My favorite place

Without a doubt, and always my favorite place in the city of Puerto Ordaz, Venezuela, is Christmas Park. For many reasons, it has always been a favorite spot. Since I was little, it's been a regular place to visit. When I used to go with my parents almost every weekend, it was always Christmas there, as I remember it. That's why it's called Christmas Park. It's primarily a park with playgrounds, but there have always been many craft vendors and fast-food stands. But that's only part of what this park is all about. For me, it's a great place that beautifies the city with its large windmill, which looks like one of those in Europe, although of course, the one we have here is simply an architectural decoration.

Whenever I go out to take photographs, I usually end up at this spot because it offers a great view of Ciudad Guayana and its rivers, as well as the imposing Cachamay Stadium. It's truly wonderful, so I often spend some time sitting alone, contemplating the place. It brings back many memories of my childhood in this marvelous, colorful, and typical Christmas red—not because it's Christmas, but because of the harmony that has always existed here. It's simple yet wonderful; you don't need anything fancy or to spend money to have a good time here.

Of course, in Puerto Ordaz I have many places I love, from natural parks like La Llovizna, Cachamay, and El Leofling, with all the grandeur of their natural spaces, as well as other places like plazas and some rivers. But in the case of Christmas Park, there's a feeling or emotion associated with what I loved to do as a child: always going to this park. Besides being a very eye-catching place, anyone who visits the city will notice its presence, especially if they happen to be walking along the streets that connect to it.

This park is an integral part of the city's identity, both culturally and architecturally. It's a testament to what defines this city, and I find it wonderful that they've been able to preserve this place despite years in which the city was practically abandoned due to the country's crises. Despite all that, those who have taken responsibility for its upkeep recognize it as a jewel, a heritage site for Ciudad Guayana, Bolívar State, and even the entire country of Venezuela.

This park is relatively close to me, perhaps a 30-minute walk, so it's easily accessible, and of course, there's never an excuse not to visit it. It's as if it were part of the neighborhood where I live. Even from my apartment building, if it weren't for some buildings blocking the view, I could see the mill perfectly. But, well, that's all part of the visual experience, so to speak. So if you're planning a trip to Puerto Ordaz, be sure to visit this park. I know you'll love it, and nearby you'll find other important landmarks that are also part of the city's design.

All photos are my own.

Posted Using INLEO