The bus system in Bogotá, Colombia is a popular and cheap mode of transportation for residents. They are also a nightmare to ride during rush hour. He was standing so close to me I could feel his hot breath on my shoulder when he sighed. He wore black rosary beads around his neck and a crucified Jesus dangled near his chest. I slowly counted the beads to avoid accidentally … [Read more...]
When Plans Change: Leaving Lima, Back to Bogotá
I should be in Lima, Peru right now. That was the plan. Yet, I’m sitting in a lovely apartment that overlooks downtown Bogotá, Colombia. I guess if we’re talking plans, I wouldn’t be in South America at all. I would be in Florida with my mouth poised in front of a microphone, ready to read the news over the airwaves. I quit my great job as a radio news anchor to … [Read more...]
When “Roughing It” Goes Wrong in Medellin
I arrived in Medellin, Colombia a few hours ago. The taxi driver dropped me off on a shaded residential street about 40 minutes away from the airport. I’ve stayed in plenty of hostels before, but this is the first time I will sleep in a dorm-style room with strangers. Let me just start this post off by saying that I fully realize if I’m paying 11 dollars a night, I … [Read more...]
Getting a Bird’s-Eye View on the Medellin Cable Cars
Taking a ride on a cable car is an excellent and cheap way to spend a few hours in Medellin, Colombia. It’s my first full day in the country and I’m glad I decided to ride one because it allowed me to do one of my favorite activities, sitting on my booty while being transported to a place I’ve never been. One car can comfortably seat six people, but that didn’t stop the … [Read more...]
Plan Your Trip Like You Plan Your Life
To successfully plan a trip, you must treat it like your life plan. Have an idea of where you want to go, but leave room for surprises. I can’t just go to another country without a plan. I’m slightly envious of the people who can slide their credit card towards an airline worker and ask for the next flight to anywhere. Yes, that’s all very … [Read more...]