Face to face

Despite recent political turbulence, including the censure of the Economy Minister and an interpellation of the Public Works Minister, La Paz remains a city of remarkable energy and spirit. The author, visiting the Bolivian capital, focuses on its landscape and people, finding it to be an "incredible city" rather than just a "wonder city."

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It was nice to reconnect with La Paz and come to the conclusion that instead of 'wonder city' the nickname 'incredible city' would suit it better, because it is incredible to drive between ascents and descents, incredible to walk uphill, incredible are also its heart anticuchos and not to mention its marraquetas…

The city, which recently celebrated its 217th anniversary of the "grito libertario" (cry for freedom), is still healing from the wounds of a 53-day road blockade. Yet, the author encountered a city that has little time for complaints or lamentations, demonstrating a powerful resilience.

Navigating La Paz's steep streets is described as incredible, as is the experience of walking uphill. The city's famous anticuchos (grilled heart skewers) and marraquetas (bread) are also highlighted as essential parts of its charm.

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It was a pleasure to meet Doña Cecilia, a hardworking woman, with hands burned by the sun, who makes fun of the flames her grill throws every time she brushes her heart anticuchos with oil and certain secret spices.

The author shares admiration for Doña Cecilia, a sun-weathered street vendor who continues her family's tradition of preparing anticuchos near San Francisco church. Equally inspiring is Doña María, an intrepid taxi and truck driver whose skill and professionalism embody the strength and integrity of La Paz's women, whom the author sees as symbols of the city's spirit.

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And for Doña María, the intrepid taxi and truck driver who took me with great skill and professionalism, my admiration also goes out to them, they are the women who for me, symbolize the strength and integrity of 'Oh linda, La Paz'.