Colombia: A Colorful Adventure Awaits
I boarded the very first American Airlines flight from Dallas to Bogotá, Colombia. It was the start of a journey I’ll never forget. Flying on a new Airbus with Wi-Fi, movies, games, and even a USB port at every seat made the trip smooth and easy.
Colombia is the closest South American getaway to the United States. It is also the only country on the continent with both Pacific and Caribbean coasts, mountains, beaches, rainforests, and historic cities. With so much to see, every visit to Colombia feels like several trips in one.
Best Time to Visit Colombia
Colombia is beautiful all year because it sits near the equator. But December to March is the dry season, which makes it a great time for outdoor trips.
Cartagena: The Jewel of the Caribbean
Walking through Cartagena felt like stepping back in time. Brightly painted houses, cobblestone streets, and church towers all glow under the Caribbean sun.
The highlight was staying at the Hotel Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, once a convent built in 1621. The hotel blends colonial history with modern comfort, making it one of the best hotels in South America.
Providencia: A Secret Paradise
For a quieter escape, I flew to Providencia, a small island in the Caribbean. This tropical paradise is home to The Deep Blue Hotel, with rooms overlooking the sea. The luxury suites even have private infinity pools.
Scuba diving here is unforgettable. Providencia’s reef is the third largest barrier reef in the world, filled with colorful fish and corals.
Bogotá: A City of Culture and History
Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is a mix of old and new. I loved exploring the Candelaria neighborhood, home to colonial houses, the Gold Museum, and the Botero Museum. Botero’s art, with its famous oversized figures, is both playful and thought-provoking.
The best view of the city comes from Monserrate, a church on a hilltop that locals hike to as a pilgrimage. Just outside the city, I visited the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá, a church carved deep inside a salt mine. Walking through its underground chapels was unlike anything I had ever experienced.
Taste of Colombia
No trip to Colombia is complete without tasting its food. I enjoyed arepas (corn cakes), bandeja paisa (a hearty platter with beans, rice, meat, and plantains), and of course, Colombian coffee, famous worldwide for its rich flavor.
Culture and Festivals
Colombia is full of music and dance. In Cartagena, I heard the rhythms of salsa in every plaza. In Bogotá, I saw street art bursting with color and meaning. The country celebrates many festivals, from flower parades in Medellín to carnival in Barranquilla, making every visit feel like a party.
Travel Tips for Colombia
- Language: Spanish is the main language, but English is common in tourist areas.
- Currency: Colombian Peso (COP). ATMs are widely available.
- Safety: Stick to well-known areas, use trusted transport, and ask locals for advice. Colombians are welcoming and happy to help.
Why Visit Colombia?
Colombia offers beaches, mountains, culture, and history all in one trip. My journey showed me a country that is colorful, welcoming, and full of surprises.
If you’re looking for your next adventure, Colombia is waiting for you.
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