Colombia is Passion

Music, Food, Culture, Art and History, everything is Passion in Bogota

I have a photograph somewhere, one I took on the last day I was in Colombia. The picture is of a sticker stuck on the back of a transport van, and it simply says “Colombia es Pasion!”. I couldn’t agree more, and of the many stickers we see along the way, this is probably one of the best to describe a country. Often enough when we see the word passion, we immediately think of the bedroom and whatever goes on in there, but in Colombia there are so many other ways in which passion is expressed. Although in every country you will find people who complain about their politicians and what have you, you will also find people who express nothing but love for everything that is national, and Colombia is no different. Passionate about politics, debates can get heated, but those are best left to the locals, not visitors. And so as a guest, you quickly notice how passionate people in Colombia are about their food, their music, their beaches, their coffee, their art, and above all, the beauty of the country. Everything seems to steam ahead full-throttle, at least in Bogota – I should note here that I am used to living in Bangkok where there seems to be no difference in the velocity of life between day and night – and you are sure to find things to do or places to eat even late at night (just be careful of where you venture to).

View of Bogota sunset

The view of the city from the heights of Cerro de Monserrate in the late afternoon and early evening are stunning – just remember the altitude, it might give you a reason to go nice and slow up and down the steps once you’re up there; the funicular or cable car system will take you to the top.

Miss Colombia joins Unity parade

Transit that works and car-free Sundays

Unlike Bangkok, Bogota’s public transit system actually seems to work quite well, particularly the TransMilenio or bus rapid transit system. This bus system consists of more than 120km of priority bus lanes and transports more than 1.5 million passengers per day, and although there are complaints of crowded buses and long waits at stations, the system keeps the city’s residents moving. What is equally interesting is the closure of nearly 121 kms of roads to motorized vehicles on Sunday mornings for Ciclovia. The closure allows people from all walks of life to bicycle, roller blade, jog, walk, whatever, through many of the city’s areas. The parks throughout the city along the route are also centers of activity, with street performers, bands, dancing, food, and myriad other activities, giving the city a festive atmosphere. Although there will always be complainers, this is probably one of the best ways to enjoy a weekend tour of the city, without the fear of being struck by a car. On the Sunday that I was in Bogota I walked out of my apartment and found myself a comfortable spot along the road to take in the huge parade that was underway; dignitaries, classic and vintage cars, equestrian schools, military bands, dancers, and Miss Colombia all participating to promote national unity.

Botero’s human forms

Ditch the ‘Bling’

There are plenty of things to keep you busy while visiting Bogota, it’s simply a matter of choosing what you want to do, and the number of days you have set aside for exploring the capital. I opted for visiting several museums and art galleries and exploring the old city or the area known as La Candalaria. As with all places to which you travel, even your own hometown, you have to maintain a certain level of vigilance for personal safety, and security. You don’t needlessly walk around with fancy jewelry while at home, so don’t take it with you when you go abroad. All that glitters attracts attention, so ditch the bling, dress comfortably, don’t bother bringing the latest Gucci or LV bags, and for goodness sake, leave the Rolex at home, you’re on holidays, there’s nobody from your social circle here that you have to impress.

Gold armband with mathematical enigma

See the Real Thing

Speaking of gold, however, the one museum not to miss while in Bogota is the Gold Museum (El Museo del Oro) with its substantial collection of pre-Spanish artifacts and artwork on gold, and the collection of artwork from artist Botero. The art collection held by the Banco de la Republica is also very impressive and consists of more than 3,000 works of art. Just outside the ‘old city’ area you will also find the Museo Nacional, the National Museum of Colombia. This too is a terrific museum and well worth taking some time to explore. There are obviously plenty of other places to see and areas to explore, it’s only a matter of choosing where you want to go and what you would prefer to see. I will not write extensively about where to dine, where the best accommodation is, or where to go shopping –  those are elements you have to decide for yourself, suffice it simply that I aim to whet your appetite for getting out of your comfort zone and to explore places near and far. If you want more specific details, send me a quick message.