Colombia

Colombia was my first stop in South America. For most people, the country conjures up images of the cocaine trade and beautiful women - obviously both come with an element of danger! According to most travel advisories is probably best never to step foot in the country. If you ask travelers who have spent any time here though, and you'll almost invariably hear nothing but glowing reports. After over 2 months here, I have to say I agree with the travelers reports - its an addictive place with some of the friendliest people you'll find anywhere!

Check the related stories pages for stories on places I've visited, complete with sideshow galleries and local travel tips!

The good

• The people. Colombians are almost invariably friendly and willing to help out. Its the sort of place where people remember you when you come back and treat you like a friend.
• The rumba. Colombians like to party... and are pretty good at it. It doesn't matter whether you're in Cartaena, Medellin or Cali, it will be a great city to go out, particularly on the weekends.
• Lingering. Colombia is a place where you'll spend longer than you planned - not for any particular reason, it just happens.

The bad

• Buses - its probably unfair to single out buses in Colombia - they're just as bad or worse in other parts of Latin America - just that it was here that the wheel of one actually fell off and rolled across the street on a mountain pass while I was on it.
• Cocaine - drugs are bad... ok?
• Visa extensions... these are a royal pain.

The unusual

• One memory that is (unfortunately) etched into my mind is that of a Trans-gender prostitute who had both extremely large breast and buttock enhancements. Very strange and disturbing

Advice for traveling in Colombia

• Ask for a 3 month visa on arrival - normally they only give you 2 months, but if you ask nicely often they'll put 3 months in your passport, which they have the discretion to do. Do this even if you plan to spend less than 2 months... plans have a habit of changing in Colombia!
• Learn Spanish. Colombia isn't the cheapest places to learn, but its one of the best. If you don't speak spanish here, you'll be in the minority of travelers who don't.