By Carolina Niño
What makes Colombia a good travel destination?
Colombia is an amazing travel destination because of the biodiversity of its culture, it’s beautiful landscapes, friendly locals and more, which will leave tourists spellbound. The experience is overwhelming and always different among the diverse regions in terms of gastronomy, activities and local experience.
Tell us something that every traveler should know when traveling to Colombia?
Once you have decided to visit Colombia it is important to take into account certain items for having the best experience as possible while visiting us. What to wear depends on the weather of the place you’re visiting. Colombia does not have seasons and the weather may vary, depending on the sea level. (For example, the temperature in Bogotá might be in 14 – 18 ºC while at Cartagena it might be 32 ºC)
Any essentials that one needs to carry when they traveling to Colombia?
- One copy of your passport ID.
- Waterproof Jacket
- Comfortable shoes
- Clothes for the cold and hot climate
- Mosquito Repellent
- Sunblock
- Sunscreen and a hat or cap
- Insect repellent
- Personal medicines and hygiene products (preferably biodegradable).
Which are the most surreal places to visit when in Colombia?
Well, that depends on the experience you want to have here. Colombia’s extensive beauty ranges from the sea of seven colors to its incredible deserts, architectural richness in buildings and it’s variant flora and fauna. There are special tours that will get you acquainted with the history and culture of cities like Medellin or Cartagena.
Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals in Colombia?
The locals are very friendly and welcoming and are always eager to share their culture with visitors. They are proud of their history and tend to make the best out of every situation. In certain parts of the country, the locals follow their traditional customs with pride and sincerity.
What are the local delicacies/drinks which one must try and wherein Colombia?
The most common drink in Colombia is aguardiente. It is a local, familiar drink based on anise, not so expensive and can be found almost anywhere in the country. It has different brands depending on the region you are in. Also, there are other drinks like chicha, canelazo, sabajón among others.
Where can one get vegetarian food in Colombia?
Vegetarian food is now getting popular and as it gains even more popularity, you will find restaurants, mostly in cities, that will offer it. It is advisable to request for vegetarian food in advance.
What is a must try dish when in Colombia?
If you crave seafood, then north Colombia is the place for you. You can try the Patacón, which is a dish made up of different types of fish with coconut rice and a type of mashed banana. There are also different dishes like the Bandeja Paisa(which is very common, that includes meat, rice, beans, a fried egg, banana smashed and more). There is also the arepas, one of the meals that represent us. It is prepared using ground maize dough. In the capital city, Bogota, the main dish is Ajiaco, a soup made of three different types of potatoes.
Can you please list the top 3 Indian restaurants in Colombia?
- Flor de Loto in Bogotá
- Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant in Bogotá
- Shivas in Bogotá
What are the things which one must buy when in Colombia?
Souvenirs are a must-buy in Colombia. Coffee and jewelry made off emeralds are also quite popular.
Which are the most romantic places to visit in Colombia?
Bogotá, Villa de Leyva, Providencia, Cartagena and Barú.
What are the local festivals which one must visit when in Colombia?
Colombia has festivals celebrated all over. The most important ones, however, are the Barranquilla Carnival held in March celebrated in Barranquilla, and the Flower festival in August in Medellin.
The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about Colombia?
The guidebooks won’y tell you how easy it is to interact with locals in the country as everybody is very welcoming.
According to you what is the best thing about Colombia?
The sheer diversity of this place will give you a new and completely different experience at each new destination. There is so much beauty to be discovered. People are very charming and gentle. It’s not unusual to feel Colombian once you’ve spent some time here.
