Best Value Colombian Leather Business Cases & Travel Bags
I started importing leather goods from Colombia in the early 1980’s. There were many perceptions (especially from friends and family) that it may not have been safe to travel to Colombia, yet I must say I have never had a bad experience. The people are very warm and welcoming, and actually make me feel like I am at my second home. The owners of the factories that we do business with don’t seem like the typical business acquaintances, they have welcomed me into their families. It is not unusual to be invited into their homes, to multiple family events, such as weddings, picnics, graduations, and other important life cycle events. It is a beautiful Country indeed, one that I hope you have the opportunity to visit. The U.S. has excellent trade relations with Colombia making the importing process so desirable. Their business ethics are outstanding, and their open welcoming mentality is the genuine article! In fact, Colombia has become one of my favorite places in the world to visit.
During our last visit to Colombia, we developed a new leather collection of business and travel bags. The Andino Collection by Dilana™ is affordably priced full-grain Colombian Vaqueta Leather. In fact, the leather comes from the altitudes of the Andes Mountains, where the animals have thicker hides and less insect markings. Consequently, the leather is tough, yet quite supple. All products are fully lined, appointed with attractive hardware, and feature subtle contrast stitching to enhance the design element. All styles in this collection are rugged, unstructured, and lightweight. This casual appearance allows the bags to literally mold to your body, something that is quite attractive for the weekend warrior! I would like to acknowledge the expertise and skills of my friends and partners that helped create our newest Colombian collection, Scott, Ron, and Robert. As well as a special thank you to my friend Bill who helped us pioneer this Colombian Import Program back in the 1980's.
On each of my trips to Colombia, I schedule an appointment to see our factories, tanneries, and foundries and meet with the production team that creates our product. I am so flattered to see the pride and workmanship that goes into each and every product. This handcrafted workmanship has such a retro appeal, and makes me feel like I’ve taken a time machine to go back in time. Despite the fact that this technology seems to be old-world, these Colombian factories have partnered this mentality with modern day luxuries and appointments. The end result is a product that will remind you of something carried at the turn of the century. However, these particular turn of the century products have the all the appointments you need for our modern day business appliances. There is no need to worry there is a padded laptop compartment to protect your computer, and even dedicated pockets for your smart phone, tablet, etc.
You will never have to ask the salesperson whether this product is leather or vinyl, even if you have no experience on this subject, you will appreciate the authentic natural animal markings and luxurious hand of this high quality leather. Its greatest appeal is the rugged rustic look that is sure to bring you many compliments. I have another article on hub pages that is called ‘What is Genuine Leather?’ The fact is you will never have to ask yourself this question when you put your hands on this particular leather. It is the best money can buy, and yet surprisingly it is not expensive.
We started this collection with a few of the key business and travel favorites, such as an airline carry-on compliant leather club bag, laptop messenger, casual leather backpack, and an all leather waist pack. The colors include Tan, Black, and Brown and most styles are available in all three colors. There is no doubt this collection will continue to grow. In fact, I would love to hear your feedback and suggestions for new styles that you feel might enhance this collection. I hope you have the opportunity to experience this wonderful product!
If you enjoy traveling, I also hope you have the opportunity to visit Colombia. A few of my favorite treats while in Colombia include a Colombian version of ‘Jewish Penicillin’ (Chicken Soup) Ajiaco. This is a chicken and potato soup that is world renowned in Bogota it generally includes three types of potato, fresh ear of corn, avocado, sour cream. It is quite filling and a meal in and of itself, not an appetizer as I soon found out. I might add the tropical fruits in this region are unbelievable and make some of the finest fresh juice that I have ever experienced. Some of my favorites include: guanabana, maracuya (passion fruit), mora (Andean blackberry), freijoa, lulo. Some of these are mixed with water, milk, honey or sugar as they can be quite tart otherwise. I’m quite sure I don’t have to tell you about the coffee, yet all Colombians insist that the best coffee is not left for them as it is all exported to other countries.
