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Published: September 13th 2014
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Two weeks ago I would have never guessed Colombian would of changed my life for the better. My father informed me he was getting married to his Colombian girlfriend, as most fathers would he invited me to the wedding. I started my journey from Louisville, Ky. I had to take 3 flights to arrive at my destination in Pereira Colombia. When the plane arrived in Bogota, Colombia's capital city, my jaw dropped. The luscious green mountains were unbelievable. I spent the next few hours drinking coffee and taking in the view from the airport. My flight eventually took off across the Andes mountains on route to Pereira. My jaw decided to drop even more, considering I had a window seat on the plane. The terrain from above looking down is more beautiful than words could express. Very flush green mountains for miles and miles. Once my plane had arrived in Pereira, my anticipation to get off and get going was higher than ever. As I walked out my Father and his future wife were waiting for me. We reunited and went about our way. The drive to the house was unforgettable. The view this time was even more dropping than before,
Pereira sits in a valley surrounded by the Andes mountains and many, many coffee farms sitting atop. I thought too myself these farmers must have some strong legs to be able to traverse the mountains while picking coffee beans. As we trekked through the city there were shops and little markets lined up everywhere. There was a lot going on at once as I sat back and took it all in, with a big smile on my face. I soon noticed how aggressive and adrenaline packed the driving was, nothing like America. You need to be on your toes driving down there. Bikes zoom past you without warning and the roads really aren't that big. We had finally arrived at my future step moms house. Not even 20 minutes after arrival I got to meet the whole family which was more than welcoming. The generosity I felt from them was overwhelming. Not to mention the amazing food they stirred me up after a long day of traveling. Ribs made with Coca Cola, yes Coca Cola, and a side of white rice, and let me tell you, it was delicious. A few hours later everyone was all packed and ready to
travel to the Villa/farm we had rented for the weekend for the wedding. We had to take two cars, the drive during the night was incredible, there were so much activity in the streets at night. Bars, Clubs, Markets, and little avenues that sold all kinds of food. The smell was enough the water the tongue and growl your belly. After about 25 minutes we arrived at the villa. Not till morning would I really know how beautiful it was. As I awoke early that morning I got a coffee and waltzed outside. The luscious plants, flowers, palm trees and bamboo trees were very beautiful, nothing you would ever see in the United States. The weather was more than ideal. It was I the 80's with a slight breeze. That day we had to go get our suits and etc, for the wedding. As we walked through downtown Pereira I really enjoyed myself thoroughly. Part of me was concerned being a gringo and all, but not once was I given a bad look from the people, everyone was just going about there business. It felt very alive. Later that day we enjoyed are time swimming in the pool back at
the villa and having a few drinks. I felt in paradise. That next day was the wedding. We all got ready and the family and friends started to arrive. All in all about 80-90 people attended. The wedding ceremony was phenomenal. The Priest talked for nearly and hour long before the kiss completing the marriage. I have been to weddings in the states and never did they take the time like they did there to marry a couple. The reception was by far a great time. The food was fantastic the service in general was really good. They always asked what you wanted without question I knew then and there Colombians take the job very seriously. When they say Colombians have the most beautiful women in the world, that is no lie, and let me tell you they are by far the best dancers I have ever danced with. they put their heart and soul into dancing, wow. Little that I knew the first woman I danced with I would still be talking with now while in the US. The next day we spent relaxing and cooking a grand meal for the family and close friends. By the end of
the day sadness arouse knowing I was to leave back to the US in the morning. Me and the woman talked that night and we exchanged numbers. I have talked to her everyday since, and let me say I think I am falling in love with her. Overall I fell in love with the country and a woman from it, just like my father did. I am planning on moving there before spring 2015. For anyone who is skeptical of visiting Colombia, don't be. The people are beautiful individuals who work hard and have an appreciation for life with what they have. Something that is slowing fading in the US. Give it a shot if you can, you never know until you try.
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