#laniate

Laniate, v. /lani’āt/ - To tear to pieces.

 It all started with a midnight phone call from a friend of mine from college. "Hey, come with me this summer in Bolivia," "What's Bolivia?" However, after 4 weeks I found myself sitting next to man, on a trip to Cochabamba, the city of mountains. It 'was the best trip I ever took spontaneous. Probably the only real city in Bolivia, Cochabamba has a very special American feel to it. Although located in an uncomfortable, if not sickening 8,000 feet above sea level, overlooking the mountains on all sides are protective as they are majestic. The valley of Cochabamba Andes ensures that enjoys an excellent climate all year round with average temperatures ranging between 15 and 20 degrees between winter and summer. Outside of Bolivia, Cochabamba biggest attraction is the Cristo de la Concordia. Standing an amazing 107 feet high, this marvel of mammoth steel and cement is the world's largest sculpture of Jesus Christ. A strong testimony of faith Cochabambinos' Catholic, he is with open arms in a loving embrace, silently watching the city. Almost hilarious as the statue itself is the view from the top of the mountain, a short cable car ride from Cochabamba dizzying. Within Bolivia, (and for those not so religiously inclined) Cochabamba is world famous for its cuisine. The inhabitants are known to transform the things we Westerners would not dream of eating, delicious masterpieces. Things such as squid, octopus, 'hearts, bulls' testicles cows - all the usual rate for normal Bolivia. The real coup de grace of the Bolivian fast food, however, must be the Trancapechos. They are basically very large falafel stuffed with beef, eggs, red pepper, and lots of salad. In fact, they taste like heaven in your mouth. I once ate 6 of them famous, leading me to not be able to leave the toilet for the next two days. Even then, it's totally worth it. Trust me. One thing you may find surprising about South America in general is the pervasive culture of drinking. This was something that I discovered the hard way one night I was driving with my friend's college guide. We were swerving in and out of traffic along one of the many thousands of Cochabamba streets. My friend is 20 years of practicing martial arts, and usually a great driver. This night, however, had consumed obscene amounts of alcohol before getting behind the wheel of a 2000 kg heavy car. When I asked about this, told me. "Here in Bolivia, we have a saying. If you do not drink, do not drive. "I was speechless. Then again, there are a lot of things that are normal on all Cochabamba. Nestled safely in the Andes, it gives the impression of being suspended in mid air - as if living on a cloud. The city is immediately appealing with its welcoming charm, friendly people, and incredible cuisine. The breathtaking view of the valley of Cochabamba is always a plus. It is said that once you visit the city, you'll never want to come back. As they are right ...