Sunday, October 23, 2011

Famous Places in Colombia For Your Holiday

http://travel-to-colombia.blogspot.com/2011/10/famous-places-in-colombia-for-your.html
Famous Places in Colombia For Your Holiday
Travel tips for your trip to Colombia Hotel Maps Famous Places in Colombia helps you to make your trip to Colombia in the holiday a Splendid One




If you're either looking for options for a Colombia vacation or are trying to decide where to go for a Latin America vacation, you'll be delighted with your decision to visit Medellin.

However, Medellin is a Colombia destination that is commonly know for a lack of tourist things to do, so why should you visit? For the lack of tourists, of course! For an opportunity to get to know a Colombian city that isn't over-run by sightseers and where you can get a genuine feel for the country and its population, Medellin is a great option.

You'll have a great few days in the city, which could include any of the following activities:

Watching a world record-sized flower parade
Medellin is known with its temperate climate as the City of Eternal Spring, making any time of year good for a visit. However, you can see the best of Medellin in early August, when the Festival of the Flowers (Fería de las Flores) is scheduled; a series of parades, concerts, speeches, craft sales and impromptu parties.


Rock climbing the easy (or hard) way at El Penol
A two-hour drive from Medellin is the imposing free-standing rock of El Penol. A breathless climb up some steep steps carved into the giant stone face will take you to the top, presenting some spectacular views. More adventurous types can arrange for the equipment to attempt a rock-climb.

Get a dose of internationally-renowned art
An internationally-known sculptor from Medellin, Fernando Botero is famous for his over-sized human figures. Visitors to Plaza Botero can see and interact with his sculptures, as well as seeing other works in the more formal setting of Museo de Antioquia.

Get to know the world's biggest drug dealer
If you don't know who Pablo Escobar is, then you probably aren't aware that people sell illegal drugs for money. Tour operators give visitors an opportunity to get to know the hometown of the infamous Colombian, who was killed in a shootout with police in 1992. The tour will include a visit to Escobar's grave at the local cemetery, passing by the former headquarters of his cartel (now ironically a drug rehab unit), the roof where he was shot and the collection of private planes that still litter the local airport, part of his $20 billion legacy that was eventually seized by the Colombia government.

Taking to the skies
If seeing Medellin and the surrounding area at street level just isn't your thing, then tour operators offer the opportunity for paragliding flights. Those without the necessary know-how to pull strings and ride thermals can take a tandem flight, sitting back and enjoying the view while their pilot does the hard work.

A city with an interesting mix of culture, history and influences, Medellin will be the destination to give you an insight into a real working city on your Colombia vacation.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Free Guide Bogotá City

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Free Guide Bogotá City
Travel tips for your trip to Colombia Hotel Maps Famous Places in Colombia helps you to make your trip to Colombia in the holiday a Splendid One


Knowledge in any means is helpful to expand your horizons. Reading books on literature, science and technology etc is not the only way to learn something. Traveling is something which not only provides knowledge but also gifts us with a package of experience and adventure. While most of us love to travel with a herd of great pals, traveling alone can be a lot of fun too and can in fact turn into life’s biggest adventure. Time is like an alcoholic spirit which vanishes with the flick of an eye. Today’s fast life is like a punishment for the youth and is increasing the stress. Hibernation of self is very necessary to relieve ourselves from the hectic life. Traveling alone helps one to understand oneself and discover new thoughts. It gives a sense of responsibility, self-reliance and independence. One can also know their likes and dislikes and the way they react in a particular situation. Visiting an unfamiliar place on your own allows you to know yourself better. This is the perfect time to rekindle with the most loyal company you could ever have in your lifetime – your own self.


One of the best places to explore today is Bogota. Bogota is the capital of Colombia and is famous for its picturesque architecture and unique culture. It is the largest city in Colombia with an altitude of 2,640 meters making it the third-highest major city in the world. It is also said that Bogota is about 8,500 feet closer to the stars. It is most famous for its magnificent Andean views and wonderful spring-like weather. Traveling on your own to Bogota can open up an adventure that you could only imagine.

Hop on to your Bogota-bound plane and make sure you do all of these!


1. Explore the Sabana – Take out time to go far away from the regular city life. For people who love to take risk can go for an adventurous trip near Suesca. It is a paradise for rock climbers. You can experience rock climbing, river rafting and hiking with an additional package of beautiful views.

2. Get a plastic surgery – Travel alone and surprise your friends back home with a sexier and beautiful you. Medical tourism is one of Bogota’s biggest prides. In fact, Bogota is among the world’s top three leading countries offering world-class cosmetic surgery. A plastic surgery in Colombia will cost only around 25% of what the developed nations charge. There is no compromise on the quality of the treatment. The patients are provided high quality service with world-class medical facility. A $32,000 Brazilian butt augmentation in the United States can only cost you $5,000 in Bogota. This is due to the low cost of labor. The patients are treated by highly qualified professional doctors and therefore the risk factor attached to the low cost is also diminished. And when we are talking about the plastic surgery in Bogota, a medical tourism company that needs mention is Cosmetic Harmony. Cosmetic Harmony specializes in complete cosmetic surgery packages, including cosmetic procedures, travel, accommodations, transportation to medical appointments, a bilingual personal assistant and medications.Cosmetic Harmony uses only FDA-approved materials.

3.Swing your hips at Salseando – It is an excellent place to rock the night. It is a mix of hot rhythms and the local culture. Being alone gives you the freedom to meet new friends. Also get a taste at hot spots like Bodeguita del Centro or Son Salome.


4. Avoid the rush – Transmilenio is the first mass transit in the world to be considered a clean diesel system, as defined by the Kyoto Protocol. Taking this transport will save you from the traffic jams. It also gives you a great view of the Mueso del Oro and Parque Virrey.

5. Toma chocolate – Of course, a trip is incomplete without tasting the local delicacy. Bogota takes pride of its chocolate santafereno. It tastes best with pan de yuccas also known as yucca bread, cheese bread and tamales. The two best authentic places are La Florida and La Puerta Falsa.

6. Shopping freaks – Zona Rosa is the favorite hangout for expensive shopping. If you’re looking for some memorabilia to take back home this would be the best place to shop. You can also have excellent cuisines at any restaurant in the Zona .

Sunday, October 16, 2011

Money Exchange for Colombia -Services - Money

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Money Exchange for Colombia -Services - Money
Travel tips for your trip to Colombia Hotel Maps Famous Places in Colombia helps you to make your trip to Colombia in the holiday a Splendid One



Currency information:

Colombian Peso (COP; symbol Col$) = 100 centavos. Notes are in denominations of Col$50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000 and 1,000. Coins are in denominations of Col$500, 200, 100, 50 and 20.
Credit cards:

Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted, American Express and Diners Club less so. There are ATMs throughout the main cities; some will allow cash withdrawals using Visa, MasterCard or Cirrus.
ATM:

There are ATMs throughout the main cities; some will allow cash withdrawals using Visa, MasterCard or Cirrus.
Travellers cheques:

The most commonly accepted traveller's cheques are those issued by American Express and Citicorp. Traveller's cheques can be exchanged at banks, hotels or bureaux de change. They are generally not accepted as a form of payment, other than at major hotels.
Banking hours:

Mon-Fri 0900-1500. On the last business day of every month, banks close at 1200.
Currency restriction:

The import and export of local and foreign currencies is unlimited, but amounts exceeding the equivalent of US$10,000 must be declared.
Currency exchange:

Currency should be exchanged at hotels, banks and bureaux de change only, though most places charge commission. Travellers are advised against changing money on the street. The US Dollar is the easiest currency to exchange.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Health and Medical Information for Colombia

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Health and Medical Information for Colombia
Travel tips for your trip to Colombia Hotel Maps Famous Places in Colombia helps you to make your trip to Colombia in the holiday a Splendid One




Health facilities in the main cities are good. In rural areas, services can be very limited. Visitors travelling to jungle areas are advised to carry first aid kits. Travellers are strongly advised to take out full medical insurance.
Food and drink:

All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated outside major cities. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk may be unpasteurised in places and should be boiled. Only eat well cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.
Other risks:

Vaccinations against tuberculosis and hepatitis B are sometimes recommended. Hepatitis C occurs. Outbreaks of dengue fever sometimes occur.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Short History Of Colombia and Culture

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Short History Of Colombia and Culture
Travel tips for your trip to Colombia Hotel Maps Famous Places in Colombia helps you to make your trip to Colombia in the holiday a Splendid One


Prior to the arrival of the Spanish, the territory that is now Colombia was inhabited by the highly developed and sophisticated Chibca Indians.

Spanish occupation began in the 17th century; it was consolidated in the viceroyalty of New Granada, which covered the northern part of South America, during the early 18th century.

Discontent among various parts of the population - indigenous inhabitants, lower-class Spanish immigrants and mixed-race Creoles - with the arbitrary nature of colonial rule, eventually led to the 1819 rebellion under the legendary figure of Simon Bolivar.

New Granada became Gran Colombia, divided into four provinces (roughly equivalent to the four present-day countries of Colombia, Panama, Ecuador and Venezuela). Colombia separated from the others soon after Bolivar's death in 1830.

The Republic of Colombia was formally established in 1855, four years after the abolition of slavery. Over the next 100 years, Colombian politics were dominated by the Conservative-Liberal feud, which often broke out into warfare.

There were occasions, however, when the two parties were able to unite to see off a common threat. This occurred in 1970, when they joined forces to prevent a bid for power by the Alianza Nacional Popular (ANAPO), led by former dictator, General Rojas.

Disaffected members of ANAPO then formed a guerrilla movement known as Movimiento 19 de Abril (M-19), initiating a 15-year-long guerrilla campaign against the government.

They were joined by two other left-wing groups, Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC, Colombian Revolutionary Armed Forces) and the Ejercito de Liberacion Nacional (ELN, National Liberation Army).

The 1980s saw drug traffickers become a potent force in Colombia: large sums of money turned into political power, and leading politicians increasingly became tainted by their connections with drug money. Successive American governments, having marked Colombia down as the principal source of drugs flowing into the USA, put increasing pressure on the Colombians to prosecute the 'war on drugs'.

In 2000, the US Clinton administration unveiled 'Plan Colombia', a massive military support programme, valued at US$1 billion, for the Colombian armed forces.

Friday, October 7, 2011

Colombia Accommodation. Hotel Guide. Details

http://travel-to-colombia.blogspot.com/2011/10/colombia-accommodation-hotel-guide.html
Colombia Accommodation. Hotel Guide. Details
Travel tips for your trip to Colombia Hotel Maps Famous Places in Colombia helps you to make your trip to Colombia in the holiday a Splendid One




Hotels in Bogota

The hotels in Bogota welcome and treat all visitors to the city with utmost warmth and hospitality. The hotels in Bogota are the best accommodation option for tourists of varied classes arriving in the city for various purposes. These Bogota hotels span a wide range. The types vary from First Class luxury hotels to budget and cheaply priced comfortable ones that can accommodate tourists traveling in a very tight budget.

There is no dearth of hotels in Bogota. Some reputed international hotel chains like the Radisson, InterContinental, La Fontana, Sofitel have stepped in to set up their hotels. These hotel chains carry their brand name and offer services and facilities that are in tune with the international hospitality standards. These hotels along with other luxury hotels provide luxurious rooms and a variety of dining and recreational facilities to ensure a dream stay for the guests.

Bogota Hotels are very much sought after for lending out their premises for conducting prestigious social and commercial events. The corporate make good use of the excellent business facilities provided by these hotels. The smaller and budget hotels also do not lag behind. They also strive hard to make the guests stay comfortable and purposeful.

Some popular hotels in Bogota in Colombia are:

Hotel De La Opera, Bogota: Hotel De La Opera, Bogota is a first class hotel located in the heart of the Historical La Candelaria Neighborhood. It is situated in a very part of the city close to all important city attractions. The hotel excels in providing some lavishly appointed rooms, a multi cuisine restaurant, splendid business facilities and some exciting recreational facilities.

Casa Real Hotel, Bogota: This is a modernly built 9 storey standard hotel located in a strategic part of the city from where guests can easily venture out for sightseeing or business with tremendous ease. The hotel features 89 splendidly designed rooms and a host of recreational, business and dining facilities that can make your tour a memorable one. Hotel La Fontana Estelar, Bogota: This is a popular 5 Star hotel located in close proximity of the city center and a short stroll away from the main shopping area of the city. Offering lavishly appointed rooms the hotel is the best place to have fun rejuvenate and relax as well as taste the culinary style of Colombia and other parts of the world. To know more about hotels in Bogota, visit travel.mapsofworld or click the links given below:


Hotels in Cali



A wide range of Hotels in Cali include over dozens of Accommodations in Cali for the increasing number of domestic and international travelers in the city every year. Whether you are a hardcore businessman on a business trip or just want to spend vacation with your family – Cali Hotels are ready to provide you just the kind of accommodation and the facilities you need. Most of the leading hotels are located around the city center or in the southern end of the city. From luxury 4-star hotels to ordinary budget accommodations Hotels in Cali include it all.

Those who are looking for luxury and extra comfort can check in to 4-star Cali Hotels. These hotels offer exclusive amenities for the tourists as well as business executives. Among luxury hotels in Cali you will find hotels of renowned chains such as Radisson and InterContinental Hotels(IC Hotel Group).

Comprehensive business facilities for corporate guests at four star Cali Hotels include business centers along with conference rooms, fax, Internet, secretarial and interpretation services. World-class fitness and recreational amenities in the Luxury Hotels in Cali include multiple multi cuisine restaurants, world class fitness centers, lagoon pools with swim-up bar and sauna. Some other premier names in Cali's hospitality industry are:

Radisson Royal Cali Hotel
Hotel Casa del Alferez
InterContinental Cali
Dann Carlton Cali

The luxury hotels in Cali offer attractive vacation packages along with the facility for Sightseeing in Cali. Besides these, there are several 3-star Hotels in Cali. In these hotels you can spend the holidays comfortably. The warm hospitality and service they offer are sure to please you. They offer air conditioned accommodations equipped with telephone, television, private bathroom, balcony and in-room broadband Internet, mini bar and more.

Some of the 3-star Hotels in Cali are:

Four Points Sheraton Cali

Cali does not disappoint budget traveler or backpackers. There are Budget Hotels in Cali that offer neat and clean accommodations. Here are the names of some of the low cost Hotels in Cali:

Casa Agua Canela
Hostal Sabor i Atre and
Hostal Santa Rita

So, come to Cali and check in to any of the Hotels in Cali to enjoy a memorable vacation in the home of Salsa Dance in Colombia.


Hotels in Medellin



There is a wide variety of Hotels in Medellin. The Hotels in Medellin provide comfort and style to the visitors who come to the city of Medellin. Being one of the major tourist destinations of Colombia, Medellin is filled with different categories of hotels.

From budget accommodations to five star hotels, the city can cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you are a business or a leisure traveler, Medellin will prove to be an excellent base for ones purpose.

No matter which category of hotel a tourist check into, the efficiency and the hospitality of the staff in the hotels will surely impress everyone. The facilities of theses accommodations in Medellin vary according to their category.

The tourists can also choose to stay in the informal and relaxed atmosphere of the Bed and Breakfast Inns, guesthouses and self catering accommodation.

There are a few five star accommodations that a tourist can choose from. A couple of five star hotels which deserve special mention are Hotel El Poblado Plaza and Hotel Park 10.

There are an over-whelming number of four star Hotels in Medellin. Some of the four star accommodations where the tourist can stay are Inter Continental Medellin, Porton de Oviedo, Hotel Belfort Dann Carlton Medellin, Black Sheep Hotel Medellin, Novelty Suites Hotel, Hotel Conquistadores and Casa Kiwi Hotel Medellin.

Medellin has some three star hotels as well. Some of them are Cabo De La Vela, Hostal Tamarindo, Hotel Ambassador, Hotel Eupacla, Holiday Inn Express Medellin, Europa-Normandie Hotel and Hotel V.I.P.

Other Hotels in Medellin are Hotel Tonchala, La Casa Medellin, Hotel Horizonte, Hotel Amaru, Hotel La Habana Vieja, Plaza Rosa Hotel, Apartasuites Egina Medellin, Affinity Suites Apart Hotel and Hotel Mercure Medellin.

With the huge number of Hotels in Medellin, the tourist will not have any difficulty in finding themselves a suitable accommodation. People in almost all the Hotels in Medellin are very helpful towards the tourist. A tourist can rest assured of receiving immediate assistance from the staff of the Hotels in Medellin, if the need so arises.

Enjoy the comfort and service at the Hotels in Medellin.