You step through the darkened entranceway, leaving the tropical night behind. Suddenly, waves of sound crash over you Iike ocean surf. Breaking out in a sweat, your heart pounds to the rhythm of bass, bongos, bells and brass. The walls seem to pulsate. The pungent smell of perspiration mixed with perfume assaults you. As your eyes adjust to the dark, broken by hypnotic flashes of the multi-colored strobes, you realize it’s not walls that enclose you, but dancers— scores of dancers gyrating, weaving and swirling, limbs flashing, hips thrusting in quarter—time beat. You fill your lungs with the spicy aroma, tighten your belt a notch and plunge in. Welcome to Chango’s in Cali, Colombia – one of Latin America’s hottest Salsa night clubs.

Cali, a modern, festive city, lies in the heart of “the Valley.” when Colombians say “the Valley” they mean the Cauca valley, a not so little Garden of Eden a hundred-fifty miles long and some fifteen miles wide between the coastal mountain ranges and the Central Cordillera. Until the turn of the century, this valIey was little more than a rural outpost.

Then, with a population of some 15,000, the Cauca Valley was largely cattle country, parceled out in vast tracts among the “haciendados.” These were proud, almost haughty men who raised cattle for leather and beef. Some had plantations of sugar cane used to produce the sweetener “panela” and distill the crystal-clear but potent “aguardiente” still sipped today. Life was slow, measured, patriarchal and unchanging.

It has been said that the Cauca region is to Colombia what the South is to the United States. Indeed, there are similarities. In bygone days “hidalgos walked the unpaved “calles” in coats of velvet or scarlet broadcloth embroidered and buttoned with gold and silver, their waistcoats of flowered silk, and the ruffles of their shirts were of the finest batiste,” says Kathleen Romoli, author of Colombia: Gateway to. South America. And like the Southern states in colonial rimes, large numbers of slaves were imported to work the fields and serve the gentry.

Time has brought many changes. Today vast sugar cane plantations still carpet the Valley. Mechanized production of cotton, rice and cattle has turned the Cauca Valley into Colombia’s most important agricultural area, after “King Coffee”. And with economic growth has come industry. A leisurely colonial town in 1900, Cali has grown into a large manufacturing center with more than a thousand industries at last count

There is Salsa in the air

Yet with all the changes, Cali retains a homey charm, a personality different from other cities, an atmosphere you might expect to find in the Caribbean. Romoli describes it well:

The most striking thing about Cali today is not the plaza with it imposing government buildings and rows of taxis, along the avenues of giant palms, nor the suburbs with their modem villas, and churches, whose bells chime melodies instead of clanging as it Bogotá, nor the busy factories. It is the pervasive air of cheerfulness almost of gaiety Not that it is a city of many amusements; Cali is not gay by virtue of commercial facilities for organized diversion but by the grace of god.

Cali attracts travelers from all over; tourists, businessmen, back packers, scientists, and students. And, of course, salsa fans and salsa artists. Recording studios, “rumberias”,”discothèques” and “viejotecas” abound.

What is Cali’s appeal? The city’s buoyant atmosphere? The spectacular sunsets? The natural beauty of the soaring Andes? The vaunted beauty of its women? Perhaps it’s the climate where it’s always June. Or could it be its remarkable cleanliness? Many Colombian towns are clean, but Cali is so clean it stands out. Or maybe it’s the trees and flowers—the billowing crimson and purple bougainvilla that tumbles in profusion from the walls, the cup-of-gold that drips from the eaves, the waxy bells of the trumpet flow, the poinsettia bushes, gorgeous gardenias, the trees with magenta leaves and carmine flowers or others with feathery green—white blossoms or pale clusters of pink—the wild extravagance of blooms among which humming birds with iridescent green bellies flit even in winter.

No Salsa No Dates

Cali has all these. But undoubtedly for many, the principal attraction that lures them to this charming city is Salsa music. The sensuous, tropical rhythms of Salsa pervade the lives of the two million plus Caleños. On every bus you’ll hear Salsa. Go for a walk, to school or shopping there’s salsa in the air. And, of course there’s Salsa on almost all of the more than two dozen local radio stations. All over town, 24-hours a day, Salsa blasts from speakers on the streets, in parks, in stores, from cars, portable radios and private homes. Cali lives and breathes Salsa. But why Salsa? Many other musical traditions, styles and types of folk music flourish in Cali (including the traditional Cumbia, where machete wielding dancers stomp around full-busted women in ruffled skirts). What’s so special about Salsa? After all Vallenatos, a brand of folk music with roots back to the days of the Spanish conquistadors, is still hugely popular—especially as sung by the likes of Colombia’s Grammy award winner Carlos Vives. Boleros (check out Luis Miguel’s “Inolvidable”) and Merengue continue to have strong followings here.

Why has this one style ingrained itself so deeply into the culture? To aficionados the answer is simple: “I love salsa music.” Whatever the reason for it’s universal popularity in Cali, Salsa is more than just music, more than a dance. It’s an indispensable social skill explains my friend, Carmenza, “No salsa—no dates.” You can’t meet others if you can’t dance.” And that’s why there are salsa dance schools throughout the city. You pay for lessons by the hour. Prices range from $2 up to $6 per hour for more private, one-on-one instruction. Group classes fu up fast. Salsa classes are not just the place to go for learning, but to practice and perfect your moves or pick up some new ones. They’re a good “meeting place” for neighborhood residents. “It’s important to dance very well or you’re boring,” says Sofia, an avid Salsa fan.

Cali calls itself the “Salsa Capital, of the World,” a title wrenched from post-Fidel Cuba and often shared with New York City. But even those who might take exception to “World Capital” will agree that Cali is certainly the “Salsa Capital of South America.” The top Latin salsa performers, like New York’s Jerry “King of 54th Street” Gonzalez, regularly fly in to strut their stuff. At any given time you can see all the famous names in salsa, artists hike Cuba’s “Queen of Salsa,” Celia Cruz; guitarist, singer and songwriter Juan Luis Guerra from the Dominican Republic; Frank Raul Grillo, the Cuban American also known as Machito; Reuben Blades, the popular Panamanian singer, songwriter, actor and politician renowned for his musical innovations as well as traditional Salsa; Willie Colon; Oscar d’Leon, and others.

SALSA CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

And you don’t have to go far in this city of dancers to hear all the different styles and variations of Salsa. Juanchito, with 120 of the hottest dance halls, is the throbbing rhythmic heart of Cali’s Salsa nightlife. Every week throughout the year, two hundred thousand locals pour into this eastern suburb to party. Cali teems with discos and “viejotecas” for the young and not so young. Latinos of younger generations typically favor a smoother, more sentimental music known as Salsa Romantica, popularized by bandleaders such as Eddie Santiago and Tito Nieves. Internationally popular salsa singers of the 1990s included Linda “India” Caballero and Mark Anthony. The Puerto Rico-based orchestra “Puerto Rican Power” is another hot group with ardent fans both in Cali and Puerto Rico.

While it’s thrilling to hear famous performers of Salsa music from abroad, don’t forget Cali’s many own outstanding world class groups and musicians of Salsa fame blending the old with the new. The classic and the innovative. It’s worth a trip to Cali just to hear the vibrant non-traditional sounds of Jairo Varela and the Grupo Niche. Or other artists like “Son de Cali,” the all—female “Orchestra Canela” and Lisandro Meza who also inject new blood into Cali´s Salsa scene. These and the intoxicating classic Salsa sounds of Kike Santander, Joe Arroyo and Eddy Martinez thunder through the air and flow in the veins of ”coca-colos” (late teens to early 20s adolescents) and “cuchos” alike in discos, salsatecas and even in viejotecas that draw the over-35 crowd.

When I arrived in Cali 1995, I thought my salsa was OK. After all, l’d picked up some smooth moves from a bevy of hot Puerto Rican beauties during a summer stint in San Juan. Even back in my home state of Pennsylvania, there were opportunities on Friday or Saturday nights to slip out and mix with Latinos at our local Hispanic watering holes. I’d perfected a double-quick step in a rectangular pattern, too, and added whirls and spins to the heavy beat. I had no trouble getting, and keeping, dance partners. Then in Miami, during a Labor Day weekend retreat, I met a Latin cutie. I invited her for dinner and dancing later that week at “La Cima,” one of the city’s top Salsa clubs, to show off my moves. She was impressed. A year later we married and after a couple more years we moved to her native Colombia.

Colombian salsa is a different beast. The style, rhythm and beat are similar in other places but it’s a different story on the dance floor. My feet recognized the beat, but behaved as if 1 were wearing Bozo shoes. For a while, 1 stuck to downtown places like “Cuarto Venina,” perched on the banks of the brownish, knee-deep Cali River. It’s listening only, no dancing here. The music is so subdued you can carry on a conversation over empanadas and cold “Costeña”. It can be just the right touch for a Sunday afternoon. Nowadays, my Latin cutie and 1 are considered “cuchos” (the over-35 set). It’s been ten years. We’re still here though, still dancing Salsa. And I’m still showing off my moves.

By: Larry M. Lynch

About the Author:

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

Brazil has many famous actresses, some of them are: Gloria Pires, Fernanda Montenegro, Florionda Bolkan, Sonia Braga, Regina Duarte, Vera Fischer, Xuxa, and Bruna Lombardi.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

Miss Universe pageant 1982 was held in Lima, Peru, where Karen Diane Baldwin of Canada won. The judges were: Cecely Tyson ( actress), Mario Vargas Llosa (writer), Ron Duguay (sportsman), Franco Nero (actor), Carole Bouquet (actress), Dong Kingman (painter), Ira von Furstenberg (princess), David Coperfield (illusionist), David Merrick (theatrical producer), and Gladys Zender (Miss Peru and Miss Universe 1957).

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

Quito, Ecuador´s capital, is a city which reflects beautiful colonial architecture. It is surrounded by big mountains.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

“Evita” a film by British director Alan William Parker was inspired in the life of Maria Eva Duarte de Peron, who was first lady of Argentina in the past century.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

Oswaldo Guayasamin was one of the best painters in South America.He was born on July 6, 1919, in Quito, Ecuador.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

Colombia hosted the Pan American Games (1971).

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

Gabriel Jose Garcia Marquez is one of the best writers in South America. He was born on March 6, 1928, in Aracataca, Magdalena,Colombia.Gabriel Garcia Marquez won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1982.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

Rosalia Arteaga Serrano de Fernandez de Cordova had an ephemeral government. She became Ecuador´s first female head of state for only two days in 1997.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

Brazil has had many famous athletes in the 20th century: Joao Carlos de Oliveira (track and field), Ana Mozer (volleyball), Edson Arantes do Nacimento (soccer), Djan Madruga (swimming), Maria Esther Bueno (tennis), Marcelo Ferreira (sailing), Hortencia Marcari Oliva (basketball),Gustavo Borges (swimming), Robson Caetano da Silva(track and field), Adhemar Ferreira (track and field), Marcia Fu Cunha (volleyball), Oscar Schmidt (basketball), Marcelo Negrao (volleyball), Joaquin Cruz (track and field), and Rogerio Sampaio (judo).

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

UNESCO has declared Noel Kempff Mercado National Park (Bolivia), Rapa Nui National Park (Chile), Malpelo Fauna and Flora Sanctuary (Colombia), Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), Central Suriname Nature Reserve (Suriname) and Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarange (Paraguay) World Heritages Sites.

DID YOU KNOWN THAT…

The Colombian people have two idols: Shakira (singer) and Carlos Vives (singer)…

By: Alejandro Guevara Onofre

About the Author:

Colombia became a tourist route of a new millennium. Hundred thousands of tourists from all over the world have chosen the travel to the country of fantastic riches for a long time ago. In 2007 main directions for foreign visitors became Bogotá, Cartagena and Medellin. 40,9 % of the profit is from the general number of tourists from Latin America, but the inflow of visitors from far abroad also increase. So, within the first 9 months of the current year the arrival only by air of foreign tourists in the country increased by 14,2 %. Since January till October 780891 persons visited the country. The same index for the similar period of 2006 was 684089 persons. These figures for the minister of trade, industry and tourism Luis Guillermo Plata grow out the transformations, allowed to change all over the world the point of view about Colombia as about the dangerous country.

Every day more and more people get acquainted with the beauty of Colombia, its cultural variety, advantages and cordiality of Colombians. It is a consequence of persistent work of the government concerning the safety of democracy, employment, the infrastructure, growth and legal stability for investors, the minister considers. The purpose of the ministry – to receive 4 million tourists by 2010 – seems to be not already so fantastic as several years ago. According to the statistics of the Service of economic research of the ministry and department of administrative safety (DAS), during September Colombia was visited by 86877 foreigners, having increased the last year’s index on 8,75 %.

Bogotá is still the main tourist direction of travelers – it was visited by 452546 tourists. Bogotá becomes a religious, gastronomic and business centre of tourism. Besides, the city is the basic changing unit for the travel to other regions of the country. Cartagena became the second one by the attendance since January till October. It was visited by 11,2 % from the general number of tourists, that is 97644 persons and its popularity has increased on 0,3 % in comparison with 2006. Medellin became the third one by the popularity. It received 78478 tourists, that is on

17,8 % more than the last year’s index. Such cities as Cúcuta, Bucarmanga and Pereira also represent the growth by the visiting index . The quantity of tourists from the cruise ships also has increased on 16244 persons or on 48,4 %. From the beginning of the year 43 cruise liners have arrived to the country, 33 of which came into Cartagena, 7 – in Santa Marta and 3 – on the island San Andres.

By: Iuri Tarabanov

About the Author:

young russian models

I’ll never forget the look on the face of that Colombian campesino man. My wife just explained to him in Spanish that what I am holding under my arm is indeed a surfboard, despite the fact that we were standing in a Colombian village that was located somewhere in the middle of the Andes Mountains, hundreds of miles away from any ocean. After hearing this news the man made a joke about us getting bad directions. He then flashed a smile that revealed a mouth full of rotten teeth. Soon after that he shook his head, tucked his hands into the front pockets of his hand-woven Inca style poncho, turned, and moved on down the only street in his town. When the man reached the center of town a gust of wind swept down the street and blew the black fedora hat off his head. As I was watching him chase after it through a cloud of dust, I thought to myself; “I gotta’ get to the ocean.”

I was beginning to feel like a fish out of water. Surfers cannot stay away from the ocean for too long, or they start to “dry out”. As I was standing on that dirt street in that dusty little town, I realized that I had not seen the ocean in over a month. More importantly, I had not surfed in it. Halfway through a two month excursion across the country of Colombia, in South America, we were on our way to a small Caribbean beach resort on the northeastern edge of the country for a much needed break from the madness we had experienced so far on that trip. We had spent the holidays traveling from Bogotá to Medellín, and then back to Bogotá again to meet and visit with various different members of my wife’s family. There had been some mishaps along the way involving pick-pockets and miscreants. Up to that point it was not fun, and we will leave it at that.

Traveling on a tight budget in a foreign country is the best way to experience the true culture of that country, but it can be quite taxing on your soul. We could not afford plane tickets to fly all over the country, so we had to take busses and taxis instead. Some of those bus rides took over two days to reach our destination. We traveled through some of the most remote areas of Colombia, changing busses and hailing taxis the whole way. Along the way we saw some of the most beautiful scenery on earth, and experienced some very interesting, intense, and strange things. Black magic and evil curses are practiced in many areas of Colombia, and I cannot say any more on that subject, for fear that you would think of me as crazy. There are things that cannot be explained in this world, and a lot of them happen in Colombia.

There were other things that happened to us that were even more terrifying than black magic. Let’s just say it’s never a good thing to have your bus stopped in the middle of the night by rough looking men with machine guns on a winding, dark, mountainous road. That is whole other story for another time.

Back to our main story; we were about four hours North of Bucaramanga, and waiting to board yet another one of those colorful busses. All I could think about at that moment was surfing and relaxing at this place called Tayrona. I was told you can sit in your own thatched-hut “choza” and watch the waves from your front porch. For those who are not familiar with the sport of surfing, that sounds about as good as it gets for a surfer.

It had not been easy carrying that surfboard all over Colombia. We landed in Bogotá in the middle of the country a month before, and I had been schlepping it around with our other luggage from one bus or taxi to the other ever since. It was like I was living my own little version of the movie
Fitzcaraldo, and my surfboard was the ship that was being carried for many miles across dry land. I was determined to make the effort pay off.

While we were waiting for our bus in that little mountain village we were inundated by the usual local people trying to sell us stuff. My wife, being a Colombian native did most of the talking for those negotiations. These little villages along the main roads of Colombia survive on money from people who are just passing through, or waiting for a bus. The local indigenous people sell everything from bags of purified water, to homemade “empanadas” (a meat and potato filled turnover made with corn-meal dough). My wife and I had been surviving on food and water provided by those people for most of our trip. Amazingly, neither of us had been sick yet. Albeit, most of this food had been delicious, you have to wonder about the cooking and cleaning practices in a town that has no running water. Something tells me that if the cook had a choice between using their last bucket of water to wash their hands before cooking, or having water to drink the next day, they’d forego the cleanliness. I tried not to think about stuff like that on that trip. I only thought about how much flavor those homemade items had with their homegrown ingredients.

People sure know how to cook in Colombia. Wow! The food in that country just seemed to have a lot more flavor than the food I was used to in the United States. We really experienced the authentic food of Colombia; “buñuelos, “pandebonos”, “arepas”, you name it and we tried it along
the way. We were on a budget, yet eating very good food. The people who made this food were as poor as one could be, but they could make food like no-one else on earth. The freshness, lack of pesticides, and the nutrient-rich soils also have a lot to do with why the food tastes so good in Colombia.

After we ate our share of “empanadas” that we purchased from a little old village woman carrying a hand-woven basket, we were ready for a freshly blended fruit smoothie. There were always several of these little smoothie stands in every town that we stopped at along the way, and we always made sure that we sampled at least one. No matter how small of a stand, the vender always had electricity to run their blender, ice box, and boom-box. I immediately ordered a couple of “tomate de árbol “smoothies at a nearby stand, and then we sat down on an old wooden bench provided by the smoothie vendor.

We were told by the driver of the last bus that our next bus should be along in “no time at all”. It had been my experience up to that point that this bus driver may, or may not be right. Sometimes the bus came right away and the transfer went smoothly. Other times we ended up waiting long periods of time between transfers. Those ones did not go so smoothly.

The mountain roads and leftist guerilla laden areas that these busses travel through can cause long delays, to say the least. Hanging out in that small town in the middle of nowhere in the foothills of the Andes Mountains waiting for a bus was quite nerve-racking. The local people of those types of towns were always very suspicious of anyone that stayed behind after a bus came through. Most people just passed right through. They were especially suspicious of a Gringo with a surfboard and a Colombian wife. There was a war going on in that country. Everywhere we went everyone wanted to know whose side we were on. As we were sitting in that dusty, one-horse town in a remote area of Colombia, I knew we were in for a long, harrowing wait.

By: Michael Connelly

About the Author:

gynecomastia treatment

Colombian tourism cannot be separated from its real roots. Colombia and Colombians are ranked among the happiest people in the world (3rd happiest people worldwide). In spite of Colombia’s violence issues, the country seems to be in a constant estate of celebration. Colombian music is a big part of its culture. Music seems to bring everyone together in one strong sentiment of patriotisms and pride.

Colombian tourism focuses in an entire culture, beyond food and gorgeous views of the country and coastal side. Colombia enjoys several trends of folk music that energize the entire country. Salsa, Merengue, and Reggaeton are rhythms that are well know worldwide.

These musical trends are not original of Colombia, but they are favorites among young people. However, typical and regional folk music is a favorite of just about everyone who lives there. Among its different musical rhythms, Cumbias, Música Llanera, and Vallenatos are especially favored (the last one being a national trend).

Vallenatos (music from/of the Valley) has become a significant favorite of the Colombian culture in the last 15 years. The lyrics are deep and usually convey a message of love and/or deception. This music usually lends itself to slow dancing moves where people can both sing and dance along.

Traditional Vallenato is usually characterized by its instruments, which is a diverse mixture of musical instruments from different continents. Traditional Vallenato has La Guacharaca (musical percussion instrument usually made out of the cane-like trunk of a small palm tree) from South American, the drum (from Africa), and accordion (from Europe, of German origin).

Perhaps the most recognized item of Vallenato, which has spilled over the entire Colombian culture, is the use of the Sombrero Voltiado or Sombero Volteado (Colombian Spanish for hat with laps). Most Colombians wear this sombrero with a clear intention to show national identity.

If you visit Colombia and go to different night clubs, you will see what I am talking about. You will most likely see men and women singing several songs while wearing distinctive looking hats. The rhythms and dancing; however, can become addictive and one of the most enjoyable parts of visiting this beautiful country.

Music is a critical part to understand Colombian tourism and culture and its roots. Colombia is indeed a beautiful country with some shortcomings; however, the culture makes Colombia one of the best places to visit in South America. Not only you will be amazed with the diversity of people, food, fruit, and different climates, but you will be immersed in a musical adventure that will show you how Colombians have a good time.

Remember that to listen and see Vallenato first hand, you do not necessarily have to be in the “valley.” Vallenato has spread all over Colombia. If you would like to be in a place where Vallenato is more prevalent without being far from Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, consider traveling to http://www.VillaDeLosCaballeros.com/ in Mariquita Tolima, about 3 hours north of Bogotá, where the weather is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit all year long, and people enjoy this musical genre.

By: Hector Quiroga, J.D.

About the Author:

colombian brides

When the publishers of the Lonely Planet travel guides issued their annual list of the best travel destinations for this year there were a few surprises. Gone were some of the over-priced, over-crowded tourist traps of previous years. There are some new entries to peak the curiosity and provide ever-expanding new vistas and experiences for the crowd-weary world traveler. Here’s a partial list in reverse order.

9. Germany
An old favorite that still can pull its weight with the tourism crowd and one of only two European entries that made the list, Germany has much to offer. More than just Oktoberfest, beer and sausages, travelers can delight in specialties from each of the country’s regions.

8. Colombia
A stunning surprise entry on the list for the first time, Colombia may be know for its drug-trafficking and civil war violence, but it’s also the world’s leading producer of fine emeralds. It’s the world’s second leading producer of coffee after Brazil, but the quality of the rich, mild coffee produced here is second to none. One of South America’s most beautiful countries, scenic delights range from still-active volcanoes like the smoldering Galeras to the bubbling mud spews of Totumo near Colombia’s Atlantic coast.

7. India
Mythical, mysterious, enchanting and a hundred more adjectives besides, how could this wondrous place not be on anyone’s wish list of travel destinations? A large percentage, up to 75%, of the population living in large cities speaks at least passable English. I’m surprised it’s only number eight. But it is on the list and deservedly so. Food, festivals, culture and history pour into the streets at every turn

6. Canada
June, July and August are peak tourism months for the USA’s giant Northern neighbor. English is the language of all Canada’s provinces with French being the language of choice in the province of Quebec. There are marvelous winter festivals in Quebec City and francophone Montreal to delight the senses for willing to brave the frigid minus forty and below temperatures. There’s plenty to keep you warm though.

5. Antarctica
Not only know as “that frozen continent at the bottom of the world”, Antarctica is now featured in a number of commercials and travel ads. But with temperatures ranging from degrees F to degrees F, “What’s the attraction?” you might ask. More than you might imagine. There’s not exactly a shortage of wildlife despite daytime temps in the minus teens on a “warm” day. Marine life is also abundant as are formations of ice and snow on the glaciers that the continent feeds. Wanna play with the penguins, anyone? The experience of being there itself is a unique, one-of-a-kind adventure that draws many. Stormy Cape Horn and the beauty of wind swept Patagonia are also near. Scientific expeditions from a number of countries are nearly always in progress. At times the place is not unlike Grand Central Station. Antarctica is certainly not for everyone, but it does have its charms.

4. Mexico
Long a favorite destination of North Americans from the USA and Canada, what’s not to like about this country famous for hot chili peppers and even hotter senoritas? From the beach to bullfights, you can find nearly any form of diversion you like. Skiing in Mexico? You betcha. Mt. Orizaba, North America’s second highest peak is south of the border.

3. Nicaragua
With a stable economy and rock-bottom real estate bargains, this country has caught the eye of investors and ex-pats looking for scenic locales and tranquility. Once torn by civil strife, conditions have reversed and improved to the point it’s now a tourism destination for in the know and savvy on Central American affairs.

2. China
With one billion, three hundred million inhabitants, the world’s most populous country has awakened from its “sleeping giant” image to thrust its presence onto the world scene with a vengeance. Authentic Chinese food, not that “cloned” stuff you get at the chain franchises, awaits you in a variety and abundance that must be experienced to be believed. The Chinese eat and drink things that will absolutely amaze and astound you – and they make it look good too. From the world renowned Great Wall, the only man-made structure visible from outer space, to vast stretches of seemingly as yet unexplored country, even the Chinese are still turning up discoveries and treasures in their own midst.

1. Argentina
It takes two to Tango as they say. If you want to try your hand at Argentina’s national pastime, here’s definitely the place. For meat lovers this is paradise as the beef here is among the best in the world and certainly the best in South America. The beef here is not only great, but there’s plenty of it and it’s cheap by U.S. and European standards. Gauchos, as Argentine cowboys are called, still abound on the grassy pampas and plains that comprise most of the country. There are tours, “tenderfoot” home stays at ranches and plenty of open spaces for a roundup of experiences that’ll leave you wanting more. Be sure to wash down all that succulent tender roast beef with locally produced wines that are surprisingly good at even more surprisingly affordable prices.

So there you have it, the top ten travel destinations for 2006. Where would you like to go this year? Forget the “old favorites” temporarily. Step out; try something new and different for a change. Fish for Piranha in the Amazon region of Colombia, or Bull sharks off its Pacific coast. Explore China’s historical, cultural and epicurean delights. Oomph, Pah, Pah your way through Germany’s scores of different sausages and hundreds of varieties of malted brews. Carve an original ice sculpture in Quebec City, laughing at the record cold temperatures all the way. Fish or canoe one of Canada’s unspoiled lakes with water so pure you can drink it. Whichever direction the wind blows you, you’re bound to enjoy experiences and sights to last a lifetime.

By: Larry M. Lynch

About the Author:

I slipped on a pair of loose-fitting cotton shorts, and stepped out of my beach front hotel room for the evening. Within a few steps, I was in the middle of a folkloric dance group.

Women in white embroidered dresses were whirling around their male partners, at the same time, producing a slight breeze in the humid, seaside air.

This is typical of Colombia, a country that takes the art of dancing and beauty pageants seriously. Combine this with the natural, explosive rhythms of Afro-Colombians who heavily populate the coastal areas, and you’ve got one continuous street party.

Although their Spanish conquerors have long left, Colombians continue to emit a flamenco-like atmosphere.

Founded in 1533 by Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena served as a shipping route and storage space for emeralds and gold that was later shipped to Spain.

This picturesque city on the Caribbean coast was once the main entry port of African slaves to the Americas; now it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Colombia’s favorite tourist destination.

Cartagena was attacked many times throughout history. The British and French stormed the city in search of cached treasures. Pirates also navigated its waters in search of other hidden riches.

One of the most notable assaults came from Sir Francis Drake, who in 1586, arrived under the cover of darkness with a large group of men. By daylight, they forced most of the city to flee. Before leaving eight months later, they torched homes, businesses, and extorted local government officials out of enormous sums of money, and stole valuable jewels.

The final major attack took place in 1741, when British Commander, Edward Vernon, and George Washington’s half brother, arrived with over 25,000 troops and a battle group of 186 ships. Although the Spaniards and African slaves were outnumbered seven to one, they withheld the onslaught and mounted a counterattack which forced Commander Vernon to withdraw his troops. Unfortunately for him, not before he lost nearly half of his men, and most of his battleships.

Today, Cartagena is a city which continues to hold much of its old Spanish splendor. Scattered throughout the older barrios are balconied colonial buildings, painted in a multitude of colors.

The old, central part of Cartagena is reinforced by 14 miles of stone walls, and other fortifications. Many locals still believe the material used to hold together these stones, was mixed with the blood of African slaves. Whether that is true or not, many slaves died here while helping to fortify the city against pirates.

The Castle of San Felipe de Barajas was built between 1536 and 1657. The same fortress that withstood the onslaught of Commander Vernon and his troops still towers over Cartagena. One glance and it’s obvious why it couldn’t be penetrated.

Modern day Cartagena is conquered routinely by a steady flow of Colombian, and foreign tourists. Most of their focus is on the old city, where they fan out down narrow cobblestone streets in search of historic landmarks.

As you enter Plaza de los Coches (Coach Square), directly beneath the city’s famous clock, you face a huge statue of Pedro de Heredia, who founded the city in 1533. Just to the left of the statue, pastel colored colonial buildings fill the Plaza’s landscape.

In the daytime, women line the sidewalk with their candy stands, selling traditional sweets. People relax on the benches and enjoy traditional music and dancing, street comedy performances and even an occasional sermon from a curbside preacher.

At dusk, horse-drawn carriages line up here, ready to take tourists on a lantern lit tour through the heart of downtown. It’s possible to close your eyes and go back in time as the horse’s hooves resonate off the tight cobbled streets.

At the end of the plaza (about 100 feet), is an open square with a Christopher Columbus monument. This is Plaza de la Aduana (Customs Plaza), and represents a dark side of Cartagena’s past.

In 1564, Cartagena became the gateway to the Americas for many African slaves. Those who survived the treacherous passage got off the ships, and were then lined up in Customs Plaza, paraded around, and auctioned like livestock to the highest bidders.

Directly behind Plaza de la Aduana, is the Plaza San Pedro Claver. Named after Saint Peter Claver, who was warmly nicknamed “slave to the slaves,” this tiny square houses a cathedral that bears his name.

Father Claver showed compassion for the slaves who arrived. He greeted most of them when they were off loaded, and immediately blessed the dying children and the sick. He spent many years providing medical care for injured and ill slaves, and baptized hundreds of thousands during his lifetime.

Five minutes walk outside the walled city, and you’re standing in front of Castle San Felipe. It’s worth the short climb up the steep hill to reach its doors. You can explore the castle’s massive grounds, touch the original cannons, and peer through the portals. You can also gaze over the walls, and view the panorama of the city.

About 20 nautical miles off Cartagena are the Rosario Islands. This archipelago consists of 27 ecologically diverse islands which have been chosen as a National Park by the Colombian government. If you are looking for the perfect place to unwind, it’s here. Good snorkeling, diving, windsurfing, kayaking and hiking are available. The outdoor aquarium and dolphin shows are always a hit with traveling families.

Several boats depart early in the morning from the downtown pier, and glide over the calm waters to the islands in about 45 minutes. The last boats of the day return to Cartagena around four p.m. So, you can pack a lunch and make it a day outing, or spend a few tranquil nights on the islands.

Throughout most of the barrios in the city, you often sense that you’re in a smaller village. During the day, sellers walk the neighborhoods hawking everything from ripe papayas and fresh fish, to pots and pans, and lottery tickets.

Anywhere in the city, you can find makeshift soccer fields where many young boys play, soccer in the blazing sun (and sometimes in monsoon rain) kicking goals like professionals, hoping to be the next Carlos Valderrama, or Ronaldinho.

After watching the dance performance, I wandered down some backstreets and stumbled on some couples nursing cold drinks near an open pit grill. The waft of barbecued chicken filled the muggy night air. The menu looked appetizing, as well.

Cartagena cuisine is a variation of genuine Caribbean and Creole, although you can find a wide range of food and drinks. Outdoor meals usually come with the sounds of Vallenato, Reggaeton, Champeta, or Salsa music, usually thumping from tall speakers, but occasionally live.

Overall, Colombia is an ideal gateway to South America for first-time travelers; whether they’re backpackers, cruise ship passengers, or even those on a family trip.

From the grandeur of the walled city, to scenic beaches, to informal street parties, Cartagena is a destination you will always remember.

Where to stay:

If you’re on a shoestring budget, hotel accommodation in Cartagena can cost as little as $5-10 a night in the Getsemaní area. However, for that price, expect a simple bed, fan, with a shared bathroom and shower. Add another $15 and you can find comfortable rooms in this historic section of town, which happens to be the oldest neighborhood in Cartagena.

The Bocagrande area has the most hotels in Cartagena. Here, you’ll find many hotels on the beach. From small family hotels to 5-Star, there is a price range for everyone.

If you want to be pampered, try the Charleston Hotel. Not only does it offer 5-Star services, it’s cleverly hidden between the city’s ancient walls, and it sits near many tourist attractions in the old city.

The Charleston includes a breathtaking rooftop pool and restaurant area. Here, you get a bird’s-eye view of the Caribbean, Cartagena Bay and the magnificent old city.

Getting there:

Copa Airlines has direct flights from Miami and Panama City, Panama.

AirMadrid has direct flights from Madrid and Barcelona, Spain.

Visa:

American tourists traveling to Colombia need to have a valid U.S. passport, but not a visa. This allows you to stay up to 90 days. This can be extended for another 90 days at the Immigration office (DAS).

By: Stanley Hawkins

About the Author:

Hot Russian Brides