We all agree on South America’s having some of the most beautiful and authentic countries of the world. Well, if we are to talk about Colombia, maybe we should raise the bar a bit higher and say something more assertive. Not only because Colombia has been able to stay one of a kind but also because the country is making the best out of the natural fortunes of the land it is on.
Home to almost 46 million people, Colombia has got 6 regions, all of which show a great diversity on many things: the food, the daily routine of life, the weather and so on. All these regions, when come together, shape the country’s authentic soul and make it clear why the soul of it is this colorful.
Colombia’s most famous city is, of course, the capital Bogota. It is the largest city in the country and regarded as the center of all the cultural, arts and large scale international events. However, we should also mention the other major cities such as Medellin, Cartagena, Barranquilla, Pereira and Santa Marta because they attract thousands of travelers from all over the world, too.
Well, it really doesn’t matter what sort of whether you prefer while you are on a journey in Colombia simple because it is possible to find all types weather across the country. In addition, the Amazon, Andes Mountains and Orinoco River are only some of the natural treasures that give the country such a beautiful look.
A trip to Colombia never means just a random trip. The soul of the city that can be described as one of the most colorful and rhythmic ones in the world, will put its arms around you immediately. Your time in Colombia will be accompanied by the delicious examples from the cuisine. The exquisite charm of the city will never leave you and it will be hard not to talk about the greatness of the country for a long time.
Where is Colombia?
Colombia is located on northwestern South America. Its neighbors are Panama, Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador and Peru. Colombia is the only South American country that has a shore to both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
Visa Procedure of Colombia
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia gives all the information regarding the visa procedure.
Colombian Cuisine
Colombian cuisine is one of the tastiest among all the world cuisines as the ingredients are varied greatly thanks to the long shores and fertile lands. The effect of Caribbean way of cooking is also felt in some dishes. As the country is massive, we should also mention that the regional cuisines in Colombia differ from each other greatly.
Rice, potato and bean usually accompany the cooked meat in Colombian Cuisine. Tropical fruits have also a major part in Colombian kitchen; mango, papaya, passionfruit and pineapple usage is common, both in desserts and dishes.
Arepa, Ajiaco, Bandeja Paisa (considered to be the national dish of the country), Lechona and Fritanga are some of the special tastes you can try in Colombia. Sancocho may also be a good alternative.
Aguapanela is the national alcoholic drink of Colombia. Champús and Chicha are also the alcoholic beverages unique to the land.
Colombian Coffee
Coffee is actually one of the connotations for Colombia and I am sure you know why. Well, you will have the chance to taste world’s probably the best coffee in its right place. You may also join a coffee plant tour that are popular among travelers in Colombia.
Shopping in Colombia
There are literally a bunch of things to buy from Colombian that represent the Colombian culture at its best. The prices are considered a bit cheaper when the other South American countries are considered. Credit and ATM card coverage is high for international cards and there are bunch of exchange offices all across the country.
So, what to buy from Colombia? Well, the list may hardly come to an end if I write everything so I am going to mention the most popular ones.
Textile is the major branch of industry, especially Colombian lingerie is well regarded. Leather goods are also in demand by the travelers, the best place to buy those is probably Medellin, the fashion center of the country.
Colombian jewelry and hand woven rucksacks (mochilas) are probably the musts that should be in your bag on the way home. They are good in quality and reflect the Colombian craftsmanship at its best.
Attractions in Colombia
It is possible to find all sorts of attractions in Colombia, as the land is big and geographical diversity lets you do so. That is why all you have to do is to choose what you would like to do in this beautiful country; do you want to trace back the marks of history? Or do you want to witness the power of the nature?
The major cities in the country will feed your need to visit museums and see the points of interest. All of these will also fascinate you with the live night life and restaurants that serve the tastiest example of the Colombian cuisine. The last but not the least, you will find all the items that will remind you the time you spent in Colombia.
However, if you feel like to visit some of the untouched lands and experience something totally new, then Colombia offers you a bunch of things to choose from.
San Andres is an island with a breathtaking look and a popular destination among travelers. San Augustin is a small town with only 18.000 inhabitants and gives the pleasure of exploring an archeological area while Lake Guatavita fascinates you with its scenic look. If you would like to try rock climbing, then Suesca is the place you should visit. For trekking, La Chorrera is recommended as the sound of Colombia’s tallest waterfall’s sound will accompany you.
Event Tourism in Colombia
Colombia has been gaining more importance in world’s large scale events scene in the recent years. Not only the professionalism of the organizers but also the chic hotels, the venues equipped with the latest technology turn Colombia into an important player in event tourism. Every year, the major cities of the country become the hosts of many congresses, conferences, symposiums, exhibitions, fairs and tradeshows. When these are combined with the beauty of the country, joining an event becomes a win win for the event attendee.