Bogotá's sheer size and violent reputation are intimidating for visitors, but the city opens up to the savvy traveler with incredible riches befitting the capital of Colombia, and one of the biggest cities in Latin America. Artistic riches--the small historic quarter alone is home to dozens of experimental theaters, and diverse art galleries dot the most popular neighborhoods pressed against the dramatic Eastern Andes peaks. Rich with nightlife, the party lasts well into the night at sweaty salsa clubs, English pubs, caffeinated indie rock shows, cocktail lounges, steakhouses-cum-dance parties, and amidst drawn-out conversations in coffeeshops and corner cafes in this decidedly intellectual university town known as the Athens of South America. Wink Travel Guides introduce you to the best world travel destinations, in a clear and concise way, illustrated by photos.

Colombia occupies the northwest corner of South America. It has an area twice that of France and almost twice Texas, with long coasts on the Caribbean and the Pacific oceans, mountainous regions, and Amazon jungle areas inland. For culture, intellectual Bogota might lead the rest of Latin America in experimental theater, indie-rock, and the number of bookstores, or you could delve into the huge Latin music scene of salsa and cumbia. For nightlife, hot Cali is today's world capital of salsa, claiming that competitive distinction over Colombia's other vibrant big-city party scenes. And for relaxing, there are gorgeous tropical beaches along Colombia's Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Wink Travel Guides introduce you to the best world travel destinations, in a clear and concise way, illustrated by photos.

Medellín is a vast city built north to south in the Aburrá valley and surrounded on either side by majestic mountain ranges. The city is home to a half-dozen universities, accounting for a vibrant cultural and nightlife scene fueled by thousands of young adults from all over the country. For international travelers, Medellín is perhaps most famous for the Botero Museum, whose namesake is one of the most famous modern artists alive today. It is also known for its perfect climate with its nickname "city of the eternal spring". Wink Travel Guides introduce you to the best world travel destinations, in a clear and concise way, illustrated by photos.

Pereira is the capital city of the department of Risaralda in Colombia's Zona Cafetera. It is in the center of the western region of the country, located in a small valley that descends from a part of the western Andes mountain chain. It is an urban center in the coffee producing region. Pereira is a beautiful university city. The city's motto is "Pereira con Vida". Wink Travel Guides introduce you to the best world travel destinations, in a clear and concise way, illustrated by photos.

Cartagena or Cartagena de Indias is a city and a world heritage site in Bolívar, Colombia. The city was one of the first sanctuaries of freed African slaves in the Americas. It is populated by an ethnic mix representative of Colombia's own variety. The impressive buildings from the Spanish time today make up a UNESCO World Heritage site. Cartagena's 500-year-old coralstone forts and great parts of its walled city are admirably intact and represent some of the finest examples of civil and military architecture of the Spanish colonial times. Wink Travel Guides introduce you to the best world travel destinations, in a clear and concise way, illustrated by photos.

Colombia has several island territories in the Caribbean and in the Pacific. Northeast of San Andrés and Providencia are several uninhabited shoals, banks, and atolls (some of which are wholly submerged either all the time or during high tide), which are administered by Colombia. Scuba Diving is amazing here, as is snorkeling. There are many places that offer jet skis, kayaks, wind surfing, kite surfing, horseback riding, submarine tours and many other options. There are also many people that come here mainly for the great duty free shopping and cheaper electronics. Wink Travel Guides introduce you to the best world travel destinations, in a clear and concise way, illustrated by photos.

The Rough Guide to Colombia Discover this exciting countrywith the most incisive and entertaining guidebook on the market. Whether youplan to experience the buzz of reborn Medelln, learn salsa in Cali or go diving in gorgeous Providencia, The Rough Guide to Colombia will show you the ideal places to sleep, eat,drink, shop and visit along the way. Independent, trusted reviews written with Rough Guides' trademark blend of humour, honesty and insight, to help you get the most out of your visit, with options to suit every budget. Full-colour maps throughout - navigate the barrios of Bogot or Cartagena's atmospheric Centro Histrico without needing to get online. Stunning images - arich collection of inspiring colour photography. Things not to miss - Rough Guides' rundown of Colombia's bestsights and experiences. Itineraries - carefully planned routes to help you organize your trip. Detailed regional coverage - whether off the beaten track or in more mainstream tourist destinations, this travel guide has in-depth practical advice for every step of the way. Areas covered include: Bogot and around; the Caribbean coast; San Andrs and Providencia; Medelln and the ZonaCafetera; Cali and the southwest; the Pacific coast' Los Llanos and Amazonas. Attractions include: the colonial churches of Popayn; Parque Nacional Natural LosNevados; Bogot's museums; adventure sports in San Gil; the tombs of Tierrandentro; Johnny Cay;Villa de Levya; the statues of San Agustn; Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona; Cartagena's Old Town; Zipaqura Salt Cathedral; salsa in Cali; and Mompox. Basics - essential pre-departure practical information including getting there, local transport, accommodation, food and drink, the media, festivals, sports and outdoor activities, health, culture and etiquette, shopping, travelling with children and more. Background information - a Contexts chapter devoted to history, nature, music, religion and recommended books, plus a Spanish language section and glossary. Make the Most of Your Time on Earth with The Rough Guide to Colombia About RoughGuides: Escape theeveryday with Rough Guides. We are a leading travel publisher known for our"tell it like it is" attitude, up-to-date content and great writing. Since1982, we've published books covering more than 120 destinations around theglobe, with an ever-growing series of ebooks, a range of beautiful, inspirational reference titles, and an award-winning website. We prideourselves on our accurate, honest and informed travel guides.