Embarking on a Journey: From Mexico City to Ushuaia
As I sit here with my backpack ready and a heart full of anticipation, I am about to embark on a journey of a lifetime—from the bouncing streets of Mexico City to the southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia. This epic will take me through twelve countries: Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Chile, and finally, Argentina. It's a dream I've carried with me for as long as I can remember, a dream born from a deep-seated desire to explore, to experience new cultures, and to immerse myself in the beauty of our world.
Growing up, my fascination with travel was ignited by shows and movies that transported me to far-off lands. I remember watching documentaries about the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, the vibrant markets of Colombia, and the pristine beaches of Costa Rica. Each scene painted a vivid picture in my mind, fueling my imagination and sparking a longing to witness these wonders firsthand.
Star Wars legend Ewan McGregor and his best friend Charley Boorman had a love for riding their motorbikes and a plan to travel the world. They looked at the map and drew an arrow, from London to New York, the 'Long Way Round'. They set off on their two wheeled motors and drove east as long as the land would allow. Traversing Europe, Northern Asia and North America. Meeting so many people and mixing with so many cultures. Finding friends in unfamiliar places. The inspiration to just draw a line and go had me hooked, just without the seemingly endless funds and camera crew along the way.
However, life had its twists and turns, and my travel plans were put on hold, particularly with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Like many others, I found myself grounded, yearning for the freedom of exploration and the thrill of discovery. But as the world slowly began to reopen, an opportunity presented itself—a chance to turn my dreams into reality.
And so, here I am, ready to set foot on a journey that promises to be a stupendous amount of experiences, a mosaic of cultures, and a library of memories to document.
My approach to this journey intends to go beyond mere sightseeing; I aspire to immerse myself in every place I visit, to work in the cities and towns I stay in, and to truly live in the places I will call home, even if just for a fleeting moment. It's about connecting with people, learning from their stories, and understanding the intricacies of each destination.
My first stop is Mexico, where the vibrant colors, rich history, and delectable cuisine have already ensnared me. From the booming markets of Mexico City to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, I am eager to delve into the heart of this captivating country.
.jpg "Teotihuacan, from Hot air balloons")
When I cross into Guatemala, I shall be greeted by the lush landscapes of Lake Atitlan and the Mayan ruins of Tikal. My adventure shall take me to the summit of Mount Acatenango, a two day hike battling altitude sickness, thin air and sizzling heat matching the volcanos namesake!
From the historic hike to El Salvador's rocky terrain and vibrant culture. Where Santa Ana and San Salvador offer a glimpse of a country I know seldom about and can not wait to indulge in.
In Nicaragua, I plan to be captivated by the charm of Leon, Managua, Grenada. Then on to the pristine beaches of San Juan del Sur, surfing the waves and soaking up the Pacific coastal sun for weeks on end. Exploring Costa Rica's biodiversity and eco-friendly ethos, the jungles sure to capture and entangle me with every flower, tree and howling monkey!
Colombia's diverse landscapes—from the Andean peaks to the Caribbean coast—offer a wealth of experiences. From dancing in the streets of Cali to delighting in delicacies in Bogota! While Ecuador's Galapagos Islands provide a window into the marvels of evolution and conservation.
Peru's ancient wonders, including the enigmatic Nazca Lines and the sacred valley of the Incas, hold secrets waiting to be uncovered. Brazil's cultural brilliance and natural splendor—from the Amazon rainforest to the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro—promise a sensory feast like no other.
Chile's dramatic landscapes, from the arid Atacama Desert to the glacier-carved fjords of Patagonia, are a testament to the earth's incredible diversity and humanities unending quest to discover that which remains hidden. Finally, as I reach Ushuaia in Argentina, I shall stand at the edge of the world, surrounded by the raw beauty of Tierra del Fuego and the majestic peaks of the Andes.
Throughout this journey, I will seek not just to tick off destinations on a list but to embrace the essence of each place, to connect with its people, and to leave a positive impact wherever I go. It's a journey of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and lifelong learning—a journey that I am ready to embrace with open arms and an open heart.
When Ewan and Charley finally arrived at their destination, after twenty thousand miles, broken bikes and enlightened spirits. They were met with a celebration, a chorus of calls, hoots and hollers. Family, friends and folks from their travels all beckoning them to their close. When I reach Ushuaia I won't be met by thousands, with a camera in my face and a big bottle of champaign. But I will be met with a glorious sense of achievement. For what has come and past, the people who made the journey and for the places that I shall never truly leave. And even more importantly, with a more open mind for what comes next...
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