COLOMBIA!!!!!!

I am in love with this country.

I think that Colombia is one of the most consistently beautiful countries I have ever been to...each bus ride and each walk I take will find me with my mouth open, staring awestruck around me. It´s unreal. I did NOT take into account that Ecuador could fit into Colombia´s pocket...Colombia is so big! So its been a lot of long bus rides, but I honestly dont even mind. Ive actually been enjoying the buses, as I get to just look out the window for hours!

Surprisingly, crossing into Colombia from Ecuador was probably the easiest border ive ever encountered. I spent one night near the border, then headed up north to Popayan, a lovely colonial city. There, I learned about Tierradentro, which became my next stop. It is only reachable by long dirt roads, but was totally worth the effort. It is the base of an archaeological sight with tombs and statues, so I spent a day hiking to those, and then farther up through the mountains for the beautiful views. Tierradentro is a perfect Colombian country town...tiny, tranquil, peaceful...i loved it. It actually made me feel like I was back in the jungle a bit.

Now im in Bogotá, the capital, to enjoy museums, good food, and some really fun and awesome people. Ive really enjoyed it so far, and tomorrow I head out to the Zona Cafeteria, or Coffee zone. It is known for...shocker...coffee, and also lots of pretty hikes and scenerey. Im really looking forward to getting there! It´s been so fun to just plan my days as I go, hopping from one place to the next. It´s awesome to talk to people about a place, and then find yourself there in a few days. I only wish that I had more time to explore, there is no way that I can do everything on my Colombia wish list. But im trying to make the most of the time that I do have!

Dont believe all of the media hype from years ago about Colombia...I do not expect to be kidnapped or to become a drug mule. Not even close. I am loving every minute...the people are so friendly, the food is delish, the coffee is always flowing, and as I cannot stop repeating, the views and scenery are unrivaled.

So far, so good! Viva Colombia!