Travel Planning: Part 1 Colombia

In this episode:   Where an I heading series: Part 1

 

Today’s Mistake- avoiding potholes and buying new tires

Travel Advice:  Safety and security tip

FAQ: How do you use SERVAS?

I use Servas International to help me plan my trips. You sign up on the website, and a representative will contact you and interview you. They will make sure you are a real person and check references. Then, you get a Letter of Engagement, and you can contact hosts and day hosts.

Today’s destination: Planning my trip to Colombia

 

Friends to meet in Bogota. Peace Servas Secretary Colombia. She said YES! Reach out to her with my dates and any needs. I am friends with Fanny Vico.

 

Flights: Given your preference for flying over driving, consider booking internal flights between major cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. Airlines such as Avianca and LATAM offer frequent domestic routes.​

• Accommodation: Opt for reputable hostels or budget hotels in safe neighborhoods. For instance, Selina offers locations in Bogotá's La Candelaria and Cartagena's Getsemaní, both known for their vibrant culture and relative safety.

 

•  .​sojournies.com

📍 Bogotá

• La Candelaria: Explore this historic district with its colonial architecture, museums, and street art.​

• Gold Museum (Museo del Oro): Home to an extensive collection of pre-Hispanic gold artifacts.​

• Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá: Consider a guided tour to this unique underground cathedral carved within a salt mine.​

2 days in : Cartagena

• Walled City: Stroll through the historic center with its colonial buildings, plazas, and cafes.​

• Getsemaní: Experience the local art scene and vibrant nightlife in this bohemian neighborhood.​

• Rosario Islands: Consider a boat tour to these nearby islands for a relaxing beach day.​

 

3 days in Medellín

• Comuna 13: Join a guided tour to learn about the neighborhood's transformation and vibrant street art.​

• El Peñol and Guatapé: Take a day trip to climb El Peñol for panoramic views and explore the colorful town of Guatapé .​Condé Nast Traveler+2sojournies.com+2Adventurous Kate+2

• Pueblito Paisa: Visit this replica of a traditional Antioquian town for cultural insights and city views.​

 

Mid-episode promo: Where are you going? Let me know if I helped you travel. The show notes have ways to connect.

 

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Colombia Tips for Solo Travelers

• Stay in centrally located accommodations like the Downtown or Historic areas for easy access to attractions.

• Join a guided tour for a fun way to explore with others (walking, brewery, or riverboat tours).

 

Today’s Mistake- Potholes. 

When I’m driving, it’s hard to dodge potholes. I need to make sure that I drive on roads that are less like crater forests and more like smooth roads. I had to buy four new tires this week, and I think some of the damage was from potholes. Here’s some driving tips for you to get more from your tires.

 

 Assume every unexplained shadow could be a pothole, give yourself options by slowing and spacing out, and keep your tires healthy enough to bail you out when surprise strikes. A little skepticism goes a long way toward smoother, cheaper journeys.

 

Today’s Travel Advice-Safety Tip: Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing.​

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