Bogota

A trip to Colombia is not complete without the visit to the big city, Bogota. However, if you are like me, the traffic, air pollution, and cold weather with eventually drive you crazy and you will appreciate those small Colombian towns so much more. As for experiencing the culture, night life and restaurants, Bogota is the place to make it all happen. Big cities can be intimidating not knowing where to go or what to do. I suggest meeting a local to show you around so you feel safer and get a real feel for this place.

This is my top ten list of those things you must see and do in Bogota.

1. Rent or Buy a bike (depending on how long you stay) the experience of biking on the city trail system rocks and so much more fun then getting on a loud stinky bus. If you are there on Sunday - the Cicliovia is when they close off the major city streets and you can go miles upon miles exploring the city.

2. Take the organized bike tour. After 5 hours on your bike, you will really know the city backwards and forwards.

3. Eat at some great restaurants! A friend of mine is the chef at Habemus Papa. It is incredible local creative cuisine.

4. If you have many sins to repent, a climb to the top of Cerro de Motcertate on your knees might be on your list, or the more fun alternative would be the funicular. Rumor goes that an 80 year old woman made the journey.

5. Seek out "Franky the Bean" signature graffiti. Franky el Frijole is a famous grafetti artist in Bogota.

6. Chew on coco leaves while you visit the police museum and learn about Pablo Escobar.

7. Dance all night to Electronic, Salsa, Dance or any other type of music.

8. If you love to cook, take a cooking class at Carlos Pabon school.

9. Wear a scarf, bring an unbrella, and expect the weather to change in an instant. Duck into a coffee or icecream shop and let time pass you by.

10. Volunteer helping those less fortunate.

Safety: It is best to know the situation with Bogota. There is a big mix between the rich and the poor. Many people have been forced to move to the cities to make a life for themselves.

PEOPLE DO GET ROBBED HERE!!!!! I do not want to scare you but you must take precaustions before you go out.

1. If you have a purse or wallet keep less than $25 and keep all credit cards and additional money in your sock or hidden.

2. Do not flash any phones, cameras or other electronic devices.

3. Do not get drunk and walk anywhere alone

4. Always travel in groups at night to and from destinations or take a cab.

5. If you do get robbed, it is not worth fighting. Just stay calm and if you have the opportunity throw your stuff and run.

The reason that I put this into the mix is because I have heard over 20+ stories of people getting robbed in Bogota. Robbery can happen anywhere in the world, but everyone will tell you to be 100x more cautious when you are in Bogota.