After a very emotional,
turbulent week, I have arrived in Leon. I am in a big sociable hostel with a
pool and courtyard. I arrived yesterday at midday, after a very straightforward
bus journey out of Managua, I was so glad to see the back if that dishevelled,
dangerous city. As the bus pulled into the main bus station, several men with
carts on bicycles start shouting 'one dollar, one dollar' to take me to the
hostel. Nelson was the lucky man who had the pleasure of peddling my cumbersome
rucksack into town.
I immediately went for a
walk around Leon to get my bearings. it is a small city with crumbling colonial
buildings and magnificent churches. There is something strangely comforting
about sitting in a cathedral, listening to the music, thanks to my Christian
upbringing. Although my beliefs have changed, church is a reminder of friends
and family who have a Christian connection and have so often looked out for me.
Churches, to me, are places of kindness and safety.
I met three girls from
Bristol, Iona, Ava and Hette, back at the dorm room and we strolled around the
city at sunset. They took me to a beautiful vegetarian restaurant tucked away
on a side street, I walked in and Mariza was playing - another reminiscent
soundtrack to childhood holidays. Wooden tables and Picasso style artwork on
the walls. I had only eaten bananas all day and a huge meal of falafel with
lots of vegetables and hummus was most welcome. The girls were fantastic
company, and a connection to England was just what I was in need of after
unsettling events. The girls are Glastonbury veterans, which is always a good
sign!
Back at the hostel I went
to bed early, the girls went to night time beach party organised by the hostel.
I am still adjusting to solo travelling, sticking to a strict budget and being
kind to myself so alcohol was out of the question last night. I am incredibly
wary of danger and I trust no one. I am hoping with a bit I time I will start
to feel comfortable again and enjoy what Nicaragua has to offer. I have bought
a local phone, which works internationally, and a couple of phone calls from
Ben have kept me sane. Mum and I are communicating by email, which feels rather
old fashioned! Today is a new day and I’m starting with my favourite thing to
do in the morning - going for a run.
Imogen
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| Crumbling Streets of Leon |
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| I loved this lady in her rocking chair sat in the street in the early evening |
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| Iglesia La Recolección |
Thinking of you, and admiring your strength and resilience!
ReplyDeleteOnly when you reflect in years to come will you know how much these experiences shape you. Can't wait to chat when you get home.