Solo Travel
The last time I solo traveled was during my senior year at Emory, when I ended up getting Covid-19 in Costa Rica. This time around, I had hesitations surrounding the travel advisory that was recently issued by the US. I am not naive to the dangers/risk of traveling alone, especially as a Black woman. Though, many of the fears I had came from social media and the build up of “what ifs”. In my heart of hearts I knew two things: there isn’t a place that I’ve been that has felt less safe than I feel living in the US everyday AND that the US has a LONG history of painting a false narrative of a country and their ppls. The resort I stayed at was nestled in a secluded area of St. Mary’s Parish in Jamaica, and I felt extremely safe and protected on the property, mainly because I did the research and made the connections necessary to understand that this resort, unlike many all-inclusives, was built on a strong set of values.
On this trip, I had three goals: to embrace my face without makeup, to appreciate my hair without extensions, and to explore my style a bit more in a new environment. I managed to do all three successfully and come back home with a new appreciation for all three things. I find it difficult to shift my mindset in the same environment that conditioned me to perceive myself in a certain way. I think this is one of the benefits of traveling solo. You get to connect with new people as the person you wish to be or hope to be without having to explain yourself or be met with criticism/judgment. If you want to travel and you don’t want to wait on people to decide whether they want to go or not…just book the trip. Go alone and learn a lot.
Vital Frequency Retreat
Vital Frequency is a retreat created by the incredible @neequa_09. It takes only a brief look at any news outlet to see that we are living in unprecedented and violent times. Recently, I have felt myself becoming consumed by all of what is happening in the world. Vital Frequency is what I believe the future of (eco)tourism should be. It is immersive. It is a cultural exchange. It is a space created with clear direction and intention. It is a space for learning and encourages mentorship and growth. There are few places that exist like this. Although I would LOVE to gatekeep Vital Frequency, this retreat is one that I feel many should experience with an open mind and an open heart. I was introduced to a new side of Jamaica, I was introduced to a new side of nutrition that I was not naturally drawn to. This retreat taught me that anyone can have a message, but very few can teach that message in a way that is digestible. Within the span of 4 days, I learned through practice how to unlock and reconnect with my divine femininity, how to say “no” as a form of self care, how to relinquish control and allow myself to be guided, and how to breathe with intention. I have so much appreciation for the way Neequa runs this retreat…For the sense of community that you feel amongst the staff. Its a beautiful thing to witness. So thank you @neequa_09 , @vitalfrequencyretreat , and everyone who made it a memorable vacation.
Culinary Experience
This retreat placed an emphasis on the importance of healing yourself internally through nutrition, emotional regulation, and spirituality. Now to discuss the EATS on this retreat?? When I tell y’all they made food an experience? Y’all… I would have never considered truly committing to a plant-based lifestyle had I not gone on this retreat. I was a PLATE-CLEANER on this trip. I have never eaten so much and so consistently. Everything tasted so good and fresh while still preserving the Caribbean flavors I’m used to. From Jerk Oyster Mushrooms to Vegan Rasta Pasta…every meal was 5 stars. I am working on nutrition goals for the rest of the year and learning new plant based recipes and experimenting with different mushrooms as a meat substitute is a top priority for me. I think the timing of this trip was absolutely perfect! The weather is beginning to warm up, so a different set of produce is going to be in season. It’s also the perfect season to begin juicing again. I am looking forward to applying what I learned in the coming months and documenting my progress!
