South American Vacations

Colombia is known as the Republic of Colombia and is located in northwestern South America, bordered by Venezuela to the east, Brazil to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the west.  It is large and economically successful country with an estimated population of 44,087,000.  Originally, Colombia was the territory of indigenous people, but was taken in by Spain in 1499.  It wasn’t until 1819 that the country finally broke free from Spain and won its independence, along with Venezuela, Ecuador and Panama.  These countries would later leave to form their own state, leaving Colombia as the Republic of Colombia, declared again in 1886.

What can you expect from a vacation in Colombia?  Ethnically, it is a very diverse country with peoples that have descended from indigenous peoples, Spanish colonists, African slaves and immigrants from other countries.  Is the country safe?  Provided that visitors remain close to popular tourist areas there is scarcely a problem.  In some remote areas where government is not as actively involved, the risk for violence increases.  However, tourist areas are regarded as friendly and very enjoyable. 

The fact of the matter is the waters and unique topography of Colombia does play a part in determining the country’s weather.  The climate is considered to be very tropical along the coast, yet surprisingly cold in the highlands.  Some areas even have droughts.  Because Colombia is what is called an equator country, it doesn’t have regular seasons as most countries do.  Temperatures remain consistent and all winter means to Colombian residents is that the rainy season has now begun. 

One thing that’s great about Colombia is that if you speak limited Spanish or have just recently learned Spanish, is that this is an easy country to adapt to.  Colombian Spanish is easy to understand, even if it does vary slightly from different territories within the country.  Even if you speak English though, you may be able to get around in Colombia, since the language is taught in many schools and Hollywood “subtitled films” have always been popular among Colombians.  Again, culturally speaking, Colombia is very diverse not only in nationality but also in social class, as some Columbians have actually spent time in North American countries.

Common foods you can expect in Colombia include buñuelos and arepas, which are distinctly Brazilian breakfast items, with fried tortillas, cheese and egg.  There are also meat and potato dishes, bandeja paisa and even some store chains from Western Civilization.  Fruits in Colombia range from extra sweet to extra strange, such as fruits like tamarinds,  guanabanas, lulo and mangostines.  You can even find more organic foods and vegetables in various stores.

Major Cities In Colombia

Bogotá: The capital city and venue for some of the biggest events of the country, including theatrical shows and world-famous concerts.  Also has a host of museums and fine quality restaurants.

Barranquilla: Famous for being the “Golden Port” of the country and also hosts a carnival in the first quarter of every New Year.

Cali: Popular tourist destination, full of museums, zoos and sporting activities, but also perceived as a bit commercial compared to some of Colombia’s other cities.

Cartagena: A well-known tourist spot that offers colonial architecture, skyscrapers and numerous festivals of interest to the intellectually curious.

Popayan: The religious capital of the country, not only home to one of the largest Easter festivals in the world but also houses many archeological sites

Santa Marta: Beautiful warm beaches and snowy mountains all within a month?  The weather is something in Santa Marta, as is the historical sites pertaining to Colombia’s history.

Things To Do In Colombia

San Jeronimo, Sopetran and Santa Fe de Antioquia: These areas are well known for their mountain regions.  You can make arrangements for travel on a motorcycle!

San Agustín and Tierradentro: Well known as archeological sites in the southwest.

Isla Gorgona: This island was once a prison but has been transformed into a nature reserve full of exotic animal life. 

Ciudad Perdida: The once pre-Columbian city still exists and has ruins dating back to the eight century.

Colombia Trivia: It’s not uncommon to find salsa dancing at children’s parties, as dancing is seen in Colombia as a celebratory act, not necessarily a sensual one.