The historic neighborhood of La Candelaria in Bogota.

Just outside the La Candelaria neighborhood in Bogota

The last time I was in Bogota I was arrested at the airport by the Interpol, for entering Colombia without a transit visa. But that was then. This time I had my paperwork in order.

Es para usted, German

I could not find Gabo in Bogota. He (Gabriel Garcia Marquez) spends most of his time in Mexico City. But I met with German Escobar Escobar--yes, twice, indicating that he is Escobar both from his father's and mother's sides--at the Platypus Hostel in La Candelaria. German (pronounced Herman) Escobar has lived a life most world travelers would like to live--to be on the road for a decade or more, every time they take some time off. And would like to take a break of a decade or two in between the trips the way German does: by opening up a hostel for travelers.