Santa Marta

JG: We trekked to Santa Marta via 4-hr bus ride a couple of days ago. SM is an historic beach town at the northern tip of Columbia, and it's the oldest city in Latin America. Not as much restoration is taking place here as in other cities, which is a sore subject with some locals (politicians apparently to blame). Did some touring, and last night we stumbled upon La Placita Burger Bar - owned by a pair of Colombians, one of which lived in the US for a period of time. One of the best dining experiences we've had so far - we sat at the bar and just chatted with the owners doing their thing in the open kitchen. Had a few drinks, an outstanding Argentinian burger, and one owner insisted on helping to arrange our next couple of days closer to the national park. Meeting him later today to discuss.

SS: Seriously the most gourmet burger I have ever had! The guys were cool dudes and so helpful.
Santa Marta is hot! After doing a little research on this place it was discovered that their record low temperature for March is 68°F or 20°C.... Ever! Geez

The safety aspect is a little sketchy at times. We were walking down a street two nights ago not far from our hotel and were approached by a couple young punks trying to shake hands and befriend us - then of course ask for money. After saying we didn't have anything it still continued to where I could feel John's blood pressure start to rise and tighten his grip on my hand. The Canadian in me thinks let's just walk away and all will be fine but my Chicago man was showing his native colors.
Canada won and we walked away just fine but not without a pep talk from John of what to do next time and to toughen up to American gangsta standards! Ha.

SS SIDE NOTE: I was browsing a dirty Spanish dictionary and to my amusement GIL in Spanish means DUMMY! Priceless
days later - it's still funny! Hahaha