About Me

I was born in Bogota but when I was 4 years old we started a journey around the world because of my father's job. Maracaibo, Venezuela; Edinburgh, Scotland and Barcelona, Spain are some of the places where I grew up. I visited Colombia every summer and always felt a strong connection to my roots, but I never thought I'd go back. However, on my 17th birthday we moved back to Bogota. Even though then I was kind of an outsider to my own country, I was able to see above a sad reputation and got to know the real Colombia from my own eyes. The problem is that everyone knows about Italy's great food and beautiful architecture; and France's Eiffel Tower and great vacation spots in the French Riviera; and New York's Central Park and amazing restaurants; and Brazil's Carnivals and Caipirinas; but not many people know the good side of my country. Colombia is known for its tragedy but not for its people and amazing places. Its writers like Nobel prize winner Gabriel Garcia Marquez, its artists like Fernando Botero or Formula I drivers like Juan Pablo Montoya. So, I want tell my personal experience and show you that Colombia's only risk is wanting to stay.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Colombian Misperception

Do you live in trees? Is it scary to live in such a dangerous country? Oh yeah, drugs, violence and coffee? These are some of the frequent questions I get after I say "I'm from Colombia". So yes, my country has a complicated social reality and my objective is not to hide that. However, Colombia is a country full of amazing characteristics that I wish more people knew about. For this reason, as I though about a blog subject that would reflect who I am and what makes me unique, it was impossible not to go back to my roots. After living and traveling in several parts of the world, the perception people have of my country makes me feel disappointed but mostly concerned. I want everyone to see what Colombia really has to offer.

This blog is dedicated to show my country as I know it, from a very personal perspective. Places, recommendations and details that only a local can show. Get ready to be inspired because Colombia's only risk is wanting to stay.

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4 comments:

  1. MaiteMay 25, 2010 at 10:07 PM

    Thanks for this post. I think your purpose is honorable and obviously important to you.

    It's amazing how often-times resource-rich countries are abused, mismanaged and corrupted.

    As an exercise, just did a google news search of Colombia. Tragically the results are--stock index falls, police seize over 1000 rebel landmines and second colombian rights worker killed.

    So, yes, I think this blog is a necessary addition to the discourse and looking forward to experiencing your nation through your eyes.

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  2. CaraMay 28, 2010 at 10:00 PM

    I would love to know more about you.

    How long did you live in Columbia?

    When and why did you leave?

    Do you plan to move back sometime in the future?

    While some of these answers may be too personal to disclose I think giving the reader a look into your past will really help us understand why your country is so important to you.

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  3. SubwayMomMay 28, 2010 at 10:35 PM

    I agree with Cara. If you are willing, I think that knowing more about your history in Columbia would be an interesting addition and lend important context.

    I'd also like to understand your country's culture better. What is the national pasttime? The cuisine? What do native Columbian's value and how do those values influence daily life?

    Can't wait to hear more!

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  4. Ritika KapurMay 28, 2010 at 10:55 PM

    I'm sure there may be other travel sites and blogs about Colombia, but what would set your blog apart would probably be the 'local flavor' you intend to provide.

    I think this is a great way to make a contribution toward your country.

    I look forward to your posts!

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