This year, I had the privilege of being invited as press to the Proflora 2023 convention in Bogotá, Colombia. The anticipation within our team was palpable. Not only was this my first time in Bogotá as a business owner with a booth, but we were invited as press, and treated with exceptional hospitality from the start.
In the heart of Colombia’s lush landscape, there exists a remarkable place where bouquets bloom, but so do dreams. Riofrio Bouquets is not just a business; it’s a testament to what can happen when you value both your blossoms and the hands that nurture them. In an industry often marred by labor issues worldwide, Riofrio shines as a beacon of hope and excellence.
Manos que transforman – The Theme of Transformation: Riofrio has embraced the theme of “Manos que Transforman,” Which means, hand that emphasizes the profound impact of labor, not only on the flowers but also on the lives they touch.
My Proflora journey began with a visit to Riofrio, a company where the art of making bouquets transcends mere production. Here’s a glimpse of my visit:
As we stepped onto the Riofrio grounds, it was evident that this place was more than just flowers. With a team of around 800 during regular seasons and a staggering 1,400 during peak times like Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, Riofrio was not just a workplace; it was a thriving community. You can read more about this large bouquet manufacturer in Colombia through this blog.
In a country where the flower industry provides formal employment, Riofrio stands out for its commitment to its workforce. An estimated 60% of their employees are women, and nearly half of them are the heads of their households. They’ve not only provided jobs but futures.
But Riofrio’s inclusivity doesn’t stop there. They’ve opened their doors to those with physical limitations, making it clear that here, everyone has a place. They have even hired three deaf individuals and two with cognitive challenges to assemble their beautiful bouquets, with hopes of employing more.
In a significant show of support for their community, Riofrio employs 26% of Venezuelan immigrants providing them with opportunities and stability.
Riofrio’s commitment to sustainability is also commendable. They’re actively investing in solar energy and partnering with organizations like Florverde, which provides environmental certification.
Despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Riofrio managed to bounce back, with sales returning to pre-pandemic levels. They export their vibrant bouquets to North America, offering a diverse array of 280 flower colors.
Rising labor costs have led them to invest in automation, ensuring not only efficiency but also employment stability for their dedicated workforce.
Attracting the younger generation to this industry has been a challenge, but Riofrio is adapting by introducing automation, flexible working hours, educational initiatives, and university partnerships.
Their dedication to employee well-being and inclusivity extends beyond business. Riofrio actively hires individuals with disabilities, breaking down barriers to employment, and fostering a sense of belonging.
This community-centric approach to employment isn’t just about giving jobs; it’s about building a brighter future for all. Riofrio doesn’t just make bouquets; they cultivate lives, dreams, and transformations.
As I reflect on my memorable visit to Rosamina Finca Lucera, I can’t help but remember the small yet meaningful detail that added charm to my days. Each evening, after hours of exploration and conversations, I would retreat to my hotel room. What awaited me there was not just a bouquet but a source of rejuvenation.
Crafted by myself, these bouquets were not your ordinary floral arrangements. They were adorned with the regal beauty of King Proteas, a sight that never failed to refresh my spirit. The day’s fatigue would melt away as I gazed upon these exquisite blooms.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Now about Rosamina – The journey of Rosamina, which started with roses, took a captivating turn when Eli’s father fell in love with Proteas. These unique flowers, unseen by Eli until then, became a source of fascination. Eli’s passion for proteas grew steadily over the years, and about two decades ago, he began his journey into the world of proteas.
Many years ago Rosamina acquired a piece of land, a decision met with skepticism by many who believed such an endeavor would be futile. However, Rosamina defied the odds, and today, it stands as a remarkable establishment, not only as protea growers but as masters of foliage.
What makes Rosamina truly exceptional is its ability to sustain production throughout the year, a stark contrast to traditional seasonal farming. This farm operates without seasons, only experiencing peaks and valleys. It provides a consistent supply of stunning protea blooms, a testament to its commitment to quality.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Beyond proteas, Rosamina excels in creating beautiful bouquets, catering to mass markets in the U.S. and various other countries. Supermarkets now flock directly to the farm, a testament to its high standards and unique offerings.
Innovative farming practices, including semi-hydroponics and meticulous quality control, set Rosamina apart. Their bouquets feature high-end, exotic, and hard-to-find products, a testament to their dedication to providing something truly different.
Rosamina’s journey is also marked by a deep commitment to sustainability. They are diligently reducing their carbon footprint, moving towards full hydroponics, and embracing biodegradable materials. The farm’s operations reflect a harmony with nature, with no greenhouses to enclose the protea blooms that thrive under the Colombian sun.
In the heart of this lush rainforest, they’ve planted native trees, supporting the environment that surrounds them. Their vision includes becoming self-sufficient with solar power, minimizing water usage, and employing biological controls instead of chemicals whenever possible.
This remarkable transformation, from roses to proteas and beyond, speaks of Rosa Mina Farm’s unwavering dedication to innovation and excellence. Their journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of visionaries like Eli, who, like the proteas they cultivate, flourish under the sun, rooted in nature’s beauty.
Our day took an authentic Bogota turn as we found ourselves in a two-hour-long Colombian traffic jam after leaving Rosa Mina Farm. It was a genuine Bogota experience and the perfect moment to catch up on some much-needed rest amid the vibrant chaos of the city.
Upon our arrival at the Hilton Corferias, a strategically chosen hotel offering easy access to the convention center, I quickly freshened up. Then came dinner, a heartwarming reunion with an old friend whom I’d only known through calls for the past two decades. This was a reminder that these trips are not solely about business; they’re about fostering genuine, long-lasting relationships.
Over a delectable Thai meal, we shared stories of our professional growth over the past twenty years. Following dinner, we rendezvoused with a few more friends at the hotel’s lively bar. It was a bustling spot, bustling with energy and camaraderie, where striking up conversations with fellow travelers was effortless.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Wednesday dawned with the grand inauguration of the Proflora convention. My day was a juggling act, toggling between my roles as press and trying to manage a booth. It was a whirlwind of interviews and networking, a thrilling ride that allowed me to witness the artistry of beautifully designed booths and connect with new customers and existing ones.
On this day, I attended the convention’s opening ceremony, where Augusto Solano took the stage to address the eager audience. It was a remarkable moment, learning about the convention’s history, which began in a cattle showcase pen some 30 years ago and has now evolved into one of the world’s most significant flower showcases. The event drew the presence of numerous international companies and passionate floral enthusiasts.
A notable highlight was the tremendous support Proflora and Asocolflores extended to North American and European associations. Both the North American Association and the Floral Initiative, along with the European Association, were given dedicated booths. Even initiatives like “That Flower Feeling” and the “Flower Movement” were warmly welcomed.
This truly underscored Asocolflores and Proflora’s unwavering commitment to fostering the global growth of the floral industry. The energy was palpable, especially when the surprise drummers and dancers took the stage and helped get the convention on its way.
For me, the first day was an adventure. I conducted booth interviews which you can catch here, with representatives from twelve different companies and simultaneously managed our booth. Our booth experienced a fruitful day, where we engaged with potential new customers, saw old friends, and solidified existing partnerships.
After an exhilarating day of interviews and hosting customers, we were graciously invited to the Danziger party. It was an evening filled with vibrant dance, spirited conversations, and plenty of Agua Ardiente—a testament to Colombia’s exuberant party spirit. It was an unforgettable night that stretched into the early hours.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
The third day kicked off with an early rise and a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Let me tell you about the breakfast spread – it was truly something special. Colombia is famed for having over 365 varieties of fruit, and as a fruit enthusiast, I was in paradise. I love trying different fruits, and I swear, 70% of the fruits on offer were completely new to me.
Our day officially began at 10 a.m., and it was a steady stream of existing customers visiting our booth and making connections with new ones. This day, I decided to stay put at our booth all day to ensure I didn’t miss a beat.
At 1 p.m., a fantastic opportunity arose – I got to record an episode of the Bloom Show. In this episode, we interviewed representatives from Royal Van Zanten, The Queen Group, and Florverde. You can check out these insightful interviews here. Make sure to hit the subscribe button to be notified of more The Bloom Show episodes!
I also had a chat with a friend, Danny Sanchez, about his experiences at the convention. Once these three interviews were wrapped up and after welcoming more customers to our booth, I can happily say that this day turned out to be our most successful one yet in terms of meeting new customers.
After a long and fulfilling day, I headed for an early dinner at one of Bogota’s great restaurants, located at the Marriott Hotel. Trust me, the culinary experiences in Bogota just keep getting better and better. With another day of fruitful business, new connections, and enjoyable evening dinners with friends, it was another wonderful day at the convention.
With a refreshing beer in hand, we savored the lively atmosphere, exchanged anecdotes, and enjoyed hearty laughs. As the night progressed, we decided to call it a day, knowing that exciting opportunities awaited our team tomorrow.
As Friday dawned, it marked the bittersweet final day of the convention. Our mission for the day was clear: to close deals and continue forging connections with potential customers. Though I missed my partner in crime, David Kaplan (the Flower Wizard), who couldn’t join us this time, we pushed forward and made the most of our time here.
On this fourth day, we once again played gracious hosts to both new and familiar faces, friends and customers alike. Amidst these interactions, I seized the opportunity to explore other booths and let me tell you, what I saw was nothing short of awe-inspiring. The attention to detail in booth designs, and the stunning array of flowers and varieties on display – it was all worth every moment spent exploring.
From breeders to farms, from cutting-edge technology to essential farming equipment, the Proflora Convention offers something for everyone in the flower industry, from florists to growers and everyone in between. The insights gained and connections made during this event are truly priceless.
After wrapping up our activities for the day, we made a swift exit at 4 p.m., eager to embark on what would become one of the most incredible experiences of the trip. Our destination? Andres Carne de Res. Now, let me explain this place – it’s not just a restaurant; it’s a phenomenon in itself.
Situated about two hours away through the authentic Bogotá traffic, Andres Carne de Res is renowned for its Friday night extravaganzas. I had heard tales of this legendary Friday party, and I can wholeheartedly say, it lived up to every bit of the hype.
I was privileged to be seated at the press table, where I had the pleasure of meeting some extraordinary individuals, forging connections that promised exciting collaborations in the future, and rekindling old friendships. After a few hours, I ventured out to explore the sprawling venue, bumping into familiar faces and remarkable people who were dancing to their heart’s content. The atmosphere was electric, and the energy was infectious.
The party was a true spectacle, complete with steak dinners and a bottle of the liquor of your choice at every table – no expenses were spared. It’s truly challenging to put into words what Andres Carne de Res is like unless you experience it firsthand. From its eccentric interior design to its lively dancers and actors, it’s a world of its own, an unforgettable experience.
I finally called it a night around 2 a.m., but I’m sure the party raged on long after I left. It was, without a doubt, the best party I’d been to in years, and it was the perfect way to bid farewell to the convention and Bogotá.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
The fifth day of our journey began with a modest five hours of sleep, or perhaps even less. Rising from slumber, I indulged in a delightful breakfast of fresh, local fruits. It was a splendid way to kickstart the day.
On this particular Saturday, which also marked the final day of the convention, we had a unique and heartwarming opportunity. We hosted the Colombian public, and for me, this was an absolute highlight. Engaging in conversations with people, farm workers, and small-scale flower growers gave me invaluable insight into their businesses and their profound passion for the exquisite Colombian blooms. Their dedication was palpable, and it left a lasting impression on me.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
As the day waned, I left the convention a bit early and made my way to the airport with a friend and client. A short 30-minute flight later, I touched down in Medellín, often touted as one of the coolest cities in the world. Waiting for me was a car, and within five minutes, we found ourselves entering a tunnel. Emerging from the other side, I was greeted by an awe-inspiring view of the entire city nestled in a valley, its myriad lights creating a captivating spectacle. That sight is forever etched in my memory.
Our destination was the Click Clack Hotel in El Poblado, a splendid choice in both accommodation and location. While some may have reservations about safety in Colombia, I felt entirely at ease. Being street-smart and vigilant is key, and if your budget allows, hiring a daily driver/guide for around $100 is a wise investment. It adds an extra layer of comfort and security to your explorations.
That evening, we stumbled upon a fantastic spot with a mesmerizing view. We indulged in the famous ‘picada’ dish, a delightful medley of potatoes, French fries, sausage, empanadas, and various cuts of meats—it was an explosion of flavors and textures that left our taste buds dancing with delight. As we savored the meal, we wrapped up the night, eagerly anticipating the adventures that lay ahead in this incredible city.
Saturday ushered in a leisurely interlude in our bustling adventure. A kind friend took on the role of the city’s guide, and together we embarked on a journey through Medellin’s treasures. Our day’s agenda included visits to sprawling malls that beckoned with quality goods at irresistible prices.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Amidst this retail exploration, we treated our taste buds to a hearty bowl of Mondongo soup, accentuated by the delightful addition of bananas. It was a culinary experience that harmonized perfectly with the day’s relaxed pace.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Around 4 p.m., I found myself back at my hotel, finally able to indulge in a well-deserved nap. Later, the evening took a delightful turn as I headed out for dinner with the Florallink crew and Mike from Valley Springs. Evan’s thoughtful invitation added an unexpected touch of camaraderie to our Medellin sojourn.
Our dining destination was a gem named “El Relato,” where culinary excellence was not just a promise but a delicious reality. With satisfied appetites and contented smiles, we ventured further into the vibrant heart of Medellin.
Our next stop was the enchanting neighborhood of Provenza. Here, a picturesque river flowed gracefully alongside the streets, infusing the air with an invigorating energy. The streets were lined with a tantalizing array of restaurants and bars, each exuding its unique charm. Provenza, with its lively ambiance, proved to be an unforgettable spot.
After a few hours of savoring the atmosphere, I made my way back to my hotel for a night of rest, recharging for the adventures that awaited on the horizon.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
On Monday, our Colombian floral adventure led us to the enchanting Rionegro and Las Ceja, just a short 20 to 30-minute journey away. Our home for the day was the splendid Movich Hotel, a true gem in the heart of this picturesque region. Eager to dive into the world of Colombian blooms, we embarked on an exploration of Deliflor Americas, a celebrated floral company with a storied history.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Upon our arrival at Deliflor, we were greeted with warmth and enthusiasm. Here, I had the distinct pleasure of connecting with JD Lecuona and David Marin, two individuals who exude passion for their craft. Their passion was palpable and infectious, extending to their dedicated team. What struck me profoundly was their unwavering commitment, not only to business excellence but also to enriching lives within their community.
Deliflor is a testament to innovation and environmental consciousness. The company boasts a dedicated sustainability department led by Valentina Londoño, reflecting their deep commitment to eco-conscious and product perfection. The meticulous post-harvest process involves rigorous testing, with flowers spending 7 days at 4 degrees Celsius when shipped by air and 25 days at 2 degrees Celsius when transported by sea.
Deliflor’s commitment to sustainability is evident by its use of plastic containers for testing, a conscious choice to reduce environmental impact. However, what sets Deliflor apart is its profound investment in employee well-being. The company operates “Alma,” a program that places health and welfare at its core. They meticulously record workers’ performance, focusing on efficiency and hygiene. Quality control is paramount, with 20 stringent steps in place, of which 5 are dedicated to hygiene. Ensuring the comfort and safety of every worker, Deliflor goes an extra step and provides each employee with a personal neck fan to combat the heat.
Deliflor is not merely a flower breeder; they are the pioneer of progress. Their state-of-the-art training center is a testament to their commitment to employee development, featuring customized games designed well well-known universities, and some other Japanese-proven tests to enhance skills. Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword here; it’s an integral part of their ethos. Almost 100% of their energy comes from solar sources, and they take their eco-friendliness seriously, with the establishment of bee and bird hotels to support local wildlife. With over 60% of their facility covered in forest, Deliflor demonstrates a profound commitment to preserving the environment.
My visit to Deliflor left me deeply inspired, not only by their breathtaking blooms but by their unwavering dedication to the well-being of people and the planet. The next time you encounter a Deliflor chrysanthemum, remember that it represents more than just a flower; it symbolizes innovation, sustainability, and a profound sense of community care.
JD introduced me to an extraordinary restaurant that offered a dining experience unlike any other. Perched at our lunch table, we were treated to a breathtaking view that left an indelible mark on my memory. What set this restaurant apart was its unique theme centered around celebrated book authors, an inspiring backdrop to our meal.
The cuisine, prepared with the magic of wood-fired grilling, was nothing short of spectacular. My taste buds were treated to the succulent flavors of the Picanha, a dish that left a lasting impression. I extend my heartfelt thanks to JD for recommending this culinary gem, for it was here that my affection for La Ceja deepened, one delectable bite and sip of wine at a time.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
But our day didn’t end there. JD, our gracious host, took us further into the floral wonders of Colombia. He guided us to Valley Springs, a remarkable hydrangea farm led by the knowledgeable Mike. Here, we had the privilege of meeting the Floral Link team, and fellow travelers on this floral adventure. Valley Springs was nothing short of an eye-opener as we witnessed their operation and got a glimpse of some exciting new products. After spending about an hour there, I moved on to yet another intriguing destination: Flores de Orienté. Here, I was treated to a unique sight – stadium-type growing that was truly a sight to behold.
In just one remarkable afternoon, I had the opportunity to visit three distinct farms, indulge in a delectable lunch, and fall head over heels for the charm of La Ceja. The lush landscapes and vibrant blooms left an indelible mark on my heart.
As evening descended, one of our customers kindly invited me to dine at La Finca de Rego, a restaurant with a unique connection to Rego, a renowned Colombian cyclist. It was a cool and enjoyable place, adding yet another layer to my Colombian experience. After dinner, I reunited with a couple of friends for a leisurely glass of red wine, capping off yet another productive day in Colombia. Good food, fruitful business interactions, and the mesmerizing views of this beautiful region made it a day to remember. Colombia continued to unveil its captivating beauty and floral wonders with each passing moment, leaving me deeply grateful for this remarkable journey.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
On the seventh day of my Colombian journey, the day began with the early morning sun. Rising at 7 a.m., I was ready to embark on a day filled with floral insights and exploration. At 8 a.m., a car awaited me, taking me to Zion, an esteemed hydrangea farm. The warm welcome by the entire Zion team set a positive tone for the day.
Our primary agenda for the day included a consulting and brainstorming session aimed at strengthening our collaborative partnership with Zion. Before delving into discussions, I had the privilege of gaining insight into Zion’s processing operations through a brief tour. The facility was a testament to their love of their trade.
Following this informative visit, we embarked on a journey to La Unión, a region nestled in the mountains of Medellín, which has increasingly become a hub for farming due to rising costs in the more established La Ceja area.
During our journey, we made a delightful stop at a local eatery, where I indulged in Menudo, a traditional Colombian broth that tantalized my taste buds with its rich flavors.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Our travels took us to one of Zion’s newly established farms, where I witnessed the complete life cycle of their hydrangeas. From the initial land preparation to the growth stages and the eventual full bloom of the crops, the process was both educational and awe-inspiring. It was a sight to behold, and it left a lasting impression on me. The dedication and passion invested in nurturing these blooms were evident at every turn.
This experience left me with a profound appreciation for the cultivation of these exquisite flowers and sparked a belief that perhaps one day, I too might have my own “Finquita” -one day, A finquita is a small farm filled with charm and stunning views.
Our journey continued to another farm, where I had the privilege of an exclusive tour, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of hydrangeas stretching as far as the eye could see. Wandering through these fields, it was abundantly clear how much care and attention goes into nurturing these blooms to perfection. To commemorate this memorable day, we took a group photograph with the Zion team, sealing the camaraderie and shared experiences of the day.
What made this day particularly special was the sense of camaraderie and connection that transcended the typical business interactions. It felt more like spending time with friends and gaining a deeper understanding of their world.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
As evening descended, around 5 p.m., one of the family members from Zion graciously took me to El Retiro, a charming mountain town. This marked an opportunity for me to explore the city independently, and it was a rewarding experience. I wandered through the town, admiring its beautiful architecture and the bustling city center. Later, I dined at Cameleon, a renowned Mediterranean restaurant known for its exquisite décor and delectable cuisine at remarkably reasonable prices.
After dinner, I found myself at a small balcony wine bar, where I savored a glass of wine while relishing the tranquil atmosphere. This evening was unique, as it allowed me to enjoy a peaceful night’s rest, a rarity in the bustling schedule of the past seven days, as I prepared for another early start at 8 a.m. the following day.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Santiago Gomez Henao of Silvestres picked me up from the hotel, and together we set off for La Ceja, where one of their primary farms is located. What awaited us was an extensive and impressive flower-growing operation, accompanied by a sophisticated production facility. This visit provided a fascinating opportunity to witness the intricate process of transforming flower cuttings into fully blooming flowers, a journey that left a lasting impression.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
The real adventure began as we embarked on a tour of the facilities and made our way back to the car. Suddenly, a security guard urgently alerted us to the presence of bees, and indeed, a swarm was quickly approaching. Santiago and I dashed towards the car, managing to leap inside, but not without several bees joining us in the car. As we sped away, the cloud of bees pursued us, making for an eventful escape. We eventually sought refuge in a warehouse, where we patiently waited for nearly an hour.
During this unexpected hiatus, an idea emerged to have someone pick us up and transport us to our next destination. Acting on this plan, we were soon on our way to continue our day’s activities. Before resuming our schedule, Santiago and I enjoyed a simple yet delightful breakfast of arepa and cheese, a meal that unexpectedly became a favorite of mine during the trip, and I couldn’t resist having a second helping.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
Our next stop was the bouquet production facility. Here, I had the opportunity to witness the bouquet production process, which was captivating. I was particularly fascinated by the painting booth, where flowers received their final touches.
Our journey continued as we ventured to another expansive farm, El Carmen, spanning many hectares of production. Here, I was treated to a stunning sight—the Gerbera greenhouse. The vibrant blooms were a joy to behold, and I relished every moment spent in their midst.
For reference, this farm spans almost 60 hectares across La Ceja and El Carmen and primarily cultivates Pomps, Chrysanthemums, Gerberas, Snaps, and Matsumoto. An astonishing 90% of their production comprises Chrysanthemums. Their primary market is the United States, and they maintain a distribution center in Chile, where they request superior quality and are willing to pay a premium price. Some of their flowers are also sold in Canada, Europe, and to local companies.
Understanding their flower production was enlightening. It takes approximately 10-11 weeks for a bed of flowers to reach the cutting stage, with each bed yielding around 3,000 stems. They produce a staggering 80 million stems annually and have embraced solar power as their primary energy source.
Their output includes a weekly total of 300,000 stems for bouquets, a figure that soars to 1 million during Mother’s Day. Gerberas alone contribute around 34,000 stems weekly to this impressive tally.”
Thank you to Santigo and the entire Silvestres team for an amazing experience of Medellin hospitality and farm adventures.
Photo courtesy of Above All Flowers and New Bloom Solutions
My journey to Colombia turned out to be an experience far beyond what I had initially expected. It wasn’t just a business trip; it was a heartfelt connection with a country that left me deeply touched.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this trip was the warmth and hospitality of the Colombian people. Not a day went by without an invitation to dinner or some form of support being extended to me. I felt safe and truly well taken care of throughout my stay.
Colombia, as a nation, welcomed me with open arms. It wasn’t solely about attending a convention and heading back home; it was about immersing myself in the culture of my customers and friends. I savored the delicious food, reveled in the vibrant music, and witnessed the enchanting world of Colombian flowers and their magical people.
This journey has left an indelible mark on me, and I can’t wait to return to this captivating country. Colombia has a unique charm that beckons me back, and I wholeheartedly encourage you to embrace the opportunity to visit during the next Proflora. Keep an open mind and an open heart, and you’ll discover a world of beauty and hospitality beyond measure.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the amazing people who welcomed me with kindness and warmth, and to the breathtaking region of La Ceja for embracing me with its natural beauty. Until we meet again, Colombia.
