Colombia is filled with stereotypes that can have led to the unhealthy portrayal it has amongst many individuals within the US. It’s not your fault with motion pictures about Colombian cocaine and kidnappings are a daily part of Hollywood. It may be troublesome to get previous these photographs you’ve got a couple of sure places however you’ll be able to and may perceive what Colombia actually has to supply.
Colombia is the kind of place where if you inform your family and friends about the place you’re going they immediately let you know that they heard it was harmful and to watch out. They might discourage you from going all collectively. In an effort to persuade them Colombia is a protected and superior vacation spot it is advisable to educate them and dissolve their stereotypes.
First, let go of all of your stereotypes and we will do this by clearing some main misconceptions about Colombia.
False impression 1: Colombia is filled with cocaine customers
In keeping with BBC America, Colombia produces 62% of the world’s cocaine however the majority of that’s coming to America. 90% of the cocaine within the US does come from Colombia however their authorities have taken steps to sluggish the manufacturing within the nation. Manufacturing is down 28% since 2008 in response to The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
The factor is that the overwhelming majority of the cocaine is exported to us right here at the house. The Colombians will likely be fast to let you know they’re exporters, not customers of the product. They don’t need to be perceived as addicts or customers of the medication and are proud to say they don’t seem to be. The important thing to remove right here is cocaine is part of the nation however it’s largely exported and an even bigger challenge at the house within the US.
False impression 2: Colombia is harmful
We see it on a regular basis in films and even in video video games. Colombia is immediately linked to violence and kidnapping. That’s in all probability the very first thing your mother will inform you whenever you carry up the thought of touring to Colombia. It’s true, that Colombia has had a violent previous and it was a violent place previously however Colombia is altering. If you happen to have a look at homicide per capita (such a nice stat) you will notice Colombia doesn’t even rank within the prime 37 nations. International locations like France, Norway, and Italy rank larger. Robberies? Not even on the primary web page outcomes on NationMaster.com. Corruption? When it comes to bribery, Poland, the US, and Sweden outrank Colombia. Automotive thefts? It cracks the highest 20 right here at #17 however good previous the USA is #1 adopted by the UK and France. Perhaps statistics don’t imply something to you or many acts of crime simply go unreported in Colombia. Merely perceived occasions are altering in Colombia and it’s safer to journey there now. One of the simplest ways to enhance a nation like Colombia’s status is to go to and assist unfold the phrase that it’s a fantastic place.
False impression 3: There’s nothing a lot to see in Colombia.
Nicely now that Colombia shouldn’t be stuffed with cocaine customers and kidnappers you might be able to journey there proper? Effectively here’s what you’re lacking on this lovely nation. The 2 main cities of Bogota and Medellin are vigorous and the place you may get misplaced for days sampling native meals and drinks. The nightlife in these two main metropolitan cities rivals any in South America, which is saying loads. Discover the museums and journey to the Boyacadivision as much as the north.
There are wonderful cities on the water with pristine seashores equivalent to Cartagena that may be missed. You’ll be able to discover Caribbean fishing cities alongside the coast as you progress from one small city to the following. Cartagena is legendary for its whitewashed Spanish Structure and Caribbean breezes. It’s thought of as the jewel of Colombia if not the Caribbean.
Parque Tayrona is between the Caribbean and a small mountain vary close by. This nationwide park affords abandoned seashores alongside the jungle stuffed with coral reefs and superb blue waters. Close to by is the Ciudad Perdida or the Misplaced Metropolis. This shouldn’t be missed in case you are the explorer kind.
Subsequent, when you have time try Mompos. It’s thought of the city that point forgot within the Northeastern a part of the nation. It’s identified for rocking chairs and an environment or rest. It would really feel as for those who’ve stepped again in time if you arrive in Mompos.
And lastly, don’t miss exploring the Amazon. The southern city of Leticia presents a gateway to a rainforest journey. Rainforest excursions are provided for 12 months-spherical right here and wildlife will be seen all through the area. Animals embrace dolphins, monkeys, and birds. You gained’t get bored right here because the exploration choices are infinite.
General, I hope this dispelled a few of our misconceptions about Colombia and even confirmed you just a few new locations so as to add to your listing of prime locations. Maybe it isn’t in your high 5 locations to journey subsequent however hold it on the radar. If the tendencies proceed Colombia will turn out to be even safer as years go however don’t miss the chance to discover a rustic lot of people are selecting to keep away from. The dearth of American vacationers can undoubtedly be a great factor
