PORTS OF CALL - Caribbean
Santa Marta, Colombia
Santa Marta, Colombia's charming coastal gem, is more than the average tropical paradise. Sure it's got warm Caribbean surf and white sand beaches but it's also much loved for the stunning Sierra Nevada mountain range that towers above it. And being the oldest city in the country also has its advantages, starting with a fair share of architectural treasures. Spend your day touring the Santa Marta Cathedral or visit the ruins at both the Bonda and the San Fernando forts. Just don't put too many miles on those feet.
Don't Miss
If you love gold (and who doesn't?), you'll really love El Museo del Oro, Santa Marta's Gold Museum. The collection is housed in a historic colonial mansion and contains over 35,000 items created with this precious metal. Some of the pieces are especially noteworthy due to their complexity. Take a tour and you'll be sure to find the myths and legends that surround the artifacts just as alluring as the items themselves.
Sporting Adventures
Why choose between hiking and snorkeling when you can do both? Spend some quality time in the crystal waters of the Caribbean or trekking the dreamy Santa Marta mountain range. Or visit Parque Nacional Tayrona where you can do both in the same day. And when all is said and done, pencil in some time for a little extreme hammocking.
Shopping for Bargains
Follow the well-heeled to El Rodadero for a stylish dose of retail therapy. Shoes and other leathery goods can be found for a decent price. And if you're looking to buy something special for a special someone, you'll have your pick of the most precious gemstones of all, Colombian emeralds.
Local Flavours
There are plenty of waterfront cafés to grab an authentic taste of the region. Chefs on the Caribbean coast are renowned for their spicy seafood dishes served alongside arroz con coco (coconut rice). And speaking of fruit, Colombia has countless exotic varieties, so don't be afraid to test them all - fresh or popped in a blender and splashed over ice.
Currency
Colombia's currency is the Colombian peso.