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.