Thinking of a fairly last minute trip to Columbia. What cities would people recommend? Really just want to get the "flavor" of the country. Not getting killed would also be a goal.

Kool said:

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Thinking of a fairly last minute trip to Columbia. What cities would people recommend? Really just want to get the "flavor" of the country. Not getting killed would also be a goal.

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Well, first off it's Colombia.

Secondly, you have just the same opportunity to get killed in a big city in the US as you would in a big city in Colombia. If you don't go looking for trouble it will not befall you. Your main worry there is pickpockets.

I'm a firm believer Colombia is one of the most underrated countries in the world when it comes to travel. It's a beautiful place with some incredibly kind people. if you're just trying to hit "the flavor" then there are four major cities in the country: Cartagena, Cali, Medellin, and Bogota.

Cartagena is on the coast and has mega Caribbean flavor. Food up there is dynamite, but it's hot as hell. Very touristy. A little east near Tayrona are some of the most gorgeous beaches you'll find.

Medellin is very very cool. It's nestled in a valley and has great weather all year long. You're quite close to some great coffee farms and quiet villages like Salento and Jardin. Really incredible history there. I highly recommend a tour or Comuna Trece.

Bogota is located up in the mountains and is the capital. I wouldn't go there unless I had to. Lots of history, but there are better places to visit.

Cali is the home of Colombia salsa. It's a financial city. Really only necessary stopping there if you're headed to the pacific coast or just super into dancing.

everything Fancy said (and echoing learning how to spell the name of the country)

depending on length of the last-minute trip, Medellin may be the best option (imo of course). Carta is probably the most touristy. Medellin has the tourist areas, but maybe the best chance to get a 'local' feel also. Day trips to Guatape or Jardin (long day). Comuna 13 is good and has a good story behind it. Laureles/La 70 for a little more 'local' nightlife. Of course, no beach. If you want some beach with a little more 'local feel,' try Santa Marta (the Tayrona area mentioned). Relatively easy trip from CTG airport.

hopefully the gringos don't mess the country up - it really is a beautiful country with some of the nicest people you'll meet. I'm in MIA on my layover coming back and there's probably very little that compares to being in a Colombian city when Colombia is playing futbol. think tailgating but the entire city is the parking lot.