Colombia: Two Weeks

Nuestra Aventura en Colombia

Getting There

Arriving at the airport two hours ahead of our flight, Derek and I were thrilled to be upgraded to first class, marking the start of our Colombian adventure. Celebrating the absence of my work computer and my successful luggage packing (41 lbs this time!), we toasted to the trip ahead with a drink at the gate. Our decision to break up the journey by flying to Fort Lauderdale for the night paid off, especially with the added luxury of first-class treatment. Derek worked his magic to ensure our seats were together, setting a positive tone for the day.

After a smooth flight to Florida, we encountered a minor setback when my new backpack broke, teaching us the importance of investing in quality gear. Despite a couple of Lyft mishaps, we eventually made it to our hotel, where we were delighted to find ourselves in the presidential suite, courtesy of my platinum elite status at Marriott.

Eager to explore, we dined at the top-rated restaurant in Broward County: Lona Cocina Tequileria had great food, drinks, loud music and right across the street from the ocean. We enjoyed delicious fish tacos and a lobster quesadilla. The evening concluded with relaxation back in our suite, anticipating the breathtaking ocean views and the start of our Colombian journey the next day

Triscuit: Driving to Key West: Bucket List Item Checked!

We Made it to Colombia!!

Starting the day a bit later than planned, but still up and about by 7:00 Seattle time, we reveled in the breathtaking surroundings of our ocean-themed wake-up call. Sipping Starbucks from the newly installed swing in our suite, we chuckled at the curiosity it sparked among hotel staff, evidently a fresh addition to the presidential experience.

After a pricey breakfast, we geared up for the next leg of our journey, bidding farewell to the leisurely pace of resort life. Despite the sluggish pace of service in Florida, we embraced the transition, donning our backpacks and relishing in the practically luxurious lifestyle.

Navigating the airport hustle, we lucked out with prime seating and ample legroom on our flight. As we soared over Jamaica, I couldn’t contain my excitement, especially considering it was my first trip outside the US before meeting Derek.

Touching down in Colombia, we encountered some valuable lessons in preparedness, from keeping essential details close at hand to navigating taxi negotiations with finesse. A faux pas regarding our first-time visitor status was swiftly handled, a reminder that travel is as much about learning as it is about adventure.

Arriving at our charming yet snug hotel, we unwound with a Colombian beer by the pool, serenaded by unexpected fireworks. Dinner plans took a comedic turn as we adjusted to the local dining schedule, opting for mini-bar snacks until the restaurants opened.

Derek’s TripAdvisor find, El Baron, proved to be a culinary highlight, with expertly crafted drinks and delectable tapas stealing the show. Bartender Sebastian’s recommendations added an extra layer of excitement for our upcoming adventures.

With our first few hours in Colombia setting a high standard, we bid the night farewell, eagerly anticipating the delights that awaited us in this captivating country. Buenas noches.