Adventurous Bogotá: The Capital of Colombia - Part 7

As a traveler through Colombia, my time in Bogotá was a fascinating chapter in my journey. The country's vibrant capital, located at over 2,600 meters above sea level, offered a variety of experiences and impressions that made my trip unforgettable.

The city is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its architecture, art, cuisine and music. As I wandered the streets of Bogotá, I was able to admire the historic splendor of the colonial buildings in the old town of La Candelaria, while also admiring the modern skyscrapers that pierced the sky above the city.

A highlight of my stay was a visit to the impressive Zipaquira Salt Cathedral, an underground church built entirely from salt blocks in a disused salt mine. The sight of the intricate sculptures and reliefs carved from the salt rock walls was breathtaking and conveyed a sense of awe for human creativity and faith.

Another unforgettable experience was attending a football match at the Estadio Nemesio Camacho, better known as El Campín. As I entered the stadium with the Millonarios FC fans, I felt the electric atmosphere emanating from the stands. The passion and dedication of the Colombian soccer fans was impressive, even if the security and rules in the stadium were much stricter than what I was used to in Europe.

In Bogotá I also found a rich culinary scene that enchanted me with its aromas and flavors. From the street food in the lively markets to the fine dining restaurants that showcased international and Colombian cuisine at its finest, the city offered a wealth of gastronomic delights. A dinner at El Chato was a highlight of my culinary explorations, where I was enchanted by the creative dishes and elegant atmosphere.

In addition to the tourist attractions, I also enjoyed the opportunity to experience daily life in Bogotá. I strolled through the city's neighborhoods, observing the hustle and bustle on the streets, listening to the sounds of the street musicians and immersing myself in the lively atmosphere of the markets and squares.

A special highlight was the visit to the Paloquemao Fruit Market, where I discovered an almost endless selection of fresh fruits and flowers from all parts of the country. The color and diversity of the products was overwhelming and reflected Colombia's rich agricultural diversity.

In addition, Bogotá also had a vibrant art and culture scene that thrilled me with its museums, galleries and live performances. I visited the famous Gold Museum, which houses an impressive collection of pre-Columbian art treasures, as well as the Botero Museum, which exhibits works by Colombian artist Fernando Botero.

Bogotá’s nightlife didn’t disappoint either. From traditional salsa clubs to trendy bars and clubs, there was something for every taste and age. A special highlight was my visit to Andrés in Chía, where I celebrated with friends until the early hours of the morning and experienced the city's vibrant nightlife.

When I finally said goodbye to Bogotá and boarded my flight back to Vienna, I felt a mixture of sadness about the end of my trip and gratitude for the unforgettable experiences I had in Colombia. The hospitality and warmth of the people I met on my trip left a lasting impression, and I hope to return one day to explore more of this fascinating country. See you soon, Colombia!

Images (c) by Noah H. Texts (c) by Noah H.