Flying for Kosovo

I have received a series of photographs taken by James and Luz on the journey so far. Please excuse the low quality and small size of these pictures, because James has to upload them at a hotel and e-mail them through less than ideal internet connections and because there are so many pictures, we had no choice. We hope you enjoy!

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Chile is 4,300 kilometers long and only approximately 175 kilometers wide. It is snuggled between the tall snow-covered mountain peaks of the Andes and 6435 kilometers of Pacific coastline. To the North is Peru and a desert climate and to the South is the Drake Passage, the body of water that separates Chile from Antarctica.

It is the most stable and prosperous nation in South America. In fact, Santiago, the capital, did not appear to be any different than most European cities. The great infrastructure made me think several times that I was actually in Europe. The subway system was very well organized and clean, which made me wish that the New York City subway system would be the same.

The people reminded me of Europe as well. They were very friendly and quite educated. The media surprised me as well, as they treated me like a distant brother coming from Europe. It made me feel extremely privileged to be interviewed by the oldest and most respected newspaper in the country, “El Mercurio”, founded all the way back in 1827. A second newspaper gave me an entire page worth of news, just for our country Kosovo’s independence! It quickly became apparent that the people of Chile were familiar with Kosova’s situation and could not understand why their government had not recognized our independence yet. Though the Ministry of Foreign Relations was much stricter here than previous countries as far as availability and scheduling, I did get a confirmation that they were following Kosova’s political position in the world very closely.

Despite somewhat high prices, I enjoyed my short time here and it is definitely a place that I could be comfortable living in.

My experience so far on this trip has been amazing and continues to surpass my wildest expectations. Bolivia is no different. It is a wonderful country. La Paz, the capital, is the world’s highest capital city at 12,000 ft. above sea level. Even still, the city sits in a valley surrounded by even higher mountain peaks of the Andes, making for a the most amazing view. Walking around town was a bit difficult at first, due to the change in oxygen levels at that elevation, but well worth it after adjusting. The diverse influences have left their mark throughout time and the architecture of the city speaks volumes. At times I was reminded of being in Spain, while at other times it felt like I was in the USA or Switzerland.

I found the people of Bolivia to be very welcoming, friendly, open-minded, educated and knowledgeable. It was a great treat to witness the local cultural traditions, especially while walking in the outdoor markets. From the indigenous traditionally bright and colorful dresses that Andean women wear to the unlimited amount of tropical fruit available to buy from all over South America, I enjoyed the brief immersion during my visit.

The media coverage was eventually excellent, though initially they had reservations about Kosova’s independence. Within Bolivia, the region of Santa Cruz (one of the wealthier regions of the area) has been trying to gain independence from the rest of the country, which has caused a bit of resistance. Additionally, Kosova’s issue is well known in Bolivia, however most of information available is from the 1990’s, which were darker times for our people.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was really welcoming, despite my unexpected visit. Unfortunately, due to the lack of contact from our government, the position of Kosovo’s independence had not yet been brought to their attention. But I did get some confirmation that they will do everything within their power to bring the issue up to their higher chain of command.

Finally! After a huge struggle to get a simple entry permit from the Civil Aviation of Peru, we are on our way to Lima. This is a perfect time to remind you that these bureaucratic permits are not required anywhere in the Western world. I have to say that this is caused me many headaches throughout our trip.

Here in the Southern Hemisphere winter has arrived and as we progress toward the Southern end of Ecuador, the topography changes drastically. To the right I can see the Pacific Ocean and to the left is the Andes mountain range that is now covered in snow. It is amazing to think that I am flying next to the longest mountain range in the world, spanning over seven countries and 7,000 miles. I am lucky to be able to view the changes in season as we fly southward.

Lima, Peru is another city that is economically struggling. The pollution is very high here,but but the food is fantastic – great ceviches, right on the budget! The people are nice and I have already learned a lot about their culture, though I am disappointed that I won’t be able to visit Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Peru indeed has a lot to offer the world.

In Chiclayo we had a live television interview already lined up and they were really surprised to have people come from the other side of the planet and from such a small country like beautiful Kosova. As you can imagine, our country was not very well known until we arrived.

Our stay in Columbia was much longer than anticipated due to issues with the Civil Aviation Authority and also because of weather. Today, our plan was to fly from Tumaco, Columbia to Manta, Ecuador. As usual, however, things did not go as planned. When we reached the Ecuadorian airspace, I was told by the Air Traffic Controller that I could not land in Manta (which shouldn’t have been a problem because it was an international airport). Because of the swine flu (H1N1) breakout at the time, we had to be re-routed to Guayaquil, the largest city in Ecuador. Once on the ground, we found the airport to be fully equipped to check each passenger for body temperature, fever, cough, etc.

Downtown Guayaquil is very well kept and there have been major changes and improvements in the last two decades, despite the country’s economic struggles. There is a very nice boardwalk in town, Malacon, which is right next to the Guayas River and Cerro Santa Ana (Santa Ana Hill) is the oldest part of town, with 500 steps up to the top where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the whole city.

The media was really interested in our mission, especially the television stations. Overall, the people of Ecuador were very nice, though security was a factor due to the economy – especially at night. On a positive note, the street food was economical and very tasty.

I quickly unlearned all that I was taught to believe about Columbia. Growing up in the Western world, I had been brain-washed to believe such negative things. Because of the small percentage of the population who control the narcotic trafficking business, the rest of the population is given a giant mis-fortunate mark on their forehead as being ‘bad’, which haunts them all of their lives. I have learned that it is more us, the Western world, that is the problem because we are the ones that keep the traffickers in business by purchasing their illegal drugs.

I had no idea how fascinating and beautiful this country could be. Rolling hills, mountains, rivers and oceans and a climate that I consider to be one of the best in the world really surprised me. The people here are equally amazing. They are very educated and have quite a European mentality. In downtown Pereira, a professor caught me off guard when he approached me to talk about our writer/novelist Ismail Kadare. He admitted reading many books from our famous writer and loves his writings. Also, most Columbians that I encountered knew the story of Kosova and actually support our independence. That could have been one of the reasons that the media coverage was so excellent. Finally, the coffee here is excellent, even for someone like me who tries to avoid caffeine.

The one feature of this country that I was dismayed by, however, was the Civil Aviation Authorities. In addition to encountering many bureaucratic issues with them, the airplane parking for our baby plane was $50 for every 24 hour period, which is one of the most expensive prices that I have ever encountered in my entire career of flying. Despite this hiccup in my experience of Columbia, I really hope to return and visit this amazing country again in more detail.

Fantastic flight coming to Nicaragua today. Initially, the airplane struggled with the climb out of Tegucigalpa. The high hills around, along with the heat and the weight of the plane (we were loaded to maximum capacity) made it difficult. Approaching Managua, the view of Lake Managua to the north was beautiful. It’s a pleasure being here again and it’s a very hot and humid day today. Mr.Spahiu was much more comfortable during this flight and it was his first lesson as a pilot.

Soon after our arrival, we met with La Prensa newspaper. We are meeting lots of wonderful people in Nicaragua and the food is great. I am looking forward to meeting with the rest of the media tomorrow

Our next country is Costa Rica which was the first country to recognize our independence and I am very excited to visit them.

Guatemala is a fascinating place with a very nice topography. Flying through Guatemala is like going through the jungle, swamp, rain forrest and Swiss Alps with beautiful waterfalls. Arriving at the international airport we got an amazing view and the runway which is located in between tall buildings, deep cliffs and housing. People of Guatemala are really cordial and friendly.

Flying over the second country on the mission has been breathtaking. Looking out over the tropical forests of this beautiful land, with the Caribbean Sea to the East, gives me a feeling of great hope for our mission.

Belize is the first country on our agenda that has already formally accepted Kosovo’s independence. This small nation in Central America has won my heart by respecting our liberty. By doing so, they have chosen to accept Kosovo into the greater family of nations. I am blessed to be able to be here to thank them personally, on behalf of my family and fellow countrymen. I do just that with the media here, who admit great surprise upon learning how much Kosova’s people appreciate their little country.

Belize is truly a beautiful country. Despite being right in the line of several devastating hurricanes, the people here have managed to maintain a friendly and laid-back style. I would enjoy any chance to visit here again and wish that I was able to spend much more time learning about the diverse and vibrant culture that I have experienced.

It feels great to be on my way down here in Mexico. This country has offered me a comfortable substitute for home for the past five years. As a pilot, I have been very fortunate to fly Lear jets down here weekly and have encountered many fascinating and picturesque locations in this beautiful country. The food and the culture have helped remind me of home as well.

I’m already receiving lots of press down here, thanks to my new hero Sergio Cuadros from TV Mexiquense. Within a few short hours he had five television stations lined up to show support and learn more about our mission. I also want to thank the people of Mexico for supporting our independence – they are far ahead of their government’s recognition of Kosovo so far.

I am also grateful my new friends – Noa Rocha from Radio Zacatecas, his brother Arturo and family and a very inspirational man, Alfonso ‘Totto’ Gina from Misantla, Veracruz. I am blessed to learn about such amazing human beings in this world. Totto’s proverbs are timeless and his effect on me will not be lost. It is not often that you meet someone that triggers you to view the world from a different perspective. I am left feeling that more people should live their lives as honestly as he.

Finally, to my friends at El Diario newspaper in El Paso, TX and Cuidad Juarez, Mexico – you have been such a support to me and were instrumental in encourage me to start this mission. Thank you for helping me change history!

Here is the completed list of Cities scheduled for the trip. These destinations are subject to change, and expect some of them to change in the coming weeks. James will have to decide the next destination based on many factors like weather and airport service availability. These locations correspond with the markers on the interactive map we have on the front page of the site. Check the “Current Location” section of the site to see the status of the trip.

CITY, Country, ICAO Airport Code

1. El Paso, USA , KELP
2. Chihuahua, Mexico , MMCU
3. Torreon, Mexico , MMTC
4. Zacatecas, Mexico , MMZC
5. Toluca, Mexico , MMTO
6. Veracruz, Mexico , MMVR
7. Tuxtla Gutierrez, Mexico , MMTG
8. Belize City, Belize , MZBZ
9. Guatemala, Guatemala , MGGT
10. San Salvador, El Salvador , MSLP
11. Tegucigalpa, Honduras , TRPA
12. Managua, Nicaragua , MNMG
13. San Jose, Costa Rica , MROC
14. Panama City, Panama , MPMG
15. Pereira, Colombia , SKPE
16. Bogota, Colombia , SKBO
17. Cali, Colombia , SKCL
18. Quito, Ecuador , SEQU
19. Tumbes, Peru , SPME
20. Trujillo, Peru , SPRU
21. Lima, Peru , SPIM
22. Nazca, Peru , SPZA
23. Tacna, Peru , SPTN
24. Arica, Chile , SCAR
25. Antofagasta, Chile , SCFA
26. Copiapo, Chile , SCHA
27. La Serena, Chile , SCSE
28. Valparaiso, Chile , SCVA
29. Santiago, Chile , SCEL
30. Los Andes, Chile , SCRG
31. The Devil’s Pass , Andes Mountains
32. Mendoza, Argentina , SAME
33. San Luis, Argentina , SAOU
34. Rosario, Argentina , SAAR
35. Buenos Aires, Argentina , SAEZ
36. Montevideo, Uruguay , SUMU
37. Salto, Uruguay , SUSO
38. Asuncion, Paraguay , SGAS
39. Concepcion, Paraguay , SGCO
40. Yacuiba, Bolivia , SLYA
41. Sucre, Bolivia , SLSU
42. Santa Cruz, Bolivia , SLVR
43. Corumba, Brazil , SBCR
44. Londrina, Brazil , SBLO
45. Sao Paulo, Brazil , SBGR
46. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil , SBGL
47. Uberaba, Brazil , SBUR
48. Brasilia, Brazil , SBBR
49. Palmas, Brazil , SBPJ
50. Maraba, Brazil , SBMA
51. Belem, Brazil , SBBE
52. Macapa, Brazil , SBMQ
53. Cayenne, French Guiana , SOCA
54. Paramaribo, Suriname , SMZO
55. Georgetown, Guyana , SYCJ
56. Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago , TTPP
57. Caracas, Venezuela , SVFM
58. Maracaibo, Venezuela , SVMC
59. Oranjestad, Aruba , TNCA
60. Curacao, Netherland Antillies , TNCC
61. Margarita, Venezuela , SVMG
62. Saint George’s, Grenada , TGPY
63. St. Vincent, St. Vincent & Gr. , TVSV
64. Bridgetown, Barbados , TBPB
65. Castries, Saint Lucia , TLPC
66. Fort-de-France, Martinique , TFFF
67. Roseau, Dominica , TDPD
68. Basse-Terre, Guadaloupe , TFFB
69. Plymouth, Montserrat , TRPG
70. Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda , TAPA
71. Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis , TKPK
72. Sint Maarten, Netherland Antillies , TNCM
73. Saint Martin, Guadeloupe , TFFG
74. The Valley, Anguilla , TQPF
75. Road Town, British Virgin Islands , TUPJ
76. Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands , TIST
77. San Juan, Puerto Rico , TJSJ
78. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic , MDSD
79. Cockburn Town, Turks and Caicos , MBGT
80. Port-au-Prince, Haiti , MTPP
81. Kingston, Jamaica , MKJP
82. George Town, Cayman Islands , MWCR
83. La Habana, Cuba , MUHA
84. Nassau, Bahamas , MYNN
85. Fort Lauderdale, USA , KFLL

My friends, family, colleagues… people of countries and continents near and far… Very soon I will be carried by the winds on a small aeronautic vessel to the far reaches of the Earth. It brings me joy when I think about what it is that I’m doing for my country, my people, and also for myself. I began with an idea, and I now have a mission. As a Kosovar, an American, and as a citizen of this world, I promise not to give up!

– James Berisha

With this map you will be able to check out the entire route James’ has planned for his journey and keep track of his current location and destination. The map will be updated while James is on the trip so check it often!

Long loading time, Please be patient.

View Africa Lobbying Trip in a larger map

View Flying for Kosovo in a larger map

We recommend viewing this map in Google Earth. To do so:
1. Open the map in Google Maps by clicking HERE

Viewing the map and route in this way allows you to interact with the map easier.