Caracas, Venezuela, January 2024

In 2024, life in Venezuela continued to be a mix of humanitarian work, discovering new places, and experiencing the rich culture of the country. The more time spent here, the more the country revealed its complexities, challenges, and undeniable beauty. Each trip brought a new perspective, whether in the bustling cities, the quiet coastal towns, or the historical centres filled with echoes of the past.

Life in Caracas – The Heartbeat of Venezuela

Most of the year was spent in Caracas, a city that never stands still. Life here is fast-paced, with its streets filled with markets, historic plazas, and modern developments sitting side by side. The Ávila mountain range towers over the city, offering a constant reminder of how nature and urban life intertwine in Venezuela. Between work, daily life in La Castellana, and moments spent in Altamira and El Hatillo, the city continued to be both familiar and surprising.

Maiquetía – The First Glimpse of the Coast

Many trips began or ended in Maiquetía, the coastal town near Simón Bolívar International Airport. Perched on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, it was a place of transitions—the first breath of ocean air after leaving the capital or the last stop before a new journey.

Naiguatá – A Seaside Retreat

Further along the coast, Naiguatá offered an escape from the rush of Caracas. A small town wedged between the mountains and the sea, it was a place where local traditions remained strong. The beaches, though often quiet, held a charm that made every visit feel special.

El Guapo – Rural Beauty and Simplicity

Unlike the more well-known destinations, El Guapo was a step into a slower, more rural Venezuela. The landscapes were green and unspoiled, and life moved at a gentler pace. It was the kind of place that reminded why Venezuela is so unique—beyond the big cities, there are places where time seems to stretch and nature dominates.

Barcelona – History and Colour

The city of Barcelona, one of Venezuela’s oldest, was a chance to walk through cobblestone streets, past colonial-era churches, and into bustling markets where locals gathered for fresh produce and handmade goods. The colourful buildings and historic charm made it one of the most fascinating stops of the year.

Guanta – A Coastal Stop Before the Islands

Not far from Barcelona, the coastal town of Guanta was a relaxed stop along the way. The waterfront, dotted with small fishing boats, gave it a slower rhythm than the larger cities. It was a place often used as a gateway to the Caribbean, but it had a charm of its own.

Cumaná – Where History Meets the Sea

Spending time in Cumaná, the oldest European-founded city in South America, was like stepping into a different era. The colonial architecture, the fortresses, and the ocean views made it a blend of history and natural beauty. Every walk through the city’s streets was a reminder of how much history had unfolded here.

La Guaira – Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

Close to Caracas but with a completely different atmosphere, La Guaira was always full of energy. A port city with a dramatic backdrop of towering mountains and the Caribbean coastline, it was a place of commerce, culture, and movement. It was never quiet, but that was part of its charm.

A Year of New Experiences and Familiar Places

Each trip in 2024 added another layer to the understanding of Venezuela. The contrast between urban life in Caracas, the coastal towns, and the historical cities painted a fuller picture of the country’s richness and diversity. Whether it was through work, exploring, or simply daily life, Venezuela continued to fascinate, challenge, and inspire every single day.

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