The last time I wrote to you, I was days into my time in Arequipa, Peru. What you didn’t know was on day two, I woke up in the middle of the night with an extremely painful headache that shot straight into my right eye. I had never experienced that kind of pain before, and honestly, it scared me. What I had experienced were the effects of the altitude, and it was not fun. Yet, after a lot of crying, drinking coca tea, water, breathing, talking to my mom and rest, I was much better. That evening while walking into town for food, I decided to have a photoshoot because they always make me feel good. LOL.

Overall, Arequipa was not that exciting to me. I didn’t need 7 dates with the city, and yet of course I made the most of it. I walked around a lot, went to the market, learned the history of Arequipa, and the importance of llamas, alpacas and vicuñas. I had a couple of boyfriends from around the world, made friends with restaurant and store owners, enjoyed matcha, hot chocolate, and sunset views.

The next place I traveled to was Cusco, Peru, at a high altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level. Cusco is the historic capital of the Inca Empire and the primary gateway to Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. I was looking forward to making it here because everyone spoke highly about it. I was open to making it to Machu Picchu, but I didn’t feel called. I didn’t go and I was good with my desicion.

The altitude didn’t bother me until day two when I went hiking in the mountains above the city. Yep, magic number day 2! As we were ascending, my ears started to hurt and I was able to manage quickly by stopping mid-incline to put some muna oil in my ears and under my nose, as well as chew on some coca leaves. When we reached our destination, the view from above was absolutely beautiful and peaceful. There was silence, breathing and I did origami.

There were no headaches in Cusco but there was crying, reflecting and storytelling. I felt like the tears were a cleanse I didn’t know I needed. I was releasing, and being up above close to the clouds in the sky does something to you if you let it. I let it. I felt closer to God and I let the mountains speak to me. When I began my voyage, I said I wanted to be in the mountains to receive a different perspective and I got just that. Mountains all around me!

Cusco was just what it needed to be. Yes, the city itself was very touristic, which was a complete turn off at times and determined if I wanted to leave my barrio (San Blas) or not day to day. There were extremely too many tourists and I was over people asking me if I wanted to buy things. At one point, I gave the people that look of "don't ask me again" and we just laughed.

My view from the Airbnb was fabulous and I honestly could have stayed there all the days just as content. I walked hella stairs daily, used my camera, ate good, went to some cool cafes, a dope vinyl bar and jazz club, and of course I had multiple boyfriends from all around the world. I built dope communities and even gained some family members in Cusco. One of the most joyous parts of Cusco was meeting Black folks from around the diaspora who were traveling the world because they wanted and could. The love between us fed my soul in a way I didn’t know I needed. We are everywhere!

Overall, Peru really surprised me. It wasn’t a country on my list, and I’m so glad I came and went on 30 dates. Peru definitely opened its arms with love and encouraged me to return soon.

I made it to my 3rd country in South America which is Bolivia. The flight was direct and quick from Cusco, Peru. We flew over Lake Titicaca, which is the world’s highest navigable freshwater lake bordering Peru and Bolivia.

I landed at La Paz airport but technically the name of the city is “El Alto.” It is the highest major metropolis in the world, standing at 4,150 m above sea level. They say some people get altitude sickness immediately, but guess what? Ya girl didn’t! My breath was definitely shorter immediately getting off the plane as I was videoing my arrival. I was greeted with love and compliments on my smile and earrings at immigration. I wasn’t asked to see my onward ticket. I was asked how long I was staying and when I told her 30 days, she told me “welcome and enjoy my country.”

That’s my update for now. I haven’t been posting much and plan on soon but you know, I’m present and in the moment. Until we meet again, I hope you find the ways to keep your joy and make sure you give those close to you a hug, a phone call or a simple “Thank you for being here.”

All the love to each of you that read this. You are appreciated.

Venice

Long story longer, I cried all the way to immigrations, where my process was so smooth. The immigration officer asked me how long I was staying in Peru without asking for an onward ticket and I said “Dos meses?” He welcomed me to the country and told me to enjoy. Just like that I was off. I went to collect my luggage where the tears began to flow again, and I didn’t stop them.

My taxi driver was waiting for me when I arrived at the pickup area holding a sign with my name on it. I smiled big, gave him a hug and thanked him for picking me up. On my way to my destination, I spoke briefly with one of my favs who inspires, encourages and always seems to be right on time with a text or call. When the call ended, I sat back and enjoyed the cool cool breeze of the Costa Verde.

The next day, I went to watch the sunset at Larcomar and when I looked out at the ocean, I saw a small boat just sitting there anchored. It reminded me of March 3, 2025, at Playa Ocotal, Costa Rica, when I saw my dad in a little boat. He waved his hand, and I heard him say, "Go, I'll see you at the next destination," as he continued to row away. I laughed out loud and said, "Dad is here with me."

Let me be clear. I know my dad is not a boat. I know he isn’t literally here, nor coming back. Yet his spirit is so strong and present. Normally when I feel my dad’s presence, there is a message and every single day in Lima I felt him. I cried in front of strangers and new homies. I cried to the ocean. I cried walking the streets, and the message I gathered was clear. Continue to GO babe. LIVE. This is YOUR journey.

I went on 14 dates with Lima, and each one was a vibe. I ate good every day, I learned about the city, history, culture, and people. I spoke tons of Spanish, watched the sunset every night, built beautiful communities, and had multiple boyfriends. I even got to connect with one of my homies I used to teach with in Chicago! It’s been 15 years and our time together was just what it needed to be! The invitation was given to stay, and honestly, Lima made a strong case, but I chose to go to the next destination to see what it had to offer.

I landed in Arequipa, Peru,“Cuidad Blanca”on Sunday with greetings from the volcanoes, and an altitude of 2,335 meters above sea level, which is different world compared to Lima sitting at sea level.

I’ve been drinking lots of water and coca tea, eating light, breathing and taking it slow. There’s definitely no rush when you’re this high up because, it’s up, literally.

Entonces, until we meet again, the journey continues. As always, if you want to see more photos of my experience follow my Instagram stories.

Love and Light,

Venice

On January 29th, I landed in Colombia on my birthday, in Cartagena, to be exact.

I remember the smile on my face as we were landing. I was on another continent! I made it to Colombia and it was HOT. I immediately saw nothing but melanated people with beautiful smiles and warm greetings.

Immigration didn’t even ask me for my onward ticket. I was asked how long I was going to be in the country, and when I said 30 days, the guy told me to enjoy his country. What a way to be introduced to a country.

Cartagena was an experience for sure! I have many stories.. just know I appreciated the “real Cartagena” vs. the “touristic Cartagena.”

From Cartagena I made my way to another coastal town called Santa Marta, which was a mini retreat of rest, rain, reflection, beanbags, beaches, and rooftop pools. This was not in the plans, yet I’m happy it became apart of the experience.

Then came Medellín, where one of my favorite moments happened. I got to meet my Spanish teacher in person for the first time. We had been virtual for almost a year and the excitement I had when I saw her was like I met celebrity. All my words left and I felt like crying from the joy I had. I also got to meet a new friend I’d been connected to through my teacher. My heart was so full in Medellin. Many experiences that just fell into place with no plans. Those are the moments that remind you why you said yes to the journey.

Then came Bogotá.. the capital.. with its cooler weather, gray skies with some sunny days and rooftop views. I started back working in Bogotá, so the vibe shifted from vacation to the reality of living and being in a place while doing the things that keep you in the position to go.

And then came Cali.

I spent the most time in Cali because I’d felt a connection to that city for almost a year. I joined a Black in Cali group chat, connected with two women, and just… showed up. That’s the shortened version because there is honestly so much to write. Cali was everything.

36 days. That’s 36 dates, and just know all of them were fantastic. I had a boyfriend in every place, danced in every place, and ate something delicious. I also want you to know that Colombia is Black. For those of you that are in tune, you already understand. The essence of this country is that of a Black woman and I felt it from the moment I arrived.

So one may ask.. are you staying in Colombia? I’m not. I am on a journey to date the world, and on day 37 (7/3/26) I made it safely to my next destination. Peru.🇵🇪

Honestly.. I’ve been trying to keep up with Instagram stories but the truth is, I’m too busy living. I’m learning more about this world and how I exist within it. I’m taking up my own space, evaluating my emotions, sitting in my own seat, standing fully in my shine, and my Spanish is getting better daily. That’s not something you rush. And I like who I am and who I’m becoming through this experience.

Entonces, be patient with me as I’m out here in these South American streets being fully present with no timelines or timeframes. If you ever want to call, send a text or send me a gift along the way.. you have my number.. 💐💕💫

Until we meet again. The journey continues.

So She Goes. 🗺️

Then you get an email with a big, bright banner saying your second flight has been canceled.

I didn’t panic… but I did stop watching the prayer and completely forgot about the Medicine Ball tea.

The ticketing booth reps didn’t open until 5 a.m., so I called the 1-800 number. I spoke with a representative and we went through my options. The thing is I wasn’t anxious. The older version of me would’ve panicked, cried, shut down, and felt doomed… like I’d done something wrong.

This version of me was clear-minded. I knew there would be another way. I had options. And I chose to stay where I am and depart in two days which just so happens to be my birthday.

I called the lodging and tours I had booked, and everything was refunded with zero issues or resistance. I haven’t rebooked any accommodations yet, and I won’t until I land.

I’m really loving how this voyage is beginning… with a delay.

Today I was supposed to arrive in Cartagena, Colombia to jumpstart my birthday and my voyage journey. And instead, the journey started right here.

Colombia can wait two more days. Apparently, I’m supposed to arrive on my birthday. ✨