As many people know about me, if I don’t exercise enough, my mood rapidly declines. When I woke up this morning, I was motivated to find a local gym and get a solid workout in before starting the day. Within just 30 minutes, I was able to find a three-story workout facility only 1km from my apartment, walk there, and begin my workout. It was similarly structured to most other gyms in the US with an area for cardio machines, workout classes, lifting machines, and free weights. However, it only costed me 10k COP to enter (2.5 USD) rather than the $10 it takes for a day pass at the CU rec center even as an alumni. As I walked in, the speakers were blaring “Lose Yourself” by Eminem, which I thought was funny.
After the workout, I was thrilled to find so many options for a victory meal. I opted for a restaurant that looked a little more modern with a credit card machine and large seating area. As I expected, the food was significantly more pricey but equally as tasty. The cashier recommended their chicken and rice dish for me to try (their most basic dish) as he clearly ousted me as a foreigner when I opened my mouth (even though I was speaking decent Spanish). I guess I need to avoid talking to anyone and I should blend in fine going forward. I also love how it seems that every culture in the world has some version of chicken and rice. Same two fundamental ingredients but wildly different flavors. Fascinating.
On the way back from the gym I passed through what seemed like a shopping hub with a multitude of stores, carts, and restaurants (later learning that this area is called La Rumba). The temptation to buy cheap shirts, shoes, and belts was indeed hard to resist. However, I did cave a purchase 2 new colognes for 70k COP. Sure they are most definitely knock off Christian Dior, but they still smell great. I love that within a single street block, it was easy to find a grocery store, fruit stand, pharmacy, barbershop, clothing retailer, liquor store, and many other vendors. Everything packs tightly into the minimal space available. It may just be the fact that I am not used to large cities, but this seems like an extreme even compared to the New York’s of the like.
The only disappointing part of the day was actually the coffee. Although Colombia is known for their great exported coffee, the cup I had today in a local shop was decent at best. I arrived here with high expectations, but later learned that Colombia actually exports all of its best produced coffee and the remaining is left here for the local population. Now it made sense why I was slightly let down. Nevertheless, I hope this occurrence is limited to just this shop and I look forward to trying some better brews in the coming weeks.
In the same Rumba area, I found over 5 casinos and several more discotecas, bars, clubs, and nightlife venues within just a few blocks. This city sure knows how to party and I am excited to see it all in action. My favorite part might honestly be not having to lose $25 per hand in blackjack or paying $20 for a Moscow mule.