Colombian-born Isabella Espinosa launched her label, Baobab, to represent the country’s global fashion evolution. This is her insider guide to her hometown of Bogotá.
Designed for effortless transitions, Baobab’s pieces take you from beach to bar, embody Colombia’s vibrancy, and support the environment; the restorative brand turns ocean waste into iconic pieces while restoring coral reef ecosystems. For every swimsuit purchased, you are helping to restore the San Andrés Coral Reef in San Andrés, Colombia.
Letting us in on the secrets of her hometown, Bogotá, Isabella tells us her favourite hotels, lunch spots, local secrets, and places to dance the night away. Bookmark for your next trip to Bogotá.
December as it’s always sunny! It’s considered the high season and is less likely to rain.
Our first pitstop should be…
Baobab’s Coco Bar at Casa Baobab, for the best coconut lemonade in town.
Your favorite hotel to check-in at is…
Casa Legado for its home-like feel in the city.
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For an early morning workout head to…
Ciclovía for a nice walk, run, or bike ride under the sun.
Where can we find the best coffee?
Café Rico for an iced latte and unforgettable french toast.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
La Pinta, where you can turn your lazy lunch into a delightful afternoon of drinks.
Your favorite restaurant in town?
Ideal – everything is delicious, from breakfast to dinner and, of course, the cocktails. Our upcoming COCO by Baobab will soon be our favourite. Watch this space…
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And for dinner with friends?
Tercer Piso, which has a speakeasy type of vibe. Go on a Thursday for jazz night.
The drink to order at the bar…
Espresso Martini, which will always be better when made with Colombian coffee.
The best place for people watching is…
Usaquén, especially on a Sunday when the Flea Market is in full swing.
The culture spot to rave about…
La Candelaria is the historic heart of Bogotá; here you’ll find colonial houses adorning the old city with their colourful façades, set against the iconic Andes Mountains, which you can see in the background.
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One place only locals know about…
San Jerónimo ice cream is a local treasure. Visit for an ice cream full of unexpected ingredients, the type of flavours you can only find at local shops. Go for the maracuyá option – you won’t ever try something that tastes the same again.
For the best views head to…
Monserrate Hill, above Bogotá’s hustle, is a majestic peak overlooking the entire city. It’s the perfect place to pause, breathe and reflect. You can take a cable car, or hike to the top if you’re up for the challenge.
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A book to read before we go?
One Hundred Years of Solitude by our dear Gabriel García Márquez, who was awarded with the Nobel Prize in Literature. It’s a book in which you’ll immerse yourself in Colombian culture, history and atmosphere. As you wander through Bogotá’s streets you’ll find echoes of the magical realism illustrated in the book.
For a change of pace try…
Hiking at La Quebrada Vieja.
In one word, Colombia is…
Vibrant.
Where can we go shopping?
Baobab’s oasis, featuring two different concept stores; Casa Baobab and Atico Baobab. Also at Malva department store.
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Best vintage spots?
Calle de los Anticuarios, where you’ll find vintage pieces as well as some of the newest and coolest Colombian designs.
A must-try spot for date night?
Nueve, for wine and a taste of Colombian culture. Order their tuna tartar.
The best place to treat yourself is…
Tell us how to spend an ideal day in Bogotá?
Start your day with a traditional and delicious arepa alongside a freshly-brewed Colombian coffee. Head to Plaza de Bolívar to admire the architecture, and stop at Merlín, a hidden library nearby. Have lunch at Madre, then choose between an afternoon of shopping and live music at Zona T or to head to the Salt Cathedral in Zipaquirá – an underground cathedral built in the depth of an old salt mine.
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How should we spend the final day of our trip?
Visit Andrés Carne de Res to dance; it’s a place where laughter fills the air amongst eclectic decor.
What’s your Colombian secret?
Always dance your troubles away.
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Any Questions or Tips to add?