photo by Cami Sarmiento
2019 is a whole new year which means new experiences and a new and improved you. So while you’re hitting the gym and tossing out old clothing, plan your first travel trip of the year and help enrich your mind and soul. Stuck on which place to visit first? Why not consider Colombia? There’s something for everyone at every budget and it’s sure to get your new year off to a stellar start. For more reasons why Colombia needs to be your go-to destination for 2019, check out the list below.
photo by Paul B via Flickr
Experience a New Environment
Whether you’re a land or ocean lover, Colombia has something for you. Interested in paramos , cloud forests and glaciated mountains? Colombia is one of the only places in the world where you can visit all three in a single trip. More of a beach and desert person? Colombia has one of the most unique environments where the desert literally fades into the sea so that you can go four wheeling then jump into the big blue for a refreshing dip. There’s also mangroves, tropical rainforests and many endemic species that are just waiting for you to discover.
photo by Piedad Salazar
Best Place to Practice Your Spanish
Teachers will tell you that no matter how much you practice in class or online, you won’t fully grasp a language until you travel to a country that speaks it and give it a whirl. And, as you know if you are learning Spanish, there are plenty of different dialects and the same language can have different words and sound completely different when coming from an Argentinian native versus a Spaniard. So what’s a budding Spanish speaker to do? Travel to Colombia!
Colombian Spanish especially that in Bogota is known to be the “cleanest” Spanish in the world which is perfect for beginning Spanish learners. This is because Colombian Spanish has a very neutral accent. And of course, this neutral accent is the closest to what your teachers have been instructing in the classroom so you’ll feel confident when you’re able to order your own food and ask for directions with ease.
photo by Cami Sarmiento
Learn a New Outdoor Sport
Since Colombia has a variety of terrain and climates for travellers, it’s no surprise that it is also a hoppin’ place to learn a new outdoor sport. Rock climbing is very popular in Colombia especially around Bogota where you can tackle walls, boulders and mountains depending on your desire and skill level. And with experts teaching you the top tips and tricks, you’ll be king or queen of the rock in no time!
More of a fish in a former life? Then why not take an intro scuba diving class with an Uncharted Colombia expert in the Tayrona National Park ? Get kitted up in a BCD (buoyancy control device) and learn how to use an octopus (not the animal) while enjoying the many endemic marine species in this pristine biodiverse underwater paradise.
Want to hike or go mountaineering? That can be arranged too. Enjoy cloud forests and paramos during a trek through Los Nevados , hike up the glacier of Santa Isabel Volcano or do a bike riding tour in the mountains . The best thing about Colombia is that the opportunities are endless and the tours can be customized to your goals and wishes during your visit.
photo by Leo Cuesta
Get a New Normal
Traveling is magical because it gives us an opportunity to get out of ourselves and immerse ourselves in a new culture and vibe. Learning how other people live around the world will give you new insight and ideas in your daily life back at home. And the best way to do this is by truly adopting that way of life during your trip . How? By staying in local’s homes and eating the local fare.
Uncharted Colombia is superior in the fact that they have strong relationships with locals who will allow you to stay in their farm houses, sleep in tree houses or play beach bum in a local hut on the beach. Becoming one with the people during these experiences is unforgettable and once you’ve experienced it, you won’t want to travel any other way.
photo by Robyn Fleming via Flickr
Cost Effective
If you’re on a budget and you’re wanting the most for your dollar, then Colombia is the place to be especially for those travelling from America as Colombia is the closest south American country to the states. What does that mean for you? It means that tickets are a lot cheaper than say flying to Asia and the air time will be quicker as well if you’re not a fan of flying.
Once in Colombia, you’ll also be able to find good deals on delicious food that will help keep the cost down. Better yet, bundle your stay with a hotel, flight and itinerary and you’ll save even more. .Get Packing
Ready to get going? Don’t forget to pack these essentials for your trip and reach out to an Uncharted Earth representative today who will help your dream vacation become a reality in 2019.