Returning to my Roots
2020 has been a year of challenges and adapting to a pandemic lifestyle. Before the pandemic, I used to travel every other month. I would choose a random country on the map and go from there. Searching for information about the destination brought me excitement and something to look forward to. From choosing the AirBnb and things to see and do, to selecting restaurants to eat at or outfits to bring for that perfect picture that would capture the joy I felt at that particular time. When we all went into quarantine, I felt like my life had no purpose anymore; nothing to look forward to, nothing to plan, no more adventures, no more excitement, no life at all.
There’s a quote that is always in my mind: “No matter how far you go in life, never forget where you came from.” Ever since I started traveling, I have wanted to go back to my country. Connecting with my family, especially my dad, reminds me how precious life is. My dad always reminds me to stay humble and never forget my roots.
My dad is a very humble man. He works long shifts as a bus driver, waking up at 4am every morning to be at the station by 5. I left Peru with my mom when I was 10 years old, and didn’t see my dad again until I turned 21. The life I had with my mom was privileged. I was able get a good education and live in two of the top countries in the world, Spain and the United States. I thank my mom for giving me these opportunities, more than I could have ever imagined. Somehow my life relates to that book “Rich dad, poor dad” by Robert. T. Kiyosaki. I had the best of both worlds. My mom showed me the power of knowledge and education, and my dad showed me vulnerability, and how to keep my heart pure.
My dad ready to go to work with the best attitude!
Before we went inside the restaurant. I was very excited to show my dad the experience of his life.
Maido is known as the 50 best restaurant in Latin America and I had to make sure I took a picture of the award.
I’ve been living in the States for almost 10 years. Building my life in this country has helped me discover my true passions: food and travel. During the pandemic, I noticed that the demand for upscale restaurants in my country was decreasing. When I saw the news in December of 2020 that the borders of Peru had finally opened, I immediately booked my flight. Flights were much cheaper than before, and booking was even easier. Planning my trip to Peru was so exciting! I was really looking forward to seeing my family and spending time with them after a year. Of course I was a little nervous, but I am not the type of person who lives in fear, so I grabbed my luggage and started packing.
While I was packing, I remembered how I’ve always wanted to go to this restaurant, Maido, a famous place known as one of “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in Latin America.” Before the pandemic it was almost impossible to get a reservation – it had a 6 month wait list – because of its international popularity. But due to the pandemic, reservations at Maido were easier to come by than ever before. Just picture yourself calling to make a reservation and finding out that you don’t need one – it was as easy as walking in.
Before flying to Peru, I decided to take my dad to Maido. I made the reservation and as a request I wrote that it was his birthday. I wanted that day to be so special for him, and I wanted him to feel like he belonged there. I surprised him with a new set of clothing and shoes. He had no clue where I was taking him. As soon as we got to the restaurant, all the Maido team greeted us, and my dad with his unique glint asked me “ how did they know we were coming?” I smiled and proceeded to tell him “ It’s your day, just remember that.” Honestly nothing was more enjoyable than seeing my dad’s reaction every time (21 times- 21 dishes) the waiter would bring a new dish and explain the story behind it. His expressions were like those of a little kid opening a new toy for the first time – or in this case, eating it.
My dad's face made everything worth it. He was happy trying every dish.
Peruvian gastronomy is one of the best one in the world!
The whole experience with my dad at Maido was one I will always cherish in my heart. My dad taught me humbleness with a simple anecdote. My dad said “When I was younger, I used to clean the streets of this town, and now my daughter is bringing me to eat at one of the most expensive restaurants in the country.”
Thank you dad, for always reminding me to value every experience, whether it’s eating at a food truck or in one of the 50 top restaurants in the world.