My Time in Bogota
Alright, let me tell you about my trip to Bogota. It wasn’t some grand plan, really. Things felt a bit stuck back home, same old routine day in, day out. Needed a change of scenery, you know? Heard some stuff about Colombia, Bogota sounded interesting, so I just booked a flight. Packed light, didn’t overthink it.
Getting there was something else. The altitude, man, it hits you right away. Felt a bit dizzy just walking around the first day. The city itself? Big. Sprawling. Lots of energy, tons of people everywhere, especially during rush hour. It’s got that big city vibe, but different from what I was used to.
Exploring Around
I spent a good chunk of time just wandering, mostly around areas like La Candelaria. Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, lots of little shops and cafes. You see tons of street art too, some really impressive stuff. Found a few spots to just sit, grab a coffee – which is amazing there, by the way – and just watch the world go by. People seemed busy, going about their day, but also seemed to take time to chat on street corners or in the parks.
Tried the local food, of course. Had this soup called Ajiaco. It’s got chicken, corn, potatoes, and you add cream and capers. Perfect for the evenings ’cause it gets surprisingly cool there. Also ate my weight in arepas from street vendors. Simple stuff, but good.
Just Observing
You just notice things when you’re somewhere new. People generally seemed put together, had a certain style. Lots of interaction, very social vibe in the cafes and squares, especially in the evenings. It’s just a different rhythm to life, I guess. Not better or worse, just different. It makes you think about your own pace back home.
- Walked a lot, probably miles every day.
- Took the cable car up Monserrate. Views are crazy from up there.
- Tried practicing the little Spanish I knew. People were patient, mostly.
Honestly, it reminded me a bit of why I needed to get away. Back home, I was just going through the motions. Same commute, same desk, same conversations. Felt like I was in a rut. Being in Bogota, even just for a short while, kind of jolted me out of it. Seeing a totally different environment, different ways people live and interact… it gives you perspective.
Didn’t have any huge epiphanies or anything. But I flew back feeling refreshed. Less stuck. It was just good to break the pattern, see something new, and realize the world’s a big place with lots going on outside your little bubble. Definitely glad I made the trip.
