Quarantine in Peru: Day 160

It’s hard to believe it has been 160 days, over 5 months of quarantine in Peru. The borders remain shut, the country closed off from the rest of the world. Travelers still remain stranded, and Peruvian citizens that were abroad await to be reunited with their families. The virus has left the country’s healthcare system in shambles, while mountain communities struggle to eat, and once thriving businesses forced to close their doors, as they no longer can afford the rent. Although the restrictions are some of the strictest in the World, Peru remains at the #6 position for the most COVID-19 cases in the World.

And yet, here I am. Day #160 of Quarantine in Peru

Smack in the middle of it all, patiently awaiting the borders of Peru to open and international flights to resume. Thankfully, I am safe and well. I’ve definitely been riding the “Corona-coaster.” Multiple ranges of emotions creep into my consciousness several times a day, every single day.

On some days, my hands are up in the air and I’m screaming with pure joy. I look out into the distance from my twisting roller coaster cart and see glacial peaked mountains and sacred relics of the mighty Inca empire. I visit the markets where I have a plethora of beautiful produce to choose from at the markets. Everyday, I witness the large toothy grins of the locals. My heart fills up with gratitude, my eyes swell full of tears, and I realize that I am exactly where I’m supposed to be.

Other days, my cart is plunging down fast and I’m sinking down with it. It’s as if I’m gripping the guardrail so tight, my knuckles are turning white, my stomach is turning, and my head is spinning with dizziness. I want to scream, but nothing comes out. Besides, what good would it do anyways? On these days I feel heavy, the weight and sadness of the world is crushing me down, and further down, until all I feel is worry and grief of those who still are plastering on a forced smile.

I ride this emotional roller coaster daily, but still, I refuse to give up hope for better tomorrows for every single one of us.

For now, my flight is scheduled to depart Peru September 11

However, nothing is for certain in these uncertain times. My flight has been pushed back multiple times over the last few months. Still, I refuse to take part in the “repatriation flights” that the US government is offering. They are profiting off of people in times of distress, charging almost 5x more than the typical airfare. These companies are gauging, and people desperate to get home to loved ones, are shelling out ridiculous amounts of money. Over 12,500 Americans have made it back home, while thousands remain, unable, uninterested, or unwilling to pay the highly inflated airfare price tag.

The airlines are charging anywhere from $1,200 – $2,000 for a flight from Lima to Miami. With no domestic flights running, a 24 hour bus ride is required from Cusco to Lima. This ride is over $100 per person. Note: Usually flights from Lima – Miami run around $250 with bus tickets from Cusco to Lima under $20.

I continue to wait, because Peru is not a bad place to be “Stuck”

I feel quite lucky to remain in Peru. If there is one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s to embrace the unknown, and so I will do it here, in the powerful Sacred Valley.

Besides, Peru has technically been my home since November 2019. When I think about leaving, I have a wide range of emotions rush over me. I am excited to hug my family, share with them my highlights, memories, struggles, and learning experiences. I will unpack my bag, recharge, and stay awhile.

On the other hand, thinking about leaving Peru puts a lump in my throat and already paints my heart with nostalgia. I’ve been on the road for over 10 years, and Peru has been the country that I’ve consistently spent the most amount of time in. (So far, 9 months). Peru is so incredibly gorgeous and diverse. The people, who own so little in the material world, are the first to share their treasures, a friendly hello, and their warmth. Their traditions run deep, rooted down into “Pachamama,” their loving term for Mother Earth. The food is incredible and the mamitas who are so proud of recipes that have been passed down from their ancestors. Peru is a beautiful country that is filled with even more beautiful people. There is no denying how deeply I have fallen in love with the stunning culture and customs that make up Peru.

Lessons from Quarantine in Peru

The most powerful thing I have witnessed during the pandemic is the resilience of the human spirit, which is woven with love, and compassion, and intertwined with kindness. I see small acts of kindness daily that restores my faith in humanity.

So, I will continue to write. I will continue to share the twinkles of light that I see, even during these times that appear to be so dark and full of despair. If you look close enough, you will see it, too. If you can’t find it, I ask that you create it. Ask someone how they really are doing, and actually listen to their answer. Help someone who is too proud to ask for it. Send compassion and understanding to those you don’t agree with. Forgive those who have done you wrong. Be the reason someone wears a smile on their face. Dream that the world will be a little bit better, every time you shut your eyes. Don’t lose faith in a better tomorrow.

Anyone can be kind.