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Manila, Philippines

Boterismo

Fernando Botero Angulo (born 19 April 1932)

Fernando Botero is more than just an artist from Medellín; he is the heartbeat of Colombian creativity. Through "Boterismo," he breathes life into figures with a grand, exaggerated volume that feels like a warm embrace or a sharp, humorous wink at the world. His work doesn't just sit in galleries; it lives on the world’s greatest stages, from the bustling energy of Park Avenue to the timeless elegance of the Champs-Élysées.

For me, Botero’s art has been a constant companion—a lifelong love affair with form and color.

Every time I return to Bogotá, my soul craves a visit to the Botero Museum. It isn't just a stop on an itinerary; it’s a pilgrimage. Walking through those halls, you are surrounded by over a hundred of Botero's personal masterpieces, nestled alongside the spirits of legends like Picasso, Monet, and Dalí. It is a gift to the public from the Banco de la República, and standing among such beauty is a transformative experience.

Please, go. Let the art move you. You won’t just see it—you’ll feel it.

El Gato del Rio

El Gato del Río

If you’re looking for the purr-fect riverside stroll in Cali, Colombia, you have to check out the banks of the Cali River. What started as a single, generous donation by legendary local painter and sculptor Hernando Tejada has transformed into one of the city's most beloved landmarks.

Originally inaugurated on July 3, 1996, the centerpiece is El Gato del Río (The River Cat), a massive, three-ton bronze masterpiece that stands as a symbol of the city's creative spirit.

But the story doesn't end with one bronze feline. Fast-forward to today, and "The River Cat" isn't lonely anymore—he's surrounded by "the cats of the river" (las novias del gato). This open-air gallery now features a colorful parade of smaller cat sculptures, each uniquely decorated by different artists. It’s a must-visit spot for art lovers and anyone wanting to experience the whimsical side of Cali’s culture.

y mas, muchos mas ..... gatos !

Cristo Rey

Cristo Rey (Christ the King) Statue

I’ll be the first to admit I have no love for organized religion, but this? This was something else entirely. It hit me in a way I didn't think was possible—completely breathtaking and profoundly moving.

Leños y Carbon

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about travel, it’s that when you find a gem, you stick with it. Years ago, I stumbled upon Leños y Carbón in Panama—think sizzling, wood-fired steaks that taste like a million bucks but cost less than a taxi ride. Fast forward to my Colombia trip, and I was on a mission to track them down again.

I’ll be honest: I ate here a lot. I tried a few different cuts, but I always found myself circling back to the 'Lomito Tierno' (tenderloin). It was incredibly tender, flavorful, and—in true Leños fashion—a massive portion.

The best part? You can get a huge plate with steak, rice, salad, a potato, and a Pepsi all for about $12 USD. It is hands-down the best value for a serious meal in the city. I realized too late that I should have been snapping photos from day one, but I was too busy digging in! If you're in Colombia and want to eat like royalty on a budget, this is your spot.