A Guatemalan Retreat
Have you ever wanted to just take a day off and get away? It's not unusual to feel this way, especially when you live and work in "The Big Apple". In response to my intuition, I decided to head to Jamaica, a neighborhood in Queens, New York. In search of a bit of foreign delight, I encountered an assortment of hardware stores, delis, and eateries. After transferring from one bus to another, I eventually made it to a Guatemalan restaurant and bakery known as "Guatelinda". The outside of the restaurant gave off an unassuming and modest vibe, which is exactly what I needed- a cozy atmosphere. As soon as I entered, I was definitely taken aback by the assortment of spices commonly used in Central American cuisine.
Not to mention, the fellow Guatemalans in there also seemed pretty laid back and gave off an innocuous energy. It was perfect timing to enjoy a simple cup of "Horchata": a Mexican cinnamon-y drink that will caress your soul.
Next came the main course, a plate of rice with refried beans and stewed chicken ( a staple of Latin American cuisine) accompanied with a side of pupusas. I wanted to indulge holistically but not excessively. The rice was tender and fluffy, the way I like it. Even better were the refried beans with a delicate sense of flavor intertwined with a smooth texture. I could tell the cooks were gentle and attentive to detail, typical of Guatemalan culture.
After a few moments of repose, I was onto my next Jamaica adventure. I started to reflect upon the beauty of Queens, especially Jamaica, where the level of ethnic diversity is evident by the nature of businesses that line the perimeter of Jamaica Ave. If you ever happen to be in search of Bangla linen or traditional Indian clothing, you've come to the right spot. By chance, I wandered across the street and ran into Ronger Mela - a Women's retail store. I joyfully entered with a childlike excitement; anything out of the usual always sparks my interest. The walls were covered with translucent sarees and mystical salwar kameez. The store was meant to evoke your spirituality for sure.
Next came the main course, a plate of rice with refried beans and stewed chicken ( a staple of Latin American cuisine) accompanied with a side of pupusas. I wanted to indulge holistically but not excessively. The rice was tender and fluffy, the way I like it. Even better were the refried beans with a delicate sense of flavor intertwined with a smooth texture. I could tell the cooks were gentle and attentive to detail, typical of Guatemalan culture.
After a few moments of repose, I was onto my next Jamaica adventure. I started to reflect upon the beauty of Queens, especially Jamaica, where the level of ethnic diversity is evident by the nature of businesses that line the perimeter of Jamaica Ave. If you ever happen to be in search of Bangla linen or traditional Indian clothing, you've come to the right spot. By chance, I wandered across the street and ran into Ronger Mela - a Women's retail store. I joyfully entered with a childlike excitement; anything out of the usual always sparks my interest. The walls were covered with translucent sarees and mystical salwar kameez. The store was meant to evoke your spirituality for sure.
Sometimes we get wrapped up in our own world, a sheer reality. When that happens, it makes our minds amplify our problems exponentially. Stepping out of your level of comfort and what is known to you can serve as a form of therapy. You get to experience different perspectives and develop a more clear understanding of your world from an objective lens. Diversity within New York City has definitely helped me achieve that. So many cultures and people from different backgrounds exposes you to the many dimensions of existence that we can choose to be a part of, whether it be through trying a new cuisine or buying a cool saree. Thank you.
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