If you love taking colorful photos, consider a trip to Cuba or Colombia. You will have no shortage of photo opportunities. Recently, Highland Meadows residents Laurie and Kelly Steele went on back-to-back trips to Cuba and Colombia…two fascinating countries.

Cuba has long had strained relations with the United States government. Dating back to the 1950s, the U.S. has enacted various sanctions and restrictions due to its connections with Russia and China, among other things. At various times in our history, American citizens have not been allowed to travel to Cuba. This is at the behest of the U.S., not Cuba. Cuba welcomes U.S. citizens with open arms. But at this time, Americans can only travel for specific reasons, including education and service to the people of Cuba.

The Steeles went on a trip to Cuba with a certified travel company that specializes in educational trips to Cuba. They visited Havana and the Viñales Valley. They visited organic farms, tobacco factories, a non-profit music school, and a dance troupe, and they learned from locals about Cuba's history and traditions.

One of Cuba's famous aspects is its nearly 60,000 classic American cars, many of which date from the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. These colorful cars have been meticulously maintained by families through the generations, and it’s not easy, considering they can’t get American auto parts directly from the U.S. Bright blue, pink, and green antique cars can be seen all over the city, and the country…a big source of pride for the locals.

The Steeles deemed the trip a must-see before Cuba loses some of its long-standing traditions and colorful antique cars!

Just a few weeks after returning from Cuba, Kelly and Laurie jetted off to Bogotá, Colombia’s capital city. A massive metropolis with nearly 9 million residents, Bogotá is nestled in the mountains at over 8,000 feet elevation. The historical center is filled with colorful artwork, professional graffiti, and beautiful architecture.

A trip to the top of their local “mountain” named Monserrate is a must for visitors. A short cable ride on a modern “funicular” brings guests to the top of the mountain to visit a beautiful church, colorful gardens and statues, and several restaurants. Not to mention views of the entire city.

From there, the Steeles flew to the coastal city of Cartegena, where they couldn’t get enough of the beautiful, colorful neighborhoods and streets. An old city built within the walls of an ancient fortress, Cartegena is as if “New Orleans and Mazatlán had a baby together,” says Laurie. An energetic party atmosphere, next to the beaches of the Caribbean Sea.

In particular, a neighborhood within the walls of the fortress called Getsemani boasts streets filled with dangling umbrellas, lights, flags, and other colorful adornments, making it a popular nightlife area.

While initially a little skeptical about traveling to both countries, the Steeles felt safe and comfortable everywhere they went. Crime, including pickpocketing and robberies, are well-known in both countries, but the couple were careful not to venture far at night and were very aware of their surroundings. Some aggressive vendors on the beach in Cartegena were the only negative thing they experienced.

English was not spoken frequently in either country, so brushing up on your Spanish and bringing along a Spanish dictionary is recommended. They went in the springtime, and it was hot and humid everywhere they went. U.S. dollars are coveted, so there is no need to exchange much cash, and credit cards are accepted in most places in Colombia. However, American credit cards are rarely accepted in Cuba, and cell service is almost non-existent unless you can find Wifi.

If you are interested in visiting Cuba or Colombia, contact our friends at Andaggio Destinations, sandy@andaggio.com.