Colombia Overview
I would love to share an overview of my country, the culture, the most famous places to visit and food to eat! And why not, share some tips if you want to go and know some of the biggest cities in Colombia.
The big Cities
Colombia has five major municipal areas: Barranquilla, Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena and Medellin, with more than one million inhabitants. Moreover, there are several mid-sized cities that are within the commercial orbit of these major areas.
Barranquilla
Barranquilla is best known as The Golden Gate of Colombia (La Puerta de Oro de Colombia) because its location north of Colombia and it is the most important maritime port of The Republic of Colombia.
Barranquilla is honored as the origination of the aviation and airport.
The Culture and Festivals
official celebration of the Barranquilla Carnival starts with traditional events in the 'CumbiodromoVía 40', such as the Battle of the flowers, the great Parade of tradition and folklore, the Orchestra Festival, and the Great troupes Parade, and more.
The Food
Barranquilla's traditional version is called sancocho é guandú and includes yucca, ñame (yam), sweet yellow plantains, salty meat and, of course, guandú (a kind of large lentil)
Fritos: Which means the typical fried foods in Barranquilla they include the Colombian staple Arepa's,Arepa Dulce (sweet arepas) or Caribañola. Mojarra with Coconut Rice: Mojarra is a famous fried fish dish that is served with coconut rice. Posta and Coconut Rice:A thick-cut meat served with coconut rice.
Bogotá
Bogotá is the third-highest capital in South America and in the world after Quito and La Paz, at an average of 2,640 meters (8,660 ft) above sea level.
was founded in 1538 and still retains its historical charm in areas such as La Candelaria. Aside from being historically significant, Bogota is also known for its arts, gastronomy and culture. Explore this vibrant capital and take day trips from Bogota while visiting Colombia.
Millions of tourists visit Colombia's capital per year, and while many of them do not experience any safety issues, some do. Generally speaking, Bogota can be safe for tourists, but that is only if they know what to expect and follow specific safety principles.
Places to visit in Bogota
Attractions you'll find in Bogotá
National Museum
Museum of Gold
Monserrate
La candelaria
Bolivar Square
Food
Bogota is known for the traditional soup called Ajiaco, it is made with potato, chicken and guascas herbs that gives it a special flavor.
Tamales are also known as the classic Sunday breakfast with hot chocolate and fresh baked bread.
Empanadas are also part of Bogota traditional food.
Cartagena
Cartagena is a port city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. By the sea is the walled Old Town, founded in the 16th century, with squares, cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings. With a tropical climate, the city is also a popular beach destination. Reachable by boat are Isla de Barú, with white-sand beaches and palm trees, and the Islas del Rosario, known for their coral reefs.
Medellin
Medellín is the capital of Colombia’s mountainous Antioquia province. Nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring” for its temperate weather, it hosts a famous annual Flower Festival. Modern metrocables link the city to surrounding barrios and offer views of the Aburrá Valley below.
Sculptures by Fernando Botero decorate downtown's Botero Plaza, while the Museo de Antioquia displays more of the Colombian artist’s work.
