Tips & Tricks
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 […]
Centro Comercial San Fernando (Ternera Calle 31 #81B 104, Cartagena) – opened in late 2013, this is another Cartagena area shopping center that has various local & regional retailers. Popular with the locals, this shopping center often holds fashion shows, and events for school children.
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 […]
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 […]
Iglesia de Santo Domingo (Plaza de Santo Domingo, Cartagena) – originally built at Cartagena’s Plaza de los Coches in 1539 (which was burnt later and rebuilt at its present location), this is reputedly the oldest church in the city. This is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Cartagena. Inside it one can find […]
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 […]