Colombia - My Next Adventure

I've been trying to write several posts about wine and food, but I can't seem to get the right motivation. For the last week and a half, I've been preparing for a trip that has me full of mixed-feelings. I am flying to Colombia next week. My trip will center around two cities, Medellin and Cartagena.

I feel guilty admitting it, but this is not my first choice in destinations, Yet, it is part of my heritage since it is my parent's home country. The guilt is  a big part of those mixed-feelings. Especially if you read my blog, my traveling heart loves loves loves the UK. I am also sad because this will probably be my last trip to Colombia where I will be able to visit my dad's side of the family. My uncle and aunt are very old, in their eighties, and I have been neglectful in keeping in touch with them after my dad passed away.

Last time I was in Colombia, it was over 20 years ago. It was different then, Colombia was in a the midst of a war against drug cartels and against a terrorist group (the FARC). They were dangerous times, especially if you were a foreigner. This was the period of time when kidnapping tourists, or foreign corporation representatives, or even high profile Colombian citizens was happening quite frequently. So frequently that when I was in Cartagena-which was one of the safest cities at the time being a highly tourist destination-  and decided to go to this small little town some 50 miles inland, my uncle didn't want me to go.This little town was where my dad's family came from and I was curious to see it. I was adamant on going.  I had to travel without any type of ID and wear my most inconspicuous clothes just in case the bus I was riding in was held up; No one was to know I was American. And this was the safer part of the country.

The area of Medellin was another matter. Here the drug cartel led by Pedro Escobar was ruling the area. Violence was an everyday thing. It was a scary time. I traveled to Medellin for just three days. Even though I was there for such a little time, my mom's friends were always hyper-vigilant. I spent three days looking over my shoulder. The city was lovely, placed in a valley surrounded by mountains, but you really couldn't enjoy the outdoors. If you want to do some hiking, well so long my friend. Not recommended. At all.

Now, Medellin is heralded as one of the most enchanting cities in South America. It strives to pull itself out of that violent chapter in its history. The reincarnation of the city is amazing and you can read a great article done by the New York Times. There are parks and trails in the city and the surrounding mountains. There is an effort to expand the cultural aspect of its citizens with public art, new cultural institutions, and innovative architecture.

This is where I'm headed for my next traveling adventure. April is the rainy season so I better remember to pack my rain jacket. I am eager to see the changes time and effort has done for this country.

Wish me safe travels. Cheerio!