Bonnie and Dave have come a long way (literally!) since their first family trip across Europe in a VW van. These days, they’re experienced world travelers—most recently seeking adventure and local experiences throughout Central and South America. Looking for a new destination off the tourist trail, they chose Colombia for its perfect mix of culture, outdoor activities, and unspoiled Amazonian rainforest.
**An Interview with Bonnie and Dave: Exploring the Wonders of Colombia**
**Hi Bonnie! Tell us a bit about you and Dave. What are some of your favorite destinations, and how would you describe your travel style?**
Our journey began way back in 1975, a time when air travel felt like a grand adventure in itself. We embarked on a trip to Amsterdam with our two young children, who were just 3 years old and a mere 7 months old at the time. That initial foray into international travel ignited a passion within us. We spent a considerable amount of time traveling through Europe, immersing ourselves in the diverse cultures and landscapes, and even ventured into the captivating terrain of Morocco, all while navigating in a trusty VW camper van.
Over the years, our travel style has certainly evolved, adapting to our changing preferences and the different stages of our lives. Now, we travel as a couple, cherishing the shared experiences and the intimacy of exploring new places together. Our interests have also refined. We’ve developed a deep appreciation for the arts, history, and culture, which means we dedicate a significant amount of time to visiting museums. We are also avid hikers, always seeking out opportunities to explore nature’s wonders on foot. Additionally, we both share a fascination with animals, and we always make an effort to learn about the local fauna wherever we go.
When it comes to accommodations and dining, we prioritize comfort and authenticity. We prefer comfortable rooms that provide a relaxing haven after a day of exploration, and we actively seek out authentic restaurants where locals eat. We believe that dining with locals is the best way to truly experience the culinary heart of a place and gain insights into its culture.
For the past ten years, our adventures have primarily focused on the captivating regions of Central and South America. The incredible diversity of these countries has left us in awe. Each one possesses a unique character and charm, making it exceptionally difficult to choose a single favorite from the long list of places we have been so fortunate to visit. Among them are Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, with their unique wildlife, the ancient wonders of Peru, the stunning landscapes of Chile, the vibrant culture of Venezuela, the lively atmosphere of Brazil, the natural beauty of Nicaragua, the strategic location of Panama, and the eco-tourism paradise of Costa Rica. Each destination has contributed to a tapestry of unforgettable memories.
**How did you first become interested in Colombia as your destination of choice? What were your must-see and must-do priorities?**
Colombia had been on our radar for some time, piquing our interest due to its emerging status as a tourist destination. It felt like an exciting opportunity to explore a country that was just beginning to open its doors to the world. We had a strong desire to venture off the beaten path and experience places that were less frequented by tourists. In planning our trip, we relied heavily on the expertise of the kimkim team, who were instrumental in curating an itinerary that aligned with our interests and priorities.
Our must-see and must-do priorities were twofold. Firstly, we were eager to explore the depths of the Colombian Amazon, to immerse ourselves in its unparalleled biodiversity and experience the raw beauty of the rainforest. Secondly, we were determined to visit Cartagena, a city that had captured our imagination thanks to the 1984 movie “Romancing the Stone.” We were eager to walk the same streets as the characters in the film and discover the historical charm of the city for ourselves.
**We would love to hear your impressions of Bogotá and Cartagena. How were your experiences in the two cities different?**
The stark contrast in size between Bogotá and Cartagena was immediately apparent. Arriving in Bogotá felt like being engulfed in a sea of traffic. We were truly astonished by the sheer volume of vehicles and the considerable time it took to navigate our way to La Candelaria, the historic area where we had booked our accommodation. In comparison, Cartagena felt much more manageable in terms of size. The traffic in the area surrounding the walled city and Getsemani was significantly lighter, making it much easier to explore on foot.
Another significant difference between the two cities was the climate. Cartagena’s hot and humid climate stood in stark contrast to the cooler, mountain climate of Bogotá. The humidity was palpable in Cartagena, creating a tropical atmosphere that was quite different from the crisp air of Bogotá. We found that we adapted much more easily to Cartagena at sea-level than to Bogotá’s higher altitude. The altitude in Bogotá definitely took some getting used to!
The culinary experiences in the two cities also differed significantly. In coastal Cartagena, the cuisine was predominantly seafood based. We indulged in delicious ceviche, savoring the freshness of the seafood and the vibrant flavors of the local spices. In Bogotá, the best dishes were undoubtedly the soups. We particularly enjoyed Ajiaco, a creamy potato, chicken, and corn soup that was both comforting and flavorful.
Both cities were rich in history and offered a wealth of cultural experiences. In Bogotá, we visited numerous museums, immersing ourselves in the art, history, and culture of Colombia. We also took in the breathtaking view from Mount Monseratte, which provided a panoramic perspective of the sprawling city below. In Cartagena, we spent our time wandering the streets of both the old town and Getsemani, admiring the colonial architecture and discovering beautiful street art that added a vibrant touch to the urban landscape.
**If you could pick one or two favorite memories from your trip, what would they be?**
One of the most unforgettable experiences of our trip was hiking the Camino Real between Barichara and Guane. It was an absolutely incredible journey through the heart of the Colombian countryside. Unfortunately, my husband was unable to join me on this particular hike, which meant I had the unique opportunity to experience the beauty, peace, and tranquility of the lush green landscape on my own. It was a truly immersive experience, allowing me to connect with nature on a deeper level.
Another highlight of our trip was viewing the wax palms in Cocora Valley, Sorento. We were utterly captivated by the curious beauty of the valley and these most unusual trees. The wax palms stand tall and proud against the backdrop of the rolling hills, creating a truly magical landscape. We simply couldn’t get enough of their unique charm and the breathtaking scenery that surrounded them.
**What were the most surprising things about Colombia? Any advice for other travelers?**
We were particularly struck by the cleanliness and organization of the country. We had certain preconceived notions about Colombia before our visit, but we were pleasantly surprised to discover a country that was well-maintained and efficiently run. Throughout the trip, we felt very safe and secure, which allowed us to relax and fully immerse ourselves in the experience.
If we were to do it again, we would probably skip Tayrona Park. While we both enjoy hiking, the amount of mud we had to slog through for two hours each way wasn’t ideal. It was a bit of a challenging experience, and perhaps not the best use of our time given the other incredible destinations that Colombia has to offer.
**And last but not least: where are you planning to go on your next adventure?**
We are excited to announce that we are planning a trip to Portugal. This trip will be particularly special as we intend to relive some of the cherished memories from our 1975 adventure, while also creating some new and unforgettable ones as a couple. We are looking forward to exploring the historical cities, enjoying the stunning coastal scenery, and immersing ourselves in the rich culture of Portugal.
*(The line about Marine Guérin is omitted as per the instructions.)*
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