I've been working this week in the country of Columbia. The reputation from the 80s-90s is no longer true, even though most Americans still believe it. I have not been robbed, kidnapped, or forced into the employment of a drug cartel. Honestly, I have been worrying about traveling here for the last few weeks.
There are 2 rules I still recommend you follow. Don't drink the water (ice) and don't use the unsolicited taxi services. I used a reserved private driver through the Hilton I stayed at.
This city is at an elevation of 2,640 m ( or 8,660 ft). That's about 3000ft higher than Denver. My home is at 57ft. I am really thankful for my marathon training because it is really difficult to breath here.
Outside my hotel, every Sunday they shut down an entire road creating a city-long bike/run trail.
1 US Dollar will get you about 3000 Columbian Pesos. Here is what 118,000 Pesos looks like:
I spent Sunday exploring some famous places in the city.
Cerro de Monserrate
On the Eastern side of the city, part of the Andes mountain range, there is a small church at the top of of one of the peaks. For about 3$ you can ride a cable car to the top.
At the top you can visit the church, grab a meal or do some shopping at the market. The view was incredible!
Museo del Oro (Gold Museum)
Free on Sunday's, you can visit the gold museum.
http://www.banrepcultural.org/gold-museum
A very famous piece, called the Musica Raft, is on display here. The detail on this tiny piece is incredible!
Street Markets and Bolivar Square
The rest of my adventure was spent on a local street market. I found a really neat fruit that was what I would call the love child of an Orange and a Grape (with a pit like a plum). I also had a traditional Columbian lunch (chicken, rice, lentils, cucumber salad, plantain)
Bolivar Square was a wonderful example of Spanish architecture. It reminded me of my visit to Madrid. I really loved the cathedral and the pipe organ music that was being played.
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