Arriving to the airport of Caracas, Venezuela, August 2023

The second half of 2023 marked a significant transition as I moved to Venezuela to take on my new role as ECHO’s Head of Office. The first few months were a time of learning, adjusting to my new responsibilities, getting to know my amazing colleagues, and making new friends. I was also excited to explore the country and get a feel for its diverse landscapes and rich culture.

Exploring Caracas – A City of Contrasts

Most of my time in Venezuela was spent in Caracas, the country’s bustling capital. Caracas is a city of contrasts—it is both vibrant and challenging, with a unique energy that is difficult to explain until you experience it. My flat is located in the neighbourhood of La Castellana, one of the more upscale areas of Caracas. From here, I could easily access key parts of the city, making it a convenient base for both work and exploration.

La Castellana is known for its tree-lined streets, modern buildings, and a somewhat more relaxed pace compared to other parts of the city. The area is also home to some of the city’s best restaurants, cafes, and local shops, which I enjoyed frequenting during my downtime. The views of the surrounding mountains from La Castellana were a constant reminder of how connected the city is to nature.

El Hatillo – A Charming Escape

A delightful area I visited in Caracas was El Hatillo, located on the southern outskirts of the city. This charming neighbourhood is a welcome break from the busy city life, with its cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and historic town square. El Hatillo retains an old-world charm, offering a glimpse into Caracas’s colonial past with its traditional architecture and quaint shops. It’s a peaceful retreat where locals and visitors alike can wander through the picturesque streets, visit artisanal markets, and enjoy the many cafes and restaurants that line the main square. The laid-back atmosphere and beautiful scenic views of the surrounding mountains make El Hatillo a perfect spot to relax and unwind after a busy day in the city.

Other Parts of Caracas

While I spent most of my time in the central areas of Caracas, I also had the chance to explore different parts of the city. I visited areas like Altamira, known for its bustling energy, wide avenues, and large shopping malls. I also ventured to El Hatillo, a charming, more laid-back town on the outskirts of the city with cobbled streets, colourful houses, and a historic town square. El Hatillo offered a peaceful escape from the frenetic pace of the city.

Another memorable experience was visiting Candelaria, one of the older, historic neighbourhoods in Caracas, where I wandered through narrow streets, admired the old colonial architecture, and experienced a more traditional side of the capital.

Exploring Other Parts of Venezuela

Beyond Caracas, I had the opportunity to visit several other regions in Venezuela for work. I travelled to San Fernando de Apure, Cunaviche, and Biruaca to visit various humanitarian projects that ECHO was supporting. These trips allowed me to see firsthand the challenges facing communities in the more remote parts of the country and understand the humanitarian needs on the ground.

For leisure, I also made time to explore the beautiful coastal areas of La Guaira, Macuto, and Caraballeda. These coastal towns offered beautiful beaches, seaside views, and a sense of tranquillity that was a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of Caracas. It was wonderful to relax by the Caribbean Sea, enjoy the fresh air, and soak in the beauty of Venezuela’s coast.

A Special Friendship – Meeting Leo

One of the main pleasures and privileges of my time in Caracas was getting to know Leo, a young Venezuelan man from Merida, who had recently moved to Caracas in search of work. Leo is the cousin of Julio, a friend I had met in Panama. We thought it would be a good opportunity for Leo to work for me, helping out around the house. Little did I know, this would turn out to be one of the best decisions I made.

Leo quickly became more than just an assistant or housekeeper; he became a true friend. His sense of responsibility, kindness, and genuine care made him an invaluable part of my daily life. He not only helped keep things organised at home but also became someone I could rely on and enjoy spending time with. Leo’s support made my transition to Caracas much smoother, and I felt incredibly lucky to have him as part of my life in Venezuela.

Click here to access the album.