botanical gardens & el plato del día

The department (or state) of Quindío is located in the central west of Colombia and is known for its coffee plantations, colorful architecture, benign weather, variety of hotel accommodations, and touristic landmarks. On our final two full days there, we visited PANACA and Jardín Botánico de Quindío. I preferred the latter.

Because for as much as much as I do appreciate el campo, and as much as farm animals are adorable (especially Wilbur and his friend, pictured above), I'd rather not spend my entire day learning about agriculture development and domesticated animals. I only find such interesting to an extent. Thank God for farmers.

Instead, I'd like to hike through forests of vibrant green and brilliant flowers. I'd like to hear a variety of  singing birds and see butterflies of each and every color.

But maybe that's just me? :)

Following the botanical gardens, my grandmother, our driver, and I went out to lunch. He took us to such a lovely restaurant overlooking the river and serving typical plates de Quindío. We all ordered el plato del día. For only 8,000 Colombian pesos (or about $3.50) each, this is what we got:

 [Arepas]

 [Sopa del día (pasta soup), frijoles (beans), arroz (rice), platano (plantain), res a la plancha (grilled steak)]

Plus one Club Colombia - Roja for me at a slight additional charge. I tell ya, beer (amber ale, to be exact) is one of many things Colombians know how to do well.

We had such a beautiful and active yet relaxing time in Armenia and the surrounding Quindío area. Next up, Medellín where we drank more coffee, ate more empanadas, and saw more parks. Not to mention that it was the city in which I had my first taste of Colombian nightlife. Stay tuned!