Barquisimeto,
Venezuela
Where is this destination exactly, and why was I there?
I traveled late February through mid-March (2016) to the Northern-ist tip of South America to support my daughter on the Brazilian U17 National Team, in their quest for a spot in the World Cup, (also U17’s) to be played later in the fall. Since this competition, (called- South American Cup) was played at the stadium- Estadio Metropolitano de Lara, 20 minutes from Barquisimeto, I had the good fortune to discover a city, which I would have never known otherwise. This “futbol” stadium houses at capacity- approximately 45,000, which was apparent at the final game of the tournament between the Venezuelan fans, plus us two Brazilian fans, one of which, myself, is actually American.
What to do here?
The city of Barquisimeto is small, congested, and has many churches and famous landmarks to visit. The people of this city is what makes the city. Whether they are out for an evening stroll, enjoying a movie at the mall (Simbil) cinema, walking for miles to get to the crowded stadium, watching musicians play at an outdoor plaza, or even, waiting in line for many hours for their opportunity to purchase foodstuffs* Will discuss later. Venezuelans have corazon! And, they enjoy the sights just like tourist do. Some of these include: Divina Pastora (Monument), Catedral Barquisimeto (church), Iglesia Santa Rosa (church/plaza), Quibor (Arts & Crafts shopping district), and, Flor de Hannover (Giant floral structure/landmark).
To venture out of the city for a day trip, which I highly recommend, for a feel of natural beauty, that the South America countries are known for, and the Caribbean Sea, which is a benefit of this country, as its shoreline to the north is just that. About a two hour drive outside the city, will take you to the Marina where upon you can rent a boat, and captain, to taxi to and from the many islands located in this Archipelago. We had arranged in advance with our local driver to set us up with a boat/captain/itinerary, although it’s possible to find one at the Marina, it is always better to come with a boat secured. There are many different islands, islets, and keys within this stretch of ocean, not open water, however, but just beyond the Marina. One island, in particular to anchor at is…Sombrero- It’s the farthest to get to, but is worth it. This has more infrastructure, such as outdoor eateries, slightly more inhabited, more sunbathers, and large water vessels, that dock on the shore and blast their jams. Part of the fun is the journey to this and other islets, watercrafts bouncing rapidly above waves is a thrill all its own. The water here is unlike any I’ve seen…crystal blue and green hues twinkle in the sunlight merging with the bluest of skies. Conversely, the skyline in Barquisimeto is also like none I’ve ever seen. There is a brown hue that lingers along the cityscape, it is not hot, not humid, nor mild. Yet, there is a smoky, dense odor that permeates throughout the day and night. It’s not gloomy, nor cold, but heavy molecules of oxygen dampened by dust and ash. Hence, coming to this island oasis/paradise in the Caribbean was a must for the lungs, anyway. Another treat at the island stomping grounds are the travelling “boat bar”. “A boat by any other name would sound as sweet…” This is a nice feature while on your boat, docked amongst other boats, and wading in the shallow turquoise sea. Out from nowhere, literally, comes a small fishing boat, adorned with faux-flowers and gaudy signage, to alert the party goer that IT IS 5 0’Clock somewhere! Right there and then the” bartender” whips up a Pina Colada, or the local favorite- Mojito-or a Dacquri, which I don’t recommend, as it has too much of “some” red/strawberry syrup which makes it really too sweet, and not as good as a real mint leave Mojito. But, hey, who’s complaining this boat concept it like a mirage. Also, hysterical is when wading in the water, certain vendors come up to you with fish samples or drinks, on a floating device?? Where do they come from, really?!
Lodging
There are two hotels that I stayed at during the three weeks of my trip, and both I highly recommend. In fact, to compare is not necessary, they are almost the same in terms of amenities, luxury, price, and location. Let’s start with my first hotel- and last hotel, Lidotel. * See TripAdvisor review “Stephluis” I came here with my husband, and stayed a full week. Then, when I extended my stay for another 2 weeks, I transferred to where my friend was staying, let’s call that Biotel, then returned after 5 days, to complete another 10 days back at Lidotel. It was for logistical reasons to move back and forth, I will discuss later. Lidotel, is a highly modern style (from perhaps the ‘80’s) with purple hues and chrome, and black lacqur. Yet, it works. They call it a Boutique Hotel, and I like just that. It is actually quite large for a boutique, but maintains an intimate feel. The bar has a glowing, neon pink light illuminating from underneath the counter top about where sits the bar stools. This creates a festive sensory dynamic at the watering hole. This bar is adjacent to the hotel’s restaurant, which serves daily complimentary breakfast buffet, and other meals throughout the day and night. The dinner stops serving well after 10pm, which is a nice feature, especially since the adjoining mall closes all stores and eating establishments at 8pm. And, the breakfast is superb in terms of variety, quality, quantity, and service. All staff, and I do mean ALL…are extremely kind, helpful, gracious, etc. They go above and beyond to serve coffee, to one’s unique specifications (perhaps they have been trained to compete with Starbucks), to bring one’s plate to their table, pull out a chair to help seat you, bring a specific omelet from the omelet chef station, to your table, so as to not have to wait there. Maybe it was just me, but I got the royal treatment. The menu consisted of fresh fruit- everyday, papaya, pineapple, cantaloupe, watermelon, bananas, fresh juices- melon, maracuja (passion fruit), hot dishes- beans, shredded beef or chicken, plantains, 3 different dry cereals, an array of baked goods, cookies, pound cake, marble, vanilla and chocolate, brownies… and waffles. It was a great way to start the day, since we never knew how the rest of the day’s meals would fare (pardon the pun.)
Now, the breakfast at Biotel, not that I am comparing, but it was not as deluxe. They too, had a breakfast “buffet” with on request eggs, and fresh fruit, and kind waiter staff. Yet, the coffee machine may not have function every morning, and they charged extra for coffee when it was working. Also, the fruit selection was papaya, and so was the juice. They did have the same butterfly cookies, but no other baked goods, except white toast. No cereal, no plantains, but they had WiFi in this dining room, which was a great feature, and we seeked that out immensely!!!
eatingwalkingtalking 