Colombia Part 1

I've been in Colombia for a little over a week now and can't even begin to tell all the wonderful stories and memories I have already accumulated over the short time. So in short....

Last Saturday I attended my first bull fight in Cali. Colombia was settled by the Spanish after all, hence leaving the country steep in Spanish Tradition.




Sunday I traveled with AHPO and his parents to a country house in the mountains outside of Cali, We enjoyed a day of horseback riding, traditional Colombian food, and relaxation in cooler temps away from the hot 90 degree weather in the city.





On Tuesday Alvaro and I left for the coastal city of Cartagena in the Northeast corner of the county. Cartagena is famous for it's old Spanish Castle and walled city left behind by the Spaniards in the 1500 and 1600's. The city had a very European feel inside the old walls- cobblestone, narrow streets, many flowers, balconies, cafes, and tiny shops. Beyond the walls of the city Cartagena has some of the finest beaches in the country. We took a short boat trip to the Rosary Isles- 50 miles off the coast- and enjoyed a traditional lunch of coconut rice, plantains, and fish fried in their entirety. The isle has no facilities, running water, buildings, etc..



During my short time here I have felt so welcomed by everyone here in Colombia, especially AHOP's family.