In September 2019, my work took me to the stunning island of Curaçao for a week-long simulation and training exercise on disaster preparedness. Together with colleagues from various civil protection forces, we tested our ability to respond to humanitarian needs following a potential hurricane impact. The exercise was a crucial part of UNDAC (United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination) and the European Civil Protection Mechanism, which help ensure rapid and coordinated international responses to disasters worldwide.

While most of my time was spent working alongside disaster response professionals, I was fortunate to have two free afternoons to explore some of Curaçao’s beauty. This visit was especially meaningful because it revived memories of a past trip to the island with my mother and Kasia some years earlier. Stepping back onto the island felt like reconnecting with a familiar and cherished place, bringing back joyful moments spent with loved ones.

Curaçao: A Blend of Cultures and Colours

Curaçao, part of the Dutch Caribbean, is a fascinating island where European, African, and Latin American influences intertwine. Known for its vibrant colonial architecture, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a unique atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean.

One of the things that struck me most about Curaçao is its diversity—not just in terms of landscapes but also in its people, languages, and history. The island’s population speaks Papiamentu, Dutch, Spanish, and English, reflecting the centuries of trade, migration, and colonial history that shaped it.

Exploring the Island: Willemstad, Barber, and Lagun

Willemstad – A UNESCO Heritage Gem

On one of my free afternoons, I wandered through Willemstad, the island’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s pastel-coloured buildings, narrow streets, and vibrant waterfront made it feel like a Caribbean version of Amsterdam.

One of the most iconic spots is the Queen Emma Bridge, a floating pontoon bridge that connects Punda and Otrobanda, the two historic districts of Willemstad. Watching the bridge swing open to allow ships to pass through was a fascinating sight! Walking through the Handelskade, with its lively waterfront cafes and views of the harbour, was another highlight, offering the perfect mix of history and modern Caribbean charm.

Barber – A Glimpse of Rural Curaçao

A visit to Barber, a small inland town, gave me a different perspective on the island. Unlike the bustling capital, Barber felt peaceful and untouched, with rolling hills, cacti-covered landscapes, and charming local markets. Curaçao’s natural beauty extends far beyond its beaches, and the rural areas have a unique charm, with colourful houses and a slower, more traditional pace of life.

Lagun – Tranquility by the Sea

On another free afternoon, I made my way to Lagun, a small, secluded beach on the northwest coast. Unlike the more touristy beaches, Lagun felt like a hidden paradise, framed by towering cliffs and dotted with fishing boats. The calm, turquoise waters were perfect for snorkelling, and I was amazed by the colourful marine life just beneath the surface. Sitting on the sand, watching the gentle waves roll in, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to be there, even if just for a short time.

Disaster Preparedness: The Importance of Training and Coordination

My time in Curaçao wasn’t just about enjoying the island—it was about strengthening our ability to respond to crises. The simulation was part of the UNDAC system, which supports countries in rapid emergency response and assessment. It was also linked to the European Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM), which allows EU countries to work together and deploy emergency teams quickly when disaster strikes.

Hurricanes pose a serious threat to the Caribbean, and preparedness is key. The training exercise simulated a post-hurricane emergency, testing how we would coordinate logistics, assess needs, and support affected communities. Working with colleagues from across the region, we refined response plans, communication strategies, and resource deployment, ensuring that when a real disaster occurs, we can act swiftly and effectively.

A Meaningful Journey

This trip to Curaçao was special on many levels. It was a professional milestone, allowing me to contribute to disaster preparedness efforts in the region, but it was also a nostalgic return to a place filled with personal memories. The island’s charm, warmth, and resilience made the experience even more rewarding.

Looking back, I am reminded of how important it is to balance hard work with moments of appreciation and connection—whether that’s sharing knowledge with colleagues or watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. Curaçao, with its mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, remains one of the most unforgettable places I have ever visited.

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At the end of August and the beginning of September 2019, I embarked on my first professional deployment in my role as the Rapid Response Coordinator for Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). My mission took me to Bolivia, where I worked to coordinate the response to the devastating forest fires that were raging across the country. This deployment was particularly significant—not only because it was my first, but also because of the scale of the disaster and the importance of international cooperation in tackling it.

A Journey Through Bolivia

After a brief stopover in Bogotá, Colombia, I continued my journey to La Paz, Bolivia’s administrative capital. My time in La Paz was primarily dedicated to coordinating efforts with colleagues from the EU Delegation, preparing for the arrival of a French firefighting team deployed under the European Civil Protection Mechanism. Their mission was to support Bolivian authorities in extinguishing the fires and mitigating their spread.

Despite my busy schedule, I managed to take a short but unforgettable visit around La Paz, one of the most extraordinary cities I have ever seen.

La Paz: A City Like No Other

La Paz is not just a city—it is an experience. Nestled in a deep canyon at an altitude of over 3,600 meters (11,800 feet), it is one of the highest capitals in the world. The moment I stepped outside, I was struck by the dramatic topography. Towering above the city is the majestic Illimani Mountain, its snow-capped peaks providing a breathtaking contrast to the densely packed urban landscape below.

Unlike most cities, which expand outward, La Paz is built vertically. The wealthier districts, such as Zona Sur, sit lower in the valley, enjoying a milder climate, while the more modest neighbourhoods cling to the steep slopes of El Alto, the sprawling city above La Paz at 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). The views from above are spectacular—a labyrinth of red-brick houses, colonial churches, and modern skyscrapers blending into the rugged terrain.

One of the most unique features of La Paz is its teleférico system—a network of aerial cable cars that serve as public transport. Instead of underground metros or buses, locals glide silently above the city in colour-coded gondolas, offering unparalleled views of the Andean metropolis below. It was fascinating to experience this efficient and scenic mode of transport, which has become an essential part of daily life for thousands of Bolivians.

La Paz is also steeped in history and culture. As I walked through the Plaza Murillo, I admired the grand Government Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral, both reminders of Bolivia’s colonial past. The city’s vibrant markets, particularly the Witches’ Market (Mercado de las Brujas), are filled with indigenous Aymara traditions, offering everything from herbal remedies to llama foetuses for spiritual rituals. The fusion of Spanish and indigenous influences makes La Paz a truly unique cultural hub.

The Devastating Forest Fires in Bolivia

After my brief time in La Paz, I flew to Santa Cruz, the country’s economic hub, and then travelled overland to San Ramón and Concepción, two of the worst-affected areas. The fires had ravaged over 5 million hectares of land, with smoke filling the air and turning the sky a haunting shade of grey.

Forest fires in Bolivia are a recurring environmental crisis, often caused by a mix of natural factors and human activity. The dry season, which lasts from May to October, creates the perfect conditions for wildfires, but much of the destruction is linked to slash-and-burn agriculture. Farmers and ranchers use fire to clear land for crops and cattle, a practice known as chaqueo. Unfortunately, during particularly dry years, these controlled burns spiral out of control, consuming vast areas of Chiquitano dry forests, Amazonian rainforest, and Gran Chaco woodlands.

In 2019, El Niño conditions exacerbated the drought, making the fires even more intense. The situation was worsened by deforestation policies and economic pressures, which encouraged agricultural expansion at the expense of the environment. The fires threatened biodiversity, including endangered species such as jaguars and giant anteaters, while also endangering indigenous communities who rely on these forests for their way of life.

The European Civil Protection Mechanism

One of the key elements of the response was the deployment of a French firefighting team under the European Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). This mechanism allows EU countries to pool resources and expertise to respond rapidly to natural disasters worldwide. In Bolivia, the French team worked alongside local firefighters, using their advanced equipment and expertise to help contain the blazes.

The coordination between Bolivian authorities, EU experts, and international teams was crucial in addressing the crisis. While the fires were ultimately controlled, the event served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for sustainable environmental policies and better disaster preparedness strategies to prevent such large-scale devastation in the future.

Reflections on the Mission

My time in Bolivia was intense and challenging, but also deeply meaningful. It was my first rapid response deployment, and it reinforced the importance of international cooperation in crisis situations. The destruction caused by the fires was heartbreaking, but seeing teams from different countries working together to protect communities and ecosystems was inspiring.

Bolivia’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage remain etched in my memory. From the high-altitude wonders of La Paz to the scorched forests of Santa Cruz, it was a journey of contrasts—beauty and destruction, resilience and vulnerability. It was an experience that shaped my perspective on environmental disasters and the role of international aid, lessons that would stay with me in the years to come.

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