The journey to Cartagena was relatively smooth and uneventful although we did pass through some very poor towns and it was the first time I had seen people living in what I would call squalor. I had seen poorer communities previously on the trip but this for me was the worst. It was very humbling and provided even more perspective but at least the people still seemed to have smiles on their faces.

Arriving in the evening we were greeted by balmy weather and a bustling city full of life. The taxi ride from the bus station was like being in a video game as it was a free for all dodging traffic and people. Luckily no extra points were gained for hitting targets.

Cartagena old town is a beautiful place and it was just nice just to stroll around the town and soak it all up in the sun (with an ice cream of course). Outside the old town are neighbourhoods of varying types. Boca Grande (the area by the beach) was the more modern area with huge skyscrapers of apartments overlooking the water (but actually seemed nice). Not golden sands but the water was nice and warm and crystal clear. Around where we stayed in Getsemani there was a kind of cool but edgy feel to it during the day with lovely colourful houses. Roaming the back streets at night is probably not recommended though. That said it seemed 'up and coming' (as an estate agent might put it), as many houses had been renovated. Maybe people were realizing the value of the area as it was close to a few nice bars and restaurants and many new hostels/hospedajes.

On my final day we spent the morning exploring the fort. A huge complex that withstood all invaders that tried to take the city over the years. It was baking hot as usual though and we eventually made our way back into the old town to sample some ceviche. A little pricey but very nice and in the hot sun it was very refreshing.

So it was time to part ways with Nicola and Sarah as I was leaving for Bogota that night and flying out to Cusco in Peru the next day. We said our goodbyes but luckily there were no tears :). We did laugh though in the end about our 'travelling quirks' that we noticed about each other (yes I have minor OCD when it comes to packing), but for me it was great to start the trip with some familiar faces and gave me the confidence to move on by myself and tackle the rest of the continent..well for a week anyway, before I meet up with a bigger bunch in Brazil.! Buen viajes chicas...I'll miss you!

Colombia surpassed my expectations and I had an amazing time. I wish I had more time to explore the rest of the country but was satisfied with the most memorable experience and that was the friendliness and helpfulness of the people. I always felt safe and welcome everywhere I went.

Gracias Colombia, hasta leugo!