One of the things that struck me most about the thriving, optimistic, marvelously warm and open nature of the place was how profoundly it conflicts with the usual image it has in the wider world.

Going through customs in Colombia, exploring the Bogota airport, getting cash out of the ATM machine, and hopping on the local bus all seemed familiar, despite the fact we had never visited Colombia before.

I've said it before, but it bears repeating: I love where we live. And like the millions of folks who visit Cape Cod each year, we'd visit on holiday even if we didn't live here. So we feel incredibly lucky to live here year-round!

For most of us, researching before traveling is a lot of fun. It lets us daydream without even leaving our house. And while it's not absolutely necessary, a little research before you travel (or while you're on the road) might save you a few headaches along the way.

The best thing about the Devil's Nose isn't the wonderful rickety old railroad cars or even the amazing scenery. It's that you get to take in all of that scenery from atop those rickety railroad cars.