two weeks ago i flew home to the states. a group of us from blacksburg still take spring break in ft. lauderdale each year and i was missing my people. so i booked a last minute flight to florida but also booked one back to nicaragua as well. the plan was to return to nicaragua and attend more spanish school. but as the days drew closer to leaving i just didn't want to go. perhaps i'd gotten used to hot showers, a comfortable bed in a private room, and really, all the comforts living in the united states affords. as some of you may know, i had a few days when i debated not going back at all. but a few days ago i saw two backpackers walking through the streets of delray beach, florida and i missed it. i missed my backpack. and i knew i had to go (yes, i realize this sounds crazy to most of you, but those of you who have been traveling know what i am talking about--i didn't understand it until i felt it either). but i still wasn't feeling going to nicaragua. so then, where to? damn paradox of choice. really i have time, no agenda, and am conveniently located in south florida which is a major hub to a host of international flights. and so, the agony continued. i busted out the old pros/cons list. but that ended up hinged on a bunch of "what ifs" that we all know you can't plan your life around. i had reached the stage of analysis paralysis. do i go to nicaragua? mexico is really close, maybe i should go there? travel around the united states? and then, i made a decision. hallelujah. i would go to colombia.
yes, south america. i canceled my nicaragua ticket, booked a ticket for cartegena, columbia, and am on a flight out sunday morning. i honestly have no idea what to expect other than the rave reviews i hear from fellow travelers about colombia. no return ticket back yet (i've learned my lesson on that one), but likely won't be back till mid or end of may. alright, adios, again. hola south america.
