Sojourner’s Reflections

 Landing Notes from Sojourner's Vista del Lago B and B:  July-August  Lakeside Chapala

 Welcome to this edition of Sojourner’s Reflections. Whether you’ve stayed with us before or are simply part of our extended circle, we’re grateful you’re here. Each month, we’ll share a few notes from the lake—updates, cultural gems, and ways to stay connected to our little corner of Chapala.

Every fourth Monday, we host a casual coffee gathering at  our B and B Casa de Sojourner’s Vista del Lago. Locals, guests, and kindred spirits are welcome to drop in, share in engaging conversation, and enjoy a slow morning  with us in San Nicolas de Ibarra. No RSVP needed—just bring your good will and positive energy.

📸 Pictured below: Moments from our 4th Monday  in July Coffee Chat- laughter, the sharing of important informational gems, and we met new friends!

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 Cultural Glimpse: The Virgen de Zapopan’s Journey to Chapala

                                                             

 

Last month, Chapala welcomed the Virgen de Zapopan in a deeply symbolic pilgrimage marking 70 years since her first visit during a time of drought. Known as La Generala and crowned Queen and Protector of Lake Chapala, her presence is a spiritual tradition rooted in gratitude and hope.

Thousands gathered to honor her, praying for rain and renewal. For many, it was a moment of reverence and cultural pride. We share this not as a religious gesture, but as a reflection of the community’s heart—its longing, its rituals, and its connection to the lake that sustains us all.

 

Welcoming Our Creative & Cultural Guests      

We’re thrilled to share that Casa de Sojourner’s Vista del Lago is becoming a vibrant landing place for artists, scholars, and students from across the globe.

In 2022–2023, I directed a program for BIPOC artists through the 360 Xochiquetzal residency—the same self-directed program that first brought me to Chapala in 2021. Those early experiences confirmed a powerful truth: artists need sabbatical time to rest, reflect, and create. And our community has so much to offer.

Now, I’m proud to launch The Olmecx Residencies of Lake Chapala, a new program rooted in rest, creativity, and cultural exchange. Our first artist-in-residence arrives later this month and will be staying at the B&B Guesthouse during her sojourn. We invite you to extend a warm welcome—whether through a smile, a story, or a shared moment by the lake.

But that’s not all…

We’ve just completed site visits with Bowie State University and Elizabeth City State University, two HBCUs whose global social work students will join us here in 2026. These students won’t just study—they’ll live, learn, and engage with our local rhythms. The goal is simple and profound: to offer real-world experience rooted in authenticity, community, and cultural humility.

Thank you in advance for participating in meetups, sharing your stories, and helping our guests feel the heart of Chapala. Your presence is part of what makes this place unforgettable.

📅 Upcoming Events

Thank you for being part of our journey and assisting us through your support in providing a soft landing to Lakeside Mexico. Whether you're nearby or across the globe, your presence in this community matters. 

Until next time,

Sunya

Sunya Folayan

info@sojournersvistadellago.com

Sojourner's Vista del Lago B and B

2-A Chapala Mezcala Carreterra

San Nicolas de Ibarra, Chapala, Jalisco, Mx 45940