I took the train from central Illinois to a small town in eastern Colorado. It was very different from the kind of trips I usually take abroad. And although I’m pretty sure that I’ll never make this particular trip again, I did learn and experience some things that I’d like to share while traversing the heartland of the old U. S. of A.
As a Black American, I think it’s normal for us to be on guard about how people will treat us traveling while black. Our experience in the US has left us with a perspective tinged with a hyper-awareness of race and a suspicion of others’ motives/actions. But there are things to consider and other factors at work.
The author recounts their journey through Andalusia, Spain, highlighting the romantic allure and diverse beauty of the region. Their 14-day itinerary covered Seville, Cordoba, Granada, Malaga, and Jerez de la Frontera. While they enjoyed the scenery, food, and new experiences, the unwelcoming attitude of locals tempered their enthusiasm.
Before I went to Lima, Peru everything I read said there was absolutely no reason to spend much time in the city. Stay a day or two and go on to more interesting places like Machu Picchu and the Amazon, they said. I, however, have never been one to follow the crowd. I’m a city girl, and I like to travel slowly. So I spent nearly three weeks exploring Lima, and I don’t regret the time spent there at all. This is what I did!
Although the black population in Peru is largely invisible, the influence of Afro-Peruvian peoples permeates the culture. From food, to music, to dance, and language, Afro-Peruvians have left their mark on the country. While in Lima, I learned that there is a town about three hours south that is considered the cultural capital of Afro-Peruvian traditions – El Carmen.
Every Spanish-speaking country that I visit, I buy a book by an author from that country. Since I am still working my way towards obtaining Spanish fluency, I like this little ritual because it gives me more practice material, and helps me to learn and connect more with the culture of the place.
I don’t know about you, but prior to visiting I hadn’t heard much about Quito, nor did I know anyone who had been. The idea to visit started to percolate after learning a little more about the country from my…
In a reflective piece, the author highlights the importance of letting go—of relationships,
rigid plans, and unmet expectations. As they prepare for 2024, the focus shifts towards intention, growth, and a positive outlook for the future.
Using dating apps can be very frustrating. But I feel like it doesn’t have to be. As all of us singles move into the new year, if we keep two things in mind when hitting the apps, , I think we can enhance the quality of the experience overall.
Despite having had some amazing experiences this year, I overwhelmingly felt that I hadn’t achieved much. And this heavy feeling caused me to want to shut down altogether when it came to really reflecting on the year.
