In the heart of Colombia
Two weeks, two cities, countless impressions: Our journey through Colombia took us from the colorful hills of Medellín to the vibrant capital Bogotá. Between street art, music, coffee and warmth, we experienced a country that surprises us anew every day – and fills every moment with warmth.
How was your two-week trip through Colombia?
Two weeks in Colombia – it was like two weeks of pure joie de vivre. From the very first day in Medellín, we sensed that this country is different. People laugh a lot, they dance, they simply share. There is music in every corner and the smell of coffee and street food is everywhere.
What impressed you most in Medellín?
It used to be a place of fear, but today it is a symbol of hope, courage and cohesion. You can immediately feel how much the people here love their city – every wall tells a story, every graffiti is a sign of pride.
We arrived in the afternoon, when the sun was slowly rising above the colorful rooftops. Music was playing everywhere, children were playing in the street and salsa rhythms could be heard from small loudspeakers. A group of young dancers spontaneously invited us to join in – hesitantly at first, then laughing, then simply joining in.
“In Medellín, even the sun dances – and you can’t help but dance along.”
Ignasia Mustermann
And Bogotá – how did you experience the capital?
Bogotá was the perfect counterpart: big, cultural, diverse. We strolled through La Candelaria, listened to street musicians and discovered small cafés on every corner. The climb up Monserrate was a highlight – above us a golden sky, below us a sea of lights.
What are you taking away from this trip?
Colombia showed us what joie de vivre really means. We came back with a feeling that is hard to describe – but it sounds like music, smells like coffee and feels like sunshine on your skin.
What was your first impression of Colombia?
To be honest: surprisingly peaceful and incredibly open. We had heard many stories beforehand, but the country proved us wrong. Even at the airport, people smile at you as if you belong. This warmth accompanies you from the very beginning – whether in a cab, in small stores or on the street. It feels as if Colombia welcomes you without you having to do anything.
Was there a moment when you felt particularly welcome?
Yes, when we were sitting in a small café in Medellín. The owner simply gave us her homemade cake “because you laugh like the sun”, she said. We struck up a conversation and she told us about her life, about difficult times and new opportunities. This encounter was so honest that it stayed with us for a long time. It was one of those little moments that are bigger than they seem – and that’s what makes Colombia special.
What culturally fascinated you the most?
The link between past and present. Colombia is a country that does not hide its history, but transforms it into art. Old traditions live on – in music, in clothing, in food – and merge with modern creativity. In Medellín, we saw young artists painting their walls to show hope, not anger. This energy is inspiring and infectious.
How did you experience the food?
Colombia is a feast for all the senses. Especially in Bogotá, the markets were incredible: so many colors, scents, voices. We tried something new almost every day and learned that food is always shared here – never alone.
Were there any moments that were challenging?
Yes, of course. The constant adjustment to the climate, the mountain air in Bogotá or simply the feeling of always being on the move. Sometimes it was exhausting, but that’s what really made the trip. There were days when we were tired, but then came a smile, a conversation, a song – and everything was easy again. Colombia has the special ability to get you back on your feet in seconds.
What have you learned about yourselves on this journey?
That we are more open than we thought. Traveling to a country like Colombia changes your perspective – you learn to be spontaneous, to let go, to enjoy the unplanned. We realized that real encounters only happen if you dare to remain curious. And that happiness often lies where you didn’t plan it.
“The diversity of the country is simply incredible – from the Caribbean to the Andes.”
Ignasio Mustermann
What are you taking away from this trip?
Colombia has changed us. It has shown us that joie de vivre has nothing to do with wealth or perfection, but with gratitude. We returned with a heart full of color – and with people we will never forget. Every laugh, every sunset, every smell of coffee reminds us how lively these two weeks were.
- The warmth of the people who welcomed us everywhere with open arms.
- The feeling of living in the moment and simply letting go.
- The realization that beauty often lies in the unplanned.
- The smell of freshly roasted coffee in the morning.