In 1858, José María Samper packed his bags and left the young Republic of Colombia for a grand tour of Europe. This book is his personal travelogue, written as he went. We follow him from the bustling port of Southampton to the foggy streets of London, the dazzling boulevards of Paris, and the ancient ruins of Rome. He doesn't just sightsee; he dives into the life of each place. He rides the newfangled railways, attends political debates in the British Parliament, gets lost in the Louvre, and even comments on the fashion and manners of the people he meets.

The Story

There isn't a fictional plot, but there is a powerful narrative thread: Samper's evolving perspective. He starts as an awestruck visitor, marveling at Europe's technological wonders and deep history—things his homeland lacked. But he's no passive admirer. He's a sharp critic, too. He points out social inequalities, questions rigid traditions, and often finds European customs strange or even cold compared to the warmth of Colombian life. The 'story' is the push and pull in his mind. He's constantly measuring Europe against Colombia, wrestling with admiration for its achievements and a defensive pride for his own nation's potential.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a fascinating mirror. It flips the usual script of European travel writing about the 'exotic' Americas. Here, a South American is observing Europe as the exotic, advanced, and sometimes perplexing 'other.' Samper's voice is incredibly engaging. He's witty, observant, and brutally honest. You feel his excitement on a steamship and his frustration in a confusing foreign city. Reading it today, it gives you a stunning look at 19th-century Europe through a lens you rarely get. More than that, it captures the universal experience of travel: that dizzying mix of wonder, comparison, and self-discovery that happens when you're far from home.

Final Verdict

Perfect for curious travelers, history lovers who want a ground-level view, and anyone interested in Latin American identity. If you enjoy personal diaries, smart social commentary, and seeing familiar places (like Paris or London) through completely unfamiliar eyes, you'll be hooked. It's not a fast-paced adventure; it's a thoughtful, immersive stroll through the past with a brilliant and relatable guide.