Guyana -- Day 3

Our morning started off early today as we headed to Lenora market at around 830am. The market had a wide variety of items available, including fresh vegetables and seafood, clothes, household items, jewelery, and drinks. We picked up a few items and also visited another member of the family at her stand.

After having lunch at home, we took a quick stroll to the seawall which was just down the street from where we were staying. After a few minutes of walking, the Atlantic Ocean was in front of our eyes. We took some time and just felt the (somewhat) cool breeze and walked along the seawall to take in the scenery as well.

The evening was ahead of us, and since it was Saturday night, our cousin decided to take us out to town to experience the night life. His friend picked us all up and conveniently knew the streets and city well, so they both gave us a tour while driving around. We stopped off at the Botanical Gardens and walked around, viewing the different types of vegetation that we don't have in Canada.

Our first stop was at a bar/restaurant called Hibiscus. Next stop was Buddy's, a building that has four floors, each with its own purpose; a gym, a restaurant, a pool hall, and a club. We had dinner at the restaurant, and then went to the pool hall for a drink. Our last and final stop was at Palm Court, a club that was mainly outdoors -- pretty much like a patio in Toronto, but since Guyana has warm weather all year round, this was the ideal hang out spot. We unfortunately didn't stay too late as we had an early and long day ahead of us.

Guyana -- Day 1 / 2

Day 1 of our trip was a travel day. About 10cm of snow fell earlier in the night; perfect timing for us to leave the city to warmer climate. As it snowed overnight, the roads were plowed and clear by the evening when we went to the airport. Our good friend had offered to pick us up and drop us off; thank you once again! We went through check-in and security with an ease and boarded our 10pm flight to Cheddi Jagan Airport in Georgetown, Guyana!

We touched down at the Airport at 7am to start off Day 2 of our trip. We were greeted by my Wife's Aunt and also a 12yr old boy named Kevin (who I will talk more about in later posts). We were then whisked away and loaded up into a mini-bus and had an adventurous trip into Georgetown in the hot weather. Most cars and buildings didn't have air conditioning, so it was a good idea that we brought extra shirts to change. But we soon got used to the weather, and the weather averaging 30 degrees (feeling like 40 with the humidity) felt nice against the skin.

After a brief stop into town to pay for an excursion, we headed back to our Aunt's house. We settled in, had some lunch, and simply relaxed. After a night of travelling, it was nice to sit in a hammock and swing back and forth while listening to the palm trees rustle in the air.

The last time my Wife had seen her Aunt, Uncle, and Cousin was 15 years ago, so it was a reunion for her, and this was my first time meeting them, but it honestly felt as if we grew up together and had always talked.

We "met" her cousin when he got home from work and for the rest of the evening, we visited some other family close by, talked, and relaxed.

GY (SA)

Guyana, South America.

This trip was a special one since my wife was born there and has not been back in 15 years. It was time for her to go back to her birth place and explore her roots and I wouldn't miss this chance to go as well. The timing was perfect and it had felt right, so after a few months of planning, we were on a flight to Georgetown, Guyana.

We were graciously met by her aunt at the airport who, along with her uncle and cousin, wholeheartedly welcomed us to their home for the next week. We were spoiled each and every day with their hospitality, home cooking, and their love.

Our time spent there included lots of eats, laughs, relaxing, touring, interesting events, mosquitoes, conversation, and most importantly, a lifetime of memories.

More to come...