Christmas decorations, La Guaira, Venezuela, December 2024

At the end of December 2024, I had the chance to spend a memorable evening in La Guaira, a charming coastal town just outside Caracas. My friend Giovanni was kind enough to drive me there and show me around, making the visit even more special.

A Town Steeped in History and Colonial Beauty

La Guaira is a living piece of Venezuelan history, boasting a beautifully restored colonial old town that transports visitors to a bygone era. The streets are lined with pastel-coloured buildings, their wrought iron balconies and wooden shutters adding to the old-world charm. Under the warm glow of the setting sun, the town feels almost like a painting, where history and modern life blend seamlessly.
• The cobblestone streets are dotted with quaint cafés and small restaurants, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet meal.
• The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and local delicacies mingles with the salty sea breeze, creating an atmosphere that is both relaxing and invigorating.
• As the evening progresses, the town’s plazas come to life, filled with locals chatting, laughing, and even dancing spontaneously to traditional Venezuelan music.

The Tragedia de Vargas – A Story of Resilience

Despite its beauty, La Guaira carries a heavy history. The town was severely impacted by the devastating “Tragedia de Vargas” in 1999, when torrential rains triggered catastrophic mudslides, destroying entire neighbourhoods and leaving thousands dead or displaced.

Yet, La Guaira’s people refused to be defined by disaster. The town has slowly rebuilt itself, and today, its restored streets, thriving businesses, and vibrant community spirit stand as a testament to resilience and renewal.

The Scenic Drive from Caracas to the Coast

The journey from Caracas to La Guaira is an experience in itself. The road winds down from the mountains towards the Caribbean coast, offering:
• Breathtaking views of both urban barrios and lush tropical landscapes.
• Street art and murals that tell stories of Venezuelan identity and history.
• Dramatic glimpses of the sea, where the coastline stretches endlessly against the horizon.

Beyond La Guaira – Coastal Escapes

For those with more time, La Guaira is also the gateway to beautiful nearby beaches.
• Macuto – A relaxed seaside area, known for its boardwalk, seafood restaurants, and scenic ocean views.
• Catia La Mar – A popular destination for beach lovers and surfers, offering a mix of local markets, fresh seafood, and vibrant beach culture.

A Town That Leaves an Impression

La Guaira is a place where history, resilience, and community converge. It is a town that has endured great hardship yet remains full of life, culture, and beauty.

As I left La Guaira that evening, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experience—for the chance to walk its historic streets, witness its spirit of renewal, and take in the breathtaking coastal scenery.

This visit was a reminder of Venezuela’s remarkable ability to blend past and present, struggle and strength, sorrow and joy—all within a single sunset.

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Animal Flower Cave Road, Barbados, December 2024

At the beginning of December 2024, after an incredible stopover in Trinidad and Tobago, I arrived in Barbados for a week-long retreat—a much-needed break from the intensity of life in Caracas. From the moment I stepped off the plane, the island’s warmth, turquoise waters, and golden sands embraced me, offering the perfect escape.

Barbados – A Blend of Nature and History

Barbados is more than just a tropical paradise; it’s an island where natural beauty, colonial heritage, and vibrant culture come together seamlessly. While the beaches are undoubtedly stunning, what struck me most was the diversity of landscapes—from the calm, picture-perfect western shores to the wild, rugged coastline of the east, where Atlantic waves crash dramatically against the cliffs.

Exploring Bridgetown – A UNESCO Treasure

With a rental car, I had the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, and my first stop was Bridgetown, the island’s historic capital. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bridgetown’s charm lies in its colonial-era architecture, lively streets, and deep-rooted history.
• The Parliament Buildings, with their neo-Gothic design, stood as proud reminders of Barbados’ political heritage.
• Walking through the Garrison Savannah, I could almost hear echoes of the island’s past as a British military stronghold.
• The city’s markets and waterfront promenade were filled with locals and visitors, creating a bustling yet relaxed atmosphere.

Bridgetown isn’t just about history—it’s a living, breathing city, where past and present blend effortlessly.

Barbados Beyond the City – Gardens, Coastlines, and Hidden Gems

Venturing further into the interior of the island, I discovered a landscape of rolling hills and lush tropical greenery, a stark yet serene contrast to the coastline.
• Hunte’s Gardens – A botanical masterpiece, this hidden oasis felt like stepping into a magical world. With winding pathways, towering palms, and bursts of vibrant flowers, it was an intimate and peaceful escape.
• Andromeda Botanic Gardens – This place offered a more wild, untamed beauty, with an incredible variety of tropical plants and breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast.

These gardens were not just about plants—they were places to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the richness of Barbadian nature.

A Special Tribute – Visiting Rihanna Drive

A visit to Rihanna Drive was a must. Seeing the humble beginnings of one of the world’s biggest superstars, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. The street, named in honour of Barbados’ most famous cultural icon, was alive with local pride, a reminder of how talent and perseverance can take someone from a small island to global stardom.

Barbadian Cuisine – A Feast for the Senses

No Caribbean adventure is complete without indulging in local flavours, and Barbados did not disappoint.
• Fresh seafood was a constant delight—grilled lobster, flying fish, and mahi-mahi, all prepared with bold Caribbean spices.
• At beachside shacks, I enjoyed simple yet delicious fish cakes, packed with flavour.
• The highlight? The famous Friday night fish fry in Oistins—a lively gathering where locals and visitors come together to enjoy freshly grilled fish, music, and the island’s joyful energy.

Moments of Peace and Reflection

Beyond the exploration and culinary adventures, Barbados offered something even greater—tranquillity. Whether it was:
• Walking on an empty stretch of beach at sunrise.
• Driving along the coastal roads with the ocean breeze in my hair.
• Chatting with friendly locals, whose stories and warmth made the island feel even more special.

This trip wasn’t just a holiday; it was a reminder of the joy of slowing down, connecting with nature, and appreciating the present moment.

Leaving Barbados – A Heart Full of Gratitude

After a week of sun, sea, culture, and relaxation, I boarded my flight back to Caracas, feeling happy and refreshed. Barbados had given me the perfect reset, and I knew that one day, I would return to its shores.

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Near Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago, November 2024

On 30th November 2024, I had the unexpected opportunity to set foot in Trinidad and Tobago for the first time. While travelling from Caracas to Barbados with Caribbean Airlines, I had a 10-hour layover in Port of Spain, which was just enough time to explore a glimpse of this fascinating country.

I arranged a guided tour in advance and was lucky to have Andrew as my guide. His passion for his country, along with his deep knowledge of its history, culture, and landscapes, made the day even more memorable.

Port of Spain – A City of Colour and Energy

Our journey began with a drive through Port of Spain, a city that immediately pulsates with life. It’s a place where colonial history meets Caribbean vibrancy, with colourful wooden houses, graceful 19th-century mansions, and modern high-rises standing side by side.
• The streets were alive with energy—vendors selling fresh fruit, people chatting on street corners, and the sound of Soca and Calypso music spilling out of shops.
• Andrew shared stories of the city’s past, explaining how Spanish, British, African, Indian, and Indigenous influences have shaped its multicultural identity.
• As we passed by Queen’s Park Savannah, the city’s vast green space, he pointed out the Magnificent Seven, a collection of ornate colonial-era buildings that stand as remnants of Port of Spain’s grand architectural heritage.

Fort George – A Window into Trinidad’s Past

Leaving the city, we made our way up to Fort George, perched high on the hills overlooking Port of Spain. Built in 1804 by the British, the fort was originally intended to defend the island from invasions, though it never saw battle.
• From this strategic vantage point, I gazed out at sweeping views of the Gulf of Paria, the city below, and even glimpses of Venezuela in the distance.
• The fort’s old cannons and stone walls stood as reminders of Trinidad’s colonial past, while the surrounding lush greenery added a sense of serenity.
• Standing there, I couldn’t help but reflect on how many ships, empires, and generations have looked out at the same view.

Maracas Beach – A Caribbean Paradise

From Fort George, we took a winding road north towards Maracas Beach, passing through dense rainforest-covered hills. The drive itself was spectacular—steep cliffs, emerald-green vegetation, and glimpses of the deep blue sea appearing between the trees.

Then, suddenly, the forest opened up, and before us lay Maracas Beach, one of Trinidad’s most famous and beloved coastal spots.
• The golden sands stretched between the turquoise waters and the thick jungle, creating a picture-perfect scene.
• The waves crashed gently, inviting surfers and swimmers alike.
• The laid-back Caribbean atmosphere was infectious—locals and tourists alike lounging under palm trees, enjoying the warm tropical breeze.

The Famous Bake and Shark

No trip to Maracas Beach is complete without trying bake and shark, a local delicacy that has become an icon of Trinidadian cuisine.
• The dish consists of seasoned and fried shark fillet served inside a crispy, golden bake (a type of fried bread).
• The best part? The customisable toppings—from tangy tamarind sauce and spicy pepper sauce to fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and pineapple.
• I loaded mine up and took my first bite—an explosion of flavours that perfectly matched the relaxed beachside setting.

Sitting by the sea, watching the waves roll in, and enjoying this uniquely Trinidadian meal was an unforgettable moment.

A Sunset Farewell to Trinidad

As the afternoon faded, we began our return journey to the airport, stopping at one final viewpoint in the hills. As the sunset painted the sky in gold, orange, and pink, I took one last deep breath of the humid Caribbean air and reflected on the day.
• The kindness of the people.
• The rich cultural mix.
• The stunning natural beauty.

Trinidad had given me just a small taste of what it has to offer, and I knew immediately—I need to return.
Soon, I was boarding my flight to Barbados, filled with excitement for the next chapter of my Caribbean adventure.

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