with other people that may be on the same journey as you are as well as gaining clarity. And if you do go, be sure to take a yoga class because let me tell you, you haven't experienced yoga until you have taken it in the rainforest with nothing but nature sounds and Howler Monkeys as your guide. Costa Rica was truly a treat for me, I loved eating the fresh fish and drinking a freshly made fruit juice everyday, I loved exploring the town; bike riding from one beach to the next with Bob Marley and Seu Jorge as my background music as well as ziplining in the jungle! I appreciated the different way of life and fully understanding the meaning of Pura Vida, a saying that I will definitely adopt and incorporate in my day to day life! Costa Rica, thank you for opening my eyes and my heart!
