One of the places that usually, and for good reasons, doesn't get much press is Colombia. Nonetheless, I think that it would make pretty good episode not just because of the foods but also because of Tony's narrative on Colombian hitmen that appears in the novel _Gone Bamboo_. In fact, the introduction is pretty much already written for a segment on Medellin.

It should be noted that Colombia is not nearly as dangerous as it used to be. Medellin is now one of the best clothing manufacturer in South America, and a lot of French companies (Ives St. Laurant and Get are working there). In comparison to other places Tony has visited, like Cambodia, Bogota and Medellin will look like a ritzy golf course.

Also, the country is much safter than it was ten or fifteen years ago when the narcotraffic warlords were running rampant over the country. This background, however, would provide a fine narrative thread to weave a culinary adventure. That is, anxiety about drug trafficing hitmen and the new reality of a country that has become much more stable in the last six years.

Things to focus on. For the most part, the most noteworthy aspect of Colombia is the selection of fruits, most of which never make it to US markets (i.e., Colombian granadilla nothing else like it in the world). Colombians also tend to use the "nasty bits" in their stews and soups. In Medellin, there is a local version of chorizo, which is very good, lots of bean dishes, corn arepas (which are pretty disappointing after hearing Colombians in the US get nostalgic about them), and soups like sancocho and puchero. There are some roadside shanties that make a pretty good fare.

Upscale restaurants in Medellin tend to either focus on local (almost insular foods, i.e., too many corn and starch products) or derivative (i.e., classical cooking), which is very good taking into consideration the freshness of the products. The downside, like a lot of Latin American fare, is that it is common to have combinations of yuca, aracacha, potato, pasta and rice on the same plate in Medellin. However, this could make some good commentary about the need for bran in one's diet.

On the other hand, Bogota, like other world capitals, presents just about anything imaginable. The restaurants are very good. One can get pretty much about anything. People in Bogota also tend to be very stiff and proper.

The coast, around Cartagena, will probably make a fine contrast with Bogota. There is a fresh seafood stew on the coast can be prepared with coconut milk, which is great!

Let me know if you need contacts: jjpancr@msn.com
Saludos,
James