By David Thyberg
Colombia Travel Tips
In the past, many travelers avoided Colombia, at the northwest corner of
South America, due to internal terrorism, drug trafficking and high crime rates. The state of the nation has improved in recent years under a new administration, with nearly 2 million tourists passing through Colombia in 2007. Scenic
Caribbean and Pacific
beaches and vibrant culture continue to lure visitors. Major attractions include the bustling metropolitan area of Bogotá, the colonial walled city of Cartagena and Medellin's Festival of the Flowers.
Getting There
Most international flights to Colombia touch down in the capital city of Bogotá at El Dorado International Airport, 8 miles outside of town. Avianca, the primary national airline, runs direct flights between Bogotá, New York and Madrid. Other major airlines, including Continental, American Airlines, Iberia and British Airways, operate here as well. Domestic flights from El Dorado Airport will take you to Cali, Cartagena and Barranquilla.
Avianca Airlines
www.avianca.com
Getting Around on the Ground
Once on the ground in Colombia, you have several options for getting around. For travel between major cities and towns, go with a reliable tour bus company. Cheaper collectivo buses are not recommended for tourists. Visit the following company web pages for schedules and pricing:
Flota Magdalena
www.flotamagdalena.com
Expreso Bolivariano
www.bolivariano.com.co
Expreso Palmira
www.expresopalmira.com.co
Getting around the city of Bogotá can be overwhelming with all the traffic, and visitors are not advised to take unknown cabs or collectivo buses. Use a reputable bus service like TransMilenio or call a reliable taxi company to pick you up.
TransMilenio City Bus
www.transmilenio.gov.co
TaxExpress
411 1111
Flota La Macarena Taxis
425 4900
Compañía Taxis Verdes
355 5550
Safety Tips
Travelers in Colombia should always use registered transportation companies rather than hailing cabs or buses on the street. Flying between cities rather than going on the ground is recommended since it saves a lot of time and keeps you off of the sometimes treacherous highways and mountain roads that connect Colombian towns and villages. If you do decide to go by bus between cities, avoid traveling at night.
About the Author:
David Thyberg began his writing career in 2007. He is a professional writer, editor and translator. Thyberg has been published in various newspapers, websites and magazines. He enjoys writing about social issues, travel, music and sports. Thyberg holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pittsburgh Honors College with a certificate in Spanish and Latin American studies.
Photo Credits:
www.sxc.hu/photo/1146876
