It had been 5 years since we traveled with our dear friends, the Auten Family. Our last escapade to Spain and Morocco had left us with unforgettable memories. So when Adam sent us a casually worded text asking, “Y’all wanna go to Colombia?” we responded with a quick and equally nonchalant “Yep.” And just like that, we found ourselves reuniting in Bogotá, this time with our small posse in tow.
I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to fall in love with Bogotá. Our itinerary allowed for just one day in the city before moving on to what I assumed would be more thrilling adventures. However, Bogotá had a different plan for us, instantly surprising us with its lively atmosphere. Our home base was in Zona Rosa, and it only took a few steps outside our hotel to discover stands brimming with fresh fruit, aromatic coffee, and mouthwatering arepas. It was a delicious introduction to Colombia, courtesy of our breakfast.
Our first Colombian adventure took us to Cerro de Monserrate, an iconic mountain that looms over 10,000 feet above sea level. The majestic mountain is located near the heart of Bogotá. It is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city and holds both cultural and religious significance. Situated in the eastern Andes mountain range, it provides breathtaking views of the entire Bogotá valley and the sprawling city below.
The journey began with what the kiddos would describe as a thrilling ride on the funicular to the summit. The sensation we felt from the altitude was striking, but it also filled us with excitement knowing we were experiencing the grandeur of the Andes. We followed the winding path up to the summit passing the Stations of the Cross and reminding us how sacred the locals hold this pilgrimage. The panoramic views from the summit filled my heart with anticipation, revealing the vastness of Bogotá, a city home to over 7 million people. I’d soon learn that Columbia was much more densely populate then I expected allowing me to see the country in a new light. At the summit, I savored my first beer of the trip, feeling the light-headedness brought on by the high elevation along with the ecstatic feeling of experiencing Columbia in its fullest.
Descending to the base, we couldn’t resist trying some “big ass ants.” Little E sampled one with no hesitation, showcasing his adventurous spirit. As a light drizzle began, we strolled to the nearby La Candelaria district. Here, we spent a couple of hours exploring the Gold Museum and immersing ourselves in Colombia’s vibrant culture, leaving us hungry for more.
The Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) is a treasure trove of history and culture, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of Colombia’s indigenous peoples and their deep connection to gold. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in archaeology, history, or the cultural heritage of Colombia.
During our trip planning, Adam stumbled upon an intriguing TikTok find – a dinner experience and adult getaway at a place called Frenessi. Promising a wild multisensory adventure, we had high expectations, but what we actually experienced exceeded our imaginations. We ate, we drank, we danced, we drank some more, and we allowed ourselves to relax away the weight of parenthood and responsibility even for just a moment. Frenessi encapsulated the very essence of “unexpected delights,” delivering an experience that I can only truly convey through photos. The evening illuminated the city as vibrant, rich, and brimming with delightful surprises. It left me craving more wondering what else the city had hidden.
As we packed up to continue our journey to Medellín, we couldn’t help but wish we’d allotted more time to explore Bogotá. This city had surprised us in the best possible way, revealing its hidden gems and captivating us with its unique charm. While our adventure continued, Bogotá had already earned a special place in our hearts.
Until next time,
