Colombia
Much of the world has associated Colombia with risk, but we agree with the Colombians when they say ‘the only risk is wanting to stay'.
Colombia is deeply cultural and Bogota is the epicenter for the literary arts and publishing in the Spanish-speaking world. This is a vibrant country with a wonderful Caribbean coastline that has a unique afro-Colombian heritage. The people are warm and so inviting, and the lush tropical climate is the perfect environment for flowers, filling the landscapes with stunning color and a heady scent. It's an incredibly bio-diverse country which is well worth exploring.
Fincas Medellin (The Coffee Trail)
Going to the country house for the weekend is a way of life for the Paisas (locals) of Colombia. When you live in a work in the hustle and bustle of a city like Medellin you need to take a break – and many families or groups of friends rest and party at the many fincas dotted around the countryside. We recommend renting a finca or country house if you are looking to enjoy some peace and quiet in a luxurious or rustic but above all peaceful setting.
There are a number of options to suit your tastes. The spectrum ranges from a luxurious country house complete with pool, spa treatments and staff – to a rustic lodge home set on a working finca where they might raise cattle, grow avocadoes or coffee. There are many ways to enjoy the traditional country house stay Colombian-style.
Cartagena
A jewel of the Spanish crown that now boasts a fascinating mix of inhabitants and architectural beauty. The cultural warmth makes Cartagena one of the most fascinating towns in the Caribbean - if not the whole of the Americas. This is one of our favorite destinations that draws us back time and time again, particularly since its re-emergence over the past five years or so. It has become the ‘Saint Tropez' of Latin America and we highly recommend a stay, perhaps during the Hay Literary Festival (28th-31st January 2010) or for a very exciting and unique New Years eve.
Just 20 miles southeast of Cartagena lies the idyllic coralline archipelago of Islas de Rosario (Rosary Islands). Scuba diving and snorkelers revel in the diverse marine life found around these 43 islands. Sea turtles, dolphins, sharks and countless fish varieties navigate through these clear waters.
Santa Marta
The first Spanish settlement in South America, Santa Marta continues to offer many attractions to today's visitors in search of a safe and happy vacation in this Caribbean coastal gem. It may come second in the choice of Caribbean Colombian destinations after Cartagena and be flanked by the second highest mountain range after the Andes – but Santa Marta has first place in the hearts of the many Bogota and Medellin residents who have apartments here.
What keeps them coming back besides the crystal clear waters lapping at the white sandy beaches, are the diving opportunities on the offshore reefs, the beautiful seafood and above all, the ambience of this place which has been charming visitors for hundreds of years.
Bogota
Colombia's capital, Bogota is a modern city of contrasts with an intense and vibrant cultural, intellectual and social life. Where high-rises sit next to Colonial churches and bustling commerce gives way to tranquil reflection in gardens thriving in the pleasant climate.
It's a fascinating place, situated at an altitude of 2,620 meters, and the commercial base of the emerald trade where millions of dollars of deals are done every day in rough and cut gems. There are two Aracari must-do's in Bogota. Firstly, you must have dinner in one of the best restaurants in the world. ‘'' is located just outside the city limits. And, for a close-up of one of the earth's most precious commodities, visit the newly refurbished Gold Museum which contains maybe the best collection in the Americas - a sight to behold. All in all, Bogota is the perfect place to see the extreme contrasts and beauty that Latin America offers.
Destinations
