Colombia

Colombia may have had its fair share of troubles in the past but this country is riding the crest of a new wave of optimism and is the destination on everyone's lips in Latin America. It is a country of great contrasts despite its tropical location due to the altitude variations of the high Andes that wend their way from the northern edge of the South American continent southwards. Not only that but you will find that the people you meet will be some of the friendliest and most curious of anywhere in Latin America, a perfect chance to get to know the locals.

Colombia took its name from Christopher Colombus who first set foot on these lands. After numerous expeditions in search of gold the 16th century conquistadors founded the first port at Cartagena and then Santa Fé de Bogotá, which was to become the capital, on the former lands of the Bacata Indians. Since then, Colombia has now a wealth of colonial treasures as well as ancient archaeological sites, modern cities and a vibrant culture of music and dance.

Start your journey in Bogotá, a busy bustling city with a temperate climate due to its altitude but that rewards the visitor with world class museums and galleries as well as a historic centre and fine dining. Head out of the city to explore small colonial era towns and villages such as Villa de Leyva and Raquira, alive with craftsmen and bustling local markets or discover the underground Salt Cathedral at Zipaquira. You can even head down in a few hours by road from the high plateau of the city towards a sub tropical zone where coffee plantations and orchids thrive in abundance. Venture west from the capital towards the Coffee Triangle region, nestled between the three points of Armenia, Pereira and Manizales where some of the world's best Arabica coffee beans are cultivated. Here you can taste freshly ground coffee and explore wax palm forests.

From this central plateau, you can then venture north to the tropical climes and vegetation of the coast on the Caribbean Sea, another world altogether. In Tayrona National Park, you can explore deserted beaches framed by verdant forest or hike to indigenous archaeological sites amongst the jungle. Explore the cobbled streets and bright buildings of Cartagena's famous walled city which vibrates to the sound of the local Vallenato and Salsa music by day and night. When you have explored this colonial gem, head out to the nearby Rosario Islands for fresh seafood and superb snorkelling and diving in simple but charming surroundings.