Optimistic Colombia Works To Put Its Troubled Past Behind It

Colombia is fast becoming one of South Americas greatest travel destinations for experienced travelers. This is a country bestowed with picturesque landscapes, tropical rainforest, snowcapped Andean peaks that tower over countless valleys. Its beautiful Caribbean and Pacific coasts with plenty of warm beaches are a travelers dream.

Colombia is a big place with a truly unbelievably geography. The Atlantic coastline is typical Caribbean. The Pacific coast is still wild and untamed. Central Colombia encompasses 3 major mountain ranges with some of the most spectacular scenery you will see anywhere in the world, while the southern part of the country holds the largest portion of the vast Amazon Basin outside of Brazil.

Colombia has two oceans with more than 1,000 miles of both Caribbean and Pacific coast line. Being located at such a geographical crossroads has left Colombia with a fabulous history, with the culture of colonial Spain still evident in its architecture, language, customs and religion. The region continues to produce and export some of the finest gems in the world, particularly emeralds.

Colombians are very proud of their long-standing cultural and intellectual tradition. Not only has Colombia developed and exported Shakira and Juanes, both great musical talents, but it has also produced noted writer Gabriel García Márquez whose books have been translated into multiply languages for readers around the world. Medellin native, Fernando Botero is probably one of Latin Americas most popular living artist today, respected in art communities in every country. Colombia offers a variety of native musical styles representing a population that is ethnically unique and diverse.

Colombia offers a variety of opportunities for travelers; modern cities such as Medellin, which has been transformed into one of Colombia’s most talked about destinations. Boasting Colombia’s only Metro system, along with the worlds only cable cars developed as affordable transportation for the locals, know as Paisas (pie suhs). The mayor of Medellin, Sergio Fajardo, has been busy overseeing the development of many of Medellin’s urban projects aimed at improving the lifes of those who live in the poorer communities.

Bogota, the capital of Colombia has long been regarded as the business hub of Colombia. But today tourists have discovered that Bogota has much more to offer visitors. There are more than 800 restaurants, where you will find every type of cuisine from around the globe. It has a vibrant nightlife where parties are known to last until the early morning hours. Health tourism in Bogota has fast become a great option for those seeking all types of medical health care at affordable prices. Shopping is also one of Bogota’s biggest attractions with travelers spending it has contributed to Colombia's economy and more importantly, it has improved the overall economy for the locals.

Change has come to Colombia, it is unlike anything you have seen in the media and does not resemble anything you have seen in any Hollywood movie. It is working to change its reputation around the world, seeking a place among the greatest developing countries in this new century.

The popular President of Colombia, Alvaro Uribe, with the help of the United States has accomplished what many thought was impossible – peace in Colombia. It has become a modern country with a bustling and vibrant economy. Its economy continues to boom as new construction and development continues around Colombia at an incredible pace.

Even during Colombia’s most turbulent times, the core strength of this nation has endured, that is to say the Colombian people have always remained optimistic about its future and have dedicated themselves to working at developing a peaceful Colombia for years to come.

Colombians are a very friendly bunch who and very helpful at assisting wherever there is a need. Although English is not commonly spoken, they are very curious about tourists. Traveling to Colombia feels like discovering paradise where locals are always ready to greet you with a warm smile.

Colombia’s history has turned a page toward the future.