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!!!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

March 18th, 2018″ [will live on in infinity,”} not infamy, as President, FDR, famously retorted.  Yes!!!! It was the day foundly known to us runners/participants and/or “finishers” as a 26.2 miles day.  It could be done and “I did it” as I proudly posted on my social media accounts.  Here’s but one more personal account of the background, training and experience of my first marathon- The Los Angeles Marathon.

Being a runner, and coming from an athletic family, my upbringing was surrounded with American football.  Having a dad who represented “The Fighting Illini” vs. Stanford in the Rosebowl of 1952,

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/1952_Rose_Bowl

<<1951 Illinois Fighting Illini football team- Wikipedia en.m.wikipedia.org>>

and my older brother,  whom played in the 1983 Rosebowl Championship, representing the UCLA Bruins vs. Michigan.

https://youtu.be/CqZegd7krNg

Needless to say, both of our teams won each respective bowl games, and brother, Dan, is even in the UCLA Hall of Fame with his Bruin teammates.  With the magic of time and technology both games are in the YouTube archives, and well worth a watch.

My athletic pursuits have always been, running, tennis,(So Bay Marine League) and basically keeping a general fitness regime. Fast forward from a college girl (always cheering for football) to a married woman, who now cheers for a different football…”futbol”, as in soccer.  My husband is Brazilian, and for over 20 years my life took a new direction, side stepping American football to the immersion of  soccer, in our household.  From participating in the 1994 World Cup opening ceremonies, (ironically, also at the RoseBowl), to providing our two daughters an upbringing in the sport for their formative years.  With that, our younger had represented the Women’s Sub 17 Brazilian National Team in 2015 for the South American Championship/World Cup Qualifiers,

Olivia De Moraes brings Brazilian touch to Palos Verdes playoff run

and will be playing soccer for the Bruins,(2018 Fall Season)… keeping the family collegiate /athletic tradition alive.

……………………………………………………………………..

PRESENT DAY TRAINING/PRE-MARATHON STARTING LINE, or How does one train or determine that they’re going to run a Marathon?

I advise, that you must have true motivation, desire, fitness, and will!! I have always been surrounded by fitness and athletes- which contributed to a mentality engrained in my subconscious.  I also come from good, strong genes (Swedish stock), which can endure the fatigues of sport.  Couple that with determination of a goal that I envisioned at the very least, a year prior, and set out on a course (pardon the pun), to maintain a set running goal, and increase the stamina to accomplish a distance run. My compadres have said the quote, “No distance is too far, runners,” or something thereabouts.  And, that is a truism!  To set out on a 26 AND point 2 miles, one must not give a thought about that length, but devise a personal mindset that can achieve a run to test the body in such a way.  I, had trained to run at my most 16+ miles, and other times, maintained a 10 miles status quo.  So…I calculated if I could do 16 and I could do 10, I just have to do them TOGETHER!!!!

How was my pre-training months?

I usually ran per week 2-4 times.  Some days 3-4 miles, and longer runs, 6-8 miles.  In a year in advance, once I mentally committed, I did not run more than probably 6 miles in a given run.  As the months passed, and neared the encroaching March 18th day, I knew I had to ramp things up.  I didn’t ever want to run a full 26 (.2) miles if it wasn’t marathon day, but I did feel compelled to run at least 20 miles for adequate preparation.  That never happened.  For time constraints, or other considerations, the most I hit was slightly more than 16/17 miles- (not too sure of accuracy due to Fitbit/phone running out of battery, hopefully not an indication of me running out of energy.)  And, that was just a few weeks shy of the big day.  I often reflect an analogy of school with regards to my training ideology, as sports can very well be intellectualized.  Whence there is an exam, the professors always encourage a study regimen which is steady and covers a longer period of time, than a cramming, and forced study the night before.  So too is running a Marathon.  You can’t expect to have endurance and longevity when you ran a week before in preparation.  Because I had been consistently (the operative word), running/jogging for years, not long distances, but a  steady and consistent program, I didn’t need to run 15 to 25 miles weekly.  That was only necessary to increase my stamina, and gauge how my body would react at a given time to a drastic increase of consistent motion over a couple hours.  Hence, the fear of running a Marathon!!!  What does YOUR body go through?  Can you survive?  Will you make the finish line in one piece?  So, it’s crucial to determine what you can withstand, by pushing the limits if not multiple times, at the very least, a few long distance outings.

Now, a week before M-day, its crunch time, and it’s countdown time, I felt ready, I felt confident, and I felt I should have one more semi-long run (10 miles) a couple days before.  Now, I’m starting to feel a cold coming on, and that’s not good.  Runners all say the same thing, “LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!”  And, that I did.  I felt that it would be more beneficial  if I should take a day off from pushing myself, and nurse a cold, with fluids, hydration drinks, and rest, to overcome what probably was more psychosomatic than anything flu-wise.  I did feel better the next day-2 days before M-day- and set out on the final pre-Marathon run of 10 miles.  Maybe I did have a slight strain of flu-like symptoms, or anxiety, or both, but that night, Friday the 16th- wow, I had chills, fever, headache, stomach issues, no appetite- it was awful!  Here, I was happy to accomplish my final run, and be done with a potential flu, yet, I couldn’t eat my carbs nor anything else.  I went to bed early, and the next day…A miracle happened, that by Saturday I felt better in all respects, and attending the Health Expo was just what medicine I needed- positive energy!

I picked up my racing bib, took pictures of my name amongst the 20,000 other participants, bought my hot-pink fanny pack, tasted free samples, and met the Justin Turner charity volunteers, who said, “you will run next year for us.”  That might possibly happen.  He was not at the Convention Center, but was the “Official Race Ambassador” at the Starting Line at Dodger Stadium on  the M-day.

The night before race day, after a full day at health expo, I went to a quiet restaurant with hubby (who ran his first Marathon 10 years about prior), and has been a great “coach” to me through this journey.  We did have Italian, although my pasta was more cheese and pork sauce than I should have had.  I did eat most of the pasta noodles, and had bread, and salad, and felt it was sufficient to load the carb quota.   I tried to make it an early night sleep, knowing my alarm was to ring around 4:30 AM!!!  But, all the little (unnecessary tasks) kept me up to midnight.  And, boy was it hard to fall asleep, and once I hit the hay, I kept awaking to thoughts of the Marathon.  Needless to say, my sleep was a disaster.

Not knowing if I actually had any REM, I awoked at the alarm ding, got my Sketchers official Marathon tank on, leggings, perfectly planned layers, and even applied glitter sun block lotion.  Grabbed my multiple health bars, gummy energy chews, banana… I was ready for my ride to Dodger Stadium.

GAME ON- MARATHON DAY

It’s pitch dark on the road at 5:30 am.  There’s surprisingly a lot of other cars out at this time.  There is restrictions of road closures leading into the stadium, but I am well prepared, as I have read and re-read all my literature that came my way.  We drive up the hill of Stadium Way, with much anticipation, and excitement as I have never felt before.  The access is denied into the gateway of the parking lot, although my notes had stated otherwise.  Hubby insists to let me off and I can just walk up into the opening of the runners gate.  I hesitate, as I don’t want to exert unnecessary output of energy.  But, then again, I don’t want to be late, and miss some of my pre-race indulgence at the “Hospitality Add-On Tent”.  This I might add, is a must do!!!  Aside from registering for the Marathon, (which costs a couple hundred dollars, and more for the extra insurance, in case of backing out for whatever reasons), the tent is like a VIP area, set-up with heaters, tables, bagels, coffee/tea, water and Gatorade.  And, private port-a-potties, that alone makes it so worth it.  I met a women there who had multiple Marathons under her belt, and said, “It’s always the same [nerves] with each one, no matter how many times I do it.”  And, I met another “Elite” runner, who is a Triathlete, and said, “I am just running today for training.”  Everyone has a story, some relatable others admirable, still others unbelievable, but we all come with a story, a background, a history, and a common purpose.  That is one of the most incredible aspects of running a Marathon.

Starting Line/Course Run

One of the most invigorating aspects of the Los Angeles Marathon, isn’t the 26.2 miles, it’s what you experience along those miles.  The City of Angels is a special place, and being a native, Losangelino, I couldn’t have felt more pride.  The excitement in the crisp morning air, at Dodger Stadium was infectious.  Everyone is at their respective starting posts (corrals if you rank as an elite experienced runner, or pace time, based on anticipated time), I fit myself in the 13 minute mile grouping.  (I actually clocked somewhere averaging around a 14 minute mile. ) Stretching while observing the crowd around me, (I managed to step

on a few peoples feet… oops 😬)…all I hear is the music repeating over and over, of Randy Newman’s anthem to my city – “I Love L.A.”

Can hardly wait anymore…  I missed the National Anthem, I missed Eric Garcetti, I missed Justin Turner all sending us off with encouragement and good will.  As I mentioned, I was milking my VIP tent experience, every $75 worth!!

”And they’re off”  says the loud speaker as we get ever closer to the starting line-which tracks and marks you officially through the race all the way to Santa Monica.

Starting the Race, Starting the Pace

Embarking along the parameter of Dodger Stadium was surreal.  The fact that I was amongst an enormous crowd of runners of all shapes and sizes, genders, ethnicities and cultures, we were bonded as one.  I am adjusting my music on my phone, fixing my headset, carrying a few foodstuffs, and basically not very organized to set out on a 26.2 journey.  Maybe that was an advantage, that I didn’t overthink the start of the race.  “Slow and   steady wins the race” as Aseop Fables taught us.  and truer words have not been spoken.

Now I’ve begun the journey.  I am in cruise control through Chavez Ravine, and the few spectators who stumbled upon the participants.  I hit Mile 1, which is as significant as some of the other markers.  In my opinion this first mile (stone) means it’s happening. Here,  I offered one of my Luna bars to a homeless man, but he rejected it, so I kept it, and glad I did.   We continue through Chinatown… wow, the gates are awe-inspiring!!

Continuing on through the weavings of Downtown, early Sunday morning, witnessing how many are up this early, working and greeting the day (and us runners).  It’s so fun is what I’m thinking.  I love seeing the people of the city that I would never meet and know.  Through twists and turns we hit other major landmarks- City Hall, Disney Concert Hall, Echo Park.

This lap was getting interesting.  The 1st Street hill, approaching the Disney Hall, was one of my first “walks”. I thought it beneficial to walk briskly up this hill, (as did many of my fellow runners), to avoid over exertion/exhaustion, early on in the run.  That was a great choice.  *TIP #1

Once the course concluded in the Downtown area, coming through the quaint neighborhood of Echo Park, with its famous landmark lake and “old Hollywood” bungalows, I had such a sense of overwhelming emotions.  Not sure why this lap made me sentimental, but I was. (Fast forward to finish line. ) Here, people from all over this city sector,  held motivational signs and cheered-  as they did throughout all the cities.   I felt a sense of accomplishment turning the bend from the park, because something was about to change.  Flatland!!  Yes, turning left into Sunset Blvd. through Silverlake and East Hollywood was a great, new vibe.  The heavy metal rock band was greeting us runners, so much so I had to turn down my own iPhone.  Keep in mind with time that there’s  always a long line at each porta-potty stop, so you do have to choose when and where with thought and calculation.

I never hit a so- called “wall”, but running after 20 miles along Sepulveda did seem to be a long path.  But a familiar one, as it’s my home turf from where I grew up.  Now I’m excited to rediscover my surroundings of my youth.  Westwood, Wilshire, Brentwood, San Vicente, it’s all my town!

Knowing I’m approaching 23 miles along the beautiful stretch of San Vicente grass meridian, I feel the power, and continue my stride at a quick tempo.  My stride doesn’t slow down, but it increases (making up for time lost from unnecessary stops).  I can’t believe I’ve hit 25 miles, with one to go!  All I can think about is I’m doing it, I’m finishing a marathon, and feeling great!  I make the turn along Ocean Avenue, now in Santa Monica, seeing the mist of the pier I the distance.  I can taste the  salty aire, I feel the gentle breeze

Coming soon.
https://instagram.com/p/BXFu1HvFSN0/

https://youtu.be/aplVlcCtNXA

https://instagram.com/p/BWT8B4wFlSK/

A year ago, we travelled to our 2nd home, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, this time for the 2016 Summer Olympics. We had only been in town for a day or two, visiting friends and family, going to the beach by day, and Uber- ing by mid day to see some events. "Yada yada yada… fast forward to the night of the Opening Ceremonies. We are rushing to get out of Rio, to the stadium -Maracanã – the largest venue that also houses major soccer matches. Once in this sea of humanity, attempting to coordinate giving our extra tickets to family, connecting with our soccer contact to get VIP seats, and all the while walking briskly not knowing where our gate to enter is. Where upon, a representative from NBC (channel 4) news approaches us in our Yellow and green /red white and blue garb. "Excuse me… we're from NBC, can we interview your family…". Mind you, were out of breath, rushing, stressing, on our phones to meet 5 people at different train entrances and various parking lots, whereupon we all say in an unanimous reply- "Yes!!" Check it out…
https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.petersondemoraes/posts/10153919851856359

When I was little, I had wanted to go to the island of Hawaii so bad, it was painful.  But in actuality it was the island of Oahu that I dreamed about. After many visits to Oahu, and subsequently, Kauai, Maui, and the “Big Island, ” Hawaii itself, I’m always at home with Oahu.  It is my first love and feels like home.  For those traveling across the Pacific for the first time, Oahu is the island where Honolulu is.  Where Waikiki is.  The home of the Dole Pineapple Plantation, North Shore (Pipeline),  Waimea Falls, Pearl Harbor (Arizona Memorial) and Kalakaua Avenue.  All the major hotels line the famous boulevard, and one in particular to visit, even if just for their amazing Mai Tai’s, is the Moana Surfrider Hotel. This lovely, majestic, colonial style building, is elegant as it is stately.  This large, white structure,  is strategically located on the famous street, and has an enchanting terrace to observe the lively beach in the distance.  Since most restaurants on this street are within a 2 hour plus waiting time to be seated , The Surfrider is a great stop.  No matter how many visits to the rumored, “touristy” Waikiki Beach, and all that it encompasses, it really doesn’t disappoint in terms of weather, beach activity, and island magic.

I’ve heard a lot about the City of New Orleans.  The infamous Bourbon Street, French Quarter, and perhaps an occasional Super Bowl at the huge Superdome.  But, what is not widely mentioned, is the southern charm beyond these spots.  Namely, the  Garden District.  With easy access of the “Hop on Hop Off” busline, you are transported to a world gone by.  Beautiful Antebellum homes, with emaculate gardens, are within these streets.  Also, the not–so indulgent, restaurants/bars away from Bourbon Street.  “Peche, “and Emerill’s “Delmonico”, are two worth mentioning.  The latter happens to exude Southern aire.  A short drive from the French Quarter, but you enter a world of gourmet, fine dining amidst yellow hues and subdued lighting.  The jazz pianists is a hit in the quaint bar.  Now this is my New Orleans !

For some adventure and exploration, there is the WWII Museum, an interactive, (if that is possible,) walkabout to view film footage of the war at different stages and locations.  The much expected Nazi Reich is prevalent, but the smaller battles of the South Pacific, (Guam, Iwo Jima), and finally the events leading to not one, but two atomic bombings on Japan are all worth a visit.  The placement of the last part of the tour, (Hiroshima and Nagasaki) leaves you breathless and in a trancelike state upon exiting the building.  It’s powerful stuff, and needs never to be forgotten.

For adventure, and a look into the swamp lands  out of the city, is a great Airboat Alligator tour we did.  Definitely spend slightly more for the smaller airboat.  A thrilling ride, going approx 55 mph, gliding over the Everglades and witnessing, unbelievably, multiple “gators” throughout the bayou.  Loved it!!  Scared, slightly, enthralled, hundred percent!