A very brief account on Bogota, Columbia’s capital. Reminder to reader: this is an account from our trip two years ago.
We didn’t spend much time here. Travel books will warn you of the many tricks and scams to watch out for. But you can’t be prepared for the unexpected. Sometime it’s gonna happen to you and our turn came. The unpleasant episode took place in “El Centro” area and involved Lenny, and here’s how it went:
- a crowded and busy street
- spit on the face, luckily he wears glasses
- a perfectly normal woman wanting to help him, hands seemed to be suddenly flying here and there
- him trying to get away
- the woman suddenly disappears
- his wallet is gone
Duration: probably 15 seconds
I was walking right next to him and did not even notice right away what was happening!
After effects: a feeling of being violated, paranoia, frustration of cancelling a credit card with a very bad phone connection.
Later that evening, while still under a lot of stress, we decided nevertheless to go for a walk and get something to eat. We didn’t really want that episode to ruin our view of Bogota, but the night wasn’t over and more had to be experienced. My turn.
A drunk walking toward us, threw his bottle up on the air and it landed right next to me in many pieces some of which made its way to my foot.
“Let’s get the hell out of here,” we blurted out angrily. So that was our unfortunate experience in Bogota. The next day, we went to Villa de Leyva where peace and safety was all around us.
So you’ll understand if there arent’ too many shots of Bogota here. The last thing one wants is to be too conspicuous in such a hot pick pocket spot.
Church and plaza in the historical quarter of Bogota
Wonderful museum with great rooms with a room for Botero's work, Bogota
On a more positive note, on our way back from Villa de Leyva, we stayed in a different part of town — a bit more upscale, I think it was Northern Bogota. We had Lebanese food at a very nice restaurant with excellent service. The clientèle was upscale and business suits donned by Caucasians had a big presence. When it was time to leave it started to pour buckets. We were offered a free coffee and pastry and an umbrella to get to our hotel. Nice! (I think the restaurant was listed in our Footprints guide)
I don't think I've ever seen that much rain in Vancouver, Bogota.
