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There is a country in South America that has been getting a lot of attention among American travelers this year. The music, the beaches, the food, the people… Colombia has it all!
After simplifying entry requirements during the pandemic and this year during Easter, the Latin country broke multiple records in hotel and flight bookings. And now, new studies and international recognition are increasing Colombia’s popularity.
According to a recent press release, Colombia is now the number 1 destination in South America for globetrotters. From the practical airplane routes to the amazing local nature and biodiversity to its appealing culture, there are many reasons why Colombia is leading tourism in South America, and over 2 million international visitors traveled to this destination in August.
Gilberto Salcedo, Tourism Vice President of ProColombia—the government tourism agency— said: “According to data from ForwardKeys, bookings to Colombia for the mid-year season exceeded the 2021 record by 148%, and the country has experienced a solid recovery thanks to its safety, work hand in hand with the airlines, tour operators, travel agents and the awakening of a demand that is looking for meaningful travel.”
Caribbean beaches, spectacular Andes mountains, a part of the Amazon rainforest, and so much more! Here’s why this destination has been getting so much attention in 2022:
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International Recognition
This year, Colombia ranked in third place in Forbes’s list of the 50 most beautiful countries in the World, based on a study performed by money.co.uk. The research considered its beautiful landscapes, from the coasts to its borders with Brazil and Venezuela.
The World Travel Awards—the Oscars of the travel industry— also made special recognition to different destinations in Colombia. Cartagena was mentioned among the leading destinations for honeymoons, San Andrés as a leading beach destination, Medellín as an emerging destination, and Cali as a leading cultural city.
Also, digital nomads across the world have Colombia on their radar since the country’s new Digital Nomad Visa is one of the easiest to apply for. The government is joining the trend in South America—initiated by Brazil and Argentina— and launched their own digital nomad visa that requires only a minimum monthly income of $684. With the new digital nomad visa, travelers get to explore the territory for up to two years, and there’s so much to see in Colombia.
Top Destinations In Colombia
There are 8 airlines offering non-stop flights from the US to Colombia, and many places travelers can visit during their stay in this country. Colombian gastronomy has so much to offer and can provide different flavors depending on the location, but great coffee and delicious meals—like the bandeja paisa and the delicious pan de bono— are guaranteed!
Colombia has a great destination for every traveler, from those who only want to relax in the Caribbean to those who want adventure and jungle to those who want to learn more about its history, and even those who just want to learn how to dance salsa. Here’s a quick review of the top destinations in this beautiful country:
- Bogotá: The beautiful capital has fascinating museums like the Botero Museum and the museum of gold, as well as worth visiting landmarks like Monserrate hill and the Plaza Bolivar.
- Cartagena: If you want beautiful beaches, colorful and unique architecture, and great nightlife, this is your destination.
- Medellín: Once known as a dangerous city, Medellin has made huge efforts to change its reputation and is currently one of the tourists’ favorite spots.
- San Andrés: This Colombian island in the Caribbean has gorgeous beaches and spectacular flora and fauna. It was named UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 200. Even though it can be a little more expensive than on the mainland, visitors assure that it is worth it.
- Cali: Salsa dancers will love Cali, and it's popular for salsa lessons. This location has a vibrant nightlife, interesting museums and churches, and great hikes.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Gary A Woods
Thursday 20th of October 2022
I was in Colombia for 3 weeks in July 2022. Your readers should be warned to be cautious at all times. I was robbed at knifepoint in broad daylight while walking back from Montserrate. Fortunately, I got away with only a loss of money. Travel in groups, keep an eye on your surroundings, leave your money and passport in a safe place.
islamujeres
Thursday 20th of October 2022
you need to test before flight or provide vax pass .totaly nonsense if we think about europe which totally opened in march-may droppin all restriction (only spain i think remained with entry restrictions)
Leon
Thursday 20th of October 2022
Colombia must cancel all COVID restrictions!!!
Raymond Nunez
Monday 24th of October 2022
@Leon, in may I was in cartagena emigration but they said you can't enter cartagena because you Don't have proof of vacination,so after ours of been detained they ask me for $500.dollar to enter,I have to give them $300 dollars.its a mafua at at emigration