Colombia

After years of being overlooked as a tourist destination, Colombia is enjoying something of a revival, to become a new and exciting destination. It is unspoilt, with stunning scenery, a wonderful Caribbean coastline and snow-capped mountain ranges. It has Spanish colonial cities, pre-colombian ruins, spectacular National Parks and flower and coffee farms.

Cartagena is the Caribbean jewel in Colombia's crown, its old quarter has been refurbished and many colonial mansions have been carefully restored and turned into attractive boutique hotels, sophisticated restaurants and wine bars. The city has a relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere, in the balmy evenings Colombians and visitors alike stroll along the narrow streets, or take a ride in one of horse-drawn carriages along the sea front.

Colombia's people are friendly with a zest for life and the rhythms of salsa and merengue are never far away. Voted by Lonely Planet Guidebooks one the Top Ten travel destinations for this year, most visitors are greatly surprised by this beautiful country. On top of all this, it's also extremely good value for money!

Last Updated: Tuesday February 06 2007