Wandercolor

Watercoloring my adventures.


The image shows colorful houses in the Barrio Bella Vista neighborhood of Turbaná, Colombia, with locals greeting the observer with smiles and curious glances.

Welcome to Turbaná, Colombia

Welcome to Turbaná, Colombia

Hola, my adventurous wanderers! If you’re anything like me and believe in the magic of hidden gems over mainstream tourist spots, then Turbaná, in the heart of Colombia, is one destination you should seriously consider. Turbaná, with its vibrant streets and warm, friendly locals, has something special that makes it so much more than just another quintessential Latin American town.

Navigating Turbaná’s Streets

Venturing solo, armed only with my DSLR and vintage compass (my quirky essential travel buddies) I set off to explore this uncharted territory. And trust me when I say you’ll want to lace up your best walking shoes for this one. Turbaná is one of those rare places where getting lost is just a part of the journey. My admission of fearing getting lost much too often might sound counterproductive, but it’s finding your way back that often leads to the most memorable adventures.

Exploring Barrio Bella Vista

One spot that really stood out was the Barrio Bella Vista. It’s one of those treasures you won’t find in your standard guidebook. Despite not understanding more than my basic Spanish phrases, I immersed myself completely into this cultural experience. The colourful houses and the hustle of everyday life captured my heart and, inevitably, my camera lens. The locals greeted me with smiles and curious glances; they’re not used to many outsiders here, making it all the more genuine.

Finding Comfort in the Local Cuisine…or maybe not

Another must-try local experience lies in their cuisine, full of colours and overwhelming flavors. However, in true Mia fashion, I found myself face-to-face with a Santiago, a local dish that was delightfully presented but a bit too spicy for my liking (warning: watch out if your palate can’t handle too much heat!). It’s undeniable though, the food here tells a story of its own, tying in the cultural roots that Turbaná is built upon.

Unexpected Pizza Haven in Turbaná

Seeking comfort after the spicy disaster, I stumbled upon Milan Pizza Turbana. Now, pizza in the heart of Colombia may sound bizarre, but ‘Milan Pizza Turbana’ offers an uncommon but enjoyable culinary intersection where Italy meets Colombia. Their unique pizza varieties – a fusion of Colombian and Italian flavors, offer a reprieve from the otherwise overwhelming local dishes.

Reflecting on the Turbaná Experience

Like all the offbeat places I’ve been to, Turbaná left a mark on me. It reminded me that even a seasoned traveller like me can still experience culture shock, and believe me, it’s a good thing! It reignites my love for diverse cultures and intensifies my quest for more authentic experiences.

Those looking to stray off the beaten path should remember, Turbaná is not all about glamorous resorts and fancy restaurants; it’s raw, it’s authentic, and perhaps that’s what makes it all the more beautiful. And always, keep an open mind (and a trusty bottle of antacid) if you’re going to give Santiago a try!

As I bid adieu to Turbaná, grabbing yet another quirky coffee mug for my collection, I realized, even as an odds-defying travel blogger, there’s always more out there to explore. Remember, chase the less known places, that’s where the magic is. And don’t worry too much about getting lost…it’s just another adventure waiting to happen.