Tips & Tricks
Hacienda Nápoles (Puerto Triunfo, Antioquia) – for those fascinated with Colombia’s infamous history as being a one-time epicenter of the international narcotics trade, this is a ‘must see” destination: the former residence of notorious drug lord Pablo Escobar (who once headed the Medellín Cartel). Located six hours (via car) northwest of Bogotá, this estate’s entrance […]
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas (Av. Arévalo, Cartagena) – named after Spain’s King Felipe IV, this castle was built in 1536 during the early part of Colombia’s Spanish colonial period. (designed to defend both the port and city of Cartagena). Because of the valuable cargo that came through Cartagena to Spain (ranging from silver, to […]
Latora 4 Brazos (Calle 8 #40A-18, Bogotá) – located in Bogotá’s Chaperino district, this nightspot books live rock bands, as well as DJ-driven electronic and Latin music sessions. There is also a small balcony which looks onto the main feature of this club – a massive ‘outdoor’ (smoking is allowed here despite the fact that […]
Centro Amurallado – Old Town (Calle 41, Cartagena) – this is the walled-in colonial section of Cartagena (in some ways reminiscent of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico). Unlike the rest of Cartagena, the colonial section is far more tourist-friendly, and contains colorful homes, quaint shops, unique shopping, old cathedrals, and a more inviting vibe. It’s […]
Bus Cartagena Bus (Cartagena) — Multi-colored buses also traverse through the city at high speed competing for business and are a fun way to see how the locals get from A to B. Most fares are set at around COL$1,200 (US$0.66). The principal landmarks on route are written on boards displayed on the front window […]
Capitolio Nacional (Calle 10 esq. Carrera 7, Bogotá) – this is the location of the Colombian government’s legislative branch. This building was originally the Viceroy’s Palace during the Spanish colonial period, and went through periods of renovations from 1846 to 1926. Danish architect Thomas Reed was responsible for the Capitolio’s distinctive façade (consisting of 18 […]