I just returned from an amazing trip to Colombia. It was my first time, and it definitely won't be my last. I fell in love with the people, the landscape, and the food. The country embraces you like an old friend, making for an unforgettable vacation.

My trip began in historic Cartagena. My husband and I stayed in the heart of the walled city, at a gorgeous boutique hotel. From there, we walked...walking is the best way to really take in Cartagena's warm air, yummy smells, and multiple cultural influences (Indian, African, Spanish, and Caribbean). On our first evening, we had dinner at La Cevicheria, where we had two of the most amazing ceviches we'd ever tasted. 2015 NOTE: Unfortunately, a return visit to La Cevicheria before New Year's was beyond disappointing. The first was made with the catch of the day, and the second with shrimp. The shrimp ceviche was the freshest I've ever had, by far. We also shared the paella, which was delicious. We then headed across the street to the Sofitel Santa Clara, where we had drinks and listened to live music at their El Coro bar. The cool interior was made slightly creepy by the crypt just a few steps below, a reminder of the hotel's previous life as a convent. We ended the perfect night with a carriage ride through the walled city.

From Cartagena, we took a four hour bus ride to the beach community of Santa Marta. We spent a day at Parque Tayrona, a treasure of a national park. After a few hours of rough hiking, visitors are rewarded with some of the most beautiful, unspoiled beaches I've ever seen. If you're up for a little work before you get your reward, it's more than worth it.

We spent a few days in Medellin before heading to the countryside a few hours away. My favorite experience in that area was visiting the hot springs in nearby San Vicente. The road there is partially unpaved and a bit of a rough ride, but the natural thermal pools are soothing and relaxing. 

There is one other thing I absolutely loved about Colombia. I'm kind of embarrassed to admit it to my readers, because I am not one to tout chain restaurants. However....Crepes & Waffles was life-changing. Everyone I'd talked to about Colombia mentioned this place, and I honestly thought it was a little cult-like. I am sorry that I was ever a doubter. In addition to their ridiculously good crepes and waffles, this Latin American institution has great salads and soups. I had Crepes & Waffles three times over our nine day trip. My drug of choice? The coffee caramel mini waffles with a glass of prosecco. Yep, it was as good as it sounds. If only I could convince them to open up a U.S. location...just one more reason to make a return trip.