Colombia is sort of a geographical riddle. The country is as familiar to the Andes as it is to the Amazonian region, the jungles, the lands and even the everlasting snow. Colombia is not an easy definition, for nothing stays the same for too long in this beautiful country. Colombia belongs to the Caribbean, in part to the Andean Mountains and the Amazonian rain forest. From the combination of all these elements and out of a somewhat balanced array of components among white, indigenous and black people, Colombia is indeed is mongrel nation, especially from a cultural standpoint. Were there a model for the Latin American way of life, the Colombian model would certainly be close to being the one. Colombians are self-demanding and love their dear homeland above everything else. Thus, whatever negative view you might have about their country, it's been long since Colombians themselves noticed it. If you're truly willing to get to know the country, get closer to its wonderful tourist destinations and you'll be dazzled with such cities as Cartagena de Indias, Barranquilla, Santa Marta y San Andrés Islands and Providencia. There're also numerous hotels in all of these cities for you to take a sound rest. Different sightseeing places will get you closer and closer to the country's history. Meet the archeological wonders its churches, monuments, museums, theaters, castles and fortresses have to offer. But if you'd like to have something to eat after a long tour, don't think twice to drop by one of its many restaurants offering top-quality food. Colombians have also developed other virtues: they're seldom bewildered by a double-take reaction, and their minds are as quick as steel straps when it comes to argument and debate. One of Colombia's greatest prides is its press and free journalism. There're pretty good magazines and newspapers nationwide. Yet if you think that seeing is believing as far as the beauty of the nation is concerned, then call on the national parks, archeological sites and its beaches. You just won't believe your eyes and the memories will simply be unforgettable.
