Lee-Anns first impression of Colombia

Tell us about your first impressions of Colombia

What did you expect from Colombia before you arrived?

I was very unsure what to expect. Colombia over the years has been portrayed in many different ways and most not good. I tried not to think of what I had heard as I had spoken to a few people who had also been and loved the country and I hoped when arriving I would see the same as them.

What was the very first impression of Colombia as you arrived?

Unfortunately our first port of call was Bogota airport, this does not give a great impression at all and the experience was interesting to say the least.
Not the best airport to have to try and connect through, however arriving in Bucarmanga you saw a different side, it was more organized and friendlier. Walking out of the airport I really did not know what to expect and was relieved to see it was normal.

How long did you stay for?

We stayed for 2 weeks. Really this was not long enough as there was so much more to see and do.

Where did you visit while you where there?

Where do I start.
We started in Bucaramanga which was a nice city. I liked the flow of it and the people were very friendly. Like Spain however many buildings they look like they forgot to finish the plastering.  We visited a beautiful town call Socorro,  traditional buildings, friendly locals and unspoilt scenery. We were attending a wedding by a beautiful lake about 2 hours from Bucaramanga, and again the scenery everywhere we went was green, Lush and inviting.
The people in the restaurants, shops and even road side sellers were all friendly, they thought it was great all these Gringos visiting.
We headed to Buru for 5 days which was amazing with beautiful sandy beaches, blue sea, just what we needed after a busy week on the go.
We had a stop in Cartagena for a day or so, a busy city but nice.
It has the traditional and the new,  I would say however I was weary of some of the locals outside of the hotel and on beaches so always keep things close.
Bogotá was not how I expected, I actually quite liked it more than what I thought I would but not the driving though.
Visiting Monserrate is a must, beautiful place with great views.

What was your favorite part of Colombia?

Driving through the hills from Socorro to Bucaramanga. It was great and stopping off at the roadside cafes and sellers.

What is your most fondest memory of Colombia?

The people. Everywhere we went everyone was accommodating and friendly.

What is your general impression of Colombia now you have visited?

Don’t listen to everything you here. Since returning I have done nothing but talk about the country and everyone I talk to have all wanted to visit but with the bad press have been unsure. I also found that I actually felt quite safe. You hear a lot of stories but as long as you are careful and travel with people who know the area or you plan properly you will be fine.

I loved the country and the way people lived.

Will you visit again?

Of course. Would do for 3 weeks this time.

In a few sentences can you explain why someone should make the effort to visit Colombia

To experience a piece of South America Colombia is the place to go. With history, culture, great food and friendly people you will enjoy every minute.