Some thoughts on Bolivia

Bolivia is by far the poorest country in South America. In the last 200 years, the country had over 200 governments, always led by the very small white minority. This ups and downs in Bolivia's political scenario left the country in a very fragile position. Their neighbours in South America did not take long to profit from that and Brazil, Paraguay and Chile, have taken territories from Bolivia. The last has taken Bolivia's sea coast area, leaving the country landlocked.

80% of bolivians are indigenas and the first indigeneous president elected is Evo Moralez... There is a long way to go for Bolivia.

This background is the result of what Bolivia is today: the poorest country in South America, by far!! This sad scenario, unfortunately, is one of the reasons why travelers love Bolivia so much: a part from its astonishing natural beauty, traveling in Bolivia is cheap and authentic. For me, a lot more interesting than its touristy neighbour, Peru.

And a small detail came to my attention in Potosi and in other cities. Due to some deal with Japan, Bolivia was importing second hand cars and buses from the rising sun country, during the 80's and 90's. The thing is that some of the new owners did not take their time to take away the japanese characters from the vehicules and once in a while you may cross a bus or car with Japanese characters. This small details is reflected in many other different things in Bolivia, and again, what makes traveling in Bolivia unique and authentic!