Colombia Newsletter – March-2024

Vacations – Travel magazine by ICICI Bank – March 2024

Colombia

This month’s theme introduction

Go Beyond

Ready to break free from the mundane and dive headfirst into a world of adventure?

This month, we invite you to embark on a journey that surpasses borders and defies expectations. Our feature country invites you to break free from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. And what better place to start this adventure than in the captivating country of Colombia?

Colombia, a land of unparalleled beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers endless opportunities to go beyond the beaten path. From the mist-covered Andean peaks to the lush Amazon rainforest, this South American gem allows travellers to delve deeper into its fascinating landscapes and vibrant communities.

But going beyond isn't just about navigating geographical boundaries; it's about delving into the heart and soul of a destination. In Colombia, this means immersing yourself in the rhythms of salsa in Cali, sampling the bold flavours of Colombian cuisine in Medellín or discovering the ancient secrets of the Lost City in the Sierra Nevada.

Moreover, going beyond in Colombia means connecting with its warm and welcoming people, who are eager to share their stories and traditions with visitors. It's about embracing new experiences with an open mind and a sense of wonder.

So, whether you're trekking through lush coffee plantations or wandering through the colourful streets of Cartagena, embrace the spirit of adventure and go beyond in Colombia. Let this vibrant country ignite your curiosity and inspire you to discover the beauty that lies beyond the horizon. Join us as we embark on an unforgettable journey to explore, discover and go beyond in Colombia.

Soul Trip

Push Your Boundaries

In a world bustling with endless possibilities, there's a call echoing from distant corners, inviting you to explore beyond the familiar. Beyond the practicalities lies the wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. From savouring exotic flavours to dancing to the beats of unfamiliar rhythms, every moment is a treasure trove of sensations. It's in these moments we find ourselves truly alive, embracing the essence of wanderlust.

Picture yourself amidst the lush emerald landscapes of Colombia, where every step unveils vibrant culture and natural beauty. Why stay within the confines of routine when the allure of the unknown awaits? This beautiful country in South America is our feature country of the month.

Travelling to far-off places like Colombia isn't just about crossing borders; it's about surpassing boundaries within ourselves. The advantages of such journeys are as vast as the landscapes. As you immerse yourself in the rhythm of a new culture, your perspective widens and your understanding of the world deepens. Each encounter becomes a chapter in your own adventure tale, weaving memories that last for a lifetime.

Moreover, undertaking a long journey opens the door to personal growth. Stepping out of your comfort zone promotes resilience, adaptability and a newfound appreciation for diversity. As you navigate through the unfamiliar, you discover hidden strengths and forge connections that go beyond language barriers.

So, why wait? Embrace the call of adventure and let the winds of wanderlust carry you to far-off lands. Whether it's Colombia or beyond, the journey promises not just destinations, but a kaleidoscope of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dare to wander and let the world be your guide.

Discover Your World

Colombia – Coffee, Emeralds and Adventure

After a long journey from India, you land in the lap of Colombia’s endless adventure and vibrant culture! From the lush greenery of its jungles to the rhythm of its salsa-filled streets, Colombia offers a unique experience for travellers seeking excitement and discovery.

While you may associate Colombia with coffee, salsa dancing, Shakira and Sofia Vergara, this South American country has one of the most unique landscapes in the world. From the stunning Caribbean Beaches in the North to the exotic Amazon Rainforest in the East and the Andes Mountains in the South, there are many things for which Colombia is known.

Due to its proximity to the Equator, the weather stays the same throughout the year. The factor that makes the biggest difference to Colombia’s weather is the altitude of the places you are visiting rather than the time of year meaning Colombia is a pleasant country to visit in any month.

In March and April, Colombia offers plethora of activities and attractions waiting to be explored. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff or a foodie craving new flavours, Colombia has something special in store for you.

Don’t restrict yourself to just Bogota – the capital city. First stop on your Colombian adventure: Cartagena. This coastal city has a rich history dating back to the colonial era. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where colourful buildings and bougainvillea-filled balconies transport you back in time. Don't miss a visit to Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, a fortress overlooking the Caribbean Sea that offers breathtaking views of the city.

Next up, Medellín. Known as the ‘City of Eternal Spring,’ Medellín welcomes visitors with its pleasant climate and lively atmosphere. Take a ride on the city's iconic metro cable to get a bird's-eye view of Medellín's sprawling landscape. Explore the vibrant neighbourhoods of Comuna 13, once considered one of the city's most dangerous areas but now a hub of street art and community resilience.

For nature lovers, a trip to the Coffee Region is a must. This attractive area, nestled in the heart of Colombia's coffee-producing region, offers stunning sceneries and plenty of outdoor activities. Hike through lush coffee plantations, swim in crystal-clear rivers and sample some of the world's finest coffee straight from the source.

As you venture further into Colombia's interior, be sure to visit the stunning Cocora Valley. Home to the towering wax palm, Colombia's national tree, this verdant valley is a hiker's paradise. Trek through cloud forests and past rushing waterfalls, watch colourful hummingbirds and other native wildlife along the way.

No trip to Colombia would be complete without a visit to the Amazon Rainforest. In the southern region of the country, this vast expanse of jungle teems with life, from exotic birds and monkeys to elusive jaguars and anacondas. Embark on a guided tour with a local guide to learn about the rich biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest and immerse yourself in the rhythms of local culture.

Those seeking a taste of adventure, head to the Pacific Coast. Here, you can swim with humpback whales, surf waves and explore pristine beaches bordered by lush tropical rainforests. March and April are prime whale-watching seasons, so be sure to book a tour for a chance to witness these majestic creatures up close.

In Colombia, the possibilities are endless. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, dancing the night away at a salsa club or simply soaking up the sun on a secluded beach, you're sure to be captivated by the beauty and diversity of this remarkable country. So pack your bags, grab your camera and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Colombia!

Travel Smart

Tips for storing pictures

The camera has become an important part of every travel journey today. And four people travelling together means four cameras taking several similar pictures. While there are many resources available to learn how to take better pictures, let’s delve into the topic of best ways to store and retrieve the pictures.

1. Back up regularly: Make it a habit to back up your travel photos regularly to prevent the loss of precious memories.

2. Organise by location or date: Enable your camera to record the location of each picture. Sort your photos by location or date to easily find specific moments from your travels.

3. Use cloud storage: Take advantage of cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to store your photos securely and access them from anywhere.

4. Label and tag: Add descriptive labels and tags to your photos to quickly identify and search for specific scenes or subjects.

5. Create albums: Organise your photos by creating photo albums based on themes or events to create curated collections of your travel memories.

6. Delete duplicates and unwanted shots: Delete duplicates and unwanted photos to streamline your photo collection and save storage space.

7. Invest in external hard drives: Consider investing in external hard drives for additional storage and backup options, especially for large photo libraries.

8. Use photo management software: Explore photo management software like Adobe Lightroom or Apple Photos to enhance your editing and organising capabilities. There are many apps now to help you do the same.

9. Print and frame favourites: Take some time to select your favourite travel photos and print them to create memories or frame the photos & decorate your home with cherished memories.

 Sustainable Travel Tip of the Month

“To get a sample itinerary for Colombia, "Click here”

Take Time to Know the Local Customs

Responsible travel isn't just about reducing the carbon footprint; it's also about fostering cultural understanding and respect. One key rule of travelling responsibly is immersing ourselves in the local cultures we encounter along the way.

When we take the time to learn about the customs, traditions and beliefs of the communities we visit, we not only enrich our own travel experiences but also show respect for the people who call those places home. Whether it's tasting traditional cuisines, participating in local festivals or striking up conversations with residents, every interaction helps bridge the gap between cultures and promotes mutual appreciation.

Respecting local cultures goes beyond surface-level gestures; it involves understanding and adhering to cultural norms and practices. This might mean dressing modestly in certain countries, observing local customs regarding greetings and gestures or being mindful of sacred sites and rituals.

By demonstrating sensitivity and openness to different ways of life, we not only avoid causing offence unintentionally but also foster positive connections with the communities we encounter. These interactions not only enhance our travel experiences but also contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions for future generations.

Ultimately, responsible travel is about recognising our role as guests in the places we visit and embracing the opportunity to learn from and engage with diverse cultures. By approaching our travels with curiosity, empathy and respect, we can make a positive impact on the communities we visit while creating meaningful and memorable experiences for ourselves.

Which city in Colombia is known as the Land of the Eternal Spring?

‘Vacations’ is powered by OneShoe Trust for Responsible & Mindful Travels – a social enterprise that promotes travelling as a means to raise awareness about climate change and environmental issues. Incubated at IIM Bangalore, OneShoe is the source of most authentic travel experiences around the world. Link: oneshoetravels.com

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