Q&A with Moon Colombia Author Ocean Malandra
To celebrate Moon’s brand-new guide to Colombia, Bogotá local Ocean Malandra is sharing his behind-the-scenes experiences as an author—and why he loves his adopted home.
What was your favorite experience while researching the book?
Visiting and re-visiting the salsatecas of Cali is always my favorite experience in Colombia. The first time I visited, I simply couldn’t leave and overstayed my visa because of it! With the center of Cali coming back to life, dancing in the street on the Calle del Sabor is also a fave.
What’s your favorite place to hike?
Cocuy National Park, a rugged high Andean landscape of glaciers, paramo, hot springs, and charming small towns with friendly locals. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but more than worth it.
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What sets Colombia apart?
Colombia is the most biodiverse place on earth by square foot! White-sand Caribbean beaches, high Andean peaks, lush Amazon rainforest, charming pueblos, exciting metropolises, and a magical lost-in-time Pacific coast all await you here. For sheer natural splendor, Colombia is in a league of its own.
Colombian music, which comes in many different styles and rhythms, moves the entire country, and there is always a fiesta to take part in. Carnivals and cultural festivals rock the cities and countryside, while salsa clubs are packed every night of the week. For fun, Colombia simply cannot be beat.
Coffee is the best on the planet, and the country has a cafe culture to match it. The food is varied by region but always fresh and delicious, while major cities like Bogotá and Medellín sport some of the top chefs on the continent. From traditional markets bursting with exotic fruits to world-class culinary experiences, Colombia is a foodie’s dream come true.
What underrated spot do you want to share with travelers?
The Farallones National Park, just outside of Cali, is a mountainous tropical wonderland full of waterfalls, brightly colored birds, and enchanted rainforests. It’s easy to get to from the city and is a hiker’s paradise on earth.
There are lots of cute little local-run hotels and eco-resorts to stay the weekend in, most of which can organize guided hikes or birdwatching expeditions for you.
Favorite place to get a bite to eat or a cup of coffee?
The recently renovated Plaza de La Concordia, a historic market in the middle of the colonial La Candelaria area of Bogotá, is a standout option for local food, coffee, and even fresh produce. A half dozen or so onsite restaurants, including Recetas del Abuela, which does the best Ajiaco in town, offer up great prices, real-deal traditional eats, and patio seating with views over the city.
