by Missie Hills | Mar 2, 2024 | International Adventures, South America
After bidding farewell to the vibrant streets of Colombia, our journey led us to the enchanting city of Quito, Ecuador.
Our accommodations in Quito were nothing short of extraordinary, as we found ourselves nestled within a rare and fascinating UNESCO World Heritage site that once housed the former president of Ecuador. This historic building, aged 170 years, was full of charm and character, boasting quirky artifacts and offering breathtaking views of the city.
Our arrival in Quito coincided with a special occasion — Evey’s 4th birthday! What better way to celebrate than by immersing ourselves in the rich culture and history of this captivating city? Our exploration began in the heart of the old town, where we marveled at the awe-inspiring architecture of the Church of the Society of Jesus.
Little did we know that our visit would lead us to a hidden gem — a secret tunnel that transported us to the church’s roof, where we serenaded Evey with heartfelt renditions of “Happy Birthday” against the backdrop of spectacular views. And when I say “secret” tunnel, what I mean is a very tight tunnel where my giant husband literally squeezed himself through to get to the end. At one point he stuck while trying to pass by another traveler. He shared a very unexpected intimate moment with this traveler as they worked to get unstuck.
Our next stop took us to The Virgin of El Panecillo, a monumental statue that looms over the city. While the statue itself was impressive, our adventure took an unexpected turn when we found ourselves stranded atop the hill, unable to secure a taxi back to the city below. The moment provided yet another opportunity for Jason and I to work on joint problem solving skills without killing each other. We both survived. When we came back to the city, we were more then ready to indulge in some birthday cake and refreshments.
The following day, our exploration led us to The Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, the “Middle of the World City.” Our journey began with a visit to the Pululahua Volcano site, where we were mesmerized by the stunning vistas afforded by this unique natural wonder.
Continuing on to the Middle of the World Monument, we delved into a myriad of fascinating scientific experiments and walked along the equatorial line, straddling both hemispheres simultaneously.
As we savored our late lunch, indulging in the local delicacy of cuy (guinea pig), we reflected on our adventures in Quito and the unexpected twists and turns that had enriched our journey. Despite the challenges, Quito had captivated us with its beauty and charm, leaving an mark on our hearts. Though Quito proved to be a bit more dangerous than expected, we found solace in the warmth and hospitality of the locals, who guided us away from areas of potential danger. As we prepared to bid farewell to Ecuador and return home, we were reminded of the true essence of travel — the joy of exploration, the bonds forged with good friends, and the memories that will last a lifetime. And so, with hearts full of gratitude and spirits brimming with wanderlust, we set our sights on the horizon, eager for the next adventure that awaited us.
Until next time,
by Missie Hills | Mar 1, 2024 | International Adventures, South America
Embarking on a day trip from Medellín to Guatapé, we found ourselves on an unexpected adventure filled with surprises and breathtaking views. The goal was to see one of the largest monoliths in the world, The Rock of Guatapé.
But first our journey began with a pit stop at a quaint little rest area along the way. After perhaps one of the most beautiful drives I have ever experienced, we stopped to stretch our legs and take a bathroom break. But this was no ordinary break. We stumbled upon a hidden gem tucked in the back of the rest area — a full-fledged petting zoo. To our excitement, llamas greeted us, their curious eyes inviting us to interact. Armed with carrots, we delighted in feeding these gentle creatures, their soft noses nuzzling our hands in gratitude.
With spirits lifted by our furry friends, we continued our journey to El Peñón de Guatapé, a towering monolith that beckoned us with the promise of panoramic vistas. Undeterred by the daunting 670 steps that lay ahead, we embarked on the ascent, each step bringing us closer to the summit and the promise of unparalleled beauty. As we reached the top, the world unfolded before us in a breathtaking panorama of azure waters and verdant landscapes, a testament to the natural wonders of Colombia. El Peñón de Guatapé, also known as the Rock of Guatapé, is one of the largest monoliths in the world.
Descending from the heights of El Peñón, we made our way into the colorful streets of Guatapé, self-awarded the most colorful town in the world. Despite our weariness from the climb, we couldn’t resist the allure of this charming town, its lively atmosphere inviting us to explore further.
Yet, as fatigue began to set in, we reluctantly bid farewell to Guatapé, our hearts filled with memories of a day filled with unexpected delights and unforgettable experiences.
Until next time,
by Missie Hills | Mar 1, 2024 | International Adventures, South America
Our Hills/Auten family Colombian adventure continued on in Medellín where we secured an adorable Airbnb on a sleepy street tucked away in what we learned was a very large bustling city full of excitement.
Three full days in Medellín, and I found myself calling it the ‘City of Stars’ for a reason that became crystal clear as the sun set. The valley was ablaze with the lights of the comunas, making us feel like we were sitting in a bowl full of stars. It was a breathtaking sight that etched the city’s name in my memory.
Even in the day, the city’s rich culture shined as we explored the city’s many museums. The Botero Art Museum was a highlight, featuring the iconic works of Fernando Botero. The larger-than-life Botero statues scattered throughout the museum were a joy to behold, showcasing the artist’s signature style that exaggerates proportion and form for a unique aesthetic.
The Rafael Uribe Uribe Museum stands as a testament to Medellín’s rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a captivating blend of history, art, and breathtaking views. Its stunning architecture, characterized by intricate detailing and timeless elegance, invites exploration and contemplation. As we ascended to the top, guided by the promise of panoramic city views, we were met with a sense of tranquility that enveloped us amidst the hustle and bustle of urban life below. From this vantage point, the city unfolded before us like a vibrant tapestry, each street and building telling a story of Medellín’s past and present. It was a moment of serenity amidst the chaos, a chance to pause and appreciate the beauty of the city from a new perspective.
At Parque Explora, a haven for curious minds and adventurous spirits, the boys delved into a world of interactive exhibits that sparked their imagination and ignited a passion for discovery. From the moment they stepped through the park’s gates, they were greeted by a whirlwind of sights and sounds… and DINOSAURS! They excitedly jumped from hands-on displays, from interactive simulations of natural phenomena to mind-bending optical illusions, each offering a unique opportunity to learn through play. As they manipulated levers, pressed buttons, and observed the wonders of science come to life before their eyes, they not only absorbed knowledge but also developed a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the world around them.
Our professional photoshoot at Pueblito Paisa captured the essence of our time in Colombia. Once a year, our family takes time in a foreign county to document our travels with the help of Localgraphers. This is the best way to ensure that I get in the photos instead of always being hidden behind my lens. Pueblito Paisa’s picturesque replica of a traditional Colombian village provided the perfect backdrop for this purpose. We laughed, posed, and created timeless memories that will be cherished for years to come. Our talented photographer, Paola with Aletheia Studio, expertly captured the joy we shared.
We soon found out that Medellín truly comes alive at night. As we stepped into Lleras Park, we were hit strong by the electric atmosphere as bouncers pounced on the chance to bring us into their clubs with promises of VIP service. The adults took turns going out at night, some stumbling back with more interesting stories than others.
The ‘City of Stars’ had cast its spell on us, weaving its magic into the fabric of our hearts and minds. As we bid farewell to Colombia, we carried with us a new set of cherished memories. However, our Hills-Auten epic summer adventure wasn’t quite over yet…
Until next time,
by Missie Hills | Mar 1, 2024 | International Adventures, South America
Our Medellín adventure unfolded with a visit to Comuna 13 on the first day, an area that spoke volumes about the resilience and spirit of its people. Comuna 13, once synonymous with violence and crime, has transformed into a symbol of resilience and community regeneration. This neighborhood, perched on the hillsides of Medellín, has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis, turning adversity into art, hope, and unity. Comuna 13’s troubled past was marked by drug-related violence and gang activities, making it one of the most dangerous areas in Medellin. However, the community’s determination to rise above its circumstances has led to a profound transformation. The government’s investment in social programs, infrastructure, and security initiatives has played a crucial role in the neighborhood’s rehabilitation.
Despite a hiccup with our tour guide meeting location (my bad), we found ourselves navigating the vibrant streets of Comuna 13 independently. The streets were absolutely packed with people, suffering from over-tourism as the area had become a super hot spot in the last few years. Street performers filled the air with energy, and we stumbled upon a rapper who serenaded us with a unique song crafted on the spot. We wandered through tight avenues, sipped on beers and micheladas, collected souvenirs, and marveled at the vibrant graffiti adorning the walls. The kids were delighted with the array of trinkets from the vendors.
Each avenue we turned on took us deeper into the comuna and higher up to where we found amazing views of the entire city. I told our group that there would be escalators to help us climb the hill, but they insisted I was mistaken cracking up at what they thought was my bad Spanish translation. But low and behold, real escalators appeared before us! The escalators were another symbol of transformation, adding innovation into an area plagued with a trouble past.
As the neighborhood has gained recognition for its positive transformation, tourism has played a significant role in promoting cultural exchange. Visitors from around the world now come to witness the inspiring story of Communa 13. Guided tours, like the one we initially planned, provide insights into the neighborhood’s history, art, and the daily lives of its residents. However, our spontaneous exploration allowed us to connect more intimately with the community, revealing the authenticity that permeates every corner of Communa 13. This testament to the power of community, art, and resilience will stay with me forever.
Until next time,
Recent Comments