From the Andes to the Expo
One Month, Three Countries, Endless Gratitude
Last year, I promised myself I’d block out April 10–18 to finally make a dream come true: visiting Peru. And we did it. I boarded that plane and set off on the adventure of a lifetime.
We visited Machu Picchu - one of the seven wonders of the world! We climbed Rainbow Mountain, posed with llamas, sandboarded in Huacachina, and formed part of a great group of amigas! It was every bit the soul-filling journey I’d hoped for.
What moved me most was Peru’s rich connection to its Indigenous culture and people. We wandered through historic towns like Sacsayhuamán and Ollantaytambo, learning about Incan rituals, ceremonies, and deep-rooted traditions. The Rainbow Mountain hike was hands down the hardest I’ve ever done—but the view at the top? Absolutely worth it. Crystal-clear glaciers within sight, and on the way down, there was this sacred silence—one of those rare, still moments where you just breathe it all in.
And let me tell you, seeing the Andes Mountains slice through the landscape from desert to jungle during our flight from Lima to Cusco? Unreal. I left Peru feeling full of wonder, gratitude, and admiration for a country that embraces both its history and its heart. I’m sharing a few photos below—scroll down and travel with me!
My next stop was Mexico to visit my dad! We hadn’t seen each other in over a year, and although we only had a couple days - we made the most of it. We drank Misma Lani cafecito and scouted for all the antojitos I had to have while in the country. Sitting around the table, listening to my tías and tíos tell stories from the old days—their childhood, courting customs, & border stories. I’ll leave you with some pictures of Mexico as well. My dad said, “hi and gracias for your support for Misma Lani!”
Last but not least —Houston! I wrapped up April at my first-ever Specialty Coffee Association Expo. From April 23–27, I joined the Hawai‘i Coffee Association booth to represent Hawai’i coffees and help share knowledge with attendees about Hawai‘i-grown coffee, from coffee species and pulping methods to what makes each growing region so unique. Similar to my Taiwan trip last November, I was sharing stories and building connections through coffee.
I was also invited to speak on a panel, which gave me a chance to step into public speaking—a fun and nerve-wracking milestone! Misma Lani also collaborated with Tenfold Coffee. Our Natural Process Kona was served both as espresso and as drip, and it was a hit. The espresso had notes of strawberries and cream—smooth, juicy, and absolutely delicious. It was one of those full-circle moments that reminded me just how worth it all the extra effort in our processing really is.
I meant to keep this short, but it was such a packed month, I just had to share the highlights! Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support means the world. Here’s to May—may it bring fresh energy, blooming dreams, and plenty of cafecito!
With so much gratitude,
Victoria
