Ever since I was a little girl, my father always told me “NEVER forget our roots”. After almost 20 years, who would have thought it would take a worldwide pandemic (COVid-19) for me to come and live in Nicaragua for 4 months and counting.
Let me fast forward to February 3rd 2020. Basically, the day my life changed. I received the worst news any child could ever receive. The loss of my father, Wilfredo Velásquez. I was heartbroken to say the least. My best friend, is gone and not only that but he was located in Nicaragua when it happened. At that moment, I knew absolutely nothing would get in between me traveling to go to my father, not even an expired passport.
With zero sleep and I’m sure you can imagine why, it took me one day to renew my passport, pack my things, get my ticket and go.
Now, this wasn’t my first time traveling alone, though it was my first time leaving the country by myself. I knew I would be facing many challenges. For one, Nicaragua is a predominantly Spanish speaking country. My Spanish was broken, I understood more than I can speak or explain. I knew this was going to be a tough. The only person in the family who knew English and would translate for me was my father. I was extremely nervous, but I felt my father with me the whole time, protecting me. Even during my flights to Nicaragua, I felt him by my side especially since both flights the middle seat was empty. Strange right? But I knew it was him and that he was with me during my travels.
I have a lot family out here. Basically, my dad’s whole side. With cousins, aunts, uncles, grandparents, and thought they didn’t speak my language I knew they were going to take care of me, they did. They made sure I was as comfortable as can be during my hardest times. Google translate played a huge role for me too, haha. (Seriously, thank god for that app!)
I bought a 9-day round trip ticket. To return home on Valentines day. My dad had other plans for me.
Friday, February 14th 2020 I packed all my things and went to the airport. Though I felt my time was not over, I had to leave and return to my reality in NYC. How do I do that? I had no idea.
But, like I said the universe had other plans. As I arrived to the airport and walk towards baggage claim, it was closed! I was confused and concerned. I spoke to one of the worker and he told me baggage was closed for the day. Technically, I can get on the plane but would have to leave my luggage behind. Well, that was not an option. I told the worker my story and he told me he wanted to take care of me. With empathy, he rescheduled me for the Sunday the 16th and didn’t charge me a dime(thank god! Lol) I appreciated it and was so happy, 2 more days! I told myself.
My new little family
Kevin and little Lola
Would you believe me if I told you I found love in my last two days? What a plot twist huh? Lol. Well, it’s true. I spend the last two days getting to know Kevin. He worked with my cousin so I saw him during my stay but guys where the last thing on my mind at that time. But he had his eyes on me and I noticed it. He told my cousin he liked me and wanted to get to know me. He knew absolutely zero English but he didn’t care. The first night, Valentine’s day. He brought me chocolate and asked if I’d like to hang out with him. Respectfully, I accepted. What do I have to lose? We stood up all night talking (well typing mostly lol) He was so shy and quiet but he asked me many questions. Then, without hesitation, I asked him for a kiss (yeah, I made the first move haha) he kissed me with so much passion. Something I’ve never felt before. It was amazing. Is it weird to say my dad sent him to me? I felt that. My dad always wanted to see me happy and what better way than a Nicaragüense, right!
The next night was the same. We stood up all night. Now I was even more sad about having to leave. Though, I knew I had to return home eventually. So, I did.
On March 16th, 2020 I was affected by the Coronavirus. My job informed me that they would have to cut down hours and I would be out of work for the next two weeks. Frustrated and concerned, I figured I would use this opportunity to go back to Nicaragua. I wanted to explore a lot more. I wanted to check out my dad’s favorite restaurants and the beach he would video chat me while drinking a nice cold Toña (Nicaraguan beer). I wanted to go to a volcano (Nicaragua has 9 active) and Ometepe an island in Nicaragua. I heard how beautiful San Juan Del Sur was, I need to see it with my own eyes. I wanted to feel the hot sun and beach water on my skin. My dad always bragged about how beautiful his country is so why not take this opportunity to explore! Plus, now I have someone who can take me to all the beautiful places and help me get around.
March 19th 2020, I left and haven’t been back since.
Nervous yet excited. This time around I knew the country a little more. My family was excited. I still needed google translate but not as much as before. I couldn’t wait to eat the food again and try new food I didn’t get to try. Also, the fresco which is freshly made juices. Linaza is my favorite, so delicious and refreshing! And now I have a boyfriend waiting for my arrival!
