Two tasks

In the morning, I woke up and found out that the internet was only available in the lobby, but for some reason, it didn't work on my computer. I had to go to an internet café, just like in my childhood, only this time I took my laptop with me and connected to the internet via Wi-Fi. It was funny how the local staff tried to understand me and help.

So, after getting some information, I had two tasks. The first was to get to Ecuador. This task consisted of several stages: finding a bus or taxi to the border, crossing the border on foot, and finding a bus or taxi to the nearest Ecuadorian city. Since I had slept well, it was already too late today to travel, so I started working on my second task.

Once, even far before this travel began, I came across a photo of a church emerging from a mountain, but it didn't look like the common Asian-style ones. It was a very beautiful Gothic-style church. I found out that it is located in Colombia – and so I got my "must-see" list for this country. Now, at the end of my journey through Colombia, I was finally close to this goal. This church is located in the small town of Ipiales, where I happened to be today.

Right from the bus station, I joined some pilgrim nuns, and we split the cost of a taxi to visit this church. The short name of the church is Las Lajas, but its full name includes something about the Virgin Mary, as it was her apparition on the rock that led to the construction of this basilica. It is located a few kilometres from the city, so paying about $1 each was enough to get there.

At first, you walk down a long street filled with vendors selling all kinds of souvenirs and religious items. There are a lot of tourists – so why not make some money?

The road goes uphill, and it's a long way up. But when you finally reach the top, an incredible view opens up before your eyes. The church, the bridge, and everything around them look like something out of a fairytale. It is stunningly beautiful! Goal achieved. I was overwhelmed with feelings of joy and satisfaction. I explored every corner of this wonderland and took photos at almost every step to capture at least a fraction of its beauty for you.

TAGS: daily highlights, Ipiales, Las Lajas Church

MOOD: satisfied, happy, amazed by the beauty