2026 Colombia Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

**Cartagena**, located on Colombia's Caribbean coast, is a historic city that combines stunning Atlantic beaches with colonial-era architecture, making it a captivating travel destination. This city is renowned for its UNESCO-listed Old Town and beautiful beaches, offering a vibrant culture and relaxing resorts. 🏖️🌴 Cartagena is a unique place where you can enjoy leisurely beach relaxation and explore historical landmarks simultaneously. It is a city that blends traditional villages with modern urban life, allowing visitors to experience Colombia's culture and history up close. 🌟 Highlights of Cartagena Old Town: Cartagena's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving colonial-era architecture. Its charming streets and colorful buildings make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Castillo de San Felipe: The San Felipe Fortress is a historic landmark built during the Spanish colonial period. Exploring the fortress offers panoramic views of the entire city. Cartagena Beaches: Situated on the Caribbean Sea, Cartagena boasts beautiful beaches perfect for swimming and water sports. Bocagrande and Playa de la Parroquia are particularly popular. Art Galleries: The Old Town is filled with art galleries and handmade craft shops, providing a great opportunity to purchase local art and souvenirs. Boat Tours: Boat tours are a popular activity to explore Cartagena's islands and waters. The Rosario Islands and Barú Island are peaceful retreats where you can experience crystal-clear waters and unique landscapes. 🕒 Travel Tips Best Time to Visit: Winter and spring are the best seasons. Cartagena's weather is warm and humid year-round, but December to April is the dry season, ideal for travel. Beach Activities: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and other water sports in the Caribbean Sea. It's recommended to book boat tours in advance. Transportation: While Cartagena has a well-connected urban transport system, taxis or rental cars are more convenient for traveling outside the city. Climate Considerations: Cartagena has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather. Be sure to stay hydrated and use sunscreen during your trip. Food and Dining: Cartagena offers many restaurants serving traditional Colombian cuisine. Be sure to try seafood dishes, paella, and tandoori specialties to experience the local flavors.

🌎Breaking news! Colombian official media just announced—formal visa exemption for Chinese citizens! This mysterious country, rated as one of the "Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations" by Lonely Planet, can now be visited on a whim! ❗【👇Click below for visa-free travel to Colombia】 ❗ ▫️ Geographical surprise box: desert, rainforest, snow-capped mountains, and Caribbean beaches all in one trip ▫️ Coffee lover's paradise: world-class coffee region, experience the romance from bean to cup firsthand ▫️ Magical realism: the inspirational soil of "One Hundred Years of Solitude," immerse yourself in Latin American literature 📸 Unlock Colombia 1️⃣ Bogotá: touch gold, taste platinum ice cream 2️⃣ Monserrate Mountain: view the rainbow city from God's perspective 3️⃣ Coffee plantations: be a coffee farmer for a day 4️⃣ Salt Cathedral: a deep blue miracle 300m underground 5️⃣ Cartagena: the magical port from "One Hundred Years of Solitude" 6️⃣ Rosario Islands: crystal clear waters + pink sand beaches 💡Small tips 🛫Traveling to Colombia usually requires transfers through countries like France or the Netherlands, but many don't require transit visas🎫 🏨The capital Bogotá has a Four Seasons hotel, and Cartagena has Relais & Châteaux member hotels, both offering excellent accommodations ❗【👇Click below for visa-free travel to Colombia】 ❗

The natural beauty is breathtaking, with so many waterfalls surrounded by tropical plants with mist from the hot springs drifting everywhere. A therapeutic experience in the hot and rich in minerals medicinal waters of the thermal springs Colombia is the 25th largest country in the world, enjoying plenty of different climates and landscapes. I am so grateful for being able to spend time surrounded by nature. In times of uncertainty nothing better than breathing pure air. The entrance to the hot springs costs around 38,000 pesos ($12) for the day pass Natural Thermal Waters➡➡ I enjoyed the thermal expedition trek up to the mountain 🦥🦧🦮🐒 #mytripvlog#passionpassport

It is a very friendly country with a very beautiful language. The business district has convenient transportation and is very suitable for shopping. In the city, old and new buildings stand side by side, representing very different cultures. Definitely worth a visit.

A soulful experience in Salento is sure to be traveling through the mountains in a classic jeep! Whether you go to Cocora Valley to see the world's tallest wax palm or visit a coffee estate, this 4x4 car is the first choice for locals and tourists alike ~ 📍Meeting point: Plaza Bolivia information kiosk, divided into two ticket windows of Coffee Manor and Valley, super easy to find! 💰Charge Reference: - Cocora Valley: Round trip ticket 11,000 pesos, valley entry ticket 25,000 pesos, 2 hour hike on the small loop is enough for beautiful views - Coffee Manor: Manor Tour costs 65,000 pesos (2-hour experience) 🚌Shift: Open when full, no need to make an appointment super convenient The jeep bumps over the mountain trails, with lush green coffee gardens on one side, palm forests surrounded by clouds on the other, and the opportunity to taste and pick local coffee beans ~ Remember to wear non-slip shoes, bring sunscreen and cash 🥰 ✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️✨️ The jeeps in Salento can be so crowded that there is no room to move! To play enough special, do not want to sit in a boring seat, the rear standing position and co-driver position is the first choice ~ 📍Ride Strategy: ✨️ Co-pilot: up to 2 people, enough space, superb visibility! I was lucky enough to be able to sit on 3 of the 4 round trips that day, so I didn't have to fight to see the beautiful scenery 😎 Rear standing area: up to 3 ~ 4 people, must hold the handrail! The mountain road is bumpy. If you are not careful, you will stumble. Don't let go 🥵 Inside the cabin: Regular seats are crowded, especially more than 10 people, it is recommended to arrive early to grab a seat #travel destination #travel #travel photo #travel2026 #colombia travel #travel master #travel guide #travel attractions #travel tips #cocoravalley

The Botero Museum is a must-visit art destination in Bogotá! The museum is renowned for its iconic "chubby art" style exhibitions (featuring rounded and exaggerated depictions of people, animals, and still life). It showcases a vast collection of oil paintings, sculptures, and sketches by Colombia's national treasure, Fernando Botero, alongside masterpieces by international legends like Picasso, Monet, and Dalí. 📍 A place rich in artistic value and cultural experience. 🥰 Unique "Chubby Style" (Gordura/Boterismo): The exhibits feature characters (people, animals, still life) with inflated, rounded, and exaggerated forms, filled with humor, tenderness, political satire, or depictions of indulgence, making them highly recognizable. 📍 Address: Carrera 11 #4-41, La Candelaria, Bogotá, Colombia 🕙 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Closed on Mondays 💰 Admission: Free entry, special exhibitions may have additional charges.

✨️The Bogotá Gold Museum (Museo del Oro) is a must-visit attraction for travelers in Bogotá. It houses the world's richest collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts. 📍Address: Cra. 6 #15-88, Santa Fé, Bogotá, Colombia 🕙Opening Hours: 1️⃣Tuesday to Saturday: 09:00 AM - 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM); 2️⃣Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM); 3️⃣Closed on Mondays and certain holidays 💰Admission: COP 5,000 from Tuesday to Saturday and on holidays; free on Sundays. Children under 12 and seniors over 60 enjoy free entry. The Bogotá Gold Museum is one of the most significant museums in the world, featuring over 55,000 pieces of gold and silver jewelry and artifacts. It showcases the exquisite craftsmanship and cultural history of Colombia's indigenous peoples.

Goodbye👋 One of Salento* favorite towns🥰 No need to mess with Colombia transit! Bus + Accommodation + Airport 🚌 Salento → Pereira Transportation: - Pick-up point: Salento Station - Arrival point: Pereira Transport Terminal ⏳️ Frequency: One service per hour, the journey takes about 50 minutes 💰Tickets: Instant purchase on site 🏡Near airport location for one night stay ⚠️ Important reminder: When we stayed at the Pereira Epic Suite, we left the camera in the room, called the hotel to inquire was claimed by the staff not found, called the police to no 😭 ✈️ Pereira to Bogota Transportation: - Airport: Matecaña International Airport (PEI) - Take a uber from the hotel to the airport, a few minutes - Flight frequency: Multiple flights per day, flight about 1.5 hours ✅ Must-remember tips: Accommodation in the city center, convenient for food and early flights Allow 2 hours to arrive at the airport to avoid panic You must check everywhere when you leave the room! Keep valuables with you throughout the process. Don't be careless! #ColombiaTravel #Pereira #TravelTips #travel2026 #Travel #TravelStrategy #TravelMaster #TravelRecommendations #TravelPhoto

The Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes (Basílica Menor Nuestra Señora de Lourdes) is located in the Chapinero district and is celebrated as one of Bogotá's most stunning examples of Gothic Revival architecture. Its symmetrical façade is particularly striking. 📜 This church stands as a testament to timeless design and exquisite craftsmanship, continuously captivating all visitors. 💒 Basilica of Our Lady of Lourdes 📍 Address: Kr 13 #63-27, Chapinero, Bogotá, Colombia ⏰ Opening Hours: Generally open all day, with Mass services available 🎫 Admission: Free Built in 1875, this church is Colombia's first Gothic Revival structure. Its exterior features corner towers, spires, and pointed arches, while the interior boasts a grand space, stained glass windows crafted by German artists, and a marble altar. In 1988, the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes was consecrated, and in 2016, the church was designated as a minor basilica.

Located in the heart of Colombia's Coffee Triangle, Salento is a paradise for coffee enthusiasts. The coffee experience here is undoubtedly the highlight, but as for the food, it's best to keep your expectations in check. Highly recommend joining a local coffee plantation tour or visiting the town's charming coffee shops to savor some exceptional coffee. However, the local cuisine might leave you a bit disappointed. After trying a few restaurants in town, the flavors and textures were underwhelming. It's best not to expect too much—just grab a simple bite to fill your stomach.

Located in the heart of Colombia's Coffee Triangle, Salento is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts. Joining a local coffee plantation tour is highly recommended! In mid-November, Salento's gentle rain adds a refreshing touch to the coffee plantations, creating a unique experience. After the rain, the coffee leaves and cherries appear even greener, and the air is filled with the earthy aroma of soil and coffee fruits. The lighting is perfect for capturing atmospheric photos. 🌿 Highlights of the experience: A 3-hour guided tour in English, offering detailed explanations about coffee tree cultivation and coffee bean varieties. You can even plant coffee seedlings, pick coffee beans, taste fresh coffee beans, and sample three different coffee flavors. The serene environment of the plantation, surrounded by coffee trees, is ideal for photography. 📌 Tips: - Wear non-slip shoes! The mountain paths can be steep, making it easier to navigate while picking coffee beans. - No need to book in advance, but during peak seasons, it's better to arrive early.

Cocora Valley 🌴 in Colombia offers visitors the chance to explore the world's tallest wax palm trees through hiking or horseback riding, depending on your physical ability and interests. 1️⃣ Hiking ⛰️ Hiking is the most popular way to explore Cocora Valley, ideal for those with good stamina who want to delve deep into the cloud forest. Route Options: - Full Loop: Approximately 10-14 km in length, taking around 5-7 hours to complete. - Direct to Palms: If you're short on time, you can walk directly to the main viewpoints (Miradors), which takes about 60 minutes one way. ✨ Challenges and Essentials: - Trail Conditions: The paths can become extremely muddy and slippery due to rain, so it's essential to wear professional waterproof hiking boots or rent rain boots locally. - Altitude: Some sections exceed 2,700 meters above sea level, so be mindful of altitude sickness. 2️⃣ Horseback Riding 🐴🐎 Horseback riding is perfect for those who prefer not to walk long distances or want to experience the valley's stunning scenery in a shorter time. ✨ Highlights: - A professional guide will accompany you (either walking or riding alongside), leading you through rivers, forests, and to the viewpoints. It's safe even for beginners, as the horses are usually gentle and familiar with the trails. - 💰 Cost: Prices vary depending on the length of the trip and whether it includes a guide or transportation. Best Time to Visit: It's recommended to start your journey between 7:00 and 8:00 AM from Salento by jeep to avoid afternoon fog, thunderstorms, and crowds. Gear: Regardless of your chosen activity, be sure to bring a raincoat, sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks, and cash.

The highlight of my South American trip! 🥰 Seeing it in person is 100 times more stunning than photos 🌿 World's Tallest Palm Trees 🌴: The valley is home to Colombia's national tree, the wax palm, which can grow up to 60 meters tall. These palms sway mystically amidst the mist, creating a magical scene ✨️. Breathtaking Scenery: Situated at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, the valley is surrounded by mountains, offering a paradise-like view of misty forests, streams, and meadows. Diverse Activities: Besides hiking, you can also explore on horseback, with cafes and farms along the way.

Cocora Valley is located in the foothills of the central-western Andes in Colombia and is part of the Coffee Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Quindío wax palms here, reaching up to 60 meters in height, are known as the 'giraffes of the plant world' and are also Colombia's national tree. The back of the 100,000 Colombian peso banknote issued in 2016 features illustrations of the wax palms in Cocora Valley. The valley is situated within Los Nevados National Natural Park, with an average altitude of 2,000 meters. You can reach it by taking a jeep from Salento, which takes about 20-30 minutes and costs 11,000 pesos round trip. Entrance to the park requires a ticket costing 25,000 pesos (as of November 2025). Route Options: Short Route: Approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours, leading directly to the palm forest. It offers stunning views and great value for time, recommended to walk clockwise. Long Route: Takes 4-5 hours or more (around 12 kilometers), including a loop around the valley. The path can be muddy and features small waterfalls. Be sure to bring water and wear suitable shoes.

Salento Salento, a town in the heart of the Colombian coffee region, is full of unique charm🎈. There are colorful colonial buildings, red tile roofs with colorful walls, like a fairy tale world, and one of the inspirations for the Oscar-winning film "Full House" 😉. There are many craft shops in the town of Calle Real where you can buy specialty souvenirs. Must-see attractions ✨️ 🌴Cocora Valley Wax Palm Valley, the world's tallest palm tree at 60 meters is super spectacular ☕️In addition, Salento as a coffee producing area, visiting coffee plantations is also an essential itinerary😜. Many plantations offer tours. There are also many coffee shops, souvenir shops, etc. in the town with affordable prices. Be sure to walk if you have time 🥰 #travelexperience #travel #travelstrategy #salento #travel2026 #colombiatravel #travelplacerecommendations #travelmaster #cocovalley #coffeemanor #Salento #ColumbiaTravel #Travel Guide

Planning to travel from Medellín to Salento by bus? This practical guide is a must-have to ensure a smooth trip without any last-minute rush! 😉 📍Departure Point Start your journey at Medellín's "Terminal de Transporte Norte" (North Transport Terminal), which offers the most frequent and reliable bus services. ⏰Travel Duration The bus route passes through Pereira, and the entire journey takes approximately 6.5 hours. 🎫Ticket Price and Important Tips for Ticket Exchange Online booking costs around 83,000 Colombian Pesos. Important Reminder: After booking online, make sure to arrive at the station counter at least 1 hour early to exchange for a physical ticket! The Colombian system can be quite chaotic at times, and ticket issuance might be slow. If you're late, you might miss your bus! 😱 ✅Additional Tips: - Double-check your transfer schedule and departure time when exchanging tickets to avoid any mistakes. - Provide your booking number at the counter for ticket exchange. If the system cannot locate your booking, you may need to show your passport for verification. - There are small restaurants and convenience stores near the station where you can buy snacks and drinks in advance, so you won't go hungry during the journey! 📸About Salento Salento is a famous coffee town in Colombia, perfect for photography, enjoying premium coffee, and experiencing the local atmosphere. With stunning surrounding landscapes, it's ideal for sightseeing, taking Instagram-worthy photos, or even exploring deeper on a self-drive trip!

Located in the heart of Guatapé, Colombia, the Church of Our Lady of Carmen (Nuestra Señora del Carmen) serves as a convergence of art and faith in this vibrant town😇! Built in 1865, the church features an elegant Greco-Roman architectural style. What makes it truly unique is its exterior decoration, which incorporates Guatapé's famous 'Zócalos' (colorful relief decorations), showcasing the town's rich religious and artistic heritage. The church's exterior is predominantly white with deep red accents, creating a stunning visual effect, especially during sunset when the light casts beautiful shadows📸. The front facade is adorned with shallow relief murals (zocalos) depicting the symbols of the four Evangelists—an angel, a lion, an ox, and an eagle—harmonizing with the town's street art. The interior is equally exquisite, featuring wooden colonnades paired with intricate carvings and statues. The solemn yet warm atmosphere invites visitors to sit quietly and experience a moment of tranquility, offering a truly healing experience. 📍Location: Central area of Guatapé (within walking distance of major attractions) Carrera 30 #30-56, Guatapé, Antioquia, Colombia 🎫Admission: Free entry

✨ In the charming town of Guatapé, Colombia, even the transportation is a work of art! 😆 The Tuk Tuks here are undoubtedly the highlights of the streets 🌟. Each one is uniquely designed with vibrant patterns and colors—bright red, sunny yellow, and royal blue combinations that are incredibly eye-catching. They are often adorned with illustrations of local culture, flora, and fauna, perfectly matching the town's iconic relief murals 🖌️. Although I didn’t get the chance to ride one this time, I couldn’t resist snapping photos 📸 as I walked by. Every shot is picture-perfect, no filters needed! 📍 Location: Guatapé, Antioquia, Colombia 🚗 Tip: Ask a local driver to book a special Tuk Tuk tour around the town for an immersive experience of its scenic beauty.

✨ This vibrant and colorful town, located in the Antioquia Department of Colombia, is definitely worth a visit. 😉 🌟【Colorful Streets and Murals】: Guatapé is famous for its brightly colored buildings, with almost every lower wall adorned with vivid bas-relief murals (zócalos) 🎭. These murals depict stories of farming, fishing, family life, and more. Walking through the streets of this town feels like stepping into a living painting 🖼️. I especially loved these vibrant bas-relief murals and was lucky enough to witness an artist creating one. His skilled hands meticulously outlined intricate patterns, and the finished piece was stunning, making me even more fascinated by these murals. 😆

Guatapé, often hailed as "the most beautiful town in the world," is located 80 kilometers northeast of Medellín. You can reach it in 1.5-2 hours by tourist bus! The entire town is like a spilled paint palette, with colorful walls adorned with unique bas-reliefs (Zócalos), making every corner a photo spot. Add to that the 200-meter-high El Peñol Rock with its 659 steps, offering panoramic views of the lake and islands from the top. This day trip perfectly combines natural beauty and cultural charm. 📍Core Itinerary: Medellín North Bus Terminal → El Peñol Rock → Colorful Town of Guatapé → Return ⏰ Total Duration: Approximately 8 hours (including local transport and sightseeing) 🚌 Transportation Details (Most Budget-Friendly Bus Route) 📍 Departure Station: Medellín North Bus Terminal (Terminal del Norte), directly accessible via Caribe Metro Station 📍 Ticket Counter: Booth 14 (Sotra San Vicente) ⏳ Schedule: 05:30-19:00, buses every 20-30 minutes, no reservation needed, just buy on-site 🚌 Fare: One-way COP 22,000, round trip COP 44,000 (💰 No discount for round trips) ✨ Key Tip: The bus makes a stop at a gas station near El Peñol Rock; no need to get off until you reach the destination 🌟 Must-Visit Attractions (Time Planning + Cost Breakdown) 1️⃣ El Peñol Rock (La Piedra del Peñol) 🪨 - Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00 (least crowded in the early morning, perfect for photos without distractions) 🧾 Entrance Fee: COP 30,000/person, includes the 659-step climb to the top 🖍 Highlights: Panoramic views of the reservoir and islands from the summit; the staircase is well-designed and not too strenuous, with rest stops along the way 2️⃣ Colorful Town of Guatapé 🏡 - Transportation: Take a Tuk-tuk or a bus from El Peñol Rock, just a 5-minute ride - Must-See Spots: Main Square (Parque Principal), colorful wall murals (Zócalos), and the wooden church 3️⃣ Guatapé Reservoir Boat Tour If time permits, enjoy a 1-hour lake tour with various boat companies to choose from - Highlights: Admire the scenic artificial lake and islands; the blue-green water is perfect for photos - Suggested Duration: 1 hour (can skip if you prefer more time exploring the town) 📌 Handy Tips (Avoid Common Pitfalls) Currency: Make sure to have small COP bills, as Tuk-tuk drivers may not give change and might insist on tips This itinerary offers a high-value experience at a low cost, with direct buses and no transfers needed. You can explore all the highlights of Guatapé in one day! Don’t forget to fully charge your camera—both the colorful town and the panoramic views from the rock are unbeatable for photography!

📍Location: El Peñón de Guatapé (Guatapé, Colombia, 86 km northeast of Medellín) 🎯Core Experience: Climb a million-year-old granite rock and enjoy panoramic views of the blue-green reservoir and islands from the top. A must-visit iconic landmark in Colombia! ⏰Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours (including climbing, photography, and rest) 🚌 Direct Transportation Guide - Starting Point: Medellín North Bus Terminal (Terminal del Norte), directly accessible via Caribe Metro Station - Ticket Counter: Window 14 (Sotra San Vicente), no reservation needed, buy and go - Schedule: One-way fare COP 22,000 - Key Tip: When buying tickets, mention "La Piedra". The driver will stop at a gas station, and from there, it's a 10-minute walk to the rock entrance. Do not stay on the bus until the town's final stop! 🪨 Detailed Guide to Climbing the Rock (Cost, Difficulty, Highlights) - Entrance Fee: COP 30,000/person, cash only, no reservation required - Number of Steps: 659 zigzag stairs - Rock Specifications: 220 meters high, weighing 66 million tons, composed of quartz and feldspar, with a history of millions of years - Must-Experience Highlights: Midway Rest Platform: Features a Catholic altar, a spot to hydrate and take photos, offering partial lake views Top Observation Deck: Three open levels providing 360° unobstructed views of the reservoir and islands. The emerald green water sparkles under the sun 📌Tips Gear: Wear comfortable sports shoes, bring sunscreen and sunglasses, and consider a light jacket as it can be windy at the top Return Trip: Traffic jams are common on weekends; aim for a bus before 4:00 PM to avoid being stranded in the town Safety: Some stair sections can be slippery; be cautious on rainy days and avoid climbing restricted areas This "sacred rock" revered by the indigenous people is undoubtedly a must-visit spot for independent travelers in Colombia! Don't worry about your stamina—take your time climbing and snapping photos along the way. The view from the top is absolutely worth it!

Mention Medellín, and many might think of its notorious past with drug cartels. Comuna 13, once a stronghold of these cartels, has now undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant and artistic tourist destination. Here's a travel guide to help you uncover the unique charm of this area. 🌟 Attractions - Street Art: Comuna 13 is renowned for its colorful street art. Each mural tells its own story, reflecting the local history, culture, and community spirit. Strolling through the streets feels like walking through an open-air art museum. - Outdoor Escalators: Riding the outdoor escalators up the hills is a unique experience in Comuna 13. While on the escalators, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and immerse yourself in the local rhythm of life. 🚇 Transportation From Medellín's city center, you can take the metro and then transfer to a cable car to reach Comuna 13. The cable car ride offers stunning views of Medellín and is a highlight of the journey. 🍽️ Food In Comuna 13, you can savor a variety of authentic Colombian dishes. From high-quality local coffee to delicious empanadas and the unique gelatina de pata (pork trotters jelly), your taste buds are in for a treat. 🛏️ Accommodation

Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, is home to numerous cafes. With a variety of concepts and designs, it's a city where cafe hopping is a delightful experience. This time, I explored cafes mainly in the old town and selected the ones I truly recommend. Be sure to check them out! ✨ ① Cafe Cecile 🟥🟦 This is a small cafe specializing in specialty coffee. I ordered a latte, and it was a rare light roast for South America, which brought out the sweetness of the latte beautifully. The milk steaming was perfect! For those who aren't fans of coffee, they also offer a wide variety of teas, making it a great choice. Opening Hours: Mon-Sat 8:00~19:00, Sun 9:00~19:00 Payment Methods: Card, Cash ➁ Cafe Casa Gaeria 🟪🟨 The interior, furniture, and cups here are absolutely adorable! The staff were friendly and chatted with me a lot. I ordered a latte and empanadas. The latte had a roast level similar to Japan, with a balanced bitterness and body. The empanadas were inexpensive yet delicious! Surprisingly, they paired well with coffee, proving why they're a national dish. Opening Hours: 9:00~20:00 Payment Methods: Cash, Card ③ Cafe del Mercado 🟫🟩 Among the three, this cafe felt the most like a specialty coffee shop. I ordered a V60, and I could choose from six different beans, including Geisha. Even though I don't speak Spanish, they explained everything clearly and let me smell the beans before choosing. ☕️ The coffee was clean, easy to drink, and had a pleasant sweetness—a truly delicious cup. They also demonstrated the brewing process. Opening Hours: 9:30~18:30 Payment Methods: Cash, Card If you visit Bogotá, make sure to stop by these cafes! 🩷

Last week I was on a business trip to New York. One day, I worked overtime until 10:30 PM. I was exhausted when I got back to the hotel but couldn’t fall asleep, so I decided to take a walk to Times Square to get some fresh air. Times Square was still brightly lit, with pedestrians and tourists pouring in from all directions. There were many street photographers there, from South America, India, and Africa. Their usual rate was $20 per photo, but it wasn’t hard to bargain down to $10 or even $50 for a full set of digital files. But that day, I met a photographer from Colombia. The moment he showed me his sample shots, I realized: this one was different. His equipment was clearly more professional than the others around, and his composition, lighting, and color were all on point—eye-catching in a way. He said his prices were fixed: $20 per photo, no bargaining; or $100 for a full set of Times Square shots. After chatting for a bit, he offered: $200 for a full set of Times Square plus New York subway station photos. The shoot would take about 40 minutes. After the shoot, all I could say was: I really know how to pick a photographer! The hit rate was ridiculously high—photos could be used straight out of the camera, with composition and mood that were very clean, sharp, and full of storytelling. Later, in casual conversation, I learned that his main job is commercial photography, charging $500 per hour, and he only occasionally comes to Times Square to stroll and shoot passersby. I never expected that a spontaneous late-night walk would lead to such a surprisingly high-quality street photography experience. Truly, this is New York!

Having stayed in many modern hotels, I naturally felt a renewed curiosity about these historically significant buildings in South America. Unlike the uniform modernity of North American hotels, they possess the texture of time and the soul of the city; each visit is like reading an old book, each more captivating than the last. This time, flying directly from North America to Bogotá, the capital of Colombia, I immediately felt mild altitude sickness upon landing—at an altitude of 2600 meters, it's a city built in the mountains. Low-hanging clouds and cool, thin air filled the air. Walking into the Four Seasons Hotel in this atmosphere, somewhat dazed, I felt an unreal tranquility, as if stepping into the clouds, or suddenly placed into a traditional Chinese ink painting where city and mountains overlap. Bogotá offers a dual experience of modernity and history. During my stay in Bogotá, I stayed at two Four Seasons hotels with completely different atmospheres: one modern and sleek, the other serene and historically resonant. Four Seasons Bogotá (Zona T) (Figures 12-17) Modern, simple, and highly efficient. The rooms are new and well-designed, located in the bustling Zona T area, with restaurants and shops within walking distance. Suitable for first-time visitors who prioritize convenience. Four Seasons Casa Medina (Zona G), Bogotá (Figures 1-11) Michelin One-Star Key Hotel This hotel feels more like staying in a piece of art with a long history. The building retains its wooden beams, wrought ironwork, and stone pillars, creating a particularly atmospheric ambiance at night. The building itself was completed in late 1946 and later became an officially recognized cultural/historical heritage site. There was a little incident: we ran into American singer Dua Lipa sitting next to us in the hotel's speakeasy bar. At first, I didn't recognize her at all. I was wondering why everyone was looking at us, and there were many young men and women standing together at the hotel entrance. I thought it was a parade, but then a staff member told me she was a celebrity, and I realized it was her! 🤣🤣🤣

Does anyone else know how to prepare these kinds of snacks to share? Please share photos in the comments. #travel #localfood

- Bogotá The new town is safe, with some stores open 24 hours. You might want to be a little careful in the old town. The emeralds from the Muzo mine are truly beautiful. There aren't any particularly touristy attractions. - Medellín It's a lot of fun, and the nightlife is vibrant. There are rows of stylish restaurants and shops. - Guatapé You can get there from Medellín by bus or Uber. The bus is a bit inconvenient. It takes about an hour and a half by Uber. There are so many stylish hotels, it's hard to choose. - Ipiales The strangely shaped Las Lajas Church ⛪️ It looks like something out of a Dragon Quest game. From here, you can travel overland to Ecuador. There's a lot of talk about Colombia being dangerous, but Comuna 13, once considered the most dangerous place on Earth, has become a tourist destination and is thriving with visitors from all over the world. It's a vibrant, stylish, and fun country. Next time I'd like to spend some time relaxing in Cartagena.

💔 The harsh truth that discourages on the surface 1️⃣ Price shock - A cup of coffee at Bogotá airport costs 12,000 COP (about ¥20), local market 2,000 COP - Coconut in Cartagena Old Town $3, outside the city walls $1 - Medellín cable car ticket 23,000 COP, taxi down the mountain only 15,000 COP 2️⃣ Magical realism of transportation - Taxi doesn’t use the meter, airport to city center starts at 100,000 COP (actual 20,000) - Long-distance buses are often late, air conditioning inside freezes you like a popsicle - Bogotá TransMilenio bus is so crowded you’re almost hanging in the air, almost had my phone stolen 3️⃣ Safety anxiety hits - Hotel repeatedly reminds “Don’t put your phone in your pocket” - Police patrol with assault rifles in front of the Gold Museum - Afraid to go out alone at night, missed the salsa dance night 💡 Reverse “it’s actually great” alert! ✅ Hidden money-saving tips - Local market: Paloquemao Market $5,000 COP fruit feast - Free attractions: Bogotá Monserrate Hill cable car hiking is free - Student discount: Museum $5,000 COP (about ¥8) to see the golden national treasures ✅ Great value experiences list - Coffee plantation experience: 30,000 COP to learn picking and roasting, unlimited coffee - Guatapé giant rock climb: 20,000 COP to overlook the Thousand Islands Lake - Amazon rainforest: $30/day including food and lodging to see pink dolphins ✅ Local ways to play - Medellín Comuna 13 graffiti tour: 15,000 COP to hear gang transformation stories - Bogotá weekend cycling: Sunday road closures with free bike rentals - Cartagena Getsemaní district: street parties at night like a carnival 📍 Three days two nights cost-effective itinerary DAY 1: Bogotá history tour - Morning: La Candelaria Old Town walking tour (free) - Noon: Market $8,000 COP grilled chicken set meal - Afternoon: Gold Museum $5,000 COP - Evening: Zona T night market (hold tight to your wallet) DAY 2: Medellín transformation miracle - Morning: Cable car for mountain city panorama $23,000 COP - Noon: Poblado district $12,000 COP business lunch - Afternoon: Comuna 13 graffiti tour $15,000 COP - Evening: Free salsa dance class (one drink at the bar) DAY 3: Cartagena Caribbean vibes - Morning: City walls sunrise viewing (free) - Noon: Getsemaní district $15,000 COP fish soup - Afternoon: Castle $25,000 COP - Evening: Street performers (tips optional) 🎁 Local insider tips ✨ Sunday morning: Bogotá Gold Museum free entry ✨ Market secret code: say “a la vuelta” (corner price) for instant discount ✨ Night bus: Bogotá-Medellín 40,000 COP, saves one night’s accommodation