Some things I´ve learned so far

In 1557, a traveler might have slept in this bed.

This traveler slept in this bed in 2007.

450 years of progress.

I liked this picture at the Colonial Museum in Bogota

Theology of the Holy Trinity in oil colors (same museum)

One reason Popayan, Colombia is a popular place to visit.

Things I´ve learned recently.

1. Colombians impress me as an exuberant bunch. The motorcycle was not accustomed to so much attention. At every stop light on our trip south scores of local motorcycles would gather around, and their riders would immediately start talking and asking questions. When we parked the bikes, people would gather around to visit. Along the roads of Colombia, the bikes ignited smiles and waves (and probably imaginations). It was fun.

2. The folks here in the mountains of Ecuador are very friendly, but they seem quieter, even shy. I´m wondering if it has to do with climate. I´m still wondering about this question--does a cold climate bring out the shy in a culture and a warm climate bring out the expressive?

3. Paying someone to help you get through a border will probably cost you more than money. Going through immigration and customs can be as much a cultural experience as going through a museum or church. Each border post has it´s own personality and deserves some time, but not too much. In my observation, when you hire a tramitador it takes longer than when you do it yourself.

4. I´d say the same thing about using an agent to ship a bike. Unless you have a lot of money and time, deal directly with the airline and ship it direct to yourself, not an agent. Then leave the same day your bike does. You may be able to go right to the cargo terminal and pick it up.

5. The U.S. State Department web site may be the least helpful place to go for security information regarding countries of the world. The overkill in warnings for practically every country on earth renders the site almost useless. If it covered the USA it would issue a dramatic warning about high risk travel on I35 between Waco and Oklahoma City because of a history of violence in those places. There are places of risk for travelers in the world. You´ll probably need to go elsewhere than the State Department to find out where they really are.

6. It´s a wonderful thing to be an outsider and meet so many folks who by nature offer hospitality.