Hostel Trail

Tony & Kim (kept having to check myself saying Tim & Kim): a wee pleasure tae hear some Scots twangs again, rarer than hens' canines in this part of the world. Sister Hostel Caracol's in the heart of downtown, but the Trail suited me better for being closer to the bus terminal, which I used quite a lot: From Cali, halfday trips to Silvia Tuesday market, Coconuco hot springs, an overnight at San Agustin, onwards to Pasto. Very welcoming - MariSol as well - and although it would have been nice to blether with fellow travellers, it was free & easy to pretty much have the run of the roost, all necessary facilities to hand, comfortable and safe (left my big pack for the night I spent in San Ag - no hassle). I could come & go as I pleased, and feel quite at home. No supermercados to hand, but there are a few small shops within a couple of blocks. A couple of blocks more into town is Tequila's, a great value Tex-Mex for burrito & beer: a worthy combo. Lino & Carlos are cracking characters for a chat. If spending a bit more time in La Ciudad Blanca - one of the loveliest in all the Americas - consider snailing it over to Caracol for a night or so. La Amistad will be extended, it has an excellent coffee shop, and you're central to all that's colonial & local (tons of students too).