Tips & Tricks
Convento de la Popa (Calle 37, Cartagena) – this convent is located at a rather dramatic spot: at the highest point of the city of Cartagena (150 meters above sea level). Founded by Augustine priests in 1607, its official name is Convento de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria. It has one of the most beautiful […]
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 […]
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 […]
Casa de la Moneda de Colombia (Calle 11 #93 esq. Carrera 5,Bogota) – this museum has a collection of the country’s currency from various periods. This building originally acted as the country’s mint – going as far back as 1621. Looking at both the currency and coins shown here gives visitors a window into Colombia’s […]
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 […]