Throwback to a year ago....pictured is me in Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona - the world's biggest coastal mountain.
Going to Colombia & Ecuador was the first time I had ever travelled alone. I was 23, knew only basic Spanish and so naturally, I decided to fly halfway across the world to a foreign country in which I had little knowledge of. Luckily, I had a few friends expecting my arrival and along the way, I met many people from all walks of life adding so much more joy to my travel experience.
However, leading up to my three day adventure in Parque Tayrona, all my plans with my travel buddies fell through! I was left to decide, “ Do I go alone? Or do I cancel everything?”
In a spur of the moment, I packed my bags, caught 3 buses and next thing I knew, I had arrived at Parque Tayrona. With only 3 days worth of food supplies packed, I began my 2 hour hike through the forest to my campsite. There I found a hammock, which became my bed for the next couple of nights. Keep in mind that there were no mosquito sheets that came with it…in the middle of the jungle… and the lady guaranteed no mosquitos…rookie error. Over the 3 days, I ventured on with the most touristy bucket hat and my SEDA earrings flopping in the wind along the rainforest trail. I visited all the infamous Coastal Lagoons and had a dip in the coral filled seas. I met travellers from all around the world and most importantly, I met an indigenous of Santa Marta. He was so surprised to see a young lady venturing alone in the jungle. He pointed to my jewellery and said, “Your earrings are beautiful. They look like they were made in Colombia! Are you Colombian?” I told him, “Yes, I am Colombian in my heart!” I went on to explain my idea for SEDA Collective and my projects with the Indigenous tribes. When I finished, he was amazed and wished me the best of luck.
Those 3 day and 3 nights alone, exploring the magical wonders of Colombia, opened my eyes more to this gorgeous country. It taught me so much about myself and gave me the courage I needed to bring SEDA Collective to life.
Remember...the best things in life are on the other side of fear and discomfort.
COLOMBIA COLLECTION | CHAPTER 1 pieces inspired by my time in Parque Tayrona. Click on the earrings above to view them!
