This is PassportRequired.Com’s first group trip, and it’s far too exciting. It’s what we’ve been dreaming about for so long, and to see if finally happening is amazing, and there’s only one way from here: UP!

After two planes, one Megabus, one Amtrak, two more planes, I’ve finally arrived in Bogota, Colombia for the first time. It’s all our first time, but the other two didn’t have an extensive journey like me. Stepping into the airport and stopping by the currency exchange booth, we quickly realized we should research exchanges before visiting the country. I almost accused the service rep of cheating me out of a few hundred thousand COP, not knowing 50MIL was the highest bill. We Americans look for 0’s.

I’m excited to see Uber anywhere. Sadly, the first one I ordered didn’t get the memo that I was to be picked up from Door 5 in Arrivals, and never showed up, but charged me the full price of the journey (of course I was reimbursed immediately). Thank god for Luis who not only showed up, but allowed me to practice my spanish with no judgement. It’s amazing how much you know when thrown into a situation. On the way to the hostel, I watched people jump from busses that barely slowed, I admired the artwork occupying entire sides of buildings, and my mouth watered at the smell of spices. Then I felt a drop.

It’s been a while since I’ve seen a decent rain, and this Bogota rainfall is just what I need to remind me how much I enjoy putting on a pair of old sneakers and running out into it. From the Uber to the hostel was no more than 10 feet, and most of my upper body was soaked. I loved it. Inside, the rain fell on the glass ceiling, reminding me of Norah Jones telling me to come away with her. And now for the exploration.

I’ve been a fan of drugs for decades now. Hell, as an American, it’s basically how I learned the metric system. Because of this fascination, I’ve known about Pablo Escobar and many of his goons for quite some time, but the Netflix Original Series, Narcos, opened my eyes to various travel opportunities. While here in Bogota, I want to visit some of these guys’ favorite eateries, drink what they drank, eat what they eat, engage in various activities that won’t result in me going home sans kidney or life.

Much love to Amath Gomis (click HERE for Amath’s amazing store) & Eddie Frantz for their list of To-Do’s while here, and their great advice.

I’m looking forward to putting on my adventure shoes (old, dirty, white Chucks), grabbing an arepa, a hot chocolate, some pastry, and maybe some chicken, and heading for the hills. Keep up and if you get a chance, visit Bogota!