I think he meant to say that he'd like to see a stop in Columbia on the way to the typical US end city. Of course, I have to agree that Columbia would not be a smart choice to stop, as no one would make it back to the US if no one was fortunate enough to survive in Columbia!
As far as the location of the finale, as well as the eventual placement, I have to say no thanks! Well, I'd love to know the location, but I agree: nothing disclosed until it's all over. After 10 years, why jeopardize TAR and all its history/great moments? Personally, since I follow the spoilers with everything that goes on, I love to learn of the final 3 placement in advance. That way, I'm prepared in case of a non-favorite ending, or even a favorite ending.
Having said that, I'd still rather not know the Final 3 placement until within a week before the finale, at the earliest (and if that info is released, not in the public of course). I am very thankful for the awesome staff here for keeping that under wraps. And even when I got to the finale with the obvious ending (seasons circa 2008-2009), it wasn't (always) known which made watching it with everyone that much more exciting!
Anyway, there's that! As for TAR18 now, I am so impressed with Ron/Chris' run. Not sure I'd call them the best team of all time, but they're up there, and maybe the most consistent team that has never really been in danger of being eliminated. IOW, they haven't come in last ever (though it's worth pointing out that in their original season there were only 2 NELs).