Highlights Of A Trip To Colombia

Colombia can get a bad rap when it comes to South American tourism. Because of the country’s history in drug trafficking and spikes in kidnappings some 20 years ago, many perceive it as dangerous. The truth is that Colombia has come a long way since its most dangerous days. It’s still important to exercise caution and stay in safer areas if you visit, but as one article put it, you’re more likely to be eaten by a shark in Australia than you are to be kidnapped in Bogota!

So why would you want to visit in the first place? Many international travelers have only the faintest idea of what to expect in this lush South American country, because the aforementioned drug trafficking history tends to dominate our perception. Here are some of the highlights you might look to enjoy if you get the chance to visit.

Relax In Cartagena



Bogota is the most famous city in Colombia, probably the most modern and also the capital. Medellin is also among the most famous cities, as a former hub for drug cartels (and the city used as a title for the fictional Pablo Escobar movie that dominated much of the popular TV show Entourage. But Cartagena may be the most appealing urban area for tourists who want to relax and soak up some Colombian culture.

Thanks in large part to the Old Town and some ancient castles you can still tour, Cartagena is designated as a world heritage city. There’s plenty to see and do, but for pure relaxation you won’t find a better city in the country, or really much of South America. Playa Blanca is one of the best beaches in the nation, and can be easily reached by boat from the city (it’s on Baru Island). Within the city there are plenty of quaint, enjoyable cafés to sit at as you sip coffee and try some of the local food. It’s a wonderful place to spend a few days with some friends or someone you love.

Tour Coffee Farms


This is an activity best suited for those who happen to love coffee. But just as you might want to tour vineyards in Napa Valley or certain places in France and Italy, Colombia is the place to get a feel for where some of the world’s best coffee is made. You can see the fields that produce coffee berries, speak to the people who run the farms, and usually find yourself some pretty incredible brew in the process. It’s a fascinating experience for anyone visiting Colombia, but if you happen to be a coffee lover it’s something you should definitely have on your list.

Visit Sugamuxi



This is a province within Colombia that's appealing in its natural beauty, but it’s also home to the Muisca, The Muisca are an indigenous people that still have descendants and traditions alive in the area today, and if you like diving into cultural experiences, you can experience some of their ways of life. Most interesting of all is that you might learn something about how ancient Muisca rituals sparked rumors of the golden New World city of El Dorado.

Today, we know El Dorado as the legend that has been used to inspire many fantastic adventures. There was an animated film about the quest for the city years ago, and now a video game about El Dorado is featured in a collection of slot games online. It's called “Gonzo’s Quest,” and it consists of a slot arcade based around an animated conquistador’s search for a gilded metropolis. It’s all good and playful fun, but back in the age of exploration, El Dorado was a very real concept to a lot of people. One explanation for the legend is that elaborate Muisca rituals involving lots of gold ornamentation led to stories about a city of gold. Of course there is no such city (unless the Muisca have hidden it extraordinarily well!), but you may learn some about the legend.

Explore Tayrona National Park



Colombia is home to some wild and beautiful forests, and Tayrona National Park may be the best of them. It’s a large area in the northern part of the country right up against the Atlantic coast, and it has a a bit of everything. There are foothills, stretches of rainforest, all kinds of interesting animals (including monkeys), and ocean lagoons where you’re free to swim. Not all of the swimming spots are safe, but you can usually find guidance or signs indicating where it’s okay to get into the (extremely alluring) water. A hike through this park is an outstanding way to rope some adventure into your vacation.

Take A Mud Bath



That’s right—this is a real attraction in Colombia. And it’s one that a lot of tourists wind up enjoying immensely. That’s in part because the mud baths happen to be in the caldera (a sort of crater-like depression) of a miniature volcano. Pointing it out as an unusual thing to do in the country, Atlas Obscura called the area a 15-foot diameter lukewarm vat of greyish brown silt the consistency of a thick cream soup. That might not sound like the most appealing place you’ll ever visit but imagine the full picture. It’s 45 minutes outside of Cartagena, on top of what appears to be a medium-sized hill but is actually an active volcano. You reach the top by climbing a few stairs, and find a bath of naturally heated mud. It’s definitely bizarre, but it’s a fun idea to put on your list. The locals even say it’s therapeutic!

Note: The photographs have been borrowed from wikipedia.org under the Creative Commons License. Each photograph has been linked to its respective page on wikipedia.org.

Continue Reading...

So what’s the weather like where you are?

It’s the usual conversation opener. And weather is usually the main thing we complain about – it’s either too hot, cold, wet or dry for someone. But although we might complain bitterly about the rain or heat, few of us live in places with really extreme weather. Holiday Lettings explores those places in the world where the climate will really take travellers to the limits.

As hot as hell


No attribution required for this image

Where: Death Valley in the Mojave Desert, California. This aptly named desolate terrain has little vegetation, although when the meager spring rains arrive, wildflowers burst out of nowhere and color the arid landscape.

Weather record: This inhospitable spot lays claim to the highest temperature ever recorded – a sizzling 56 degrees Centigrade.

Trip tips: Visit between October and March when daytime temperatures don’t soar so high. Top up your fuel tank and take plenty of water and moisturizer. Watch out for rattlesnakes and take care on the road – car accidents are the main cause of death here.

As cold as ice



Photo credit: Becker0804 (Public domain) via Wikimedia Commons

Where: Verkhoyansk in Siberia, Russia. This chilly and often snowbound place is home to a sizeable population that makes a living from extracting tin and gold, as well as rearing cattle.

Weather record: The absolute freeze dates back to 1892 when temperatures plummeted to minus 67.8 degrees Centigrade. Since then, it hasn’t been much warmer and the January average sits around a very chilly minus 46.

Trip tips: Be prepared for a challenge – winter visits involve an 8-day journey along the frozen river, and in summer you’ll need a boat to get there. Overload on warm clothing (locals pile on real furs) and swig away at the vodka.

As wet as it gets



Photo credit: Wikijosem (license) via Wikimedia Commons

Where: The title of world’s wettest place probably belongs to Puerto Lopez de Micay in western Colombia. Sitting in the high mountains on the, the small population relies on fishing and mining to make a living.

Weather record: 1984 is recorded as the year of the deluge, when rain levels topped 23,818mm and it rained for 353 days out of 366. Average annual rain falls at much lower rates but the 12,898mm is still nearly 22 times higher than the amount Londoners moan about.

Trip tips: Make sure your gear really is waterproof and invest in several umbrellas. When you’re inside, savor the cup of coffee made from locally grown beans.

Dry as a bone



Photo credit: Luca Galuzzi (license) via Wikimedia Commons

Where: Atacama Desert in South America. The windswept plateau spanning four countries is home to over 1 million people, mostly working in the rich copper mines or looking through giant telescopes at the stars.

Weather record: The Chilean part of the Atacama takes the prize for the world’s driest spot. Annual rainfall averages a minuscule 0.1mm, although most years don’t see a single drop come out of the sky.

Trip tips: Keep your fuel and water levels topped up at all times and wrap up warmly. Unlike other deserts, the Atacama doesn’t heat up too much and night temperatures are chilly. Be prepared for snow in winter – over 76cm fell in July 2011.

As windy as can be


Photo credit: Lanma726 (license) via Flickr

Where: Wellington in New Zealand gets the prize for windiest city in the world. The country’s capital and most populated area sits in a so-called ‘river of wind’, making life a breeze practically every day.

Weather record: Wellington’s strongest blast registered 246kph and the windiest year included 233 days with winds at speeds above gale force.

Trip tips: Make the most of any sports needing wind behind them. Don’t bother with an umbrella and hold onto your hat.

Continue Reading...

The Top 10 Tourist Must-Sees in South America

Whilst South America is a must-visit for any discerning traveller, some people remain unsure about whether it’s worth making the journey. Needless to say, it completely is: South America contains some of the most stunning scenes in the world. That’s why we’re going to use today to take a look at what we think are the top 10 tourist must-sees within this unique continent. Companies such as Imaginative Traveller offer a number of tours to the South American region.



Machu Picchu, Peru
Set on a mountain top and surrounded by stunning Andean scenery, Machu Picchu is a beautiful example of Inca citadel architecture. Machu Picchu remained lost in the mountain undergrowth for hundreds of years until it was re-discovered in 1911. The citadel maintains its air of mysticism, and it's not hard to see why it has remained so popular amongst visitors to Peru. The construction of the temple is extraordinarily advanced, hand-carved stones inter-locking with astonishing precision make up the walls, and it remains a sprawling masterpiece of vision and construction. One of the most important agricultural and residential settlements in the Inca Empire, Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most renowned sights.


Christ the Redeemer, Rio, Brazil


Christ the Redeemer is one of the most renowned structures in the world, to the extent that any movies or TV series based in Rio inevitably use it to set the scene. However, nothing compares to seeing the statue for yourself. Standing at a substantial 98 feet tall and spanning 92 feet, the Redeemer - which was completed over 11 years by French-Polish artist, Paul Landowski - is a noted symbol for the country's Christian population. Those visiting the statue on Corcovado Mountain will also be able to enjoy stunning views across Rio’s beautiful landscapes and visit the on-site chapel, which was set up in 2006 in order to allow Catholics to hold baptisms and weddings beneath the sculpture.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil


Though less well known than some of the other attractions on this list, Iguazu Falls is a genuine natural wonder (indeed, it was number 1 on the list of New Seven Wonders of the World). Truly a sight to behold, it is located on the border between Argentina and Brazil, surrounded by lush rainforest. The waterfalls and cataracts drop between 60 and 82 metres across a course of 2.7 kilometres and it is twice as wide as Niagara.

Buenos Aires, Argentina


It might be cheating slightly to classify an entire city as a 'tourist attraction', but there's no denying that Buenos Aires is a must-visit. Substantially shaped by its European heritage, Buenos Aires is steeped in Art Deco, Art Nouveau and Neo-Gothic architecture. Florida Street, located in the downtown area of the city, is a wonderfully vibrant shopping district filled with the hustle and bustle of shoppers, live statues and a variety of tango dancers, singers and even comedy acts. If you want a taste of European style mixed in with the South American culture, Buenos Aires is the perfect location.

The Amazon Jungle, Peru, Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia


The Amazon jungle is vast, dense and almost impenetrable (to a point). Considered the most bio-diverse place on earth (with an astonishing 90 different micro-climates), the wildlife statistics of the jungle are remarkable: it is home to 1,200 different types of butterfly, 2,000 different fish and 50,000 plants, amongst many other species. Obviously, an experienced guide is essential, but visiting the Amazon remains an once-in-a-lifetime experience unlike any other in the world.

Patagonia, Chile and Argentina


Forming the southernmost tip of South America, Patagonia remains an extremely popular tourist destination, receiving around 100,000 international visitors each year. A mosaic of dramatic landforms, snow-capped mountains and vast ice fields, the region attracts everyone from hikers enjoying the glories of Torres del Paine National Park to adventure sport fans trying their hand at ice-climbing in Los Glaciares National Park. The Perito Moreno Glacier, in particular, is stunning. Covering 100 square miles of land and reaching nearly 60 metres in height, watching the glacier calving huge icebergs into the lake below is truly breathtaking.

The Nazca Lines, Peru


Dating back to between 300 and 500 AD, the Nazca Lines remain a true historical enigma. The lines - which depict a number of animals including monkeys, fish and spiders - are best observed from the air, but they remain an absolute must see for anyone visiting Peru. The most curious portrayal of the lines is a spaceman (complete with a bubble helmet) that was carved into the desert plains at the same time as the others.

The Galapagos Islands, Ecuador


For those that love wildlife, the Galapagos offer a chance to see animals that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. The collection of 13 large islands was left untouched for millions of years, with species on the islands developing their own unique characteristics thus forming the basis for Darwin’s ground-breaking ‘Origin of the Species’. The number of endemic species is substantial, and includes marine iguanas, the Galapagos giant tortoise, blue-footed boobies and the Galapagos sea lions. Like many of the sights on this list, the Galapagos Islands are truly unlike any other place in the world.

Lake Titicaca, Peru


Lake Titicaca remains another must-see in Peru. Straddling the border of Peru and Bolivia, the lake is the highest navigable lake in the world. It is steeped in mythological belief and considered to be the birthplace of Inti, the Sun God. The Uros islands located in Puno Bay are an astonishing work of creativity, woven entirely from reed found on the shores of the lake and consisting of structures from boats right the way up to whole buildings. The lake itself is a harmonious, peaceful destination that everyone in the world should spend some time in.

Easter Island, Chile


Located 2,180 miles off the coast of Chile, Easter Island is famous for playing host to 887 monolithic statues known as Moai. Believed to have been created by the Rapa Nui people between 1300 and 1500 A.D, the statues are a representation of deified ancestors and gods, and for any discerning traveller they remain a must-witness. The highest statue - which is known as Paro, stands at almost 10 metres high and weighs approximately 82 tons.

About the Author: Helene Cooper is a passionate traveller who is keen to travel all corners of the world. From South, central and North America to South East Asia, China and Hong Kong, Helene has been able to explore the majority of countries people would place on their bucket lists.
Photo Courtesy: All the photographs in this post are courtesy of Imaginative Traveller.

Continue Reading...

South American Adventure: Bogotá, Colombia. 5 Places to Love

Nestled in the Andes in South America, Bogotá is the capital and the largest city of Colombia. Shedding its nefarious past, Bogotá has evolved into one of Latin America’s best metropolis to visit and live. This locale is a perfect destination to visit if taking your first trip to South America or as the destination to choose for your honeymoon registry.

Photo Credit: luxuo.com

Here are 5 perfect locations to visit in Bogotá.

1. History and Culture: La Candelaria Neighborhood
Photo Credit: es.wikipedia.org

La Candelaria is in the historic neighborhood and located within central downtown Bogotá. This quaint section of Bogotá boasts a rich and vibrant scene for art and historian lovers. The architecture in La Candelaria is a mixture of Baroque and Spanish Colonial, all lining cobblestone streets. Places to visit include Plaza de Bolivar, the beautiful yellow pastel church—Iglesia de la Candelaria, and the Coin House. A must see spot is The Gold Museum. With three floors, this interesting exhibit showcases one of the world’s most amazing selections of pre-historic gold. Besides the historical and cultural influx in this section of the city, La Candelaria offers a variant of delicious cuisines that boosts both a local and international flavor: Middle Eastern, French, Japanese, and Mexican.

2. Rise Above The Clouds and Into The Sky: Monserrat
Photo Credit: www.latin-wife.com

A beauteous mountain that sits at the center of Bogotá, Montserrat is the perfect hiker’s paradise that takes 1.5 to 2 hours to get to the top. Rising to 3,152 meters (10,341 ft) above the sea level, this is the site of pilgrimages during holy holidays and the perfect spot to enjoy the scenic view. At only $7 USD per ride, this is the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing view of Bogotá. Visit the eastern side of the mountain, Cerro de Monserrat “Sanctuary of Monserrat.” Here is the famed and revered shrine of Señor Caído also known as the “Fallen Lord,” which sits at the top of Montserrat. Locals believe that miracles are in abundance and the pilgrimage to the top speaks of penance. Ride the teleférico or funicular railway for an easier way up. Dine at one of the two main restaurants to enjoy the view of both the city and the mountains: Restaurante Casa San Isidro or Restaurante Casa Santa Clara. At either restaurant, both local cuisines and international flavor mesh for the perfect entrée.

3. The Road to El Dorado: Laguna de Guatavita
Photo Credit: www.colombia.travel

Also known as Lake Guatavita, “the gold lake,” this circular lake resembles a meteor crater. Located 35 miles northeast to Bogotá, Lake Guatavita is thought to be the site of El Dorado. Tours are available, where your guide will regale you with tales of the history of the lake. Locals believe treasures of gold from the indigenous Musica tribe sprinkled the lake’s bottom and surface with gold dust, objects, and jewelry. Learn how Spanish conquistadors in 1537 attempted to empty the lake with buckets and cups after enslaving the Musica tribe as laborers. After learning about this history and the rich stories that surround this “lake of gold,” stroll around and capture the essence of this scenic landscape which surrounds Lake Guatavita. Find the perfect souvenir at one of the nearby fairs, where locals cleverly crafted pieces made of wool, gold, or clay.

4. A Breath of Fresh Air: Bogotá Botanical Garden
Photo Credit: travel.mongabay.com

Named after the Spanish botanist, Jose Celestino Mutis, this lush paradise features a19 hectares (46.95 acres) of over 18,200 species of plants and flowers, a veritable greenhouse, the largest Amazonian flower, and the national tree of Colombia, “Palma de Cera.” Former travelers to this beautiful garden recommend a tour guide to provide a better and more informed visit, especially the history and stories behind the botanic. Other hidden gems around this garden include an ecologic center, well placed lakes, and fountains to produce a tranquil ambiance. What makes this botanical haven different from others is the brief showcase of regions around Colombia. Observe how these different sections of the garden are organized based on the weather, habitat, and indigenous plants of that region: paramo, Amazonia, the Andean landscape, plains of the Orinoco and swamps. Just don’t forget your camera, to capture the beauty and essence of the haven.

5. A Bogotá Nightlife: La Zona Rosa de Bogotá
Photo Credit: img.timeinc.net/

Unwind after a long day from hiking and sightseeing at one of the plush restaurants, clubs, or bars in La Zona Rosa, “the Pink Zone.” Handcrafted beers abounds, while bistro-style seating at one of stylish cafes beckons the trendy and hip crowd. This section of the city is also home to upscale, exclusive shopping districts. Despite the seemingly higher budget range, travel on the cobblestone pathway to south of La Zona Rosa towards the Gourmet District. Travelers can find a vast and lustrous selection of eateries that will fit any budget range. Reserve a table at Astrid and Gaston for a luxurious Peruvian experience or La Herencia for a traditional Colombian cuisine and ambiance.

P.S. These photographs do not belong to me. Photo credits have have been mentioned below each post.

Continue Reading...

Top 5 Underrated City Destinations

City breaks are ideal for those who want to get away for just a few days or even a longer break. They all have plenty for the visitor to see and do and are perfect for those who enjoy spending time in the hustle and bustle of city life. However, they are all different and for those who want something a little more off the beaten track there are plenty of cities that are considered to be well worth a look.

1. Why not take a trip to the capital of Estonia? Tallinn is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the Baltic region. Explore the Old Town district and visit some of the wonderful museums in order to find out more about the area. It is also a great place for those who want to do some shopping. There are plenty of boutiques and shops that sell items that cannot be found anywhere else. Enjoy some of the local cuisine in the restaurants and as there are now plenty of budget flights available, it will not break the bank.

2. Marrakech is just coming into its own as a holiday destination and is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in a very different culture to their own. There are vast marketplaces where visitors are able to buy anything and everything. In recent years the hotel accommodation that has been developed there has tended towards the luxury end of the market, so there are plenty of spas to be enjoyed.

3. For those that do not mind a longer journey flights to Perth are becoming more and more reasonable. For a trip to the Australian city it is better to have at least two weeks to spare because of the travelling time, and because there is so much to see and do. The city has plenty of art galleries and boutiques and visitors are always sure of a warm welcome from the friendly locals.

4. Another long haul option is Hong Kong, and it is a must for serious shoppers. There are so many markets and stores that plenty of time will be needed to explore them all. It is also a great place for a night out, with numerous restaurants serving both local and international cuisines. Visiting Hong Kong may sound like an expensive option but visitors will be surprised by how reasonable the area can be.

5. Head over to Colombia for a trip to the city of Cartagena. This has the best of both worlds; it has the vibrant city life as well as a beach resort atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine in the restaurants and appreciate the traditional hospitality, and also have great fun on the beach and in the clubs.

City breaks are a must for those who love to explore new places and with so many beautiful cities within easy reach it would be a shame not to take advantage of the offers available on flights. Why not take that advantage now and see more of the world?

Continue Reading...