Destination Colombia

Get ready for shattered expectations. While media reports still speak of coca fields, violent crime, rebel shoot-ups and kidnappings, travelers are often left to wonder how so many troubles can plague a country that appears so, well, normal.

Colombia is surprisingly easy place to get your travel needs squared away. Soon after stepping off the plane you'll have changed money, booked into your hotel, checked your email and downed a tinto (coffee). You may also start wondering about the war going on somewhere in the country. But it's a good idea to ask about the security situation in other parts of the country, as it does change.

Probably the most important thing you can do before coming to Colombia, besides reading as much as you can about the country, is to brush up on your español and learn to dance Salsa!

Traveling outside the main cities can be as easy or as hard as you want it to be. There is a range of accommodations suiting everyone, from cheapskates to high rollers. Food is good, plentiful and cheap. Transportation is reasonable efficient, main roads are well maintained and serviced frequently by air-conditioned buses. There's also a range of activities for every age and taste, from candle-lit dinners in romantic Cartagena to hard-core alpine trekking in Parque Nacional El Cocuy.

Always check the security situation if you plan to visit very remote regions, which are likely to be sensitive military rebel-held areas. Search for specific cities and departments rather than just Colombia.

Reproduced with permission from Lonely Planet Colombia, 4th Edition © 2006 Lonely Planet Publications

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Some of our pics from Colombia