San Blas and the boat to North America

The San Blas islands: picture perfect.

The San Blas Islands are not the world’s most famous Caribbean islands, but they are probably the best. They are also practically a necessity for anyone wanting to get from South America to North America without flying, which is just what I wanted to do.

Venezuela and the Colombian Caribbean coast

The Caribbean coast as seen from Cartagena, Colombia.

Just one Andean country left. Was it worth the three days of buses? Yes. Absolutely. But I also had to put up with another series of uncomfortable nights on the way back to Colombia in order to make it in time for Christmas.

Colombia

The Frailejónes of the Paramo de Oceta

Another of those countries that everyone has heard of for the wrong reasons. In Colombia’s case it’s the prolonged terrorism of the leftist rebels. Fortunately I didn’t run into any of that; it was just nature – namely rain – that tried to thwart my travel plans.

The Galapagos (and some of Ecuador)

A marine iguana taking in the view on Las Plazas.

I went to the Galapagos. I also went to other places in Ecuador (including prison), but I’m going to talk mostly about the Galapagos. Sorry. (Don’t worry – the prison stuff is all written up!)

The rest of Peru

Ceviche: my new favourite food.

There’s more to Peru than Machu Picchu and lines.