Impressions of Colombia - Part 1

I have been in Colombia 7 weeks now, and most of that time I've been in Cali. I have definitely fallen in love with this little city and I thought I would try to express the things I have noticed about Colombian (Cali!) culture.

Colombians are very friendly, personable and generous

You walk down the street and most people you pass in the street will say “buenas dias” or “buenas” for short (of course it changes to tardes/noche depending on the time of day).

Taxi drivers, waiters, the empanada man, the lady who cut my hair…. They are always curious about what I am doing in Cololmbia and want to chat.

One time I sat at the same table as a nice old man (Señor) at a bakery. One of his eyes looked blurry (cataracts maybe?). His skin was tough and wirey as if he’s spent a lot of time in the hot Colombian sun. And his Spanish was difficult to understand because he mumbled a lot. Yet we still managed to have a funny little conversation about why I am here and where I am going. I tried to pay for his coffee when I left but unfortunately, he’d already paid and I didn't get the chance. The waitress told him though and he gave me a big smile and said “gracias nina” (thank you child). I go past the same bakery every other day and he’s nearly always there and sings out “buenas dias nina!” with a big smile. I am hoping to sit down and have another chat with him one day soon.

The panadería (bakery) where I see the man but he's not here this day (of course!)

Yesterday I was searching for a particular herb that might help boost my health and a lady went out of her way to find it in Cali and order it for me.

Even today I was needing to top up my mobile phone with credit. When I was a little confused which option to select, all three of the other shoppers chimed in to help me out. They always have time for you. It's hard to describe.

I love these little interactions with Colombians. It makes you feel so cared for!

A couple of the friendly people I've met along the way...

Jose who I met through a mutual Melburne friend has helped me translate questions to health workers and find an amazing hostel

This lovely muscian who insisted I have a go at his harp and talked a lot about Kangaroos haha

The beautiful family of my friend in Melbourne who took me to their stunning country house for a weekend

I need to get a pic of or with the man at the bakery!

To be continued...