28/10/2012 - 29/10/2012 - Not too far to Bogota

Looking out over the Colombian capital - the German who took this shot was especially pleased with his effort!

Chimborazo - the furthest point
from the centre of the Earth (6,268m)

A last look at the Galapagos, then on to Quito in a first
class upgrade checking out the city and Ecuador's fave
volcano, Cotopaxi (only 86 known eruptions!)

After surviving the death star run into the airport (volcanoes on the left and right!), it was a quick turnaround and onto a plane for the short hop to Bogota, Colombia. Decided against the alternative 24hour bus journey given our time restraints and the rumours we’d heard about the border crossing!

Fun on the funicular - Chrimbo decs were unexpected!

Quirky Bogota, plus our first
Chiva (even if it wasn't full size!)

Kept to our routine of taking advantage of motorised transport providing lookouts of the city (our 3^rd funicular, combined with 2 cable cars and counting…), where the finishing touches were being put on the Chrissy decs. Only 2 months away, after all!

Plaza de Bolivar - an absolute legend in these parts having liberated the country from the Spanish... Twice.

Give us a high five Fernando -
great collection!

Botero's best, with some additional pieces by Monet and
Dali - who ever said we're not cultured?!?

Spent the rest of the day wandering the streets in Bogota, particularly around (the) La Candelaria area – unfortunately the number one attraction, the Gold Museum, was closed. Our one day in Bogota and they close the best museum? Typical. Instead, wandered around Fernando Botero's artwork, where Annaliza’s alterego, Monaliza, was looking good. Didn’t have time for a Monapizza – a plane to catch, after all!

Turn another corner, and there's
another church

The beauty of Bogota

Key Learnings:

More colonial class in the city

1. Apparently Tony’s current facial growth reminds certain customs officials of Tom Hanks in Castaway. We left him shouting “Wilson, Wilson” and both of us were clueless. Going to have to see it on our return.

2. Don’t always assume a drunken tramp wino leading you down a dark alley is after your valuables – cheers wino for finding our hostel and sorry no “donation” was forthcoming!