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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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.
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 […]