Colombia, which is located in South America, is a short six-hour flight from Newark International Airport. As one of the most geographically diverse regions, this country showcases mountains, deserts, beaches, large metropolitan centers, and ancient cities. First and foremost, Colombia is defined by its amazing, flavorful cuisine. Arepas (cornmeal cakes) are a staple food in the country featuring different fillings, popularly cheese or meat, and can be enjoyed during every meal. Another popular dish is sancocho, which is a stew of potatoes, meat, and vegetables. An iconic Colombian treat is bocadillo which is made of guava fruit and panela. This delicious dessert can be eaten by itself or paired with cheese. Colombia’s affordable, high-quality, and delicious meals that are sure to please every traveler and resident alike.

The first place to visit is Bogota, which is the capital city. Tourists can take a cable car or funicular up to Monserrate which is 3,152 meters above sea level, featuring stunning views of the city. Monserrate is also a sacred place where people from all around the world visit the cathedral to offer their prayers to El Señor Caído (the Fallen Lord). The Plaza de Bolívar is the main square of the city. Here, you can visit the Cathedral and learn about the history of Colombia by visiting the nearby Museum of Independence and Gold Museum. The Plaza also features many clothing and food vendors to take some souvenirs back home. No trip to Bogota would be complete without experiencing La Candelaria. This neighborhood features stunning colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets. Overall, Bogota is an exciting travel destination with vibrant cultural opportunities that provide travelers unforgettable experiences. 

Medellin is known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” for its temperate climate year-round. In Medellin travelers can experience a Graffiti Tour, learn about Pablo Escobar’s influence within the city, and enjoy scenic gardens in the botanical garden. For the adventurous, take a daytrip to nearby Guatapé and hike up the iconic El Peñol rock which features breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes. The colorful town of Guatapé features vibrant zocalos (painted tiles) and enjoyable boat rides. During Christmas, Alumbrados Navideños (Christmas lights) transform the city into a wonderland of light. This light display is ranked as one of the best in the world with millions of LED lights being arranged into themes (2023 was a Disney theme). There is also a vibrant festive atmosphere with holiday markets, live music performances, cultural presentations, and delicious Colombian food and drinks. Overall, Medellin is a great place to visit to learn about its fascinating story and enjoy a culturally rich city. 

Another of Colombia’s famous cities is Cartagena, which is known for its vibrant history and stunning beaches. Ciudad Amurallada (Walled City) which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This locale features mazes of cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and unique fortifications built in the 16th century. From Cartagena, try an island-hopping tour of the Rosario Islands or Tierra Bomba, where you can enjoy snorkeling, relaxing on white sandy beaches, and swimming in pristine blue waters. For a unique experience, try the Totumo Mud Volcano. This volcano is located 90 minutes from the center of Cartagena, and visitors are able to climb  down a ladder into the volcano’s crater, which resembles a giant pot filled with warm, thick mud. Additionally, the mud volcano is believed to have curative properties for skin conditions and muscle ache. There is also a unique cultural experience with locals from a nearby indigenous village assisting tourists, selling goods in the marketplace, offering to take pictures of mud covered tourists, and giving spa treatments to travelers. Cartagena combines historical exploration, relaxation, and vibrant cultural immersion. 

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready to discover the magic of Colombia! The adventure awaits.

Colombia, which is located in South America, is a short six-hour flight from Newark International Airport. As one of the most geographically diverse regions, this country showcases mountains, deserts, beaches, large metropolitan centers, and ancient cities. First and foremost, Colombia is defined by its amazing, flavorful cuisine. Arepas (cornmeal cakes) are a staple food in the country featuring different fillings, popularly cheese or meat, and can be enjoyed during every meal. Another popular dish is sancocho, which is a stew of potatoes, meat, and vegetables. An iconic Colombian treat is bocadillo which is made of guava fruit and panela. This delicious dessert can be eaten by itself or paired with cheese. Colombia’s affordable, high-quality, and delicious meals that are sure to please every traveler and resident alike.

The first place to visit is Bogota, which is the capital city. Tourists can take a cable car or funicular up to Monserrate which is 3,152 meters above sea level, featuring stunning views of the city. Monserrate is also a sacred place where people from all around the world visit the cathedral to offer their prayers to El Señor Caído (the Fallen Lord). The Plaza de Bolívar is the main square of the city. Here, you can visit the Cathedral and learn about the history of Colombia by visiting the nearby Museum of Independence and Gold Museum. The Plaza also features many clothing and food vendors to take some souvenirs back home. No trip to Bogota would be complete without experiencing La Candelaria. This neighborhood features stunning colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets. Overall, Bogota is an exciting travel destination with vibrant cultural opportunities that provide travelers unforgettable experiences. 

Medellin is known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” for its temperate climate year-round. In Medellin travelers can experience a Graffiti Tour, learn about Pablo Escobar’s influence within the city, and enjoy scenic gardens in the botanical garden. For the adventurous, take a daytrip to nearby Guatapé and hike up the iconic El Peñol rock which features breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes. The colorful town of Guatapé features vibrant zocalos (painted tiles) and enjoyable boat rides. During Christmas, Alumbrados Navideños (Christmas lights) transform the city into a wonderland of light. This light display is ranked as one of the best in the world with millions of LED lights being arranged into themes (2023 was a Disney theme). There is also a vibrant festive atmosphere with holiday markets, live music performances, cultural presentations, and delicious Colombian food and drinks. Overall, Medellin is a great place to visit to learn about its fascinating story and enjoy a culturally rich city. 

Another of Colombia’s famous cities is Cartagena, which is known for its vibrant history and stunning beaches. Ciudad Amurallada (Walled City) which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This locale features mazes of cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and unique fortifications built in the 16th century. From Cartagena, try an island-hopping tour of the Rosario Islands or Tierra Bomba, where you can enjoy snorkeling, relaxing on white sandy beaches, and swimming in pristine blue waters. For a unique experience, try the Totumo Mud Volcano. This volcano is located 90 minutes from the center of Cartagena, and visitors are able to climb  down a ladder into the volcano’s crater, which resembles a giant pot filled with warm, thick mud. Additionally, the mud volcano is believed to have curative properties for skin conditions and muscle ache. There is also a unique cultural experience with locals from a nearby indigenous village assisting tourists, selling goods in the marketplace, offering to take pictures of mud covered tourists, and giving spa treatments to travelers. Cartagena combines historical exploration, relaxation, and vibrant cultural immersion. 

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready to discover the magic of Colombia! The adventure awaits.