At the office in Ciudad del Saber, Panama City, Panama, June 2024

At the end of June 2024, I travelled to Panama City for a series of meetings with colleagues at the regional office, focusing on the humanitarian situation in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). These discussions covered a range of pressing challenges affecting the region, particularly in relation to forced displacement, migration, and ongoing humanitarian crises.

Humanitarian Challenges in Latin America and the Caribbean

The LAC region faces an array of humanitarian concerns, with issues ranging from political instability and natural disasters to migration crises and economic hardship. Some of the key themes discussed during the meetings included:

Forced Displacement and Migration

One of the most urgent humanitarian challenges in LAC is the large-scale displacement of people, driven by violence, economic collapse, and climate-related disasters.
• Venezuelan Crisis – With over 7.7 million Venezuelans having left their country in search of stability, this remains one of the largest displacement crises in the world. Neighbouring countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil continue to receive hundreds of thousands of refugees and migrants, straining their social services and economies.
• Haitian Migration – Haiti’s ongoing political turmoil, gang violence, and economic instability have forced thousands to flee, often embarking on dangerous migration routes through the Darien Gap or heading toward the Dominican Republic, the United States, or South America.
• The Darien Gap Crisis – The dangerous jungle crossing between Colombia and Panama has become a key migration route for people from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba, and beyond, seeking to reach North America. Migrants face extreme dangers, including natural hazards, criminal gangs, and human trafficking.

Climate Change and Natural Disasters

LAC is highly vulnerable to hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and droughts, often causing mass displacement and economic devastation.
• Hurricanes in the Caribbean – Countries like Honduras, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic face regular hurricane seasons, which displace communities and destroy livelihoods.
• Droughts in the Gran Chaco – Indigenous communities in Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay are suffering from prolonged droughts, which impact food security and access to water.

Humanitarian Needs and Response

International and regional organisations continue to provide aid, strengthen resilience, and improve disaster preparedness, but challenges remain. The focus is increasingly on:
• Supporting host communities that receive large numbers of migrants.
• Improving access to basic services, including healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for displaced people.
• Strengthening humanitarian coordination among governments, NGOs, and international organisations.

Evenings in Casco Viejo – A Familiar Place

Beyond the meetings, it was great to catch up with friends and take evening walks through Casco Viejo. The charming colonial quarter of Panama City never fails to impress with its cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and lively atmosphere. Sitting in a small café, watching the sun set over the Pacific, was the perfect way to reflect on the ongoing challenges of the region—and the importance of continued humanitarian efforts.

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The Gran Bazar, Istanbul, Türkiye, June 2024

In June 2024, on my way back from Poland to Caracas, I decided to extend my layover in Istanbul and spend a weekend getting to know this incredible city. With two nights in the city, it was the perfect opportunity to immerse myself in its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant streets.

Arrival in Istanbul – First Impressions

Landing at Istanbul Airport, one of the most modern and impressive in the world, was an experience in itself. Everything about the airport felt efficient and grand, reflecting Turkey’s ambition as a major global hub. After a smooth arrival process, I took a taxi to the hotel in the city centre, eager to start my exploration.

Meeting My Guide, Omar – A Local Perspective

I had arranged guided tours in advance, and I was lucky to be accompanied by Omar, an exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate guide. His love for Istanbul was contagious, and he shared fascinating stories and historical insights that made the city come alive.

Sultanahmet – The Heart of Istanbul’s History

No visit to Istanbul is complete without exploring Sultanahmet, the historic district filled with some of the world’s most iconic landmarks. Walking through its ancient streets, I felt the weight of centuries of history, where Byzantine emperors, Ottoman sultans, and modern Turks have all left their mark.
• Hagia Sophia – A Monument of Time
Standing before the Hagia Sophia, one of the most remarkable buildings in the world, was awe-inspiring. Originally built as a Byzantine cathedral in 537 AD, it later became an Ottoman mosque, a museum, and now once again a functioning mosque. The sheer scale of its massive dome, the intricate mosaics, and the mix of Christian and Islamic influences made it a perfect symbol of Istanbul’s layered history.
• Blue Mosque – An Architectural Marvel
Just a short walk from Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) is one of Istanbul’s most famous sights. With its six towering minarets, elegant domes, and blue Iznik tiles inside, it was truly a sight to behold. Standing inside, surrounded by stunning Islamic calligraphy and geometric patterns, was a moment of tranquillity amidst the city’s energy.
• Topkapı Palace – The Home of Ottoman Sultans
Visiting Topkapı Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, was like stepping into the world of palace intrigue, grandeur, and power. Walking through its lavish courtyards, ornate chambers, and the Harem section, I could imagine the sultans ruling over an empire that stretched across three continents. The views over the Bosphorus from the palace gardens were spectacular.

A Stroll Through the Grand Bazaar – A Feast for the Senses

The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, and stepping inside felt like entering a labyrinth of colours, sounds, and scents. The narrow alleys were packed with stalls selling handwoven carpets, glittering jewellery, fragrant spices, and Turkish delights. Bargaining with the shopkeepers was part of the fun, and the atmosphere was truly electric.

Bosphorus Cruise – Where Continents Meet

One of the most memorable experiences was taking a boat cruise on the Bosphorus, the strait that divides Europe and Asia. Sailing past Ottoman palaces, wooden mansions, and modern skyscrapers, I saw how Istanbul connects the past and the present, the East and the West. Watching the sunset over the water while sipping Turkish tea was the perfect way to end the day.

A Weekend to Remember

Istanbul is a city that never stops surprising. From its ancient monuments to its bustling bazaars, from the serene Bosphorus to the chaotic yet charming streets, every moment felt like a discovery. Thanks to Omar’s insightful guidance, I gained a deeper appreciation of the city’s history and culture.

As I boarded my flight to Caracas, I knew that Istanbul is a place I will always want to return to. There is still so much to explore, and this weekend was just the beginning.

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Ecological Park, Rytro, Poland, May 2024

After returning from Japan to Warsaw (end of May 2024), the final part of my spring holiday began. I first spent time at home in Nowy Sącz, enjoying the company of family and friends and revisiting some of the nearby towns. I took trips to Rytro, Żegiestów, and Muszyna, admiring the landscapes and stopping at Rytro’s Ecological Park, a wonderful initiative funded by a friend.

A Road Trip to Lower Silesia – Exploring the Wałbrzych Region

Together with Mum, her friend Pani Kurzejowa, and my niece Zosia, we embarked on a long road trip to western Poland, specifically the Wałbrzych area. Along the way, we made stops, including one in Zabierzów, before arriving in Walim, a peaceful village near Wałbrzych, where we stayed in a cosy and quiet hotel.

Over the next days, we explored the region’s spa towns and historic sites, including Jedlina-Zdrój and Szczawno-Zdrój. Szczawno-Zdrój particularly stood out with its elegant spa buildings, historic promenades, and relaxing atmosphere. But the highlight of the trip was undoubtedly our visit to Książ Castle.

Książ Castle – A Place of History, Mystery, and Grandeur

Perched on a rocky hill and surrounded by lush forests, Książ Castle is one of the most magnificent castles in Poland. Its rich history, stretching back to the 13th century, makes it one of the country’s most intriguing landmarks.
• The castle’s architecture is a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance styles, with grand halls, ornate staircases, and hidden chambers that tell the story of centuries of rulers, wars, and secrets.
• One of the most fascinating aspects is the castle’s connection to Project Riese, a mysterious Nazi-era underground complex. While the full purpose of the tunnels beneath Książ remains unknown, they add a layer of intrigue to the site.
• The tourist experience was exceptionally well-organised, with audio guides, visual presentations, and storytelling that truly brought the castle’s history to life.
• Outside, the castle gardens were breathtaking, carefully maintained with terraces overlooking the surrounding forests. We spent time wandering through the gardens, taking in the peaceful atmosphere.

After Książ, we also visited the Palmarnia (Palm House), which was surprisingly interesting, offering an exotic escape with lush greenery and rare plants.

Wrocław – A City That Stole Our Hearts

The next day, we set off for a full-day trip to Wrocław, a city that completely enchanted us. Known as the “Venice of Poland”, Wrocław is famous for its islands, bridges, and stunning old town.
• The Market Square (Rynek) was absolutely stunning, surrounded by colourful townhouses and dominated by the Gothic-style Old Town Hall. The energy of the square, with street performers, lively cafés, and a mix of locals and tourists, made it a joy to explore.
• We couldn’t help but search for Wrocław’s famous dwarfs—small bronze statues scattered across the city, each with its own quirky design and story.
• Walking along the Odra River, we crossed to Ostrów Tumski (Cathedral Island), the oldest part of the city. The majestic Wrocław Cathedral, with its twin towers and impressive interior, was a highlight.
• One of the most unique experiences was visiting the Centennial Hall, a UNESCO-listed modernist structure, and walking through the Japanese Garden nearby.

After a long day of exploring, we returned to Walim, exhausted but happy.

Back to Nowy Sącz – Preparing for the Next Adventure

Soon, it was time to return to Nowy Sącz, where the final days of my holiday in Poland were spent packing and preparing for the next chapter—returning to Caracas, once again via Istanbul.

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