Recommend June 2014 - (Page 39)

unique experiences Lying at the extreme northwest corner of South America, Colombia's a gem of a country set between two oceans-500 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline and another 700 along the Caribbean, the so-called Emerald Coast where the first European adventurers landed in the 16th century in search of a New World full of riches. Today, in the 21st century, it's leisure travelers who are discovering that Colombia-a country twice the size of France-offers a bounty of dramatic landscapes; a rich biodiversity that includes 20 percent of the planet's bird species (1,907 in all); cultural treasures from a rich pre-Columbian past; a lively visual and performing arts scene; the third largest economy in Latin America; and outdoor adventure options stretching from warm beaches to cool Andean highlands. All of this adds up to unique experiences across the whole country-in essence, completely embracing the country's new tourism slogan, "Colombia is Magical Realism." In fact, in 2013 Colombia saw an 8.2 percent increase in international tourist arrival compared to the previous year, and the country could reach its goal of 4 million tourists for 2014 if the trend continuues. This close-by country, with a greatly enhanced infrastructure and improved security, is indeed the hot travel ticket in South America. BOGOTA The year was 1538 when the gold-seeking conquistadors officially christened the site of Santa Fe de Bogota de Nuevo Reino de Granada de las Indias del Mar Oceano. Almost five centuries later, this Andean capital of nearly eight million people has a nice short name, Bogota, now Colombia's first city in every way: fourth largest capital with the third highest altitude in South America; a commercial and intellectual hub; home to world-class museums; a fascinating colonial quarter; and a delicious dining scene. And there are good reasons why Bogota has made the hot destination lists of such media as The New York Times, for the capital has emerged as a role model of urban reinvention: from the 214 miles of bicycle paths Unique Experience The atmospheric display that starts off in the dark and culminates in a dazzling, illuminated spectacle of golden treasure at the Museo del Oro, which hosts the world's most important collection of its kind with 34,000 precious metal pieces and 20,000 items from pre-Columbian cultures. and state-of-the-art bus system, to treeshaded cafes and a host of stylish new boutique hotels. Museums are very special places in Bogota, and everyone's favorite is the Museo del Oro, a museum where all that glitters is indeed gold. The newest art showcase is the Donacion Botero. It houses the splendid collection of Colombia's famous native-son artist Fernando Botero, who donated his own work as well as works by such modernists as Giacometti, Picasso and Dali. Everyone's first stop in Bogota is a walking tour around the La Candelaria historic quarter, the place to visit the Cathedral on Plaza Bolivar, exquisite colonial mansions, palaces and convents. Here, too, one can duck into craft shops and sit at lively cafes, or attend a concert at the beautiful Italianate Teatro Colon. For the best view of Andean peaks around Bogota, take the funicular or tram to the 10,341ft. summit of Monserrate; there one will find a 17th century church as well as several smart spots to eat, drink and enjoy the splendid view. From Bogota, essential is an excursion to the Zipaquira Salt Mine, where visitors follow a ramp that winds through tunnels down some 450 ft. below ground where, carved out of salt, is a church and 14 smaller chapels that make up the Salt Cathedral. BOYACA From Bogota, the Pan American Highway runs north to the department of Boyaca, the emerald center of Colombia. The first stop is the capital of Tunja, a city founded in 1539 and often compared to Toledo in Spain, for it is a town of churches and fine old mansions including the Casa de Juan de Vargas, now a museum that preserves the ambiance and details of colonial life. But the gem of the highlands lies 20 miles away-Villa de Leyva, a town setting out of "Man of La Mancha. Its treasury includes " small convents, monasteries, plazas and patioed homes admirably restored. Visitors should be here early for the Saturday market, a colorful affair that brings the country folk to town in brilliantly painted local buses called chivas. They should stay a night or two in one of the town's antique-filled inns, occupying restored mansions, millhouses and convents. Additionally, Villa de Leyva is brimming with art Unique Experience The Cocuy National Park, a favorite with nature and adventure enthusiasts, is a moorland ecosystem that's ideal for hiking and rock climbing. Don't miss the Devil's Pulpit and the green lagoons. june 2014 3

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Recommend June 2014

Editor’s Notes
Hotel Desk: Seattle’s The Edgewater Rocks
Tour Talk: Apple Leisure Group
Caribbean Weddings: Choices, Romance & More Choices
Honeymoon Havens for all Sorts of Lovebirds
Nuptials at Sea
Wild Honeymoons!
Latin America for Lovers
Colombia Travel Guide
A Fairy Tale Honeymoon
All-Inclusive Powerhouses
Iberostar Playa Mita
Let’s Get Hitched!
Romantic Retreats
Unforgettable Honeymoons a World Away

Recommend June 2014