TRAVERSE 23
TRAVEL - COLOMBIA
LEIGH WILKINS
IF YOU LET HER GET UNDER YOUR SKIN
Something special happens when you explore the back streets of Colombia , instantly transported to another time , a colonial world where the commercial and consumerist is yet to touch you find narrow streets that offer a glimpse into the past and where the future is yet to corrupt .
Bogota , with a inhabitant of around eight million people , is the capital of Colombia , a city that represents a modern , vibrant population , a people who are keen to progress , yet with a history almost as old as the European history of Colombia , Bogota has hidden streets that entice and then compel to the intrepid to stay .
High above the lowlands , Bogota sits at around 2,400 metres above sea level . The high savannah that hosts the city is unique in that the high Andes surrounds it . The altitude of Bogota offers a strange experience for any rider that is not accustomed to altitude , and you quickly find yourself out of breath just walking to a corner store .
Descending from the higher peaks of the Cerro de Monserrate our breath was quickly taken yet not by the altitude more the colourful and artistic renditions that adorned the buildings of La Candelaria , or Bogota ’ s ‘ old town ’. The graffiti is devoid of that senseless , offensive tagging that most cities are forced to endure , or sadly choose to accept , for this is art with scenes depicting the social climate , the troubled history , and the optimistic future . Walking La Candelaria is like walking a giant open-air gallery of some of the finest works of their genre .
La Candelaria is a prelude to what would only get better as many more examples of colonial township was displayed , encouraging the adventurous bike rider to explore , and become part of the local community . It ’ s an opportunity to get
TRAVERSE 23