Last pisco sour

That's it - now it's time to close the Central and South America chapter and get ready for the next chapter. A feeling that cannot be put into words.

But before I try, here's a quick recap of the past few days...

We spent this in Peru's capital, Lima. Suddenly we were back in the urban jungle and were able to get used to western standards again. Of course we also took part in one of our beloved walking tours. This time the tour was more like a small freak show. Whatever our guide took, it was too much. And whatever language he speaks, it wasn't Spanish or English. But well, the whole thing made us laugh like we used to at school and we still saw all the important sights. Apart from a bit of strolling around in the parks, on the coast and in the districts of Miraflores and Barranco, we shopped for a few souvenirs and of course there was a last dinner date with plenty of Pisco Sour. Other travelers told us that Lima is not a pretty city, but we really liked it. There was even a bit of a Malibu feeling at times. It was definitely a successful conclusion for us.

Well, and now Nadine and I are sitting here on the plane and have reviewed the last few weeks and months. And even though my adventure around the world isn't over yet, I'm kind of sad that at least part of the trip is coming to an end. I'm not quite sure if yesterday's last cocktail is causing the queasy feeling in my stomach or if it's the pain of saying goodbye. Probably both. Anyway, my time in Central and South America couldn't have gone better. I've traveled through 6 countries, been to dream beaches and the Amazon, climbed volcanoes and mountains, seen wonders of the world and countless wild animals, donated stem cells in between, taught children in Colombia, survived daring actions, mastered one or the other moderate catastrophe and - and maybe that's the best part - met such amazing people from all over the world. From oddballs and fleeting acquaintances to inspiring personalities to people who have found a place in my heart, everything was there. With this in mind, a huge thank you to my sister Nadine. We were an unbeatable team and I'm already looking forward to when we meet again in Asia and when our "doubletrouble" starts again.

I am incredibly grateful that I can take all these memories with me and I have learned so much - about other cultures, natural wonders, people and myself.

Central and South America have so much to offer and I would recommend a trip there to anyone. Looking back, I would not have made any other decision on my previous trip.

A short pit stop in my home country is planned for the next few days. So that the travel fever doesn't subside at all, the stop really only serves to hug my family for a moment, celebrate grandma's birthday and pick up the stink bear. Missing is over, dog hair is finally everywhere again and a wet snoring nose next to me.

Then we continue with car, tent and dog through Europe. Exact destination unknown.

I actually have a bit of respect for the new part of the journey. How is it suddenly to be on the road again without a permanent travel buddy? How does everything work with Dexter? Are we crossing the borders well? Do we always find a place to sleep? What if Dexter gets sick again? Questions over questions, but I am sure that everything will be fine. #lucky. As the saying goes: New things are only difficult until they become easy. I'm looking forward to the new challenge.

Well, and now there are tears at the airport in this emotionally charged atmosphere, although I don't know yet whether joy or sadness will prevail and - very importantly - a doner kebab! :D

Ps: I'll leave this place, but it'll never leave me.