Something I became,dangerously, comfortable with: Arriving at cities with no or only one evening of hotel booking to select a spot in person. Although, I have to add that I do research before arriving! Having done some research online, I found out that there were plenty of options and all available.

Something that has become a regular blessing during my trip is the number of incredibly kind and beautiful people that I come accross. Here is a brief story of one:

Given the cost of the flight, it was sensible to find a cheap hostel. I found one online and decided to walk there but somehow the place was not there! This is what happened next: I walked into a bar to ask about it. This lovely girl at the bar, Romina, was washing dishes when I arrived. She dried her hands and walked outside with me to look for the place. When we realised that the place was now a construction site, she invited me back in the bar. Gave me a drink said she’d ride me on her scooter to a place she knew well. I didn’t even question it, just jumped behind her. They didn’t have a spot so she took me next door. The whole time I was worried about her because she was in the middle of her shift. I finally convinced her that I’d be ok from where she took me. She gave me a big hug and said to return to the bar if any issues (I believe next, she was going to host me in her house!).

In the end, I stumbled across this boutique hotel/restaurant. It only had 3 rooms but all empty, the staff was super friendly and the owner decided to accept 60% less than his initial asking price. I know I negotiate well but I was lucky too.

I went next two days but could not catch Romina’s shift to be able to thank her. I did leave her a message and do hope that she receives it but even if she doesn’t, I know somehow the universe will conspire to return her kindness.

A short video of the view from my room, the picture of the hotel & restaurant and great sundown view from just outside the hotel.