Introducing Colombia
Vibrant cities with streaking metros and soaring skyscrapers. Elegant port towns cut by cobbled alleys and graced with bougainvillea-shrouded balconies. Spectacular national parks ranging from Garden-of-Eden-tropical to heavenly-high-alpine. Cruise boats, party buses, late night salsa dancing and shopping glory. Yes, this is Colombia.
Get ready for shattered expectations. While media reports still speak of coca fields, violent crime, rebel shoot-ups and kidnappings, travelers are often left to wonder how so many troubles can plague a country that appears so, well, normal.
Beyond the headlines is a thriving country with a rising middle class, some of the best health care and universities in South America, and an improved level of security. It's true that Colombia also faces massive challenges in dealing with poverty, rebels and the long-standing Drug War, but security improvements have made many tourist destinations accessible to travelers.
Now is the time to go. Costs are low, the welcome is warm and Colombia's sour reputation has kept it off the 'gringo trail.' Many travelers consider Colombia a way station between better known overland destinations, such as Peru and Costa Rica. But once you've explored its wealth of colonial-era towns, swam over its pristine reefs and trekked in its mountains, the land of myths, emeralds and El Dorado may become a highlight of your South American sojourn.
So pack a pair of dancing shoes next to your hiking boots, throw in a mask, snorkel and sunscreen and tell your friends not to worry. They don't know what they're missing!
Travel Alert: Travelers should exercise vigilance at all times due to the level of violent crime. Although kidnapping and homicide rates in urban areas have dropped in recent years, they remain high. Check out Safe Travel or the Thorn Tree travel forum for advice from travelers.
Last updated: Oct 15, 2008
Show full overview
