1. The glories of colonial architecture, the small towns, the Caribbean beaches, the jungle… An endless choice of activities
2. Not too many tourists – a lack of information means that most people still think it’s a dangerous country to visit
3. Friendly, helpful locals. I liked their relaxed attitude, and the ethnic diversity
4. Public safety is no worse than the South American average – we had no problems
5. Nature here is rich and varied – a gorgeous country
6. Cheaper than Argentina or Brazil
7. Bogotá is surprisingly pleasant
8. The old town of Cartagena is really something
9. The surprising sophistication of Medellin with many public sculptures of Botero, and the main square of the Zona Rosa on a Saturday night (!)
10. The Islas del Rosario archipelago – great for snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters
1. The trash and litter in cities
2. The sketchy atmosphere in some parts of Bogotá (though it’s not that bad – pickpockets, rather than robbers)
3. It’s annoying what a negative presumption the world has of Colombia as a tourist destination
4. Transport between cities doesn’t usually involve large buses, but rather uncomfortable minibuses and share taxis
5. An excessive number of pushy street vendors in Cartagena
6. Accommodation in many places is very run down and in need of renovation (tourism only got underway again in 2002)
7. You’ll struggle a bit when you arrive in Bogotá, on account of the high altitude and thin air
8. Colombians are generally good-natured but can be impolite (crass)
9. Service often very slow
