Anthony Bourdain's Blog

Colombia: Vacation Wonderland

By Anthony Bourdain on July 10, 2008 9:38 AM | Permalink | 385 Comments

It's all too common in Latin America, where the divide between rich and poor is usually very wide, to hear stark differences in outlook and attitudes at the table. When dining with the rich, the poor are often referred to with varying degrees of fear, condescension, and outright contempt. Unsurprisingly, conversations at the tables of the poor express an entirely predictable desire to see the heads of the rich paraded on stakes. Seldom do the two strata of society agree on anything beyond soccer.

So, imagine my surprise to hear--again and again--expressions of optimism, hope, good feelings, and a general belief that things were going pretty well--in Colombia. In Medellin, no less, not too long ago the murder capital of the world! In expensive restaurants frequented by the well to do, the kind of people whose cars are bulletproofed, who travel with armed drivers--and later-- in what was the toughest, poorest barrio in the city, I heard the same thing. That the government seemed to be doing a pretty damn good job, that things were getting better and better, that the future looked bright--and that it was very good thing to be Colombian, and from Medellin in particular.

In a world where the bad guys seem to win with a relentless regularity, and where even the presumed good guys appear, usually, to be their own worst enemies, it's really gratifying to see things get so dramatically better somewhere--especially a place where at one time, it really and truly looked hopeless. It is inspiring, when you've gotten used to the notion that some problems probably won't ever be fixed in your lifetime, to see some of the very worst kind of seemingly insurmountable problems so quickly and effectively improve. When you see a real change in the conditions and in the human hearts of a place where just a few short years ago, one neighbor couldn't walk twenty yards over without risking death from another, where drug cartels recruited their murderous young footsoldiers by the hundreds, where even the police feared to tread--it makes one hopeful again--about the whole world.

Colombia. Vacation Wonderland? Yes. Absolutely.

I can't think of another country where the No Reservations crew has been welcomed so enthusiastically everywhere we went. Absolutely everybody we met seemed delighted and proud that we'd come to point our cameras at them. And we were allowed and enabled, I should point out, to point them any damn where we pleased. Someone less...forgiving in temperament, less zen-like than me might feel tempted to point out to some other tourist boards the wisdom of letting us go and do whatever we want--no matter how uncomfortable the official organs might be about some of our interests--compared to the result when officialdom tries to "manage" what we see and don't see. . As it turned out, it was the uncontrollable elements, the poor fishermen, the inner city market workers, the residents of the neighborhood in Medellin with the very worst reputation who did their country most proud.

What you might not know about Colombia is that it's beautiful. That the food is really good--with the same kind of fantastic mix of African, European and indigenous influences that makes Brazilian cuisine so interesting and vibrant. That they actually like Americans down there.

It was against this backdrop of bubbly goodwill, that I watched Ingrid Betancourt and her fellow hostages freed from captivity a couple of weeks ago--in what appears to be yet another in a series of spectacular and effective strikes against the FARC, a particularly unlovely bunch of hardcore commie/narco-terrorist kidnapper/"guerillas" who've been getting knocked back on their heels in recent years.

On one hand, the government seems to be killing and capturing bad guys with skill and vigor. On the other hand, the local government in Medellin (for instance) has been improving transportation and social services for the working poor--and throwing an incredible FORTY percent of total budget at education. It looks and feels like a working combination.

As you watch the episode, the pride you see in the faces of the people I talk to--and hear in their voices--it's real.

Tags: anthony bourdain blog , bourdain , colombia , farc , ingrid betancourt , vacation ,

385 Comments

  1. 1
    Tera - July 11 2008 @ 10:37 am You've always loved a good market.
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    Jeff - July 11 2008 @ 10:50 am Colombia IS an exquisitely beautiful country. I hope that you got to try the chiguiro!
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    Martha - July 11 2008 @ 11:11 am I am looking forward to this episode. I just watched Laos, and it was quite wonderful and beautifully done. I have learned so much about places I never knew before from watching your show, and not just about the fluff that other "travel shows" give. This isn't just tv, you are doing a great service to those who would never have had a voice before. Telling stories and sharing lives. Thank you, it has definitely opened my eyes. Oh, and my stomach as well!!
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    Debi - July 11 2008 @ 11:11 am It is nice to hear something positive in the world today. A little gives alot of hope.
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    Leigh Ellen - July 11 2008 @ 11:23 am I am looking forward to watching it. :) Can't wait!
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    artnlit - July 11 2008 @ 11:26 am This will be interesting viewing. I hope this points to new developments in Columbia. I would not, however, &%$ume that one should just randomly travel there. Doing one's homework so to speak is especially essential. Finding a guide who can reasonably &%$ure your safety is a good start. Glad you had a good experience, Tony. ~Bonnie (artnlit)
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    Dave C. - DaveGetsFit - July 11 2008 @ 11:26 am When I'm asked why I stay with Dish Network instead of going to DirecTV, my answer is "No Reservations in HD." It's my favorite show on television and I'm looking forward to the Colombia episode. While it was interesting to watch a "snark-less" Tony last week, hoping to see a little more of the swagger back this week! :-)
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    Kevin - July 11 2008 @ 12:04 pm The Washington Post had an article on Medellin this morning: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/07/10/AR2008071002746.html
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    Vivian Louise - July 11 2008 @ 12:47 pm I watched the WaPo story right before I came here to see Mr. Bourdain's post on Columbia. Excellent piece. YAY! for the freed hostages. That was just fabulous news. You've got to love the subterfuge used to gain the hostages freedom. The "we'll give you the helicopter" ploy worked perfectly.
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    Mike Donegan - July 11 2008 @ 1:06 pm Sitting down on Monday nights to your programs gives my wife and I all we could ask for; food and travel with no saccharin.
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    PaniniKathy - July 11 2008 @ 1:11 pm Really looking forward to this episode. I was a bit surprised when a friend told me recently that she was going to be vacationing in Colombia - so great to hear that things have improved so much.
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    Trevor - July 11 2008 @ 1:28 pm 40 % is an incredible number. I recently received information regarding the growing investment opportunities in Bogota Columbia and was floored by the advancements that have taken place in that country. Feel free to read my short article about it, in which I link to this post. http://clifmims.com/blog/archives/441
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    DJ - July 11 2008 @ 1:37 pm I just returned from Bogota. Does anyone know where to find real colombian chimichurri in the US? Mas suave than the Argentine style.
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    karenology - July 11 2008 @ 1:44 pm Reposting my question from the last comments section, since it was kinda buried at the bottom: "I am curious about one thing, and it's something that I wonder about during every third-world country episode you do: what do you and / or the show do in the way of compensation for these families? Do you bring gifts in exchange for the meals they provide? Does the show subsidize the cost of the food? Do you offer some financial support? I appreciate the generous attitude you have when eating in other people's homes, not turning up your nose at anything these people have graciously offered you. But I've always wondered if there is something else you offer your hosts off-camera, especially the more impoverished ones!"
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    EB - July 11 2008 @ 1:58 pm You sound truly excited about this episode, and the experience that created it. It seems to translate well on screen when you are enjoying the heartfelt welcome by locals. Can't wait to watch- EB
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    cristina - July 11 2008 @ 2:55 pm Geez,you are so gorgeous! I keep on dreamin' about you! You are so pretty Tony! Wish I could see you in person,come to my country PHILIPPINES And I will be your tour guide. Let me show you the "spice" of filipina! Love your show,been a fan of yours since Top Chef starts! Keep up the good work..
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    CRAIG - July 11 2008 @ 3:11 pm Anthony...wonderful words
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    James - July 11 2008 @ 3:22 pm As an American living in Colombia for 3 years, I have found Medellin to have the nicest and most pleasant people in the world. These people deserve to have the world know that Medellin has a new image. Forget about the past Hollywood images of drug dealers. I love Medellin and i enjoy and currnently run a bed & breakfast where we enjoy serving a variety of local Colombian Dishes to our visitors. The local day trips to the villages surrounding Medellin are a true GEM! Recently untouchable and dangerous war zones surrounded Medellin. Since 2005 the highways and villages became safe and wonderfull places to visit. Check out our Pueblo photos, and drop by Medellin Colombia. The local are very very friendly. http://www.MedellinApartments.INFO see our sightseeing section Viva Medellin!
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    Jennie (Tikka Masala) - July 11 2008 @ 3:24 pm Tony - Looking forward to the show today (Friday) but today, I wanted to say kudos to your wife! I'm sitting here watching a documentary about corporations (named "The Corporation") and Noam Chomsky has quite a prominent role in it. Rumor has it your wife is quite the student of Noam. Courageous and truthful - I like those qualities in people!
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    Podcomics - July 11 2008 @ 3:26 pm Colombia is great, we will have up-coming episodes of the Traveling Gringos animated web series in Colombia soon.
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    Monica - July 11 2008 @ 4:16 pm I am so moved!!! I am a television reporter from Medellin and I am so looking forward to watching the program. I want to see how someone like Anthony dares himself to go to my city, one of the most dangerous cities on the planet, according to the media, to learn the positive side of a people that, despite the social problems, due to the turmoil of war, know how to eat, cook and have fun like the kings. I admire people like Anthony who can see the good in a land that has been so hurt due to the social problems. Thinking about my country leaves a sour taste in my mouth because of the war we are still going through. But watching the promotional clips has made me remember the essence of my people!!! We still have hope and a desire to be happy!!!
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    Nena - July 11 2008 @ 5:32 pm So, what is this about your 35-48 demographic, and not liking to drink beer on camera? (Referring to an older episode of course) But, I'm 21, my husband's 31, and we both LOVE your show. My lifelong dream is to travel to just one of those places myself. even once with you would be a dream come true. (my husband would understand if I didn't come back ^^;;)Anyway, I love watching you drink beer. I was even inspired, when you went to Dublin and drank a guinness, to create a beer battered cod with hush puppies. Beer batter made with Guinness, of course! And it was exquisite! You remind me to keep my tastebuds open!
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    Angelica - July 11 2008 @ 5:50 pm Anthony, As a Colombian-American I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing this episode on Medellin Colombia. I almost cried when I learned that you were doing this piece and I can’t wait to see it. Unfortunately my Country and has been the victim of violence for many years and has earned a bad reputation. Colombians are just now starting to see a ray of light at the end of a dark tunnel. I really do appreciate you showing a positive side to a beautiful country that has so much to offer! Thank you.
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    Misselle - July 11 2008 @ 6:21 pm Excellent! I look forward to another excellent episode! I love that you are getting farther afield (from an American perspective)and showing us the reality of these wonderful places! I think that sometimes we believe that just because we have a free press that everything we read is true, so kudos for helping us shake off that belief by going somewhere that has been maligned so mercilessly by the American press.
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    ndnd - July 11 2008 @ 6:24 pm wonderful write up. im particularly interested about the socio-economic divide and how it will continue to play out, considering the optimistic outlook on both sides of the fence. looking forward to the episode! oh and we've made a new game out of watching "No Reservations"... the NR drinking game entitles that we take a shot for every time we see you: a) smoke a ciggarette, b) mention a smoking reference, c) eat something hot its on!
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    Jim - July 11 2008 @ 6:30 pm Que hubo Tony, I am really looking forward to this episode, although I rarely see a place that you don't make me want to visit. I can say I visited Colombia before you needed to show me its beauty. I have been married to a lovely Colombian lady for 15 years, but prior to that had dated quite a few Colombian girls, there are lots to choose from in Florida! I hope you didn't byp***Bogotá. It is my city of choice in Colombia, but to each their own, all the areas have their appeal. Here's a site I put together from my trip. http://www.gringoincolombia.com Well I am off to eat a big bowl of ajiaco I just made. ¡A la orden!
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    Alejandra - July 11 2008 @ 6:45 pm It was about time!! I am completely happy and excited to see how you have portraited my country. I've been waiting for this episode since I started watching your show. Colombia went through bad times as any other country in the world... but be sure that smiling has become our pleasure and our pride for the last couple fo years!
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    Waleed - July 11 2008 @ 7:31 pm I think this particular trip was enhanced by the fact that you are what most people would dub as an "expert traveler". I don't think most of the "average" people would have the same experience you did. Maybe after we see the episode we can give it a try, though. If I got plopped into the middle of Columbia I would probably have a hell of a time negotiating for food and water let alone find myself a poor fisherman to show me the local cuisine. Personally I can't wait to see "The Adventures of Bourdain in the Middle East".
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    ThaiBoxer - July 11 2008 @ 7:55 pm Tony, As excited as I am about the Saudi Arabia episode and the whole FAN-atic special because of my involvement in it, this is the real show I am waiting to see. What is there to say that you haven't already said in the truly heartfelt blog you just wrote about my beautiful country. Colombia is a beautiful place, however the beauty of its mountains, rivers, beaches, and flora is minimial when compared to the beauty of its people. Colombians are indeed a very proud people. In spite of the countries violent history, political struggles, and the war against drugs currently being waged with Colombia as ground zero, Colombians are people with a great sense of humor that love to drink, party, eat and are always smiling. You saw a Colombia that has really always been there, only that people rarely ever gave it a shot. Some still don't. Travel shows never went to Colombia when I was growing up. International news stations that did the world weather report would always talk about the weather all over South America, yet not one city in Colombia was ever mentioned. It was like we didn't exist. Everyone just too scared to look into our corner of the world. My family has sent texts, e-mails, and made phone calls to relatives all over the U.S., Colombia, and Europe. They all know about the show on Monday. DVR's and TiVo's are set to record Monday at 10:00 pm. It's just exciting to, for once, see a show on television about Colombia that isn't about the FARC, ELN, Paramilitaries, or Pablo Escobar. It's exciting to for once see a show about US! What we eat, what we do, how we live, and how we party. Colombia, is the new South American hot spot. Great food, beautiful women, andawesome places to visit. Medellin and Cartagena are great, but If you ever decide to do a show in the capital city of Bogota, hit me up! "Tomemonos un tinto y seamos amigos!"
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    Carlos E. Vélez - July 11 2008 @ 8:11 pm Originally from Medellín, now I live in Los Angeles, CA, USA. When I am outside and a sudden rain falls; I recall one day in Medellín back when I was a kid, while playing soccer, running under someone's porch with the other 10-15 kids and waiting out the rain. The owners of the house opened the door and offered buñuelos and almojábanas with CocaCola to the entire group of kids seeking refuge on their porch. That is Medellín, and it and it's people are beautiful. Thank you for your kind and thoughtful words about my beautiful Medellín. De Medellín, al cielo!!
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    Paulette - July 11 2008 @ 8:33 pm I'm very excited about monday's show! I've already told a number of my friends and family about it. I'm happy that the travel channel, especially your show, has taken the time to visit the country I was born in. P.S. I happen to work across the street from Les Halles on Park Ave. I've never seen you around, but I'll definitely say hi if i do!
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    Kate in the NW - July 11 2008 @ 8:41 pm 40% on education? Closing the gap between rich and poor? Good food? Friendly people? I may just learn Spanish and head south...! BOURDAIN FOR PREZ 2008...(and don't anbody dare say he's not qualified enough. Not after the last 8 years...)
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    Carolee - July 11 2008 @ 9:45 pm Kate ITNW - Are you serious? I think president of the United States would be Tony's very LAST choice for a career, second only to maybe professional spelunker or bodybuilder.
  34. 34
    Keem - July 11 2008 @ 11:26 pm Tony We love your show, and enjoyed reading Kitchen Confidential recently. I spent a few years dish-dogging in a kitchen, and I loved the backstage drama of "the house of knives". So I really related to your book. Your descriptions of latex gloves and p&%$ing the turkey at thanksgiving put me on the floor with laughter. Your recent Laos epsiode has haunted me somewhat as a new American Citizen. What is the American government doing to help with the clean up of a country they so carelessly bombed? The scene at dinner with the man who lost his arm and leg is very moving, how ashamed of America you must have felt. Have you ever thought of using a Travel Channel website to raise funds/&%$istance for some of these diasadvantaged folks?
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    Vanessa - July 12 2008 @ 12:23 am My Country is the BESTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!! Travel to Colombia and not matter who you are or where you are from you will feel like at home......
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    Lissette - July 12 2008 @ 1:56 am When i saw the commercial that you were doing an episode on my home country I was excited! I totally can't wait to watch it...unfortunately i will be at work but i am definitely putting on the travel channel on at 10pm on our flat screen at the sushi bar at work! There is no way i am missing this episode! This is one i can share with the rest of my family so they can see why i enjoy watching you so much, not only because i am an aspiring chef, but so that they can see what drives us chefs to continue working in this disfunctional industry and especially because you are in our home country. i would have never thought Colombia was a territory where an American program would set foot on. Medellin was "THE RIGHT" choice only because of its beauty and hospitality alone, the food is just a bonus!
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    sebastian Mejia - July 12 2008 @ 2:54 am I recently heard about Mr. Antonio Bourdain famous show going to Colombia, and I said to myself, self am I dreaming? And i guess, I wasn't dreaming at all. My mom and a couple of friends called me up to confirm the No Reservations(Colombia). I am thrilled! This is such an event! I never expected the Travel Channel or any other U.S. network down in Medellin, but I was wrong. Mr. Bourdain, thank you so much for coming down to Colombia and thank you for showing your U.S. audience, what colombians are made of and what to expect of them when they go down there and visit. Well, I only hope Samantha Brown is taking notes, cause I love to see her down in Medellin during the Flower fair in August, and to show her and many others, that Colombia is NOT the Kidnaping capital of the world.
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    bucko - July 12 2008 @ 11:50 am ... nothing irks me like folks who can't properly spell Colombia. Throughout the 90's I spent much time working in Colombia - it is indeed a very beautiful country with proud, friendly people! I'm sure it has only gotten better.
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    Diana - July 12 2008 @ 1:00 pm I can't wait to watch this Monday!! As a Colombian, I was touched to see the promo commercial for this weeks episode. Hearing the cumbia beats through the commercial and reading your kind words on this blog made me teary eyed. We Colombians are immensely proud of our country and to share the true beauty of our nation with the world brings me real joy. Thank you guys for visiting and hope you go back again (maybe Cali next time) P.s. Miami has a lot of wonderful Colombian restaurants and bakeries (Kendall area) Paz y que viva mi Colombia
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    Denise - July 12 2008 @ 3:11 pm Hi Tony, I'm glad you are back blogging. I have always enjoyed your unique writing style, and watching all of your shows and hearing your voice makes it come alive even more. Purposefully or not, you are also becoming a unique type of amb&%$ador. Thank you for showing us so much of the world, and for representing us in such a wonderful way. Your response to the man in Laos who lost his limbs was thoughtful, respectful and beautiful.
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    CORRINA - July 12 2008 @ 3:47 pm COLUMBIA....AWWWW. IT IS A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO VISIT. THE FOOD IS BEYOND DELICIOUS BUT IT IS BY ALL MEANS A VERY DANGEROUS PLACE!!HANDS DOWN!!!ESPECIALLY FOR AMERICANS. MY MOM IS MARRIED TO A COLUMBIAN AND I HAVE VISITED A FEW TIMES.AND IT WAS A CULTURE SHOCK FOR ME. YOUR EITHER POOR OR RICH. RICH SURVIVE AND THE POOR THE GOVERNMENT DOESNT GIVE A DAM ABOUT YOU. IT COULD BE A VERY NICE PLACE TO LIVE IF THERE WASNT GUERRILLAS WITH AK-47'S EVRYWHERE.YOU COULDNT PAY ME A TRILLION DOLLARS TO GO BACK!
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    Katherine - July 12 2008 @ 5:44 pm Wow, Anthony I have to say that you really are one of my heroes. I admire anyone who welcomes diversity so much as well as breeding tolerance. I might just be 16, but I think thats really what the world needs especially today. Anywho, when I saw the comemrcial that you were going to Colombia, i was so extremly excited, you've been overdue for this trip. As a Colombian, i am proud to say that our food is so diverse and and amazing. I loved how on your post you talked about what makes colombia great and the fact that our country is changing and for the better. And to all of those that think that its too dangerous, thats not true, you just have to know which areas to avoid, otheriwse its safe, that is unless you walk downtown with a big 24 carrat necklace or something. Thanks Anthony, I'm sure this is going to be myfavorite episode! =)
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    cindy - July 12 2008 @ 6:30 pm When you came to speak in Troy, NY, I wanted to ask you if you would ever consider going to Colombia. My shyness overcame me and instead we posed for a picture as if you were reading to me. I can't wait to see this episode. Thank you!
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    cesar - July 12 2008 @ 7:12 pm It will be great watching someone like Tony in my hometown of Medellin, i have been waiting to watch an episode about Colombia, i think Tony is the right person to show our beautiful city, he shows the real thing unlike most of the other TV shows that only show places where only rich people can afford them.
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    Marybel - July 12 2008 @ 7:24 pm As a Colombian-American from Medellin, I am so excited about this episode. I haven't been there in many years so I'm really looking forward to it. Despite the reputation & stereotypes that the Colombian people have, we're actually also known as some of the friendliest & most hospitable people and it seems that your show will prove that. Colombia itself gets a bad rap because that's all the media will showcase so THANK YOU for letting the US viewers see the Colombia we know & love.
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    Rocinante - July 12 2008 @ 8:51 pm Tony if you didn't eat chicharron, sancocho (made without bouillon cubes!), fresh almojabanas or morcilla and drink guaro de antioqueno I will have lost all respect. When you come back drop me a line - I know a great bar in El Hueco with the greatest local atmosphere and you can come to my aunt's in Manrique and do one of her famous roof top barbecues with the best views and music. You can eat all the things you missed the first time- that is if you missed anything - on second thought you pretty much eat and drink everything, so who's kidding who?
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    Rocinante - July 12 2008 @ 8:55 pm Oh and her mondongo is better than the mondongo at Mondongo's
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    Kate in the NW - July 12 2008 @ 9:34 pm Carolee - No, of course I'm not serious - it's just one of those things people tend to say about pretty much anyone they happen to admire in an election year (heck - "Boodil for Prez" - Boodil's my dog). I know Tony'd be miserable in politics. But I can't help thinking he'd improve our foreign policy. ;-) ---Kate
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    Paola - July 12 2008 @ 10:11 pm I am thrilled and happy to hear about Colombia. Thanks Bourdain
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    TD - July 13 2008 @ 12:21 am I can hardly wait for your show about Colombia. I was born in Barranquilla, and haven't been back home for over 11 years. All I hear about Colombia is bad stuff. Most Americans believe that anyone who was born there is related to "The Cartel", and sells drugs here....very sad to get that from people all the time, but I am happy to know that, thanks to your show, the image of such wonderful country is on its way to a better reflection on what life really is there. Looking forward to Monday. TD.
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    Marie Z - July 13 2008 @ 2:31 am Watching Travel Channel is one of those times when there's nothing else interesting to watch on TV. But the first Time I saw No Reservations, I got hook up right away, it's quite interesting enough to see different ways many cultures portrayed local (real) people around food. I'm really touched watching your show and your realistic comments while sharing a humble meal with a man with a broken limb and his family in Laos. This tiem, I've taken your show seriously and I cannot wait to watch the Colombian episode. Tony - you can really deliver your show to us in such a real way, no pretensions, no commercial hype, indeed no reservations. Now it has become one of my favorite TV shows.
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    Claudia - July 13 2008 @ 2:44 am I was lucky enough to spend two weeks last year in Bogota and nearby areas. LOVED IT! Loved the people, the food, the music, the parties, the shopping, the weather, the museums, the funny little cars and mobs of traffic. Loved shopping in a huge area that was all Christmas decorations, than an entire area of leather goods. Tony - go to Bogota and eat a "barrito" a large beautiful delicious fish. Everyone seems delighted to see Americans and want to talk with us, thank us for coming and tell us why we are important to them.
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    Lori - July 13 2008 @ 7:13 am Thank you so much for giving Colombia a chance to be seen with different eyes. Unfortunately, people only relates the country with violence, drugs and guerrilla and it's wonderful for once to get to know the real people, flavors and colors of such beautiful country :)
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    Maya - July 13 2008 @ 10:36 am Thanks to you and your crew Tony for helping Colombia brake down stereotypes and teach the world what Colombia really is about-I can't wait to watch the show on Monday night, for me is Cali that has the most special place in my heart.The heat,music, macetas, empanadas, champus de Lola, chontaduro, mango viche, grocellas, pandebono, and festive air of Cali are nothing else.
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    Cristina U. - July 13 2008 @ 11:31 am Good for you, Mr. Bourdain for doing a show in Medellin, Colombia. I'm Colombian myself, although I've lived in the US since I was 3 1/2. Do I love Colombia? Yes. Is it the best country in the world? No. It has tons of social issues to contend with before there's hope in the horizon. I hate to say it, but this country has given me more opportunities that Colombia would've given me. It is a nice country, not beautiful, but nice, however the differences between the cl&%$es, and the horrible treatment the poor receive from the rich, is going to keep Colombia down of something isn't done about that problem soon. Again, thanks for doingn a show in my country.
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    Emerita - July 13 2008 @ 11:59 am My hearth was full when i was watching you program about Laos, i sow the announcement about Colombia, I know you got our essence how Colombians, we are full of hope, smiles and our arms are open for the people who can appreciate it.
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    andrea - July 13 2008 @ 1:30 pm I want to see zoom this episode !
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    Paula - July 13 2008 @ 1:59 pm Thanks for saying good things about my country. Hope you had an amazing time there. I'm looking forward for this episode. Paula
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    Peter - July 13 2008 @ 3:58 pm I'm always frustrated at how depressingly little press this great show gets. Not one mention of the season premiere in Entertainment Weekly, or any other trade journal that I can see. No website publicity. Either the media thinks it's too "small" a show to be worthy of their time, or Travel Channel does a terrible job of promoting their most popular show. I remember Tony on Letterman...TWO MONTHS AGO...in between season. Come on, Travel Channel, you have a gem here. You should be doing more to get it beyond its faithful viewers. This show really deserves to be seen by as many people as possible. Not only is it good, it's good for you.
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    PaulaBeta - July 13 2008 @ 5:23 pm Thank you, thank you, thank you Mr. Anthony Bourdain for showing a very different side of ColOmbia (for those of you who keep misspelling it as Columbia), that actually -gasp- has ALWAYS existed. The side of the hard working, intelligent, driven people that despite life's afflictions remain resilient and with their heads high. This is why I love you and your show (and everyone who makes it happen), you don't sugar coat anything but you are so open-minded that you would visit a country such as Colombia, which has infinitely been portrayed in the media in such a way that it is hard to not &%$ociate it with negative connotations. Not saying that the bad side isn't a part of it, but what place doesn't have its bad AND good side?! Growing up in NY, I could seldom mention my heritage without being asked "So what cartel do you belong to". Frustrating when everyone in your family has broken their backs to make an honest living. With everything that is happening there now, politically and economically, I pray that this is a new era for this country that has been through so much. Anderson Cooper was there recently and also had a positive experience. Individuals like you, that share a different perspective on a people, definitely contribute to a positive change. Once again, kudos to you and your team and I wish you all much continued success for many years to come. Hope you can one day visit Medellin in its Christmas splendor and its Feria de las Flores. It's unforgettable! PS Could you please include explanations for the pictures you post on your facebook page? It would be great to know where they were taken and if food is in them what it is you are feasting on. Thanks!! =]
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    Nohemy Vasquez & Jennifer Ospina - July 13 2008 @ 7:08 pm Hola! We are two cousins from Texas, who were born in America from Colombian parents, both from Medellin. We both have been traveling there for over 25 years. Our families consist of both rich and poor in Colombia. And they have both treated us with nothing but love and respect. It is true to say that Colombians are the sweetest and most out going. From a family dinner to RUMBA in the Barrio. From an arepa con frijoles y arroz to una MARENADA (ROAST OF A PIG). While visiting at least once a year and then having to return, it hurts like hell. What we would give to have the best of both worlds. We are so exciting to see your show and we thank you for going and showing the world what Colombia really is. Reading the comments and your blog, we pray that Colombia is advancing as the country America should always have talked about it. We can talk about our experiences and show pictures, but we cant compare to what you can show them. THANKS A MILLION TIMES. Viva COLOMBIA!
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    Anne Roque - July 13 2008 @ 9:30 pm Thank you for always looking at all countris in a positive way. I was in Colombia a couple of years ago on business (Cartagena de Indias) - beautiful and the best meat I've ever had - better than Argentina......YES! The best service I've received in any hotel - similar to Buenos Aires but not as snooty. Never had a bad meal except for one vintage street food sausage (my bad, should've known better). And wonderful Arabic food, to boot. Can't wait to see the episode.. Gracias, Tony, baby!! Anne
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    Geovany Gonzalez - July 13 2008 @ 9:47 pm I am very proud of being a Colombian! A country full of friendly people, good food, and gorgeous women. Some info: Have you wondered why Colombia is an strategic allied of US in south America? Read why: Colombia is a standing middle power with the second largest Spanish-speaking population in the world after Mexico. It also has the third-largest population in Latin America after Brazil and Mexico. Colombia is the 26th largest nation in the world and the fourth-largest in South America (after Brazil, Argentina, and Peru), with an area more than twice that of France. Population: April 2008 estimate 44,087,000 Info from Wikipedia
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    Boomer - July 13 2008 @ 10:29 pm Thanks Tony - Orgullo de Colombia
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    robert kerrigan - July 13 2008 @ 10:49 pm Anthony, Thanks for doing a show on Colombia, and especially on Medellin. I travel to Colombia often for business and find it to be the most fascinating country in Latin America. Great people! Enchanting and incredible places to visit. The Coffee Region is incredibly beautiful. And an economy that continues to grow despite the internal problems. Thanks to President Uribe, almost all the country is open to tourism...Colombia is SOON TO BE DISCOVERED AS A PARADISE for tourism. Wonderful people, incredible geography, fabulous beaches, good food, all at reasonable prices. May I strongly suggest a show on the Colombian Coffee Region! YOU WILL WANT TO STAY THERE FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE...INCREDIBLE!!!!!
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    Shital Shah - July 13 2008 @ 11:53 pm ok... can you post some photos to justify your claims?
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    Ana - July 14 2008 @ 3:02 am Thank you so much for doing this show. I haven't even watched it yet and I can hardly contain my excitement. I was born in Medellin but came to the US when I was 2. Although I consider the US my home I still have a great love and pride for my native country. I married an American and he has great reservations about Colombia. I can't blame him for thinking that if he visits one day he will be shot or kidnapped because that is all he knows. My dream is to one day take him there so he too can see the real beauty of Colombia. Many blessings Ana
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    manisha - July 14 2008 @ 5:19 am well anthony , we need more people from around the t.v. world to explore this small supposedly unimportant country in south america. i am an indian and i have been living in colombia for the last 1 year and i couldn't agree less. i love this country and i have travelled extensively around and the people have always tried to be there and totally helpful. i just hope that this country can improve it's economy and name around the world.abrazito parse.
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    John Gresham - July 14 2008 @ 8:29 am Tony, I can't wait to see tonight's Colombia episode. I have heard and read many things about how beautiful it is and how nice the people are. I vacation often in Latin america because the prices there are still very reasonable compared to Euro country based vacation. I want to visit Colombia, but my wife has concerns that Pablo Escobar might still be alive.:) I do hope that your show dispels some the old stereotypes.
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    john gibron - July 14 2008 @ 9:11 am hi yes tonight show cant wait south america im sure anthony will put a good twist on it as usual best damn show ever for the travel channel never miss an episode anthony commontary is either you love the guy or not but give him respect he does a damn good job where ever hes goes cant wait john gibron
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    Laura Rhoades-Stovall - July 14 2008 @ 10:20 am That is one of the things I love about your show, you show life from both ends and give the "real" people of a country the respect they deserve. Looking forward to this espisode just as much as the others. My eldest son, Zack, has decided you are one of his heroes even though he hates to cook but he is hoping to be a Political Journalist and his greatest desire is to be like you. lol
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    Sarah - July 14 2008 @ 10:34 am I am really looking forward to this episode on your trip to Columbia! My very best friend back in grade school moved to the States from Columbia and I learned so much about the language, food and culture from her and her family. Can I ask you...did you eat a special fruit called a mamancillo while you were there? They were my favorite! I have not been able to find them in the US since high school. Her mom was the best cook and made a fabulous arroz con pollo and hand formed corn tortillas that she sort of grilled on a cookie cooling rack over the burner on her stove and filled with melted butter and cheese. We ate them for breakfast and were they ever good!! Obviously I cannot wait for this episode!!
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    Ladymissgailo - July 14 2008 @ 10:36 am Las Halles fries...I WANT, I WANT!
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    Jamie - July 14 2008 @ 10:47 am More than 25 years ago I travelled to Cartegena every February. It was warm, beautiful and the food and people were marvelous! Despite the pirates in those days and the armed guards by the pool, it was still a lovely place to visit. In fact,to this day I can still taste the vegetables -- the best I've ever had. Even now I can taste the richness of the soil. It's great to see someone capture all that.
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    Nelson - July 14 2008 @ 11:17 am Colombia is probably the friendliest country for americans. Whether you visit Bogota, Cartagena or Medellin you will not have any problems. In fact, based on the latest statistics you are more likely to get killed in Washington DC than in any of these cities. My recommendation: if you are worried about social security, invest for the future and buy an inexpensive luxury condo and plan to retire there eating all the good food.
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    Clara - July 14 2008 @ 11:27 am Tony, Thank you for Showing my amazing country. I was born in Medellin Colombia and my husband is American. We have been on vacations around the world but have not been in Colombia. We have been hearing how the country has been improving. Tonight will be the first time my husband will see a positive experience about this great culture that welcomes everyone. Now that we are expecting our first baby, I am greatful for this show because I know we will be confident to visit colombia with our future kids. Gracias Tony & Viva Colombia Pues.
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    Lina - July 14 2008 @ 11:34 am Finally, No Reservations in Colombia! What a great opportunity to show people all over the world the reason why Colombia is one of the happiest countries on Earth! Even in times of war or difficulties is the love for our country that gives us the strenght to not give up! I hope everybody gets to see the real Colombia, that we are friendly people, that we have awesome food and amazing landscapes. Hopefully the show will change the perception people have about Colombia and realize how beautiful it is!
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    jt - July 14 2008 @ 11:37 am Can't wait to watch this episode. I would never have considered traveling to Colombia, until I married a Colombian-American girl. Now I've been twice. It really is an amazing country. The landscapes are as beautiful as the poorest areas are unsettling. But the people are unfailingly friendly and the food is great. Then there's the agua ardiente! It seems the country is "getting there" in terms of being a destination for novice travelers. I hope more gringos choose to go so the misconceptions we have here can be shattered. Thanks to shows like this I think that can happen soon enough.
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    Maria - July 14 2008 @ 11:46 am Tony: Looking forward to your trip to Colombia tonight. One of my daughters in law is Colombian-American (mother from Barranquilla & two sisters). I'm sure she will love to watch your trip and see her heritage. Certainly Colombia is a beautiful country that I would like to visit some day, especially now that the social situation is changing for the best. Thanks Tony for your great programs, I'm a great fan and I don't miss one! Also I finished Kitchen Confidential and I'm on my second book A Cook's Tour. Congratulations on your success! Keep up the good work, through you we can travel the world! Maria
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    mark sorrels - July 14 2008 @ 12:29 pm I am a regular viewer of NO RESERVATIONS and my wife is from Colombia. So, we are looking forward to tonight's episode as she andI have friends in Medellin and she is familiar with the city.
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    Olga Lucia - July 14 2008 @ 12:34 pm Anthony Thank you for not paying attention to the rumors of the Most Dangerous country in the world to go. As always the media doesn't help and just do the blah blah without really knowing the people or in this case the real Colombia, my country. As every country in the world, we have economical and social problems and I don't think America is free of them either. This is a great opportunity to show people all over the world why even with problems we are happy and friendly people. I am counting the hours to see this special tonight. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. OLGA LUCIA FROM CALIFORNIA
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    Leo - July 14 2008 @ 12:52 pm Finally no reservations in Colombia, thats a beautiful thing....Thanks for visiting my incredible country, I'm glad you enjoyed it..I'm heading there in 2 weeks. QUE VIVA COLOMBIA!!!! leo
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    Michael Kim - July 14 2008 @ 1:35 pm you should visit Queens or Korea again. In Queens; nobody can tell you its stories better than I can~! And in Korea,i believe Narea didn''t do a good job in showing it whole origin. lets do it again and get it right~...
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    Adriana Luna Bas - July 14 2008 @ 2:09 pm Colombia is P&%$ion! we are p&%$ionate, joyful, hard workers, and friendly. I was born and raised in Bogota and I can't wait to go back!! GRACIAS Anthony for showing all the beauty and the good side of my country. This is a great opportunity to show what Colombia is all about!! is about good people, people like everyone else with problems, but with a great heart and willing to make our country a better one!!! AY QUE ORGULLOSA ME SIENTO DE HABER NACIDO EN MI PATRIA, QUE VIVA COLOMBIA!!!!!!!!!!!!
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    Giovanni - July 14 2008 @ 2:22 pm I hope you had some Sancocho and some arepas in Colombia! I hope you make it to El Salvador one of these days and have some Pupusas!
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    GT - July 14 2008 @ 3:27 pm CORRINA: People like you are the problem. Colombia doesn't have guerillas all over the place. I have lived there for the last two out of three years. It is a very safe country. You just can't be an idiot and wander into the wrong places, just like in the US. Please don't spread your rumors and unresearched opinions.
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    Andrew - July 14 2008 @ 3:48 pm COLOMBIA is a beautiful place. I have travelled throught the entire country and my safety was the last of my concerns. It is one of a few undiscovered gems in the world. If you plan to see it without the crowds then you better hurry, word is spreading fast that it is AMAZING!!. For incredible fresh seafood, go to Parque Tayrona and spend a few nights sleeping next to the beach in a hammack. You'll love every minute of it!!
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    GregYohn - July 14 2008 @ 4:06 pm

    Hola! I like the lime and garlic marinate for my steaks on the grill in Cali! Yummy!

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    Sebastian Parias - July 14 2008 @ 4:24 pm Hi, i'm from Barranquilla, Colombia, 1 hour from Cartagena, i'm really looking forward to this episode of my beautiful country, thanks No reservations for showing the world the real side of our country, one that people don't know, i think that the North americans will learn a lot and gain a new perspective form this episode. Also if you want to know a little more about Colombia, take a look at this clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXtvGsYS0UM
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    PKS - July 14 2008 @ 4:35 pm CORRINA, You are absolutely STUPID!!!!!!! The guerrillas are not everywhere, this is why bad rumors spread quickly and people are afraid of traveling. Stay away from Colombia, idiots like you are not welcome!
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    Sebastian Parias - July 14 2008 @ 4:42 pm I think this space was created to comment about the show and not to make negative comments about colombia or to insult the people that does so... In my opinion Corrina has her facts a little wrong, in Colombia there are not guerrillas everywhere holding AK47's, you have visted here yes, but i lived here 31 years and traveled around the country several times, and can tell for a fact that what you say isn't accurate at all
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    Roget Gilbert - July 14 2008 @ 4:49 pm TONY, Play some RAMONES...preferably something off the 1st two albums like 53rd & 3rd !!
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    Roget Gilbert - July 14 2008 @ 4:52 pm TONY, Play some RAMONES...preferably something off the 1st two albums like 53rd & 3rd !!
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    David J Rust - July 14 2008 @ 5:28 pm Your painting of Columbia -of its people- definitely has piqued my curiosity. Like many in the United States, I remember the stereotypes of the drug-lords and crime-ridden government. I would very much like to see more of this and am looking forward to the episode. It would be interesting to hear your take on speaking local languages. My only experience with non-English is, sadly, fluency in a dead language: Latin. (Yay, History degree!) Traveling to Brazil, Columbia, or Peru definitely appeals to me but I hesitate when I think about the language barrier and not having a translator with me as you do on your explorations. Perhaps on future shows you could address the role language plays in visiting another nation. Yours, Sylvan (Dave)
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    Jose Martinez - July 14 2008 @ 6:14 pm Colombia is the best place of the World! and Colombia is the country for the people who want to take the risk... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qgW8Y7F8DN8 I am so proud of be colombian!
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    Eric Weitz - July 14 2008 @ 6:25 pm Hey Tony, I'm leaving for the Middle East in a month. I'll be spending 12 days touring Israel for free (it's great being one of the chosen people). All kidding aside, after that I'm going to Egypt for a week. I wanted to know when your 'No Reservation' on Cairo is going to air so we can get some ideas on where to go. My girlfriend is going to travel with me and then she plans on going to Travel Channel's School. It's been her p&%$ion to work in the travel industry and after this trip she would have stepped foot on every continent except Antartica, pretty good for a 24 year old! Anyway you've become my new found hero and I hope one day we could compare experiences from around the world.
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    Steven - July 14 2008 @ 6:32 pm I LOVE Colombia! Best kept secret in the world! The people, the food, the weather... just awesome
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    Jim - July 14 2008 @ 7:03 pm Tony, What a great country it is, though still troubled. We traveled there in 2005, lived in hotels, fincas and private homes. Like you say, we were treated like kings...restaurant owners and hotel managers would visit our tables or give us little gifts on our departure, and always it was "Thank you for visiting Colombia" or in one or two cases, "thank you for taking a chance on Colombia." And the food, from humblest to gourmet, was phenomenal. I had the five best bowls of soup in my life there, at five different places. And the talapia rojas (hope I'm close to the right spelling), caught that morning and served at noon...jeez, I'm going back! Thanks for taking a chance on Colombia...I hope other people do. Jim
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    Annonymous - July 14 2008 @ 8:07 pm You need not go to Medellin or even COlombia for the real paisa food. Go to Jackson Heights, Queens, New York. Tierras Colombianas. Have the Sancocho de Gallina. Arepas. Go to Chuzos Enjoy.
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    Nancy Buckley - July 14 2008 @ 8:10 pm Tony, My husband and I were very fortunate to visit Bogata over Columbus weekend in 1973 before the drug lords took over that beautiful capitol. The architecture was unbelievable and the people very beautiful. Did you know that many are of IrishSpanish heritage? Saw the best dressed beautiful women as well as the begging poor. A country of contrasts. Got to the Salt Cathedral, incredible! Would love to get back to see the rest of the country someday in my lifetime! Looking forward to the episode tonight as well as the rest of yours! P.S. My husband thinks you have the greatest sense of humor! :)
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    Angie - July 14 2008 @ 8:25 pm I was delighted to hear that you decided to go to Colombia! It is a beautiful country with amazing food and the most amazing people that you will ever meet. They are always hopeful and always there to lend a hand. I am happy that you and your crew can show what Colombia is really like, beautiful and a great tourist spot (if you go to Medellin or Bogota or anywhere else in Colombia).
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    Diego Salazar - July 14 2008 @ 8:37 pm Thanks for visiting Colombia, especially my hometown of Medellin. They need all the positive pulbicity that they can get. This will do more to bring tourists to this country and city and reverse the perception that most Americans have about Colombia. Colombia is changing for the right reasons and it is really the paradise of "spring". Keep up the good job wih your show to bring the real world back to the U.S.
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    Allen Z - July 14 2008 @ 9:30 pm First of all, I am your biggest fan. Bar none.. I work from home and watch reruns over and over again and never tire of them. I am fascinated with food and different cultures. I was in Tibet and China this last fall and that trip changed who I am for the better.. Anyway.. I am really looking forward to this episode tonight. There has been this vision of the seedy side of Columbia and this sounds like it's going to set things 'right'. Allen
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    Vanessa - July 14 2008 @ 10:15 pm I'm from Medellin and reading this gave me goose bumps and a lump in my throat... I'm so proud of being Colombian and so happy to see that the world is finally ready to see and appreciate all we have to offer.
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    Jaime Restrepo - July 14 2008 @ 10:31 pm I was born in Medellin, and I can't wait to watch the show. I wonder if Anthony tried chunchurria? One more thing, it's Colombia, not Columbia. With an O, not a U.
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    Martha - July 14 2008 @ 11:02 pm Anthony, and crew, it's very impressive all the positive comments your TV Show got from making this episode in Colombia. I'm from Medellin, It really makes me happy that once again Colombia is coming back to the old good: friendly people, great variety of climates, food, and places... Thank-you for going there, and welcome anyone who wants to go. Best of luck to you all. Sincerely, Martha L P
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    Eric - July 14 2008 @ 11:13 pm I am sooooo glad that you finally went to Colombia for your show. I am watching it and I couldn't be happier with what I'm seeing. I love your show Anthony Bourdain. VIVA COLOMBIAA!!
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    Carmina Dunlap - July 14 2008 @ 11:36 pm Anthony, im watching the show right now form Arizona, I am Colombian from Cartagena, I just wanted to say that I would have loved to take you around, there are so many great places to visit, thanks so much for going and enjoying the great food. VIVA COLOMBIA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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    Jenna - July 14 2008 @ 11:40 pm I am so happy that you decided to go to Colombia. My boyfriend and I were there over a year ago and still can't stop talking about the wonderful time we had. The food was wonderful, the country was beautiful and the people were so welcoming. Its nice that all of the good things that Colombia and its people has to offer are finally coming to light!
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    Maria - July 14 2008 @ 11:48 pm Would someone please post the address and phone # to the restaurant Anthony goes to in Medellin? It's called Que hare para enamorarte? I've been to Colombia (Barranquilla, Cartagena and Sta. Marta)4 times and Medellin is next on my list. Thanks!
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    Stash - July 14 2008 @ 11:51 pm Tone-there's ten minutes left of your show. I havent seen you get drunk or smoke one butt. I hope your not trying to clean up your act and make this a family show. Great episode, love your show, looking foward to the desert.
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    Leyla - July 14 2008 @ 11:52 pm Anthony, THANK YOU VERY MUCH for showing another side of my country! I'm glad you got to eat ENORMOUS amounts of incredible tasty food, and see the beauty of Colombia's landscape, and people's friendliness. I hope your program helps to change some people's negative ideas about Colombia, and encouranged them to reasearch instead of believing everything they see and hear in the news. THANK YOU man, you ROCK! ;)
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    David Shannon - July 14 2008 @ 11:52 pm Chef, Colombia seems to be flourishing beyond all Yankee conceptions...which leads me to wonder perhaps Bigfoot needs to open a place in Medellin and maybe the crazy bread guy could learn how to make Chorizo too. But seriously an outstanding job as always. Thank you for providing some measure of relief from the unyielding drivel on those other networks.
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    Patricia - July 14 2008 @ 11:53 pm I've always loved your show and I was really looking forward to this episode. You've done Colombia real justice. Thank you so much! My parents and husband are from Colombia so I obviously love it there. I only lived there during my high school years but it was enough to learn about it's awesome culture and people. Thank you for showing the world the bright side of such a wonderful country.
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    Leyla - July 15 2008 @ 12:04 am Anthony, THANK YOU VERY MUCH for showing another side of my country! I'm glad you got to eat ENORMOUS amounts of incredible tasty food, and see the beauty of Colombia's landscape, and people's friendliness. I hope your program helps to change some people's negative ideas about Colombia, and encouranged them to reasearch instead of believing everything they see and hear in the news. THANK YOU man, you ROCK! ;)
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    Geovany Gonzalez - July 15 2008 @ 12:05 am Thony, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!! I was expecting some different like the fancy restaurants that you can easily find in Cartagena or Medellín, but instead you crudely showed how our food, and most important people are. THANKS A LOT!!! COLOMBIA, a country full of hope!!
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    Luz Guiza - July 15 2008 @ 12:07 am Dear Mr. Bourdain, I am watching your show on Colombia as I write this blog and wanted to thank you sooo much fro showing what Colombia and its people are really like and not what it has been made out to be. Thank you for showing what a happy country and how rich in culture and beauty it is. THANK YOU.
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    Maricarmen - July 15 2008 @ 12:14 am I'm a proud puertorrican who has been touched with the emotional show about Colombia you showed us tonight. It was beautiful and truthful. Thank you for showing us the real face of such a great country... Que viva Colombia!
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    Erica - July 15 2008 @ 12:16 am You should go to Honduras if you haven't or go again if you already have!
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    Marcela - July 15 2008 @ 12:18 am I am so happy to see that somebody finnaly dared to give Colombia a chance. Thank you so much for showing people how beautiful my country really is and how much we've progressed. THANK YOU. I'm excited for this episode, and i hope it changes peoples views and at least give it a chance one day. We're proud welcoming loving people who welcome everyone who is open for a good time.
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    Luisa Angel - July 15 2008 @ 12:20 am Tony.... Echoing the previous comments.....THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!!!!!!! It is not too often that someone, let alone the host of a renowned TV program, is willing to go out to Colombia and report on the reality of the country and its people. Being from Medellin myself, its great to see the reality of my city being shown in all of its sides..not just the bad and the ugly. Colombia has tons of things (good ones) to offer its visitors. I find that you managed to capture the optimism and hope that now permeates the people living in Colombia, in addition to showcasing the great variety of foods that are there. Once again...thank you. I am a huge follower of your show, and needless to say, I watched this one with particular interest. Hope you had fun and that your visit was everything you hoped it would be.
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    ThaiBoxer - July 15 2008 @ 12:23 am Tony, Im back, yes, commenting yet again. But in this one I just have to. It's Colombia, my country. I loved the way you and ZPZ put this one together. The show is incredibly upbeat, proud, and truly shows the essence of the Colombian people. You could clearly see the hope, the happiness, and the enthusiasm of Colombians, from every social status, as they look towards what is clearly a more promising future. My girlfriend, an uber proud, ultra patriotic, yellow, blue, and red flag waving Colombian was so excited by your show she made sure her family and friends, some barely spaeaking English, watch your show. Both her and I, pausing the live show in order to provide simultaneous translation. Your show made us all proud. Colombia at its best, most beautiful, and most humble. The face of the real people, the people that a couple of years ago were being silenced by violent and bloody conflict. We can now smile, dance, and celebrate because the one thing we have been praying for (for over 60 years) is finally within reach...PEACE. Thank you ZPZ and Tony Bourdain. Eric "ThaiBoxer" Rivera
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    Michele - July 15 2008 @ 12:29 am Anthony, Thank you so much for doing this episode! My parents are from Colombia and Iran, two countries that the media tends to focus on the negative aspects of, something that has always made me very sad. I'm so glad that you have focused on the beautiful people, places and wonderful in Colombia! Next time you go to Colombia, make sure you stop in Bogota and try some Ajiaco ;)!!!
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    Luca - July 15 2008 @ 12:29 am Mil Gracias Tony... As a Colombian-American, it is with shows like yours that the mentality of travelers will be changed and when they are looking for an exicting, vibrant, and new destination - they will choose to visit our Colombia. From its beaches to the mountain cities like Medellin and Bogota - to the warm of people in Cali - turist should come to see why this South American country has so much to offer. Mil Gracias, Luca
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    javier (nj) - July 15 2008 @ 12:29 am Thanks chef for the segment on Colombia. I remenece on my childhood, my culture, my food and the country that gave me birth. t. Colombia is a rich country in natural resources but the people is what makes the country shine....
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    enigma4ever - July 15 2008 @ 12:34 am Thanks for the wonderful episode on Columbia...you made it magical .....( really refreshing as we have seen so little of positive stories on what is going on down there...) I love that you weave the soul of the people with the people....you show is truly my Monday Night Soulfood....thank you..
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    Erin - July 15 2008 @ 12:34 am Mr. Bourdain -- Thank you. My two young sons are native Colombians. The constant negative American media stereotypes don't do this beautiful country justice. You have finally broken the myth! Your show put the exclamation point on what I've been trying to explain for years: that Colombia is a vibrant country full of hope for the future. During my visits to Colombia, the people were universally optimistic and enthusiastic about the future of their country. No Reservations is always a favorite of mine (and my boys!), but this hit a home run. You finally dug deeper and showed the viewing public the Real Colombia. Again, thank you. Well done.
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    Sophia - July 15 2008 @ 12:38 am Mr. Anthony Bourdain, i just finished watching the Colombian episode, and im soo happy to know that you went to my home country and had so many nice things to say. Colombia is a wonderful place and now through your show many people are going to change their minds about it. i only hope that you would be back and visit cali (my hometown). Also, just to let you know we never miss your show, and baton rouge, la loves you! :D geaux tigers! ps: come visit Baton Rouge!!!
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    Greg - July 15 2008 @ 12:40 am After his rescue, Marc Gonzales pointed out the continued suffering of the 700 or more hostages being held in Columbia.. "In this exact moment right now, they are being punished because we got rescued successfully." According to El Pais newspaper, 11 days ago a Canadian was intercepted by a group of strangers, and was taken to mountains under FARC control. The new Vacation Wonderland portrayed in the episode contrasts sharply with the reality being faced by hundreds of captives.
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    Kate - July 15 2008 @ 12:47 am I've watched for a bit and really enjoy the show. Love experiencing the food and culture through your eyes- know you'd probably hate the smiley face as much as I do, so I won't do it, but I do appreciate what you do for everyone- the people who watch and the people you visit. But I have not the time nor the budget to do it, so I watch your show- I'll get there some day- watch out! You do good (says the teacher...)
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    Jorge Bermudez - July 15 2008 @ 12:52 am Tony, While watching your tonight's show, I felt so proud that I cried of emotion. Thank you for such a big dose of happiness.Thank you for showing what Colombia really is, just a little piece of heaven on earth. Thank you and God bless you always.
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    AntNet - July 15 2008 @ 12:55 am I've missed you, Bourdain. I've been too busy, too tired or too bored to get engaged in any episode or the quarterly blog entry. But Columbia! What a journey. So after that and a few re-runs I had to check back in. The Cult of Bourdain appears to be doing fine and even if you seem a bit more tame (due to that pesky editing, I'm sure) I'd bet there is enough kitchen cowboy left in you to stir things up when you choose. Sometime back the Boy had decided to pursue the high profile, ever in the spotlight position of grill cook..in hopes of taking one step towards his goal of becoming a chef. One month in the kitchen and he decided it wasn't for him; something about the pain in his feet and the smell that clung to him so tenaciously. I had counseled him to watch No Reservations for inspiration...thank goodness the new season is here, hopefully in time to prevent him from pursuing a career in skateboarding.
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    BogotaResidente - July 15 2008 @ 1:00 am I just finished watching the premiere of your episode on Colombia. While you are generally correct, most Colombians do not drink as much Aguardiente as you do ! Granted, it was your working vacation so an exception is allowed. I am a "Norte Americano" married to a "Bogotana". I have known this astoundingly beautiful country since 1992. I have lived in Bogota for two years during 2005-6. A 60 minute program does not do a country as diverse and beautiful as Colombia justice. I do applaud you for shedding an optimistic and non prejudiced light upon an extraordinarily beautiful culture. You have portrayed Colombia as simply a 3rd world country though I understand your limited time to present. I do hope you will present more on other aspects of the country, particularly Bogota which I know you visited in 2007. ( I chose not to pay the $85 per ticket to hear your talk) Throughout my worldwide travels, I have not met more friendly people than Colombians. I understand this was your observation, in so many words, as well. I hope and encourage you to visit again and present more about Colombia once again. Thank you for being amongst the first Americans to present the positive about Colombia.
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    Kate - July 15 2008 @ 1:02 am PS- Ever think about doing a show on Dirty Jerz? You know what I'm talking about....Irish Pubs in Jersey City and old school Italian- American places- maybe the Iron-bound in Newark?... It'd be great....
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    Jaime - July 15 2008 @ 1:02 am

    I had been waiting the Colombia episode impatiently since I read a brief note about it in El Colombiano. I've always liked how Bourdain has countered many stereotypes and fears that many hold (and I include myself) against the places he visits.

    As a Colombian-American who grew up in Envigado and whose family is from the La Paz neighborhood, I was delighted to see a show that broke from the common theme and confronted the prejudice that is not only held around the world against Colombia, but also within Colombia against Medellín and within wealthier Medellín residents against their neighbors in the northern neighborhoods.

    Some of the shots taken at Brasa Arepa in Envigado caught views of the house where my father grew up and once owned a hardware store - the one with the red tiles across the street, seen when Bourdain was in focus. This episode brought back many memories - I can´t wait the two weeks that I have left before I visit in August, just in time for the Flower Festival. And no, it is not about hippies - nothing against them though - think of it as a celebration of Antioquia´s culture.

    Bourdain and staff - Keep up the great work, Jaime Soto

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    Cynthia Martinez - July 15 2008 @ 1:02 am My husband and I really enjoy watching your show, we get inspired to continue traveling and being open minded when we do. We love going to the markets as you do. We have also recruited new fans for "No Reservations" because we find talking ourselves referring to your show all the time! thanks! Cynthia p.s. does your wife ever get to go on any of these trips?
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    Gab - July 15 2008 @ 1:04 am Thanks Tony. A few months ago I posted on a No Reservations group in Facebook that you should go to Colombia, and eat in Cartagena at the places you showed. And it seemed like you read my message. Thanks for showing Colombia, but more than anything, thanks for showing the real face of Colombia. Neither the one that we read about on the newspapers (guerrilla, kidnapping, etc) nor the rich side of Colombia (Skylines, luxury living, etc), but the real one and the people that makes the country. The people that get up every morning to go to work and that don't appear no T.V Shows. Once more time, thank you.
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    lila - July 15 2008 @ 1:05 am I am watching the show on columbia, I could just lose myself in the market. intoxicated by all the visually appealing fresh meats and vegetables. i wouldnt be able to control myself from buying ingredients to concoct my own columbian stew of warm comfort. i love the columbian culture as much as i am in love with all of the beautifull cultures around the world. so many times we lose were we came from and how we are americanized with no culture, just living an a enslaved environment were we have been conditioned to continuously live the way we live and accept it as being normal. we eat our processed food -go to work -drive our cars - produce extreme amounts of unnecesary trash as our daily rituals. its incredible how in other countries the most poor or less fortunate really know how to appreciate life and the true meaning of food and its nourishment to our souls and bodies. im jealous i wish i could have been sitting on that roof top with yall sharing a bowl of stew, drinking,laughing, living. but i was happy to watch on my t.v. at least that took me away from here even for an hour:)
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    Catalina Garcia - July 15 2008 @ 1:35 am Some how I just knew.... There is something about Anthony Bourdain that I just love and after tonights show about Colombia I'm reminded why. Only Bourdain could get it.... I mean really get it. Colombia is about its people and our ability to grab on to a moment and enjoy it like its our last. I'm not sure that everyone understood what Bourdain meant when he said "when you've had it bad you know how to enjoy the good" but no truer words have been said about my country. I thank Anthony Bourdain and the Travel Channel for getting to the essence of who Colombia is and her hope for the future.
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    Paola - July 15 2008 @ 1:36 am I am extremely proud of my country, and my people. My heart fills with joy and my eyes fill with tears, as I read that you call my country a "Wonderland" I know it and the rest of Colombians know it! THANK YOU for making it known to the world. To stop being afraid, and visit Colombia. Because of the bad image Colombia took a huge hit in the tourism industry, but that may all be changing, thank you again. As usual another episode I enjoyed.
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    Ivan - July 15 2008 @ 1:42 am What a great episode to night!! One of the best episodes ive seen! I'm half Colombian so I was really looking forward to it!! Watching it really wants to make me go to Colombia, and explore my roots. It seems like such a beautiful place with great food. Now im even more proud of my heritage, thank you!
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    Monica Carmona - July 15 2008 @ 1:59 am FINALLY, As a Colombian living in the US, it gets tyring to try to break the steretypes about my BEAUTIFUL COLOMBIA. We never get showcased by the good things we have: Our natural resources, diverse culture, fun music, wonderful warm people with big hearts and the most delicious food in the world that I so miss. MUCHAS GRACIAS, TONY.
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    felipe - July 15 2008 @ 2:09 am Bravo!! Tony it was amazing to see Colombia on your show, I enjoyed watching you eat "calentao" and drink "aguardiente", it could have been one of the coolest things ever...I want to thank you for showing the emerging social change in our beautiful Country.
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    D. Woods - July 15 2008 @ 2:15 am My GOD, 141 guest comments on your Colombian visit b4 me (maybe even more before I finish this post)? Anywho, you are truly spectacular! Not only because you share the same first name as my hero-of-a-husband who is volunteering his time as an active duty member of the U.S. Army in Iraq, but because he and I both enjoy your show and hilarious, yet informal, commentary (all praise to GOD and the "No Reservations" cast [mainly you] and fabulous crew). Did you truly film the following episode in an area where liquor is forbidden? I mean, we all witness how you enjoy your spirits, as much as my friends and I enjoy our wine, vodka and social punch! As a former non-drinking, anti-smoking, vegetarian--what were you thinking agreeing to such a thing? Regardless, I'm sure I will enjoy! We love you Tony, and all of those anonymous beings who keep your image interesting!!! GOD bless you all and keep up the great work! Respectfully, D. Woods
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    Alexa - July 15 2008 @ 2:17 am I was smiling and crying throughout the entire episode. It made me long for my Medellin. Colombian hearts all over the world are filled with pride again tonight thanks to your incredible depiction of a remarkable country. Muchisimas gracias. P.S. Corrina, I don't understand if your stepfather is Colombian why you do not know how to spell "Colombia?" I was deeply saddened and troubled by your comments. As a child,I spent all of my summer vacations (including the violent 80s) in Medellin with family. I recall several of the bombings and the general fear that was always palpable whenever we would venture into the city. But I also remember laughing and dancing and camping trips and a deep hurt when I would have to say goodbye at the end of the summer. But I never, ever recall once seeing "guerrillas with AK-47s everywhere." Todo pais tiene cosas bonitas y feas. Lamentablemente, tu solo te enfocaste en lo feo. May tonight's show open your eyes to the real heart of a fantastic country.
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    D. Woods - July 15 2008 @ 2:26 am My GOD, 145 guest comments on your Colombian visit before me (maybe even more before I finish this post)? Anywho, you are truly spectacular! Thank you! Not only because you share the same first name as my hero-of-a-husband who is volunteering his time as an active duty member of the U.S. Army in Iraq, but because he and I both enjoy your show and hilarious, yet informal, commentary (all praise to GOD and the "No Reservations" cast [mainly you] and fabulous crew). Did you truly film the following episode in an area where liquor is forbidden? I mean, we all witness how you enjoy your spirits, as much as my friends and I enjoy our wine, vodka and social punch! As a former non-drinking, anti-smoking, vegetarian--what were you thinking agreeing to such a thing? Regardless, I'm sure I will enjoy! We love you Tony, and all of those anonymous beings who keep your image interesting!!! GOD bless you all and keep up the great work! Respectfully, D. Woods
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    Andy - July 15 2008 @ 2:43 am Mr Bourdain..or Tony as you probably prefer to be called, I have to say that I love the show, got my wife into you and we both enjoy our Mondays watching you travel around this tasty and interesting globe. I am reading Kitchen Confidentials and love it. I think you need to do a Brooklyn,NY No Reservations. This borough is going through such a good time right now with Park Slope, Prospect Park, Williamsburg (minus the annoying Real World cast), Bensonhurst, Greenpoint and Bay Ridge to name a few...ok well that wasn't a few. But seriously check it out...Brooklyn is NOT Manhattan...we have taste!
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    Francisco J Correa Hernandez - July 15 2008 @ 3:16 am Mr. Bourdain, My name is Francisco (Frank) J. Correa Hernandez. I just finished watching your show and I was very moved by it. I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you did. I was there during the month of March and all everyone could talk about was your visit there. I currently reside in the California but I go back several times a year to visit my family. Hopefully by you doing this it will start a chain reaction in changing people's perception of my country. I am currently serving in the Marines and have been for the last 15 years. I am very proud of serving and of my heritage. If you ever would like to go back and visit my doors are open to you. I am glad that there are people like you who are willing to go and see and experience new things. By you doing so it shows the true side of the culture and it's people. I thank you, your staff, and the travel channel for what you did. Keep up the good work. If are ever near Oceanside, CA and would like an Arepa let me know I make a mean one.
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    GT - July 15 2008 @ 3:17 am I have to say that I am disappointed. God, they say, is in the details. Someone left the details out, for Mr Bourdain's visit to Medellin (I apologize, I have an American laptop and can't accent any letters correctly). No one told Mr Bourdain how to pronounce Medellin. LL /= Y in Antioquia. Mr Bourdain referred to Envigado as a low key neighborhood. In actuality, it is second only to El Poblado in status and quality of housing/living. Mr Bourdain referred to the Bandeja Paisa as the local form of the national dish. He could not be more wrong. There is no national dish. There are regional "platos tipicos" as there are regional tamales. Paisa means someone from Antioquia, so a Bandeja (platter) Paisa means the typical platter from Antioquia. The cute guide lady said that sancocho is made from from beef pork and chicken and alluded to some superstitious bull$%#@ about capturing the soul. sorry, witchcraft that is 100% that chick, and absolutely not representative of Paisas, or Colombianos in general. They are Catholic so withcraft = in liege with Satan. Tony was right about the Guaro Antioqueno, as well as sowing footage of a very few of the architecurally impressive parts of Medellin. Mr Bourdain did an acceptable job of Medellin, considering no one else has had the balls to go to Colombia. However, Mr Bourdain owes a further episode or two, to his viewers, as this one missed many of the spectacular views, foods and attractions of Medellin. (Hint: Paisas or Antioquenos says MedeLLin where LL is like ZH in Dr Zhivago) All LLs are pronounced that way. Please Tony, I can find you ar guide, or be your guide. I am American and know that the average Colombian wont correct you on anything. I will, because right is more important than pride, for this jewel of the Andes. Medellin, la tierra de eterno primavera - The land of Eternal Spring. I have spent years there, my wife is Paisa, my daughter is a dual citizen, Paisa/American. While no injustice was done, so much was missed. Thank you, Mr Bourdain for going to Colombia. At least now, some people have a new view of the most beautiful country on Earth. Geoff
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    GT - July 15 2008 @ 3:20 am I noticed that while Mr Bourdain drank the local beer(Pilsen) he did not drink it in the Antioqueno way. That would be the Michelada. It has the rim salted and two fingers of lime juisce in the gl&%$, before the beer is poured. It is one of the best ways on Earth to drink a beer, and it is 100% Antioqueno Again, Thank you for visiting Colombia, the country of my dreams, and of my heart.
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    Deana - July 15 2008 @ 3:33 am you know what... i'm a navy brat who is now 24 going on 25. i've traveled all my life. i'm so use to moving every two to three years that now watching Anthony Bourdain brings back that excitement that i use to get when i knew i was moving to a new destination and meeting new people. Anthony Bourdain brings that out in me. Though I have Crohn's disease (a digestive disorder), my love for food is lived out through Tony. I'm so culturally curious and he eases that curiosity for me. I live my dream of visiting Colombia and tasting the finest civeche in the world or going to Indonesia and feeling that extreme contentment that I don't need to visit anywhere else ever. He exudes every indulgence and satisfaction that I've ever felt or ever would feel. And I live my dream through him. To just walk a day in his shoes would satisfy me for a life time. I could never show him my home town because... I don't have one. I was born in Virginia and spent my life living in the U.K., Japan, San Diego, and Maryland. And my thirst for more is quenched through him.
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    Reymarx - July 15 2008 @ 3:47 am Hi Tony, I just finished watching your show on the West and I was really moved by it as Colombian. I was really happy to see you eating in the marketplaces, were you can find the freshest fruit, fish, and meat. I’ve very good memories going to the marketplace in the small town where I grew up, and enjoying tamales for breakfast on Saturday, and the delicious fruit juices that were so thick you couldn’t drink them with a straw. Also, you showed the street cars with arepas, empanadas fritanga (fried everything) that are very common in every city and visited by people for snacks during the day or after party at night. I hope you plan a second visit to different regions of my country, the food and people changes by department (state) and you’ll find new and fascinating flavors.
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    M.A Gonzales - July 15 2008 @ 3:47 am After years of oppression, violence, and various other happenings in this wonderful country, I was very excited that you took your show here. Columbia is still a place where much speculation is provoked regarding violence and kidnappings. However, to go here and show the faces of the people who have pulled through such violence and instability is truly an amazing testimony to the pride and perseverance of the human spirit. You were welcomed so warmly and they couldn’t wait to share their culture, thoughts, triumphs and history with you. Lets not forget all the delicious food that was prepared with such enthusiasm and pride that it radiated off screen. Giving people a fresh look at what has always been a wonderfully beautiful country rich with tourist, sights, food, and culture was very exciting to those of us who have never been to this beautiful place. My favorite was the little island off of Cartahana where people lived a much different life from the hustle and bustle of the city. It was beautiful, heart warming and touching to see people who were so happy living moderately compared to the city not to far across the sea. It was there and in the neighborhoods that you got to see the true beauty and unity, not to mention delicious traditional dishes Colombia has to offer.
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    Peter - July 15 2008 @ 3:59 am Tony, You and your crew did such a splendid job depicting Colombia it tempted me to book a ticket...but until then, I will have to find local Colombian fare, that will require me to "wallow off to a nearby flour sack collapsing into a groaning, farting, in a semi-conscious, heap." Best, Peter Lincoln, NE
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    Bethany - July 15 2008 @ 4:09 am Tony, I've always envied you for being able to travel around the world, try new things, meet new people, and wake up with a hangover and the incredibly entertaining ability to make witty comments about the breakfast habits of nations. It's my dream job, I enjoy watching you do it, and I love the humor. I'm torn however, because these last two episodes have been uplifting and hopeful- and I think I like it even better! You've really grown and matured with the show. Please don't ever lose your sense of humor, but thanks for these great new episodes! Who knew a travel show on Columbia could share so much hope and pride? Thanks!
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    Cristina - July 15 2008 @ 8:56 am Tony! THANK YOU!!!! Thank you for having the strength of character, intelligence, open-mindedness and personality to FINALLY visit my beautiful country COLOMBIA! No other famed world traveller, that I've seen, has done it.... and it hurts. I was very disappointed when one of your colleagues did a whole series on Latin America and didn't even mention Colombia. Now you can tell her what she missed out on! Thank you for showing the world that Colombia, and specially my beloved MEDELLIN, is more than a bad reputation. We have always been a very hard-working, loving, proud, intelligent country and even though we never had a doubt that we would overcome our social adversities, it's nice that the world can see that too. I was born in Medellin but have lived in the states practically my whole life. My husband was born in Miami, from a Cuban family...thank you for not listening to exaggerated warnings that I'm sure you received and thanks to your show, my husband has finally agreed to give himself the opportunity to fall in love with Medellin, like I know he will! Once again Tony, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for giving us the chance to show you the real Colombia and I hope you have the opportunity to visit Colombia again!
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    Diana - July 15 2008 @ 10:00 am Tony! The show was awesome!!!! Thank you!
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    Sandra - July 15 2008 @ 10:02 am Thank you for showing "the real" Colombia. Too bad time on t.v. is so short because there is so much more to this beutiful place. Hopefully in the future you will return and will have a chance to take a look into other aspects of Medellin (not Pablo Escobar related). There's culture, music and much more delicious food you didn't have a chance to explore. Once again, thank you for visiting a place so dangerous to many, but so enchanting to others. Sandra
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    Cristina - July 15 2008 @ 10:13 am I guess I am another Colombian, thanking you for portraying one of the nicest aspects from our country: our food. I absolutely loved the show. It made me nostalgic and very hungry!! My husband who is not Colombian laughed so hard when you made the comment about the "calentado" (reheated): "Are you supposed to walk after this?" He thought exactly the same when he first tried it! ¡Gracias Tony!!!
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    Yul Gomez - July 15 2008 @ 10:28 am I love your show and the way you show the real people and places as well their cultures and typical foods. I watched your show on columbia it reminded me of my home panama which was part of columbia prior to 1903 and I hope u visit Panama soon. thanks for keeping it real.mqpnqp
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    Luz Amanda - July 15 2008 @ 10:36 am Luz Amanda, Hi Toni, I saw the episode about Colombia, I am from Medellin. Thank you for doing the show, I tell my friends and everyone I know how beautiful and misunderstood Medellin and Colombia are. My husband is "GRINGO" (blond, and blue eye)I took him there and he felt in love with Colombia, but mostly with the people. Colombians don't hate...the hate the policies...but one on one people are beautiful people! There is so much you still need too see...you ate a lot carbohidrates...hahahah but there is so many fruits and juices...you can drink with all that food! check my hubbies website still working on it...but it there are pictures of the plaza minorista...same spot! love it...he had to chose his own tongue when we were there; which was going to be stuffed and cook....priceless! Thank you again--I think you found a mecca for food! you still have other places to explore in Colombia! so many---my husband's fear is that when people see how beautiful and wonderful Colombia is...everyone will go there! he loves been the only gringo there! the Sancocho part, it was a little odd, the ritual part, but I can see why, they live in a neighborhood where people die often! pobre Federico! But you should go the New's Years day and you will see---rich, poor, white, black, mestizo, cooking sancocho outside their houses all over the city! hey for us New Year's is a wonderful holiday---and the Sancocho is the hangover cure after partying so much the night before! thank you again for shown a piece of my country! I love that people smile and they are happy to just talk to you! The culture in Medellin is that they might not travel but they learn trough others! I am not from a wealthy neighborhood, my father is from that side, but my mom is from the regular neighborhoods--so I can see both side! there is HOPE...and that is our salvation, and people are tired of feeling fear! thank you--Gracia una Paisa en "la USA" Luz Amanda
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    Pete Wung - July 15 2008 @ 10:47 am Tony, You made my jaded but very homesick Colombian friend even more home sick and hungry. Thanks for making the show that you did.
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    nika - July 15 2008 @ 11:06 am Tony, Like so very many, I am a devotee of No Reservations (and Cooks Tour) as well as your books. We share a similar acerbic outlook so it all feels like home. I have never written to you before but after last night’s episode on Colombia I had to. (I had to post this here because I would not know how to reachyou, youmay never see this but I have to try) I am half Colombian (other half is white blonde Midwest farm background), I was born in Colombia but I am 42 and I have only visited it once since we moved from there when I was 3.5 years old. My father spoke of the Violencia in the 40s and 50s, our family lost it’s plantations to the rebels and became simply a family of engineers (engineering was the huge government push back in the 50s), not land owners. I guess it was just not a good thing to be a liberal coffee plantation owner in those days. The Violencia was truly violent. When we visited my city relatives, they would show me rooftop chicken hutches and cisterns and show me the bullet holes from that time some 40 years before. It wasn’t safe to walk in the streets because snipers would take you out. This is what I learned as a child. Then the more recent violence went well beyond that in the 40-50s. I learned of family who fled to America, like we did, of family who went missing and who were later found murdered, found in pieces. Some family simply disappeared all together. Colombia never seemed like a place I could visit or take my young family to, especially because I was raised as a child in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Iowa where I blocked my first language, Spanish, from my mind. While I learned to not yearn for the place, I did yearn powerfully for the food which I was exposed to quite a lot as a child. I now blog about some of this food ( http://nikas-culinaria.com/category/colombian-food/ , http://nikas-culinaria.com/2007/03/23/arepa-de-huevo-arepa-with-egg/ etc) and get m&%$ive interest from expatriots and their spouses across the world who are trying to recreate beautiful Colombian food at home. I wanted to tell you, after this ginormous comment (sorry about the length) that your show last night made me cry and wish that I could go and immerse myself in the Colombia of today. You and your people did such an absolutely fantastic job at crafting a beautiful story and with so much hope, ending on the amazing deliciousness that is sancocho. Sancocho, along with arepas, tamal, arequipe, yuccas fritas, salchichas, all are at the heart of the abundance of Colombia. Thank you for doing such a wonderful job. Nika http://nikas-culinaria.com
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    NIGO - July 15 2008 @ 11:11 am Tony! First of all I love your program I look forward to watch it every monday ( even the reruns ). Thank you from the bottom of my hart, thank you for showing the real happy face of my country. Muchas Gracias for visiting Vacation Wonderland. COLOMBIA ES PASION, QUE VIVA COLOMBIA!
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    maya - July 15 2008 @ 11:19 am hey Tony; I watched the show about Colombia last night, and it just flew by...I know there is a limit to what you can show in an hour,so cities like Bogota, Cali and the coffee region were missed...but I guess you will have to go back now huh? I could smell the market,taste the sancocho-which is different in every region- and feel the warmth of the people. I wish other areas of Cartagena and Medellin would have been shown,but of course that would be another show.Our colombian people are the best, and I think someone forgot to mention to you how you get through all that food, is by dancing a lot like Calenos do-therefore preventing the fart attacks...this is what Aguardiente is for, to help your digestion. I can't wait to hear you'll go again, and I'm looking forward to the Saudi Arabia episode. I went there in 1991 right after the war, and the food is incredible-shawarmas are NOT the same here-they are the best in Dahran.
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    Kenneth Gonzalez - July 15 2008 @ 11:21 am Hello Tony, We can't tell you how much my wife and I enjoyed your episode about Colombia. You showed a face of Colombia that even many Colombians have never seen, but most importantly, you help us all remember how great, rich and diverse the Colombian cuisine is. I also thank you for showing the most precious treasure Colombia has, its people. You really made us realize how things have changed (for those of us who have not been there in a long while) and brought to us a message of hope. Keep up your good work and we are looking forward to your next episode in Saudi Arabia! Kenneth G.
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    Vanessa - July 15 2008 @ 11:49 am Watching you explore Colombia, known to be a very dangerous place , made me proud to be a colobiana. I also got a little jealous when you got to eat all my favorite colombian dishes, especially empanadas.
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    Ladymissgailo - July 15 2008 @ 11:51 am Love you, loved your show (columbia. :)
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    Christa - July 15 2008 @ 11:53 am Tony I just watched the Colombia epsiode and although you forgot some dishes...you missed a huge one. Our tamales are the best and the biggest you will find in any Latin American country. http://www.flickr.com/photos/24954254@N00/1347685669/ Come to my place in NY and I'll be happy to make them for you anytime.
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    Paulette - July 15 2008 @ 12:03 pm Your show brought back some fond memories of my mom's arroz con coco and how she toiled to make it. I hope you enjoyed all the delicious food you can across! If you want to try some more Colombian food, the NY TImes did an article recently about restaurants in NYC to check out. http://travel.nytimes.com/2008/06/15/travel/15weekend.html
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    Andres - July 15 2008 @ 12:15 pm Tony, Thank you very much for visiting Colombia and for your positive comments. As noted by you, Colombia is a wonderful country full of beauty and optimism. I am certain your visit will help improve the image of Colombia and Colombians worldwide. I hope you get a chance to come back and visit other regions of the country. Colombian cuisine has much to offer and it is so diverse that you will find completely different tastes from region to region. Thank you again and keep up the great work.
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    Nico - July 15 2008 @ 12:28 pm As a proud Colombian, and PAISA from Medellin, thanks for visiting and displaying our country!
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    Mike "BOOM" Carter - July 15 2008 @ 12:50 pm What we need you to do now, Tony...is visit Bagdad and declare peace.
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    maria - July 15 2008 @ 12:52 pm Tony, As a Colombian living in the US I’ve had to deal with the fact (many times) that when I tell people where I’m from, the first responses are violence, drugs, guerrilla or Pablo Escobar…. and that hurts. Even though we’ve had difficult times Colombia it’s wonderland, as you pointed out in your show. Finally someone showed to the world a more accurate Colombia….colors, flavors, variety, joy and most important NICE PEOPLE. Thank you so much for that! Maria Ps: Just a quick reminder for some bloggers, it's spelled COLOMBIA instead of Columbia
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    HECTOR BETANCUR - July 15 2008 @ 12:52 pm THANK YOU ANTHONY FOR SHOW THE REAL LIFE OF MEDELLIN,OUR BEATIFUL PEOPLE,EXCELENT FOOD AND THE HAPPINESS PEOPLE IN THE WORLD. WE HAVE BEAUTIFUL THINGS TO GIVE AND NICE PEOPLE TO ENJOY......... IS THE FIRST TV SHOW THAT TAKE CARE OF ANOTHER FACE OF MY COUNTRY,BECAUSE COLOMBIA IS NO ONLY DRUGS AND GUERRILLAS,IS ABOUT FAMILY,FRIEDS,FOOD AND LOVE FOR OUR COUNTRY,THAT'S MY COLOMBIA,THAT'S MY MEDELLIN......... THANK YOU ,WE REALY THANK YOU
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    alfonso - July 15 2008 @ 1:27 pm Tony, super-fantastic show (as usual)!!!. For days and days we waited for this episode and so it was with great excitement that all my friends and relatives and all Colombians all over the US came together last night. Thank you Tony. We love all your episodes and this one was particulary sweet for us. As the show started we were still on the phone reminding others, making certain no one was about to miss it. It was so REAL. Hearfelt thank you and congratulations to you and the crew who also did a super job in the background. It touched more than liver,heart,ears,kidney,lungs,brains,intestines but it also peeked into our Colombian soul.
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    Mary B - July 15 2008 @ 1:46 pm Tony, you certainly outdid yourself last night. A Latino travel agent for 31 years, always overlooking Colombia. I came into work this morning seeking a Fam Trip to Cartagena. It was a very touching, insightful work. Cheers!!!!!
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    LT - July 15 2008 @ 2:04 pm Anthony!!! We Colombian's are your biggest fans, I watch every one of your shows, THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! for showcasing our beautiful country Colombia and my city Medellin...I haven't been there in 15 years, victim of the same violence you mentioned in your show, I was amazed to see the growth and specially how you enjoyed very much....Thanks for opening our eyes and hearts to one of the most beautiful countries on earth, unfortunately victims of an internal nonsense war...As you saw with your own eyes Colombia is ready for the next phase, our people are so proud of our country and our food...We love you so much!!!! Thanks for your great show!!!
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    Sergio Montoya - July 15 2008 @ 2:34 pm Wow is the word. What a great show. my frind jumped to call me medellin was on TV. thank you for bringing the true side of a city that all know as the cartel capital. although there is much improvement to be done, you showed how happy people can be even in the worst of situations. Salud to you i will be drinking an aguardiente to your show this weekend!
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    Jesse D - July 15 2008 @ 2:50 pm Thank you Tony. THANK YOU SO MUCH for showing my beautiful country and our beautiful and vibrant people. You could film at least a dozen of your shows in Colombia. This show was awesome, but you're just scratching the surface with one episode. Our country is divided in 5 major geographic regions; each one with very unique wonders and in all of them kind and friendly people. Vibrant people who are Colombia's biggest &%$et. I and 40 million of honest and hard working Colombians are very proud of our homeland, it may seem that this love and pride comes encoded in our DNA. When someone talks good about Colombia, it feels as if he/she is talking good about our own mothers. So thak you so much.
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    supercarolita - July 15 2008 @ 2:52 pm Many people have said it, but I'll say it again: THANK YOU SO MUCH for showing a different side of Medellin. Even I need, sometimes, to be reminded how beautiful is the city I live in.
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    Zen - July 15 2008 @ 2:53 pm Again with the tourist boards... So is this show about food and culture or "Anthony's Torist Board Review." Just change the show name to, "Anthony Bourdain's Tourist Board Review" Anthony typed above, "I should point out, to point them any damn where we pleased. tourist boards the wisdom of letting us go and do whatever we want-"
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    Saida - July 15 2008 @ 3:03 pm I love your show!!! I love your comments, and I love the way you analyze culture through food. Yes, you got it right. The colombians changed their mindset all at once, and now we love who we are, and we adore our country! I didn't know how to explain it to my husband, but that is it. We went through so much that now we are actually capable to enjoy our country, maybe for the first time in decades. So we like the Colombian music more than ever, we like the colombian food more than ever, we like who we are more than ever. There are so many places that you didn't have the chance to visit: cali, los llanos where our cowboys are, la candelaria in Bogota... I live in NYC a block away from Les Halles and I really hope I will see you in your restaurant one day to express the gratitude to show a little bit of my country :)
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    mango macdougall - July 15 2008 @ 3:17 pm I loved the show on Columbia so heart warming and encouraging and delicioso...but what was the stew on the rooftop called ??? I want to ask my Columbiana amiga to make it with me... Gracias
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    Maria Trujillo - July 15 2008 @ 3:29 pm Dear Tony First of all I want to thank you with all my heart for giving my country the chance to be seen in a very different way. Very few shows and people dare to visit Colombia for fear and misconception. I have been watching your show since it first came out. My boyfriend is a Chef in Miami and you are his hero! I love all your shows but this one hit home. My whole family and I watched the show with tears of happiness. To think that what you showed was just a small piece of what a beautiful country Colombia really is. The show also gave my boyfriend a chance to understand me a little better, now he understands why I am overly proud of my country. Thank you for showing the world that we are good people and that our country is so much more that drugs and violence.
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    YinaMaria - July 15 2008 @ 3:30 pm Hi Tony LOVE YOUR SHOW!!! I am so glad that you went to Colombia and specially my hometown CARTAGENA!!!! Thanks for showing our best face our PEOPLE. I was so glad to see you in Bazurto and las comunas en Medellin. This show was a big event for all of us. I called everybody and told them about your show. In my husband’s office ( they are about 20 Colombians in that company) everybody is talking about it. THANKS!! For showing my beautiful Colombia “Tony’ style” as I said. Best wishes! YinaMaria
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    Leyla - July 15 2008 @ 3:36 pm Anthony, MUCHAS GRACIAS for showing Americans the real face of Colombia! It's about time, they shed their preconceived ideas and perspectives from the 80s! needless to say, you ROCK! One question though, why didn't you include Bogotá? Que paso Tony! ;) By the way, I saw you really liked El Aguardiente aha? Cheers! :)
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    Dan - July 15 2008 @ 3:50 pm I watched the episode last night. Good job. Do you feel like Hunter S. Thompson reporting on South America? Watching the film "Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S Thompson" over the weekend made me appreciate your work even more. Have you seen the film? http://movies.nytimes.com/movie/335701/Gonzo-The-Life-and-Work-of-Dr-Hunter-S-Thompson/overview Thanks for the honest reporting.
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    Luz Marina Romero - July 15 2008 @ 5:13 pm Tuesday 07/15/08 4:15PM Hi Tony! I like the show of Colombia. But like one of the person's above, my question is, Why you din't stop in BOGOTA? is the CAPITAL od COLOMBIA, and one of the most important place to visit. Also other place you could have visit, could had been; Los LLanos Orientales, La Guajira, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Sincelejo, Monteria. So, did yopu like our Colombian Aguardiente? For any Colombian people here is a tip on buying aguardiente in Faifax,Virginia.
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    Annonymous - July 15 2008 @ 5:14 pm The best thing I learned from my parents was not to be afraid of trying new foods, so there is very little out there that I wouldn't be willing to try once. I think what you do on No Reservations would be my dream job...to eat my way around the world, could it possibly get any better? I don't think so. What I enjoy most about you and the show is 1: you combine the history of the locale, the culture and the indigenous foods. 2: your not afraid to go off the beaten path and away from the typical tourista areas (i.e. Laos episodes), and 3: at the end of each episode you walk away with an obvious measure of emotional attachment to people you've met, which to me is what traveling to other countries should be all about. Your doing an amazing job and I'm excited about the diversity of locales for this new season. Good luck and take care.
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    Luz Marina Romero - July 15 2008 @ 5:20 pm Tuesday 07/15/08 4:15PM Hi Tony! I like the show of Colombia. But like one of the person's above, my question is, Why you din't stop in BOGOTA? is the CAPITAL od COLOMBIA, and one of the most important place to visit. Also other place you could have visit, could had been; Los LLanos Orientales, La Guajira, Barranquilla, Santa Marta, Sincelejo, Monteria. So, did yopu like our Colombian Aguardiente? Thank you Tony for having the courage to go to COLOMBIA. For any Colombian people here is a tip on buying aguardiente in Faifax,Virginia. margo434@hotmail.com
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    Dan M. - July 15 2008 @ 5:32 pm Thank you so much for showing the positive and ever improving positive side of Colombia. I have been to Colombia 21 times to visit my family aand friends there. And I'm 14. Although I'm only half Colombian I am very proud of my half country's people, scenery, and of course food. If Colombia did not have this reputation it would have 2x the tourists of Peru and Mexico COMBINED. VIVA COLOMBIA!
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    Kris - July 15 2008 @ 5:33 pm Coincidently, just came back from a random week and a half vaca in Colombia and I agree, it was wonderful! From the food, the spirit of the people, the architecture, the history, and everything else in between. Medellin was just one of the great places visited but definitely there is more greatness to be seen and explored. I was there the day Ingrid was released and with all the travels afterwards, I never saw more local people going out of their way to help us feel safe and welcomed. Colombia's reputation on being dangerous is slowly changing to a more safer environment and I just hope more people have the opportunity to experience the food & culture in the metro areas, the beaches, and the national parks. of course, the coffee and the aguardiente are reason enough to go too! :) cheers!
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    Adriana Camacho - July 15 2008 @ 5:35 pm Dear Tony: I watched the episode last night and I am so happy and proud that you show to the world the real face of my hometown (Medellin) that I decided to write you. I lived in a city of fear, I grew up in the middle of the war and I came to US to be able to help my family, but I never lost faith about the future of my country and specially of my Medellin. Thank you so much and I will be watching your next adventure.
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    Federico - July 15 2008 @ 5:41 pm The only thing I can say to you Tony is: Welcome to your country, welcome everytime you want to Colombia, the most amazing country in the world.
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    Maria - July 15 2008 @ 5:44 pm It was a pleasure having you here, I expect you come back soon. I asked you, why don´t you think of living the rest of your life in cartagena, imagine opening the best restaurant in South America and enjoying a good Rhum, aguardiente, good music, nice people and lovely rythyms.
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    Donnie - July 15 2008 @ 6:18 pm When does the next flight leave for Colombia? I can't wait to go back to Colombia! Not only is the cuisine to die for, but the hospitality was first rate especially, from the women!
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    Lisa - July 15 2008 @ 6:25 pm Hi Tony, I was really looking forward to this episode. I was in the places where you were in Colombia 15 years ago. I am an Italian american. Then married to a Colombian 15 years ago. Even back then , my in-laws Roasted a Pig in my honor. The parties , the food , the people. Even when it was bad, it was good! I quote you from the episode, " People know how good life is when things get so bad." Colombians love americans, they love to party , dance, and smile and have a good time. I remember laying in bed at the time in my in-laws home. Asking my husband, " Who is shooting off fireworks? Let us go on the balcony and see them." My husband at the time replied," Those are not fireworks those are gun shots ." That shut me up and I went to bed real fast. When I returned home to the US. I had to take another week off work at that time to recooperate from severe hang over's and over indulgance of lots of great food. Also the misquitoes in Colombia love American blood. Here's a hint people, where long pants at night. I had to go to the hospital when I returned home to the states. My legs where so chewed up they looked like to sides of beef they where so infected. This espisode I enjoyed so much. I seen things I have seen with my own eyes the markets, the places you visited. I related to this episode. I love your show. If I could I would love to have a conversation with you one day. Both being born in Jersey I graduated Ridegfield Park High , Go Scarlets!!!!!! And I love NYC and the Ramones, food , travel. And I can cook! I am sure you get tired , and sometimes ill from different foods and too much booze. MAN, You are one lucky SOB. You have a great job . And you are great at what you do. Only you can do this show. I can't see noone filling your shoes. Keep telling it like it is. Your Rock, Lisa
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    Diana - July 15 2008 @ 6:44 pm Anthony, I watch your show all the time, my DVR is set to record every episode. I am a Colombiana and have lost friends and family to the violence that used to go on there. However, much has changed now indeed. After watching the episode where you go to Colombia last night, I'm even more inspired to watch everyone of your show's now. Because I am very pleased in the way that you portrayed my country and fellow countrymen, as well as the food, of course.
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    Annonymous - July 15 2008 @ 6:54 pm What else can I say.... Anthony's show is the best show on TV, his way to approach food, places, people, did I say food?... Last night's show was, as some one else said before, the best episode ever..you could see Anthony's joyful face, and that was trully transmitted to all the millons watching the show. At about 10:30pm (et), my wife (pure jersey girl) asked me if I could get her some colombian food for lunch the next day. Thank you Very much for showing my beautiful country on my favorite show. One more thing... If you did not go to Monserrate in Bogota, I thing you guys missed a huge part of not only a great grastronomical experience, but one of the best views from one of the best cities in South America. I will be waiting paitenly for "Colombia Part Dos, Bogota and La Sabana".
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    Diana - July 15 2008 @ 6:56 pm Oh by the way, YOU ROCK!!!! Love ya!!!
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    Jennifer - July 15 2008 @ 6:58 pm Anthony, Your show used to be one of my favorites until this past episode in which you participated in eating an endangered species, and didn't seem to give a crap about it, stating it was part of the culture. It's people like you that should be creating an awareness, instead you just showed me what an idiot you are. Culture or not, it's unbelievable that you even promoted it on national television. You should be ashamed of yourself.
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    VANESSA - July 15 2008 @ 8:22 pm I FELT LIKE CRYING WHEN WATCHING THE SHOW LAST NIGHT. THANK YOU TONY FOR SHOWING HOW BEAUTIFUL AND GREAT COLOMBIA IS!
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    Alicia - July 15 2008 @ 8:23 pm Hi Tony! Great episode!! Thanks for showing a positive side of Colombia. I am Mexican-American, but for a few years now have been fascinated with Colombian culture and people because of their 'novelas' (soap operas). My husband and I had always wanted to visit, but never even considered it seriously because we thought it was not safe. Thanks for proving otherwise. We have now added Colombia to our travel wish-list (an ever-growing list thanks to No Rez). I am now looking forward to the Saudi Arabia episode next Monday......no alcohol, huh? What were you thinking? Were you able to function?...hahaha..j.k. It should be very interesting. Again, thank you and everyone who makes No Rez possible. You make my Monday! P.S. What part of Mexico will you be going to this time? I hope it's Veracruz or Chiapas, both beautiful, off-the-beaten path places, with rich culture and gastronomy. Please do not show us, yet again, the mega-resorts of Cancun, Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta. Well, what am I thinking? Of course you are not going to show that! It's No Reservations for crying out loud!
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    Jair Ararat - July 15 2008 @ 8:38 pm I must say this is the best show I ever seen about my country Colombia. Everything was carried out smoothly; awesome show, great food, beatiful places, wonderful and authentic people... Anthony having shots of aguardiente, eating bandeja paisa and orejas de puerco con chunchulo. Anthony Bourdain: You are the man!!! You are one of us. Thank you!
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    Fernando Lujan - July 15 2008 @ 9:41 pm Bacano Anthony! Muy Bacano! I am ever so grateful that you chose Colombia as a destination for your show and that you treated the view of the country wich such care and respect. It's unfortunate that the world is so unaware of Colombian hospitality, culture and it's wonderful places..years of internal strife and band and/or exaggerated press had done it much harm..Colombia's top &%$et is it's people- and you certain accentuated that. Thanks, and thanks for being the first member of the Travel channel to actually visit the country and present it in such a positive way. Ah, but there's still a lot more bizarre food in Colombia to cover..maybe some day you'll return. Sayonara and never share your chicharron.
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    Fernando Lujan - July 15 2008 @ 9:43 pm Bacano Anthony! Muy Bacano! I am ever so grateful that you chose Colombia as a destination for your show and that you treated the view of the country wich such care and respect. It's unfortunate that the world is so unaware of Colombian hospitality, culture and it's wonderful places..years of internal strife and band and/or exaggerated press had done it much harm..Colombia's top &%$et is it's people- and you certain accentuated that. Thanks, and thanks for being the first member of the Travel channel to actually visit the country and present it in such a positive way. Ah, but there's still a lot more bizarre food in Colombia to cover..maybe some day you'll return. Sayonara and never share your chicharron.
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    John Murray - July 15 2008 @ 9:55 pm Come dine in Dallas, Texas! Tony, I can already hear what you're going to say. "Dallas? Are you kidding me? What the hell does Dallas have to offer in terms of great food and exciting culture?" Afterall, this is the home of the Cowboys ( though technically their home is in Irving until the new digs in Arlington are done). Dallas, headquarters of Brinker International and Carlson Group: the people who brought us Chili's and TGI Fridays respectively-hardly bastions of gastronomy or cutting-edge dining experiences to rival The French Laundry or Prune. I would ask for at least little slack for sending Alex Rodriguez to your beloved Yankees. But I believe great food and fun can be had in the city that will bulldoze a field of geraniums because they are not new enough, big enough or provide enough mirrored surfaces to double check your trophy-wife's latest silicone enhancements while exiting the corvette you had to lease because you couldn't afford to buy while trying to pay the mortgage on your 3500 square foot McMansion 50 miles from your office. By the way, we call those women 'balloon smugglers.' Let's start with the obvious: Ken Rathbun. Winner of Iron Chef America. Executive Chef at Abacus - his popular and exciting restaurant in the Uptown area of Dallas. http://www.abacus-restaurant.com/indexinner.php Or Stephen Pyles. Formerly of Star Canyon and now Executive Chef at his namesake Stephen Pyles restaurant in downtown Dallas. Home of the best Ribeye you can find in Dallas-a city satyrated with steakhouses. http://www.stephanpyles.com/index.asp Shinsei, a wildly popular and adventurous eatery run by the wives of Rathbun and Dean Fearing, Chef at Fearing's inside the Ritz-Carlton and formerly of The Mansion on Turtle Creek. The waiting list to make reservations for a table is two months out. http://shinseirestaurant.com/shinsei_home_page.htm A small restaurant called Salum where you are greeted and seated by the Chef and an open kitchen allows you to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells as your meal is prepared. It is located in a shopping center along with a dry cleaner and a nail place, standard tenants here in Dallas, but the food rocks. http://www.salumrestaurant.com/ Aurora, where local celebrity chef Avner Samual holds court each night. I first ate at Bistro A a number of years ago and have followed Avner ever since. A friend of mine said Aurora is the one place he would go eat in Dallas every chance he got, if he did not have to pay for it. Avner has been cooking in Dallas for years and is as famous for his boisterous management of the front and back of the house staff as he is for his food. Currently, he is using more local iand organic ingredients to help defray some of the increasing food costs he has had in this tight economy. Another sign how Avner is always looking for something new to present to Dallas diners. http://www.auroradallas.com/ The Grape. Their experience is best summed up with the copy from thier website: 'Recognized as one of the most celebrated neighborhood eateries in Dallas for over 35 years, dining at The Grape is like stepping into a small European village. The monthly changing blackboard menu offerings, which have proven to be one of the elements of success, feature signature bistro fare as well as eclectic and contemporary creations.' http://www.thegraperestaurant.com/ Even great street food can be found here. A taco stand in west Dallas where you walk up to a window on the side of a service station and get a taco with juicy meat, onions, cilantro and salsa for $1. When you walk up to the window, just say 'one' or 'two' depending on how many you want, and they do all the rest. I know it is not the same as the grilled meat at the open-air markets you visit around the world, but it is a nice chunk of honesty and integrity in a city where many people actually eat at Target with their family when they shop. It is not all chips and salsa in Dallas either. Harry's Custard on Knox has been serving up custard and hot dogs to Dall&%$ites for years. Thick, creamy, sweet and cold in those hot Dallas summers. In September every year the State Fair of Texas arrives at Fair Park in sunny South Dallas. This is a tradition in North Texas. Not just rides and games, but food too. State Fair-corny dogs, funnel cake, turkey legs, roasted corn, deep fried ice cream, deep fried snickers and deep fried cheesecake. Did I mention they fry nearly everything at the Fair? People spend all year trying out new things to fry just to have them available for the Fair. And they serve beer. Or The Loon-a dive bar full of loyal customers where every drink is a double-pour. The Lakewood Theatre in the Casa Linda area of Dallas. Bought a few years ago and turned into an all around entertainment venue, the owners kept the architecture 100% original (again, that is rare in this city) and host big name acts and bands. Plus, they have two bars for you to enjoy while at the theatre. My wife and I would be honored to be your personal guides around Dallas. Please join us. And I promise there will be no dancing. Thank you. Respectfully, John and Betty Murray We can be reached at: John and Betty Murray 13644 Spring Grove Ave. Dallas, Texas 75240 972-458-0121 or 214-235-7648 or 214-914-2978 or j.murr@yahoo.com
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    D.S.Stoba - July 15 2008 @ 10:04 pm Frankly I have to commend you for even attempting to travel to a place that Pablo Escobar and cocaine built... at least that is what I was lead to believe. Living in a boarder town cocaine, cocaine, cocaine, well maybe not as much as Florida, but some p&%$ed though our town. Now you inform us of a safe place with lots of culinary treats, well sign me up for a seat on the plane. The country side was beautiful and it is nice to see that people are willing to take back their country and yes I mean their country. great episode.
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    Maria Linkous - July 15 2008 @ 10:06 pm Dear Tony, We watch your show religiously, my husband is american and we always used to talk and dream about this moment...Anthony Bourdain showing the world that Colombia is not just beautiful but that it has so much to offer. I really felt that the great things you said about my country came from your heart, I’m proud to be Colombian, and last night’s episode made me feel even prouder. Please give us more, we want to fell that joy again. Maria Linkous Miami Beach, Fl
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    Mark - July 15 2008 @ 10:18 pm I don't know, why you talk something like french foods sucks, food programs are porn... , etc in national channel. Andrew Zimmern programs are the best ones. Change your style of talking in national channel. It is for your good.
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    Ed - July 15 2008 @ 10:43 pm Great job Tony! I recently returned from a wonderful vacation in Medellin and surrounding areas, including the small town of San Antonio where you sampled the pig's ear. I ate many of the foods featured on your show and everything was delicious. I found the local people to be just as you described them. They're all happy, friendly, and very proud of their country. You seem to have a knack for capturing the true essence of the places you visit. Well done!
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    Andrea - July 15 2008 @ 10:57 pm Dear Tony: Thank you! I am very glad you liked my Country!! Colombia has sooo many positive things to show the world. Please come back very soon. I am sure you will find more exciting places to see, people to meet and food to enjoy.
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    taylor - July 15 2008 @ 11:06 pm being only 18 years old i have been extremely fortunate that while in high school i became very close friends with a colombian foreign exchange student. For the past month i have been in Colombia traveling everywhere from Cartagena to Medellin to El Cafeitero and finally to " La Ciudad Bonita" Bucaramanga. With my parents and everyone saying that it wasnt safe for me to go to Colombia, they couldnt have been more wrong. In Colombia i have been more welcomed and felt more free than i even have in the u.s. As i took the 12 hour bus ride from Bucaramanga to Cartagena, i really got to see everything from the rich to the utmost poor, but all of it was in beauty as the Andes make everything look and feel much more peaceful. So i just feel i need to say that everyone who has been scared or hesitant about going to Colombia, what are are waiting for? Go visit one of the most amazing places in the world! COLOMBIA TE QUIERO!!!
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    jt - July 15 2008 @ 11:39 pm If you're in the NYC area and you want more Colombian flavor, Union City NJ has a lot of authentic Colombian restaurants. The real deal, made by real Colombians. Just don't tell too many people. Shhh...
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    Maria Amalia Robbin - July 16 2008 @ 12:05 am I think the program you made of Colombia lacked a lot. You forgot to show beautiful areas of both Cartagena and Medellin. Medellin has some outstanding areas and you only showed the poor sections as well as the militia sections. I was embarr&%$ed by what I saw. I am a proud Colombian and was hoping that your program would show our nicer side. We have had a lot of bad reputation over the years and don't need to be shown as such an underdeveloped country. If you want to see and show on your program a nice side of Colombia, let me know and I will even be your guide if you wish.
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    Whitney - July 16 2008 @ 12:24 am I have been to Colombia and have had a wonderful Colombian girl live with me for a year, and I have to say that the Colombian people are some of the most colorful people i have ever met. They welcome Americans to the utmost and really are amazing people. I wish you had been able to visit Cali because it was amazing and you really would be able to see a difference in the economic divide. It is something that people in the US could never imagine without seeing it with their own eyes. If you ever get a chance to visit there, DO because it is one of my favorite places and I am so lucky to have been integrated into such an awesome culture for the mere 2 months i was there.
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    Victoria - July 16 2008 @ 1:29 am I couldn´t see the show, but for a Magazine I knew you really like "EL Bazurto" a marketplace in Cartagena, and of course thee people wich is the happiest in the world no matter the problems, read all this notes make me tear and feel so proud of my beloved country, tahnks for the good press, thanks for let the world and specially de US citizens to know how much Colombia have to offer.
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    Rafael Toro -Ralph - July 16 2008 @ 1:59 am The more my wife and I travel around the world, the more we appreciate and love this unique country! Full of intelligent, hard working, warm-hearted people-constantly living/loving/smiling/laughing, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, delicious food, and inspiring music. Thanks TONY for your visit and welcome always! ¡QUE VIVA COLOMBIA!
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    Jeremy - July 16 2008 @ 12:17 pm I've read every piece of Tony's non-fiction and seen and loved every episode of "No Reservations", (well, perhaps loved is to strong a word for the Romania episode.) and I have to say, I think that this episode in Columbia did more to expertly express the message Tony has been trying to say to the world and really defined what he's all about. If anyone doubts it, you have simply to look at the number of comments from people who would never have considered Columbia, who were even afraid of it, and have now added it to their list of places to visit. Even that is nothing compared to what this episode did for Columbians. Seriously, Kudos and job well done to Tony and crew for being one of the first, at least in America, to shine a camera light in a seemingly dark corner of the world and end up showing some of the very best a people have to offer.
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    sarah p - July 16 2008 @ 1:18 pm this was one amazing show. Just the cinemetography was amazing. The vibrant hues of all the food. It was really, truly, food porn. This episode was on par with the Brazil episodes. If you should accomplish anything by these shows, we should want to travel to the destination after viewing the show, and I have definitely added Columbia to my list. (Albeit probably not with my 3 year old and 11 month old). Every person you talked to there was p&%$ionate and cool, the food was AMAZING (I am a bit of a seafood fan myself, so the pictures of the fish and the market were hunger-inducing). It reminded me a lot of the p&%$ion of Salvador, Brazil, where I remember the food fondly. [though not the 7 year old boy who spit on me when I didn't give him a dollar, and not the brazillion m&%$euse at the high end resort who, let's say, had a very European technique]. Overall, this is one of my favorite episodes I've seen in a long while - no prearranged cheesy tourist event, it was all about the food and the people who love the food. [The prearranged cheesy tourist events only work when Tony suffers miserably, like in Jamaica going through the caves]. And Columbia looks like a beautiful country as well. Good job tony :)
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    Patricia Mccausland - July 16 2008 @ 1:42 pm Loved your show, it captured the essence of our people, the foods we eat and the wonderful people that make up our country. Thank you for visiting our cities and the backyards of them. They have the most interesting stories... like the ones García Márquez writes about in his books. All in all we are a country of hard working, creative and relentless people who are decided to give it a good name and bring it to its full potential. Pachi http://pachi-cookingcolombia.blogspot.com/ www.creativeculinary.net Creative Culinary Works Patricia McCausland - Gallo, CCP Foods and Nutrition pachigallo@mac.com
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    Annonymous - July 16 2008 @ 1:45 pm Tony you opened new doors for many of us on Colombia. It was a pleasure watching you go through the country sampling some amazing looking food and meeting very proud people. I have many Colombian friends and I'm sure you showed what they love and miss. Great job! P.S- I've noticed in these first 2 episodes that you haven't smoked on the show. Hopefully you've kicked the habit.
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    L. Loree - July 16 2008 @ 2:35 pm Great program on Colombia! I watched it with my hubby so I could show him all the great food I ate while I was in Bogota not too long ago. You're right on about the people! They are the most welcoming, generous, gracious people I've evern encountered. In one instance, a friend of the family I was staying with, who had little money, offered me such a nice and thoughtful gift. That really touched me since I know she had so little to give. I traveled to a little village called Ubate where I attended a local family bbq. What a great experience! It was so much like any family bbq you'd have in your backyard, yet so different at the same time. And the food! I was priveliged to be with friends who's friends owned a local bakery. I've never tasted such fresh tasting, heavenly bread in all my life! Everytime they made a new batch of something for the bakery they brought out trays of it for us! It was so delightful I didn't even mind that I had no idea what everyone around me was saying, While there is still danger to tourists (don't ever take American money out in public) it is also exquisitely beautiful (think flower farms that supply florists all over the world) and rich in culture. Don't miss the Mueseo D'Oro in Bogota. Very violent! Very GOLD! Had a great time reliving my Colombian "adventure". Thanks SO much!!! Happy Travels, L. Loree
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    Jesse D. - July 16 2008 @ 2:41 pm (second posting) Tony, you should've ended the show with a sign like this one; "This episode is dedicated to Federico, a chicken who was invited to a sancocho party and never came back"
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    ROBERT - July 16 2008 @ 2:47 pm Love your show. With your last show of Colombia ,I decide spend my vacation there. Keep doing the great job you do.
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    William Jaramillo - July 16 2008 @ 3:52 pm for the first time someone showed Colombia as i see it. Thanks man. Why do you think Colombian food is not as popular as food from pther latinamerican countries? I've always wondered why not more people know about our food and our culture.
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    Allison Irby - July 16 2008 @ 4:24 pm I was so emotional, and so excited when I watched No Reservations: Colombia. Colombian people are so wonderful, warm, and welcoming. It kills me that such a beautiful country, with such wonderful people, and great food gets such a bad rap. I was glad to see the country, culture, and people portrayed in a positive light. People that have not traveled to Colombia are missing a piece of heaven. I do not agree with Maria Amalia who commented that you only showed the poor areas of Cartagena. I think that you showed the background of Colombia. You showed diversity, and that Colombia is real, she shouldn't be ashamed of all the places and people that make her country what it is. All those "poor" people in those poor areas are the ones that bring their amazing recipes and creative cooking ideas to her upper quadrants for meals for her rich counterparts. Those people are the soul of Colombia.
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    GastroGirls - July 16 2008 @ 5:03 pm Christ i love this man. http://gastrogirls.wordpress.com/2008/07/16/bourdain-in-colombia/
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    Kristi Kupcakes - July 16 2008 @ 5:42 pm i love you, period
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    Franco Luna - July 16 2008 @ 7:00 pm Anthony, All my friends and me are VERY impressed with this chapter about Colombia, I am from Medellin living in San Francisco for 10 years now, and for the first time somebody show a trully face of our people, our culture, our cities and our cuisine.....everything else is that imported international culture!......well done!
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    Katherine - July 16 2008 @ 7:05 pm I watched this episode with my momand we kept shouting and screaming cuz we were so delighted. It was great seeing Envigado again after 7 years. It was ana mazing episode and I and my mom (who loved to see you eat arepas)and the rest of my family would like to thank you for showing people what Colombia really is. By the way,glad to see you liked el Aguardiente, not many people can hold down so much hahaha. =)
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    kate - July 16 2008 @ 7:28 pm Thanks a lot ... Ant. That is the real face to Colombia good people, a beautiful places
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    Anthony - July 16 2008 @ 8:10 pm I'm glad to see you get a real marketing team behind your show. I was worried that one of my favorite shows on t.v. wasn't going to make it.
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    Sebastian Martinez - July 16 2008 @ 8:54 pm This short video says it all: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXtvGsYS0UM
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    Ally - July 16 2008 @ 10:02 pm My Father visited Bogota two years ago on business and really enjoyed it. He has a bit of a shy demeanor that strives away from adventure, and this was his first time leaving the country... we were worried. I armed him with a paper with useful Spanish phrases, greetings and responses and hoped he wouldn't be kidnapped by drug lords. A great relief and a bit of a surprise- he loved it. He still is considering retiring there. He said the people were beautifully kind and generous everywhere he went. The more wealthy offered him exquisite meals at expensive restaurants were he says the food couldn't be better, and the less fortunate always had fresh (and highly potent) Columbian coffee for him. From the fantastic food to the warmhearted people (and the coffee, which my family was able to sample that he brought home from his adventure, that was truly like a swift kick to the adrenal gland) the trip was one he'll always hold close to his heart.
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    Leon Hochman - July 16 2008 @ 10:37 pm Hi Tony, I am your fan #1. I want to tell you that your programs are my favorites. I have seen almost all your “No Reservation” programs, but this time I take the opportunity to tell you that I am disappointed with you edition from my country Colombia. You chose places that a regular tourist wouldn’t be motivated to visit. For example the public market in Cartagena, and the “Comunas” in Medellin I understand that you always try to show the typical food of each region, but you could get the same results eating a red snapper with “yuca, patacon and arroz con coco” in a restaurant inside the “ciudad amurallada” in Cartagena and a “bandeja paisa” in a nice restaurant in Medellin , showing the nice face of each city, for example in Cartagena, the “ Castillo de San Felipe”, which is world heritage . I hope you will take this as a positive review and I encourage you to go back to Colombia and show the beautiful side of my country. Sincerely. Leon Hochman.
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    kMiLa - July 16 2008 @ 11:46 pm It was a great show ... but what's with the rapper doing like a music video and preaching about his hood haha... & you didn't go to Bogota and ate Ajiaco Bogotano which, not for nothing, but that's the best most original chicken soup ever!!!!! What the $%#@ man! What about visiting the indigenous or native colombians?.... Palenke?... or the "safe" part of the amazon??? ...or los llanos?? You are from NYC and didn't go to bogota??? you suck!!! but I love you. What about that house in the woods a little bit outside bogota where the sale homemade desserts called "endulsa tu paseo"!!! You need to go back definately!
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    Claudia - July 17 2008 @ 12:50 am Hi Mr. Bourdain! Thanks for visiting our country, trying our food and taking the time to meet the real Colombia. I knew you would like it and was so surprised and happy when a friend told me you've been here! You always find the right and the important things to be shared about a travel experience. Thanks!!
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    june-baby - July 17 2008 @ 12:55 am Great episode, I really enjoyed it. The people of Colombia showed Tony their culture, lifestyle, and how proud they are of their country.
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    Joshua S. - July 17 2008 @ 2:24 am

    Hi Anthony!

     

    I just want you to know that you are fantastic! I really admire you and your work, you are great!

     

     

     

    I look you as my inspiration, soon enough i will become a chef, i just love to cook, and when i heard that you're a chef i really wanna pursue my culinary study i will try my best to be the best.

     

     

     

     

     

     

    More power Mr. Anthony!

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Joshua, 17

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    Chef Scott Wallett, Jr - July 17 2008 @ 2:54 am Chef, Excellant show in Columbia my friend, i loved the way you showed, and taught us like you said how this counrty has changed for the better. Its great to see the govermant putting so much time and effort into the school system and the people, we need to see more of that here in the U.S. Keep up with the great episodes my friend!
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    caligal - July 17 2008 @ 3:22 am Some of that food looked like a "heart attack on a plate" special but MAN, did it made me hungry!! Chicharrones forever!!!
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    Ladymissgailo - July 17 2008 @ 11:03 am Since reading "Kitchen Confidential" I always have shallots in my kitchen. They do make such a difference.
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    gerardo - July 17 2008 @ 4:36 pm when r u gunna go to venezuela Good show in colombia though, i hope venezuela p&%$es what they are going through, it was a beutiful country, and very clean and less poor , but now that Chavez took over all that has changed and you should make a show there to proove that we are not all bad, we are not bad, just the govermnet, and people should not make judjment of a country just because of one idiot. In a matter of fact Venezuela back in its time when it was good, in that time colombia was it as it is now. But today it is all reverse now, now it is Venezuela. Trust me Venezuela has amazing food, much like Colombia's.
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    JMH - July 17 2008 @ 4:42 pm Tony, Thank you for showing Colombia for what it is today. A cultured treasure buried under tons of violence, corruption and grief for the last 40 years. Now that this treasure is finally becoming un-earthed Colombians can one day own the future they have dreamed and hoped for all these years. And if the future is equally as brilliant as the past has been bleak, then watch out world! The best is yet to come.
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    Angela - July 17 2008 @ 5:24 pm I needed to send you some words about the worderful episode in Cartagena and Medellin. You made me very emotional seeing a foreigner so enthusiastic and open minded showing the beauty of part of Colombia...you are amazing! Thanks for making my day and re&%$uring my Colombian pride.
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    Christian Harper - July 17 2008 @ 5:54 pm watching the columbia episode made me smile. im glad to see a nation overcome such harsh realities. im jelouse anthony, you get invited to go sit and learn from all these different cultures and see what humbles and nurtures them. and you take non of it too lightly. btw. youve inspired me. which is the real reason for this. i couldnt find another way to contact you. you dont know me, but, because of you i have pulled my head from my perverbial buttox and enrolled in the texas culinary insitute, and got accepted, and start in sept, and also just got a pretty good job in a restaraunt in my home town. you showed me that every trouble kid needs a focus and that food is a wonderful gateway into a whole word of knowledge and understanding and different cultures. so, there. i did what i wanted. thanks tony. you effing rock... ~Christian Harper
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    ~Priscilla - July 17 2008 @ 8:01 pm I APPLAUD you for going to Colombia! we love your show, but were exceptionally excited to see this one because you exhibited to the world our (my boyfriend & I are colombian)home away from home! INDEED this country AND its people are beautiful. It was no surprise they received you enthusiastically... Colombians typically are very warm, charming and positive people...they will welcome you and make you feel at home. If you visit again here are more places to visit: http://www.theotherlookofcolombia.com/scenic.html Thanks again for a great show!
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    Carlena - July 18 2008 @ 1:23 am Tony, I love your show. I honestly do. I will watch reruns of NR when I won't watch new Andrew. One thing I am missing though from the past two airings. YOUR SNARK!! What's wrong with you man!? Why are you so.. friggan peaceful,content.. not you? More snark please, even if it is just a little. It doesn't seem like you if you are not sarcastic.
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    Nora - July 18 2008 @ 3:19 am Absolutely felt the joy of the previously repressed people that you visited with. Not a crier but sure had tears, thanks for the episode. See you in the Grand Caymans in January!!
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    Jon Hedge - July 18 2008 @ 12:53 pm How cool is that!
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    Michael Eugene - July 18 2008 @ 7:07 pm I usually DR (Digitally Record) all of your shows and timeshift them to when it is more convenient to watch them, and rarely save only a few. The Colombia show is one that is a keeper that I will watch again and again. This just isn't a show about cooking; it is an appetizer of history, a main-course on the Colombian people and their quest for understanding in a post-Medellin world, and dessert of the music, culture, AND cooking by the people. I have made nothing more complicated than maybe home-made ceviche in my cooking years, yet I can appreciate what your hosts did to show you authentic cooking and meals.
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    Ale - July 18 2008 @ 8:50 pm how can i get to talk to you?
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    Jessica - July 18 2008 @ 11:28 pm So, you'll probably never see this because, hello, you're a celebrity chef/personality and this is a blog with hundreds of comments. But I wanted to say what I need to say, and I hope it reaches you and you think it over. I am a huge fan. I think you're funny, talented, intelligent, and pretty freaking cool. My entire family has watched all of your shows and read your books and you seem like a real person, and that rocks. And then I read some of the things you read about being vegetarian/vegan, and that struck a nerve. Cuz calling me and people like me neo-nazis for making decisions about the food we eat based upon moral beliefs, health beliefs, whatever? It isn't cool. I can't speak to all vegans, but I don't care what you eat. So why the heck do you care what I eat? Yeah, yeah, you're a chef and you have had to deal with people like me asking you to alter your perfectly designed menu items for their tastes. But it's my belief that, if a chef chooses to allow him or herself to step outside of their training, vegan meals can become one facet of the shining gem that is a well-designed menu. I'm not saying any self-respecting chef should toss out the meat, the butter, the cream, etc, etc, in honor of a whole-y holy new way of cooking. But I think that a great chef can create incredible dishes with the use of grains, vegetables, herbs, spices, and technique. I don't think wanting a single item on a menu that I can eat is a huge demand. I don't even think a menu should have to have something I can eat, so long as the chef doesn't think I'm the spawn of Satan for wanting them to think on their toes and give me something tasting. What I'm saying here is that I fully respect your decision to eat meat and dairy and eggs and still-beating-cobra-hearts for the joy of gastronomic exploration. Hedonism isn't something I find offensive. So could you do me a favor and show me the same respect when I come into a restaurant and shell out my cash for a dining experience? It's kind of hard to continue respecting a person who hates you so vehemently based upon your personal convictions.
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    Adriane - July 19 2008 @ 6:18 pm Tony- I've enjoyed your surly brand of gourmand expertise for some time. Thanks for making us all a little braver to try new things and go new places, even if it's right in our own hometown. Also- I had to totally dirty dream about you and pterodactyl as a food source. Weird. Can someone please get that whiny vegan above me a flank steak? She's obviously protein starved.
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    joe luca - July 20 2008 @ 4:47 pm Is there any link to find recipes Tony enjoys on his travels? I'm particularly interested in finding the recipe for the shrimp dish he ate at the beginning of the show with the chef. Any recommendations would be appreciated.
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    Chef Flynn - July 20 2008 @ 5:55 pm Tony, I am a fellow Ex-Chef, also aging (49) loved your books and your shows too. Columbia looks fantastic. I do appreciate your sensibilities and straight forward view on things. I got a beef with you about the tortuga man. Come on not the endangered turtles? Keep loving and eating! Steve
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    Phuong Royce-Nguyen - July 20 2008 @ 6:11 pm Hi, my name is Phuong Royce. I've been over here in the United States for about 36 years from Vietnam. I've seen your episode when you went to Vietnam and it reminded me of home. I've been back in 2004 and 2005. I wish people can see what my country has ecomplished from the War. If you do another episode of Vietnam, I want you to visit South Vietnam and see where I was born. I hope I can enter a contest if you ever have one to travel back home with you someday.
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    Carlos A. Arboleda - July 20 2008 @ 6:22 pm Tony, Thank you for showing a different face of Colombia. This was a great show. The food that you ate in Medellín was great, especially the "morcilla". That's good stuff. As Colombians, we do hope people overseas will perceive a different image of our country. We have problems, but we are working hard to improve the living conditions for everybody. Thank you again for going there. It was wonderful to see your program. Regards, Carlos
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    D. Morillo - July 20 2008 @ 6:33 pm WOW, So today on the day of Colombian Independence, my husband (a non Colombian) is sitting on his favorite chair watching Scarface on HBO and I am in the Bedroom and the Mets are pissing me off cause they can't seem to get it together! I turn to the Travel Channel and it's Anthony... IN COLOMBIA??? What a beautiful blog, and thanks by the way for spelling COLOMBIA correctly! I am originally from Cali, Colombia; Cali a city very similar to Medellin also terrorized by their own Cartel-The Cali Cartel. I visited Cali last summer for the first time in 20 years. I was so nervous, not knowing what it was going to be like. As I watched your show I could totally relate to the emotions that were going through your body and soul! The people are amazing the food is unbelievable the country itself is beautiful and the peace that exists today is surreal. I came back with a million stories about Colombia and shared them with whoever would lend an ear. I feel like many thought my stories were made up. That's why your show is soooo important! Non-Colombians need to know what Colombia is about TODAY! THANK YOU SO MUCH for having the guts to think outside the box by traveling to Colombia. I am glad you had a great time. I knew you would.(Man, take it easy with the aguardiente) AND SO you made my afternoon! The Mets won in the 10th inning, I made my husband watch your show with me(Scarface??? where Colombians are portrayed as butchers- that is so 15 years ago) and we are now planning our trip to Colombia. By the way if you ever want a taste of Colombia in America, make sure to visit Jackson Heights, NY- home to may great Colombian restaurants.
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    R. D. Gardner - July 20 2008 @ 9:30 pm I watched the Colombia show today as well as several others. I watch frequently with great interest. I am a Television Director/Cameramand and have been around for a long time (picking up 30 EMMYs in the process.) I make documentaries among other things and I wanted to say how much I appriciate how well structured your shows are. They are very well shot and edited. You are ok also! I am courious about what format you are now shootng, are you mostly hand held or using steadycam or only sticks. How long are you on location for a show and do you have a producer (s) that go there before you do to set up all the locations or do you "wing" any of it? I am not sure you would be willing to share with me what your rough budget per show would be, but I am slightly curious. Being in San Diego, I travel to Baja a lot and have discovered many very unusual places to eat simple, local delights. I love off the beaten path experiences. I don't know if you have been to Baja before, but if not, feel free to contact me for some ideas. Keep up the great work. Cheers, Bob Gardner Gardner Productions
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    MC - July 20 2008 @ 9:42 pm Just got a chance to see the Colombia show today, and it was easily one of the best episodes you've ever done. What you describe in the blog entry is exactly the vibe I got from the show. Keep up the good work.
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    Maritza - July 21 2008 @ 12:58 pm THANK YOU!!! for traveling to Colombia. I was always bummed that no one would dare travel to Colombia to show the richness of our land. I loved the show - I felt proud. Obviously, the show is not long enough to display the wonderful cuisine of the other regions of Colombia, but I was happy to see that you enjoyed our food and had positive things to say. I hope you find reason to go back and make another show :)
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    Richard Hendriks - July 21 2008 @ 1:00 pm Love your show, but having seen the freeing of hostages recently, I am reluctant to venture down that way, no matter what!
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    Estella - July 21 2008 @ 3:23 pm Dear Anthony, what you and your team did with the show about Colombia, specially Medellin, was founderful!!!I do not know about others, but I can truly say, that in twenty four years that I have been living in this amazing country you are the first american that touched my soul. I cried with your imagines, you made me remember how dear is my land is to me and how generous my people are. Gracias y que el Senor lo vendiga.
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    Nestor Esparragoza - July 21 2008 @ 4:41 pm Mr Bourdian, You have managed to make me cry siting in from on my TV while my mother looked on trying to understand what the tall man on the screen was saying. The segment on Medellin was priceless (I'm from Cartagena) the piece on "las comunas" of Medellin touch me deeply . It showed the human side and the nonbreakable nature of the human spirit and its capacity to do good even in the depths of poverty. We, the Colombian people, owe you one Thank you Sr.
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    Carmen - July 21 2008 @ 7:05 pm I agree with Martha's post from July 11th...so much so that I recommend Tony for sainthood in my own blog http://socialclarity.wordpress.com. Keep it up, Tony! You ROCK!
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    Ana Maria Garces - July 21 2008 @ 7:51 pm Finally Anthony Bourdain in Colombia!!! I was so happy to see that you traveled to my beautiful country. However, I was ECSTATIC to see that you went to my Medellin, the city of eternal spring. I loved this episode most of all because you traveled to places that most people would not even look at. You captured the true joy, spirit, and pride of the “Paisas”. It is a gorgeous country with spectacular mountain views and wonderful food and people. Thank you for showing the world that there is a hidden gem in South America called Colombia! Buen provecho.
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    Jackie - July 21 2008 @ 8:33 pm I am so happy that you have traveled to a Latin American county. As a huge fan of traveling, Spanish, and all countries south of the Rio Grande, I can't wait to see more episodes from this region of the country. Perhaps you should embark upon Puebla, México and its one of a kind mole. I just returned from studying abroad there and I think the street food and distinct cultural mix of indigenous life meets Spanish conquest would make you peek your interest. Buen provecho en Colombia!
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    Jackie - July 21 2008 @ 8:36 pm PS: I plan on living/studying in Costa Rica for six months and then afterwards backpacking Central and South America. Perhaps you could give me a preview of the food I will eat.
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    Alvaro Martinez - July 22 2008 @ 12:18 am Tony, So yesterday July 20 we (150 of us) met to celebrate independence day in Corpus Christi, Texas. We marched around the beautiful cathedral of my adopted hometown at the same time that millions of Colombians were doing the same back in Colombia and around the world. We were so happy to celebrate the freedom of those 12 Colombians and 3 Americans and simultaneously manifesting our hope for the liberation of the rest still in the terrible hands of the guerrilla. More than hope we have the same certainty that Tony felt in Colombia that my country is in a historic turning point for the best. We completed the celebration with Colombian food cooked by all these Colombians in South Texas from pataconas to arepas and empanadas. Aguardiente came later (not allowed in the social center of the cathedral). No Reservations in Colombia, which we watched last week, provided additional motivation we couldn't believe the joy of Tony sharing food and drinks with our people during his visit. We felt some envy of not being there and I guess we are all looking forward to our next visit to our beautiful country. Thanks Tony, you really captured the soul of Colombia.
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    Larry Mensah - July 22 2008 @ 12:27 am I am traveling to Cartagena for Labor. Any suggestion on thinks to see or places to go? I am also considering a 1-2 day trip to Cali and Bariquilla.
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    Thomas - July 22 2008 @ 12:41 pm Ever since my parents gave me a signed copy of your first book I have been a HUGE fan of yours. In general I have been a fanatic of good foods, making always the best efforts to eat at big named places and dirt cheap eats. I have followed your show through the years and have always been impressed not only by your willingness to eat the unthinkable, but also your ability to be humble. Your note on Colombia hit a very deep and personal place. Having been born in Bogota, lived there a great deal of my life, I have come to see how much my country has changed. It was AMAZING to see how beautifully you portrayed our country to be as well as our people. Many thanks, your blogging words on Colombia are one more sign that we are headed in the right direction despite such a long history of backward steps! Regards Thomas
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    Laura - July 22 2008 @ 5:30 pm When my family heard on the travel channel that you were going to Colombia, we were ever so thrilled for you to be visiting Colombia, and especially Cartagena; both of my parents are from Cartagena, and have visited Medellin. By far you have done a superb job on showing Colombia, and my family was very happy you enjoyed the wonderful food and hospitality of the Colombian people. And also showing the history to your audiences' that Colombia isn't the country thats lost all hope, instead have a bright future, and welcoming nature.
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    Annonymous - July 25 2008 @ 1:53 am WHERES THE CHIGUIRO?!?!?!? LMAO jajaja aka the Capybara.... indigenous animal looks like a giant guinea pig and tastes like some awesome chicken .... I'm so surprised they didn't eat any on the show....of course its not a typical thing to eat only at festivals and such really... they probably didn't want to make you uncomfortable...Colombian hospitality you know ...guests are really important....Viva Colombia!!!!!!
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    NATALIA RICO - July 26 2008 @ 12:43 pm QUE HARE PARA ENAMORARTE IS THE RESTAURANT IN MEDELLIN. TELEFHONE: 5420011 OR CEL 316 7414458 E MAIL: WWW.AREPAMOR.COM IT IS LOCATED ON THE WAY TO EL RETIRO ANTIOQUIA! QUE VIVA COLOMBIA!!!
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    Alejandro Arango - July 26 2008 @ 8:52 pm Thank you very mucho Tony for coming to Colombia. As some people say, The only risk of coming to Colombia is falling in love with it. The bad guys that have staind our reputation throughout the world during the last 20 years are but a mere insignificant percentage of the people of my country. You My friend, have made more than an incredible TV show. You have made justice, and as a Colombian I applaude you and your crew. You will always be welcome here and I hope you do come here again, because there are a lot of hidden wonderful places still to be discovered, and lots of wild mind-blowing meals only a true adventurer like yourself will be willing to try!
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    Juan Carlos Villaveces - July 27 2008 @ 2:48 pm First of all, thank you for stepping forward and going to Colombia. My mother Cecilia, watched in dissapointing horror, how your show protrayed Colombia. When she was just married at 18 she moved to Aracataca to live with the land. She sculpted a clay oven with her bare hands and sold the fresh bread at the train station. She farmed and raised 5 boys for 25 years in a ridiculous cornucopia of food and culture that was and is Colombia. We would travel around Colombia to be marveled by people and the freshest most delicious food. We would end up in in Casa Vieja, a restaurant in Bogota, that celebrated most of the typical traditional Colombian dishes. The owner, my mother's mother, Julia Mora de Duran, personally went to the public market every morning for the expert hands of the elders who ran the kitchen. This is how I grew up,in this Garden of Eden. In my back yard of the Sierra de Santa Marta we felt the echoes of colonialism by another wave of senseless greed and violence permeated from an outside influence upon the locals. First when the natives were paid with bullets for the marijuana crops, nobody cared. Not until the bullets come to you do you see the result of the war on drugs. (This is a civil war against the people. People need to see this connection- drugs need to be legalized. The FARC/Escobar/Gangs/Police-DEA/etc are all fed by this.) Luckily for us we were in the frontlines and had the means to flee. I ended up at the Atlanta College of Art and like Bordain enjoying another cornucopia of drugs coloring our artistic existence. My mother, Cecilia Duran de Villaveces, just like her mother widowed and without income, started a bakery that became legendary and proud element of Athens Ga. We have always had a hard time convincing people that there is a lot more to Colombians than drugs. I have hope that globalization- the internet will show our intricate lives. (Because of the internet my music was chosen to be background music for the Bordain show). Sadly, I think my mom missed part of the point of the show. It's impossible to show such diversity in half an hour. She is also a person, like Bordain, with insights not available to the average person. But, others need to pick up the baton. And as Bordain commented...The people are willing to bring you inside. WE need to get out of our own stereotypical views and see people for what they really are-people. Now I have a hard time convincing people around the world about americans and their food- Not everyone eats at McDonalds. In the US i have met africans that shared their collard greens and thier church, native americans that have shared their corn and their sweat lodge, Morrocans that shared their bread and tea ceremony, Japanese that shared thir home and sushi...Even in the humilliating circumstances that they have grown up in. All you have to do is look a little deeper. We all have the same in common we want to share our food and our story. Don't be scared of life. Taste it for your self. Celebrate our diferences.
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    Juan Carlos Villaveces - July 27 2008 @ 10:38 pm Oh, yes I forgot... I thought the turtle and drunk ordinary chicken where unnecessary (they missed the iguana eggs, tigers, and monkeys most of which are about extinct) I can see the tourists looking for this...I prefer to force feed my chicken 16 year scotch! I wonder what would happen if I created a dish of american bald eagle? "If you are lucky you can get some eggs too. You give the bald eagle an intravenous speedball and watch it convulse into the pot. After you finish the left over speedball, you can..." Maybe we just have to stand aside and weep. Then celebrate and kill something else and eat it. When is the show going to visit and eat with the cannibals?
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    Pablo - July 28 2008 @ 9:19 am Anthony: First of all, thank you for your very positive comments about our beautiful country, Colombia. We certainly need all the good press we can get! I have seen short segments of your trips to Medellin and Cartagena... wonderful show. I have been out of Colombia for over 6 months, and watching you having one of the most typical Colombian breakfasts, the "calentado" has made me feel homesick... Thanks again for your visit, and we hope it is not the only one... You still have to explore much more of Colombia's rich culture and food... Gracias y hasta pronto!
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    Diana - July 29 2008 @ 9:34 pm i love your show thanks for visiting colombia
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    Alexa - July 31 2008 @ 9:29 pm Quiubo mi gente! I was so happy and proud to see this episode in Colombia! I'm from Cali and most of my family lives in Medellin. It brought me back a lot, how lovely this area as evolved. Viva Colombia! Next time take a trip through Cali, you will not want to leave! Colombia que linda eres!
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    johanna - August 01 2008 @ 12:36 pm Finally someone from the travel channel decided to visit my beatifull country. I'm from Medellin Colombia, and I was so excited and proud to see how you enjoyed and showed the world that Colombia is a great place to visit, and despite of the bad news it still has great people who believe in peace and love. I love how you show both sides, the poor and the rich, that is the reality that is exactly how cultures should be discovered and shown. Thank you so much, for visitin Medellin, and keep up with your great work
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    Isabel - August 04 2008 @ 6:59 pm THANKS FOR COMMING!!! ANTHONNY. Dont forget us, We will never forget u!! Medellin is very exceited for your visit
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    Rick Rork - August 05 2008 @ 8:24 pm I have been to this wonderful country. I spent two weeks in Medellin, Bogata, Santa Fe, San Antonio, and Melgar. I am so glad that you saw the same thing that I did. A wonderful, proud people who have lived through the dark days and are now so full of life and hope for the future. The young people there are so amazing. And the food!!!! What can I say. You just have to experience it.
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    RIck Rork - August 05 2008 @ 8:27 pm P.S. Did they take you to Mango's?
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    Andrew - August 07 2008 @ 5:32 am Tony, I appreciate your sensibilities, your opinions, and your experience (not to mention your wry and laconic sense of humor). Still, I don't know how you managed to keep from jumping Andrés' wife (the blonde with dark-brown eyes) in this episode. Yowza!
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    Juan Carlos - August 08 2008 @ 5:59 am Been away from home and at the same time hear what really Colombia is all about makes you proud. I'm a Colombian living in South Africa part of a team of Colombians designing an airport for the next soccer world cup. Colombia and Colombians is more than only food but thats an excellent start. thumbs up for that article. You should try Ajiaco.
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    chino metal - August 12 2008 @ 8:55 am Tony, I'm currently living down under and it takes time for the news to reach this part of the world :) I've been watching some of the bits of your show about Colombia, really great stuff! and as someone said above, great that you had the BALLS OF STEEL to make it there! Colombia is like any other place in the world, with the good and the bad, and I think that you are aware that you barely scratched the surface of what the country has to offer. go back in December, try the great christmas food...natilla, bunuelos and hojuelas ... empanadas, chorizo, chicharron, arepa de chocolo, chuzo, chunchurria, tamal, arepa de huevo, patacon, hogao, lechona, ... and obviously Aguardiente! ....hmmmmm! Enjoy!
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    Filip Pelgrims - August 12 2008 @ 9:17 am I agree 100%, I have recently published a guest post from an australian friend living in Colombia on my blog.Similarly, it describes Colombia and Bogota, in a very different way than the media many times depict Colombia. well done!
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    Erika - August 12 2008 @ 5:01 pm Tony, is very important to us, that people arround the world know that Colombia is a beutiful country, where people live happy and in peace, that we are so proud of our history,and to live in this paradise, thanks for coming, because through your program you showed the entire world the real Colombia. I hope you come back soon.
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    Juan Esteban - August 15 2008 @ 12:35 am I am from Medellin Colombia and i want to thank you for coming to our city and showing people all over that what they see about us and about our city in the news is nothing but a bunch of lies from ignorant people that have absolutely zero actual information. feel welcome to come to Medellin
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    Natalia Ulloa - August 15 2008 @ 4:19 pm You´re so right about colombian pride! I was so proud to see you come to my country! i had been waiting forever! you´re welcome back any time, Tony! Next time you have to go to Santander!!
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    patricia - August 19 2008 @ 9:42 pm Mr Bourdain talks about the pride of the people who were filmed while the making of the program here in Colombia. But imagine the pride as a colombian woman to see my country being praised and well spoken of abroad. I feel proud of being Colombian, because this is the best place on earth to live. By the way, Mr Bourdain arrives to Bogotá by these days, I hope he makes a program of my nice and cold city.
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    Julius - August 19 2008 @ 11:00 pm Tony, I am a Colombian now living in USA, I can sincerely tell you you did a beautiful job. Thanks for appreciating what is real and great about my country, the people. The food is only second to the greatness of our people. You just experienced a little piece of our land and I hope you come back soon because you are just getting started. PS: I love America, but how can I forget about a big Bandeja Paisa.
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    andy kanner - August 20 2008 @ 10:20 am hey there I'm really offended with this episode 'cause I know Colombia entirely and it is not what you show there. There are many beautiful places, people and hundreds of plates you never talked about. Colombia is not Pablo Escobar, Colombia is not Ingrid Betancourt and colombia never will be the FARC. You should go back there and try to know the beautiful towns of Santander state, or the Llanos orientales, or go to the caribbean coast to show what Colombia really is: A REAL FREE COUNTRY!!! There live happy people like brazilians,they got fruits like no other country in the world, they make music like you have neve hear and is one of the richest cultures inthe world!!
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    Ramiro - August 24 2008 @ 8:39 pm Couldn't help tears from my eyes. I really love my country and is good to feel the appreciation from foreigners too! Thanks for this well done episode. We hope to have you in Bogotá someday.
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    James - September 01 2008 @ 9:51 pm I must be getting sentimental in my old age of...36! The portion of the show where Anthony was in the poor barrios of Medellin brought out emotions in me that I didn't even realize I had. Great show Bourdain!
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    Jeremy Hodges - September 02 2008 @ 2:24 am Mr. Bourdain, Just when I thought you couldn't come up with a better trip/show you give us the Colombia episode. Can't start to tell you how seduced I am to Cartgenia and Medellin. I've heard nothing but good stuff from Colombia lately, specially from that great president they have in Uribe. So thanks to you sir for opening my eyes even more about the magnificient qualities of this south american gem, can't wait to get my teeth around one of those checharons and wash them down with some aguardiente. Your show is simply the best TV there is.
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    Gary - September 04 2008 @ 3:28 am You travel just about as much as I do. For me it is 70 countries, with pictures. My question is what do you do about Las Chicas? I have List in most of places to go to. Going to Colombia soon. Any other of your secret places you want to and would add to our single Mens List, Or some are on fishing trips. If you want more info for your next travel Adventures I have over 10 Lists for 70 countries. You must be getting tried of just drinking and eating? I have been too Argentina every year since 2000. Gary
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    Andrea - September 06 2008 @ 6:25 pm Mr. Bourdain: Your program is so damn good, I've been following it for weeks. And when I saw the episode made in Colombia, tears came to my eyes. I'm 100% Colombian, living in Bogotá, and loving this country every second of my life. I'm glad you loved this country as much as many others do. Especially because you've basically turned into an 'amb&%$ador' of our country's culture to the world. I hope that if you ever come back to Colombia, you may discover it in its entirety. 440,839 square miles of treasure await for those who have fallen in love with this place (and honest to God I've seen Americans fall like that with this country). May you have a wondrous life. As wondrous as it already is.
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    best discount Bermuda cruise - September 07 2008 @ 11:35 pm As a globetrotter, I am particular about places that I want to go. I want to visit Colombia too! I've read the whoole article and the rest is pretty good!keep it up
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    Matt Cruz - September 08 2008 @ 1:24 am You know... I let it slip with the bloggers because I figured some just don't know better but TONY... Get your producers to spell things right on the show! I'm watching Episode 91 - "So Long Summer" and there is a clip from the trip to COLOMBIA... Your guys spelled it Columbia.
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    Alejo - September 11 2008 @ 12:37 am Todos los Colombianos nos sentimos hoy muy orgullosos por nuestra patria. Este pais lleno de cosas hermosas, paisajes ciudades y su gente. Es un verdadero tesoro escondido y por estos dias esta siendo re descubierto. Todos estan invitados a Colombia, un pais lleno de gente buena y echada pa lante! All We Colombians feel very proud of our country. Colombia is place full of beautiful things, landscapes, cities, and our people. It is really a hide treasure that today days is being rediscovered. All you people is pleasantly invited to COLOMBIA, a Country with many, many good people. Finally just for Anthony, I want to say that I'm very glad that you have decided to visit our country, and It have a really very significant meaning for us Colombians, specially because We are today fighting against the prejudice about us! Thank you so much and I hope to now that you had come again to Colombia, specially to my city Cali, come and try our foods! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXtvGsYS0UM
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    timothy-patrick - September 16 2008 @ 11:36 pm I really want a list of some of those ingredients in some of those soups you were making... It was like coconut milk, sugar, peppers, fish, those quarters of corn cobs... Not the one with the guys on the roof, one you had along the way... And what were those things called that were like pancakes with the sweet cheese on the inside? Those looked delicious. If anyone could help out, I'm looking to go get and just add some of those ingredients and make something for fun.. Thanks. Love your show by the way
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    Annonymous - September 17 2008 @ 1:27 am Mi quierdo Tony, Thanks for doing such a wonderful show about my beautiful country of Colombia. As a proud girl from the coastal gem city of Cartagena, you did me proud, man. You showcased my colorful streets/balconies, the beaches, food and most of all the people!!You traveled to Medellin, where many dared not travel, but you did. And what did you find? A piece of Colombian heaven. Being in Medellin is defintely the face of Colombia. We are proud people and with good reason. Our country is safe, beautiful, plentiful and full of exotic, adventurous food. I'm glad you and your crew enjoyed yourselves. Cheers...
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    World Motel - September 18 2008 @ 2:27 am your blog is providing good info on tr avelling places. For more info on motels click motel.
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    boof - September 18 2008 @ 5:20 pm Does anyone remember the name of the white rum that was served in the Columbian retaurant during the 9/16 episode?
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    OCTAVIO DIAZ - September 21 2008 @ 7:00 pm I'm going to Medellin in Nov and i want to go to this restaurant to eat but can anybody tell me the name of the barrio or neighborhood. if anybody does can you please let me know thank you very much.
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    Andrew Campion - October 12 2008 @ 8:43 pm

    Thanks Tony for bringing Medellin to the attention of the outside world for all the right reasons. Hopefully you have encouraged more travellers, and more travel shows to come pay us a visit.

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    marlene - October 13 2008 @ 2:26 pm

    I live in Montana, I look forward to watching your show.
    one of these daysm you will to arrive when we are eating
    rattle snakes and rocky mountain organs...
    Again, thanks for bringing into our homes the places you
    have traveled and their food

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    johan david - October 27 2008 @ 2:07 pm

    this is the big great show iloved this program and anthony is the better.
    congratulations anthony.

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    Jim Caspary - October 27 2008 @ 7:25 pm

    During the past year I have met a wonderful woman from Bogota, visited this wonderful city and in August we were married in Bogota. When I watch your show on Columbia it brings me back every time to this beautiful country, so misunderstood yet slowly the world is seeing the true Columbia. My wife's family has welcomed me with open arms and everywhere I go I am greeted with smiles and warmth. Bogota is an amazing, vibrant city and learning about the food has been a great experience. Your show captured the true heart of Columbia, it's people and the transformation that has taken place there. Mostly I am suprised at how what I have experienced there has altered my view of America and how sheltered and shallow we are as a country. Columbia is real, honest, passionate and it's people are it's real treasure. Thank you so much for doing this show, now you need to do one on Bogota. My wife who was born in the country outside of Bogota and has lived there for much of her life and I would love to be your host.

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    Victoria - November 10 2008 @ 11:27 pm

    Thank you so much for your positive comments. you are great, God bless you.

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    Fabien - November 17 2008 @ 12:21 pm

    Colombia is indeed a great country and Colombians are fantastic people. Don't believe everything you hear about how great it is that the army is killing "bad guys", though. Being smart and well-travelled you should know things can't be that simple. Read http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/11/04/AR2008110403600.html for a start.

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    chat - November 18 2008 @ 8:34 pm

    Thanks

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    jordan - November 28 2008 @ 12:47 pm

    Next time pick up different point of view about the situation of Colombia. The girl with name Camila her husband and a third girl that I don't remember her name, where obviously
    bias. The president of Colombia violet more human rights then any other president in the history of this country, the places that the travel channel visit in the comunas of Medellin are been investigate right now because thy are full of mass graves, the mafia is has more power then ever, the killing of poor community members is also in escalate. shame on you, what happen the poor victims are not important or what?

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    Carolina - December 02 2008 @ 9:19 pm

    I'm from Colombia, from the north coast (Barranquilla) but living in USA. I'm so excited that you went to my country! I can't wait to watch this episode! A friend from Tonga, who works with me just told me about it today. I know your show and I love it! I hope you go back, but to my city. Our food and culture are very diverse, you will love it!!!

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    Jose Alberto Suarez - December 02 2008 @ 11:24 pm

    Born in Cuba and married a paisa in 2001, have been in this country for almost 30 years, My first trip to Medellin, Colombia in 2002 fell in love from the moment I step down from the airplane, Since then I go to Medellin 2 times a year, FERIA DE fLORES AND NAVIDADES, sometimes 3 , But I believe that Antonio missed a lot of goods places from Medellin. I HOPE SOMEDAY I COULD GO BACK AND RETIRE IN MEDELLIN. LA CIUDAD DE LA ETERNA PRIMAVERA

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    Jose Alberto Suarez - December 02 2008 @ 11:33 pm

    Anthony if you get this message before December 25 of 2008 writte me I will be in Medallo till January I'm certain that I can show you a better side of Medellin than eating sancocho on a rooftop of Building

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    Jose Alberto Suarez - December 02 2008 @ 11:45 pm

    !!!!!!VIVA COLOMBIA!!!!!!!

    !!JOEPUCHA!!

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    Carolina - December 16 2008 @ 7:20 pm

    Anthony, thank you so much for a great show. I am Colombian myself and I am proud to see a positive, flattering yet real side of my country. I love your ability to relate, your sincerity and lack of pretentiousness. I also loved your show on Mexico and your support for the Latin community. Way to go, congratulations for a well done show!!! Saludos!!! Carolina

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    lee - December 17 2008 @ 8:59 pm

    i enjoy anthony so much, he is a more life like person than any one on travel.he seems to enjoy every body he meets.and is more like a regular person, i can relate to that, some of the food people are more like pigs.yayayaya.. he enjoys it a a slower pace.. i like that , ive been dwon to colombia to assist this lady who helps the poor children.and am going back soon tto check on her.and the colombian people were so friendly.all over the place. i went to villavicenceo across the andes.and it was so lovely.and stayed in bogota , for some days.the family i stayed with it cost me nothing, they were so grand..most all colombia people are so sweet.anthony you do so good a show,,its so enjoyable....go back to colombia and get out in the country...the road side open giant steak house.out of villavicenceo is the greatest...a steak as big as a platter..wonderful food. .its great...thank you anthony for a very good program.....when so much junk is on t.v. your show is one of the best..

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    Daniel - December 21 2008 @ 10:06 pm

    Not only a "Vacation Wonderland". for me, as a Colombian living temporarily in the UK, Colombia is PARADISE !!!

    Thanks Anthony

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    Greg - December 22 2008 @ 9:15 pm

    I had never been the least interested in seeing Colombia before this episode. Now, I'd like to visit, including Medellin. But what was the name of that restaurant in the mountains where the owner is doing such brilliant things with traditional Colombian food? I can't catch the name of the place, and I'd like to find it. I intend to go there someday, God willing.

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    makopp5 - December 27 2008 @ 10:53 pm

    Hi Greg,

    here the restaurant you are looking for:

    Queareparaenamorarte http://www.arepamor.com/ On the road from Medellin to El Retiro, this restaurant has the best of the local cuisine. The owner has done extensive research of the typical Colombian flavours and culinary traditions, and as a result the menu has a variety of starters and main courses including chorizos, empanadas and beans with different types of picantes and side dishes. To get there, take a bus ($2) to El Retiro from Centro Comercial San Diego and get off at Partidas de la Fe, also known as la Y de la Fe. Main courses range from $10 to $15. It was featured on Anthony Bourdain's "No Reservations" on the Travel Channel.

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    VALENTINA - December 29 2008 @ 5:59 pm

    I have seen your show since the very first episode. I have seen you travel the world over. And for that You have y respect, however, my admiration was won when you dared to go where neither zimmern, nor brown EVER dared. COLOMBIA. My country. I was full of pride when I saw my favorite chef, and author, travel trough my humble colombia with no expectations, maybe even with some reservatons, and leave in awe of what we truly are. I think that you should re-visit colombia in another episode and go to La Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, the world's highes coastal range. Or maybe visit Los Llanos Orientales and try the Ternera a La Llanera. Go to Armenia, Quindio and visit El parque del Cafe, and try some coffee-made goodies. As I am sure you see, I am a proud Colombian, and you my friend are now a Colombian at heart. Who can help but to fall in love with such beauty? KUDOS ANTHONY!!!

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    Maria - January 02 2009 @ 1:17 am

    This episode was terible! Im Colombian and I am embaressed about this.... it was not at all what colombia is all about. Medellin IS infact very beautifull but the people you chose to interpret it were terrible they didnt know anything. You should plan on revisiting and looking into going to bogota and all its wonderfull restaurants. The "ajiaco" you had wasnt even real and that "rapper wannabe" wasnt even a real chef. They dont represent the real Colombia, neither do I. Real colombian people, with real pride should have led your program not those random persons that didnt even know what they were saying. Im truly dissapointed in this im a true colombian at heart and you mainky fcoused on the "guerilla" not cool.

    i hope you do better next time :-(

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    juan - January 02 2009 @ 5:27 am

    so, what about the most wonderful city in colombia and south america, bogota, if you like medellin, sure it's good but, come and look Bogota and its cousine

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    Rocio - January 02 2009 @ 4:49 pm

    You did an amazing job at showing the real people and food of Colombia. Anybody can go to the luxury hotels, and interview the elite. Looking beyond that takes a little more work and a a lot more passion. You succeed at both.
    Keep it coming.
    Rocio

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    tala karınca yumurtası yağı - January 02 2009 @ 8:24 pm

    good
    karınca yumurtası, tala, tala yağı, karınca yumurtası satış

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    Henry - January 03 2009 @ 2:19 pm

    Would like to know why Mr. Bourdain hates SWITZERLAND so much! By the way, I was born in Mierdellin, Col. of Swiss parents.

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    Mary - January 19 2009 @ 10:41 pm

    It is pretty cool to see that some people realize that Colombia is more than narcos and guerrila. Ha, i am colombian and i was living in Buenos Aires almost 2 years. Working like a waitress i had to listened the wrong idea that some foreigners have about Colombia, they were afraid to go!. So, thanks Anthony to "take the great risk" to travel here. I hope you have tried arepas, chocolate and platanos con hogao. They are the best!!!. I hope to see the episode.
    Peace

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    Raquel - January 20 2009 @ 9:54 pm

    I feel bad that i missed the episode on Colombia. A friend just told me about it. Will it air again????? I wouldn't miss it for the world.

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    Armando - January 25 2009 @ 10:32 pm

    Does anyone know where I can get this episode of Colombia on DVD?

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    peter - January 27 2009 @ 3:55 pm

    Hi!
    im german-hungarian and loving Colombia too!

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    GringoPaisano - January 27 2009 @ 5:04 pm

    Karenology.. Colombia is NOT,NOT,NOT, a third world country.. And, most families would refuse compensation for showing someone their city/country....

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    Juan Carlos Salazar - January 27 2009 @ 5:57 pm

    THANK YOU FOR SHOWING THIS TRUTH ABOUT COLOMBIA!!!

    I liked your show before; now I'm your biggest fan.

    Thank you Anthony, again and again!!

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    Andrew - January 28 2009 @ 1:44 am

    Can't wait to visit Colombia, looks really cool !!!

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    Lina Castilla - January 28 2009 @ 9:06 am

    Anthony, dont know if you got the chanve to visit Cartagena while in colombia, its a small but warm city near the coast, where the food its amazing, the colors, people, the history and so much more to come and see!! A very nice place to live and visit!!

    Anyways hope you get the chance to come, and thanks for showing people from all over the world that we are not all bad as the news may show! and that we have a wonderfull and beautiful coutry, every foreinger thats has the chance to come to Colombia, they just want to stay for longer!!!

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    Got Largo? - January 28 2009 @ 9:29 am

    Thank you for writing articles like this and show a better point of view of my country !

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    David - January 28 2009 @ 5:05 pm

    Glad u found Colombia. It is the jewel of forgotten worlds. Drugs and girls for all to see, just a few dollars and pesos for all to live

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    Janeth - January 31 2009 @ 7:56 pm

    Just to add some other words. Was great seeing that you went to COlombia! I went to Winnipeg to see you and bought your book and I was very amazed to hear that Colombia was the country that you were looking for to visiting the most. From all the shows I have seeing about Colombia yours was diferent and you didn't emphazised so much about drugs and cartels which was great. I'm glad you showed to the world that Colombia is also about food, people and beautiful places.
    By the way I felt really jealous seeing you eating all that delicous food.
    Anthony congrats!

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    Leo Morales - February 02 2009 @ 4:52 pm

    Cmo se llama el dueo de Quehareparaenamorarte?
    gracias

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    Raul - February 05 2009 @ 4:09 am

    Anthony im a Big fan of your show. Let me tell you it was about time you come to Colombia, I have one question, why don't you drink coffe?, you were very close to the Cafetales in Armenia & Pereira where the best coffe in the world is made. It's also a shame that you didn't come to known other beautiful cities and taste such a great food in other departments such as Valle, Meta, Choc and Nario. Every department in Colombia are like different Countries by themselves in food matters. Anyway thanks so much for visit us, I hope you come back soon.

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    Ricardo - February 09 2009 @ 5:08 pm

    This was such a great episode. I am a gringo from the States and have been going back and back to Brasil since 2001 and am an addict of sorts. But my next trip will be to Colombia and Brasil will have to wait. I have already lined up a couple of sweet chicas to show me around. They seem so cool and friendly.

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    cheap prom - February 11 2009 @ 5:17 pm

    I never find this story, Thanks for it

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    daniel v - February 18 2009 @ 11:16 am

    hi..!!! i want to thank you how well u showed my country..!!! i'm from colombia..and im glad that people started to look colombia in a new way, is not just drugs and killing people all the time, and recommend people to go to colombia its a beautiful country full of flavor, culture, and hot girls..thank you again Anthony Bourdain..all i can say is enjoy...!!! bye any question about colombia let me know = danielval_92@hotmail.com
    hoo and is COLOMBIA not COLUMBIA..!!!!!

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    oops - February 23 2009 @ 9:18 am

    im glad you saw in medellin what i did. im a gringa that fell in love with medellin, found a job and is currently living la vida paisa down here. to all of you who are now planning on traveling to colombia, especially medellin, beware that you may just wind up falling in love and moving down here yourselves. you have now been warned.

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    Sujan Patricia - March 02 2009 @ 12:50 am

    While I was on vacation in Colombia last fall, I was touring the country with my dad. It was a wonderful experience to be alone with him in the car driving through my beautiful country, talking about anything and everything. While in one of our conversations I made some statements about the internal struggle I have lived all my life; as a Colombian immigrant child.

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    dantes - March 03 2009 @ 11:02 am

    Great show, thanks for coming to Colombia, I loved your show Mr. Bourdain.

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    Will Faddis - March 03 2009 @ 3:22 pm

    Mr. Bourdain, your episode on Columbia was yet another great show! As a major fan, I have seen most of your shows and I've noticed you haven't done an episode in Costa Rica.. After living there on and off for the past 5 years, I have learned that this country and its culture has an incredible amount to offer. Please find time to visit Costa Rica for a future episode!!

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    Rocio - March 05 2009 @ 9:49 pm

    Thanks for helping us show the real Colombia to the world!!

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    Diego - March 09 2009 @ 5:22 pm

    As a Colombian, it was nice to watch the Colombia episode, though not a typical picture-perfect spots tourist-focused show, you've achieved to show a small piece of Colombia as-is; still, a lot of room for follow-up episodes and therefore to consider other Colombian regions and "cuisines" to visit than Cartagena and Medellin. One thing everybody can truly claim about every Colombian is the fact of us being as the best hosts as we can possibly try; dont know why, but we love foreigners and somehow our pride is fed up when someone coming from outside our borders says that Colombia is indeed a nice place to visit. Any foreigner wanting to stay at Colombia is an achievement for us.

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    PaisaTours.com - March 12 2009 @ 2:14 pm

    Great to see Colombia being promoted as a travel destination. The country really does have it all!

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    brian - March 15 2009 @ 2:14 am

    I love the show that you did Tony. I have been to medellin and have a girlfriend there now. i go to see her now about 2 times a month and love every minute of it.

    I would like to Welcome anyone to come with me to Medellin Colombia. We can show any one a great time and the only regret you will have is having to leave. I will Promise you this.Brianacw@gmail.com

  358. 358
    Ellie - March 27 2009 @ 2:47 am

    I am from Cali, but I couldn't have been happier to see my favorite Hedonist hanging out in Cartagena and Medellin. I was freakin' teary-eyed through the whole episode! I live in Iowa with my gringo husband, who lived ten years in my wonderful city and, if it hadn't been for "la situacion", would still be there. We've been here since 1984 and still miss it. Tan lindos los colombianos! (The episode in Tuscany wasn't too shabby, Tony!)

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    L. Lewis - April 07 2009 @ 5:41 pm

    I had never seen your show before, but had the fortune to watch it last week for the first time when you visited Colombia and I was pleasently surprised. Great show. Thank you!

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    Mafe - April 18 2009 @ 12:03 am

    Thanks Anthony for visiting our lovely country COLOMBIA. It was very beautiful to see you there!!! We watch the program today in Australia...touch our hearts!!! We hope you can go back again.

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    Ricardo - April 20 2009 @ 2:22 pm

    Recently got back from Cartagena (plus a few days in Santa Marta) and it was great-it is still truly a hidden gem as far as most tourists go. The historic old walled city is amazing and everything was cool. I ate at La Cevicheria where Anthony started this episode but Jorge wasn't there that night. Stopped by a week later as things were getting busy and he was there and showed him a pic I have of me and a friend with Anthony in Portland Oregon. BTW, La Vitrola is a great restaurant too.

  362. 362
    Martha - May 21 2009 @ 12:34 am

    Anthony:
    Thank you so much for doing this beautiful program about my country, Colombia. I felt vey proud when I saw the program, and my husband, who is an american, read your article about this episode on a flight going to Bogota and came talking about it. Colombia is a wonderful country and has many things to offer to tourists. I hope you return some day and visit Bogota and towns near the city. I have a farm 2 hours and half from Bogota; my family and me would love to take you and your crew there and show you towns like Raquira and Villa de Leiva. I live in Chicago and my friends tease me saying that I am like an embassador because of all the things I say about my country.People here in the United States need to hear good news about Colombia and your program showed a real face of the country, it's people and it's culture. Thank you very much.

  363. 363
    Bogota - May 21 2009 @ 1:23 am

    HOW COME YO DID NOT GO TO THE CAPITAL CITY OF COLOMBIA, BOGOTA!!! I JUST DONT GET IT!

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    Clara - May 22 2009 @ 7:09 pm

    Your kind words on this blog made me teary eyed. Thank you for the courage to visit us beyond the bad press and see our coutry through the heart's eyes .Hope you go back again . Love ...and MIL GRACIAS

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    JGD - May 24 2009 @ 1:39 pm

    I`d like for you to do another piece about other parts of Colombian cuisine. The food´s country is so diverse perhaps due to climate / altitude that you´ll be amazed. So many kinds of arepas, soups and stews, meats, fruits and all the life about cooking / food.
    I offer to host you when in Bucaramanga

  366. 366
    Rome Traveller - May 28 2009 @ 3:56 pm

    Columbia is a wonderful place to travel if you know where you are going and the food is excellent.

  367. 367
    Medellin Apartments - May 29 2009 @ 11:39 am

    Your show has just aired on Colombian television after a long wait. Thank you very much for providing an different point of view on a misunderstood and misrepresented country.

  368. 368
    Sochagota - June 08 2009 @ 6:17 pm

    Anthony always adds significant humour. Great to see him in colombia with its varied regional platos, exotic fruits & aguadiente.

    Marcus Horne / Sochagota

  369. 369
    Nathan Hoover - June 09 2009 @ 1:42 pm

    I just got back from a week in Colombia. My girlfriend and I spent our first three days in the North and Central Bogota, then during the last run of our trip we took a ride to Villa De Leyva, a 16th century historical and very romantic town.

    The hospitality was unbelievable. Aside from the occasional "gringo" and "gringa" that was heard, friendly faces and friendly gestures made the trip an experience of a lifetime.

    I'm late on cathing this episode, but I'll be sure to catch up and check this out. Thanks for your commentary on the progress that the Colombian government and its people are making. It couldn't have been said better.

  370. 370
    Yvonne - June 16 2009 @ 12:28 am

    I'm so happy that Anthony went to Colombia.... ;)
    Our country is BEAUTIFUL.. and its sad that a lot of people have a bad impression of Colombia.
    Anthony you should go to Cali next... You will have a great time for sure... very nice people ...

  371. 371
    Alejandro Angel - June 21 2009 @ 10:09 pm

    congratulations by the program that did in Colombia, so short pity; because it lacked many other regions very different from which knew; but a same essence of people trying to find its own identity

  372. 372
    Carolina - June 28 2009 @ 11:35 am

    hey!! Anthony visit Santiago de Cali, is here in Colombia is another beautiful city.....
    thanks for visit my wonderfull country...
    muakkkkkkkkkkkk

  373. 373
    Bon Freight - July 17 2009 @ 11:43 am

    Colombia is a fascinating country and one which is close to my heart as I went and taught English there for 2 years quite recently. Such poverty but a country rich in culture.

  374. 374
    Symon - July 20 2009 @ 10:44 am

    The Colombia show is one of my favourites to date. It is off the beaten tourist track and for me makes it more interesting to see on your show.

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    Nicole - July 22 2009 @ 7:01 pm

    Hi,

    my name is Nicole and I work in tourism in Colombia. I´m german and I live in Colombia since almost 3 years. It is very important to me that the image of Colombia will change to a good one. I´ve heard from many people about the report of Anthony Bourdain in Colombia but I couldn´t find a link to see the whole show.

    Is there a posibility to see it?

    Muchos saludos
    Nicole

  376. 376
    hank Zakroff - July 22 2009 @ 8:44 pm

    saw your show on colombia this year. inspired me and my friend to visit the country.
    just got back and had an amazing time. great show, great food, great country

  377. 377
    Alonso Garcia - July 29 2009 @ 4:01 am

    As a Conference Interpreter I get to greet many visitors. On their mad rush to take care of business, most of them lack or miss the very thing which makes your work so appealing: a knack to pick the right spots where you get closer to the real town. Places to mingle and places to learn, to see and to be seen. Out of a wide array of places you came to the right spot, to the right town. The world will hear good things about Medellin in the near future. Thanks for helping us get closer to other good peoples of the world. WELCOME TO MEDELLIN

  378. 378
    travesti - August 03 2009 @ 9:23 am

    When you see a real change in the conditions and in the human hearts of a place where just a few short years ago, one neighbor couldn't walk twenty yards over without risking death from another, where drug cartels recruited their murderous young footsoldiers by the hundreds,

  379. 379
    Raul Gallu - August 08 2009 @ 3:43 pm

    It is good to hear something nice, besides killing and drugs, about Colombia. It really is a beautifull country whit nice people and great food.

  380. 380
    Karin - September 16 2009 @ 9:39 pm

    Dear Anthony, thank you SO MUCH for visiting Medellin! I saw that episode and could not believe you had had the swingin' cojones to do it, after all that's been said about our lovely city from afar, it seemed so frightfully narco-dominated and violent. I remember days during the car-bomb orgies where I would hide in the bathroooms of my fancy job on Madison Ave and cry for the family and friends I had left behind, and worry about their very uncertain futures. When the situation started to improve and we elected a President with steel cojones, I wondered who would be the first brave one to reinforce that vision and show the world what we've been through and what we could accomplish and offer the world, who would be the person who would FINALLY show his bravado, and how glad was I to see it was you, my friend.

    Muchas gracias, from the bottom of my heart... and kudos, bravo to you, you have my unwavering attention now, and thanks for showing us that what really matters is our background, our ethnia, our flavors, colors and sounds.

    Fuerte abrazo, another number one fan,
    Karin

  381. 381
    Todd - September 19 2009 @ 7:42 pm

    Dear Anthony, I have to say I was thrilled to see you do a piece on Colombia. My Fiance is from Bogota, and I have travelled to Colombia many times. I am glad your show caputured the changes made there, really the people are warm and friendly, and I feel as safe there as I do in the States. The food is spectacular, I have never eaten better than I do when I am in Colombia, even the Malls food courts in Colombia offer wide range of authentic foods. Thanks Anthony for this spectacular espisode, I have watched it at least 3 seperate times.

  382. 382
    agnesnathania - September 21 2009 @ 8:30 am

    This is one i can share with the rest of my family so they can see why i enjoy watching you so much

    ventrilo servers

  383. 383
    Valeria Dance - September 24 2009 @ 10:55 am

    I have always wanted to travel to South America and your blog made me feel even more inspired. I find it interesting to explore countries from a culinary point of view, as I find that cuisine and the relationship that people have with food reveal a lot about a country. I look forward to seeing your programme on Colombia.

  384. 384
    Valentina - September 24 2009 @ 11:06 am

    I think it is great that in a country like Colombia things are improving. I have been there (I stayed with friends) and loved it and I especially loved the food.

  385. 385
    Sebastian Cole - October 13 2009 @ 1:27 pm

    So it doesn't bother you to be eating an endangered species of turtle and its eggs?! It's something they're been doing for many years, so who are you to argue is the excuse? As long as your show gets good ratings and you get to feed your face, I guess that's all that matters. 'Wouldn't want to offend your host, eh, tough guy?


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Anthony Bourdain

Meet Anthony Bourdain

Anthony Bourdain is a 28-year veteran of professional kitchens, having worked as a dishwasher, line cook and chef in places good, bad and horrible -- most of them in New York City. Read Anthony Bourdain's full biography.


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"No Reservations" dives headfirst into life's colorful and rich pageant. Join Anthony Bourdain as he circumnavigates the globe on his conquest to discover the cities, villages and countries that provide life's truest surprises. Learn more about the show.


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