Book excerpt: The Rough Guide to Colombia Discover this exciting countrywith the most incisive and entertaining guidebook on the market. Whether youplan to experience the buzz of reborn Medelln, learn salsa in Cali or go diving in gorgeous Providencia, The Rough Guide to Colombia will show you the ideal places to sleep, eat,drink, shop and visit along the way. Independent, trusted reviews written with Rough Guides' trademark blend of humour, honesty and insight, to help you get the most out of your visit, with options to suit every budget. Full-colour maps throughout - navigate the barrios of Bogot or Cartagena's atmospheric Centro Histrico without needing to get online. Stunning images - arich collection of inspiring colour photography. Things not to miss - Rough Guides' rundown of Colombia's bestsights and experiences. Itineraries - carefully planned routes to help you organize your trip. Detailed regional coverage - whether off the beaten track or in more mainstream tourist destinations, this travel guide has in-depth practical advice for every step of the way. Areas covered include: Bogot and around; the Caribbean coast; San Andrs and Providencia; Medelln and the ZonaCafetera; Cali and the southwest; the Pacific coast' Los Llanos and Amazonas. Attractions include: the colonial churches of Popayn; Parque Nacional Natural LosNevados; Bogot's museums; adventure sports in San Gil; the tombs of Tierrandentro; Johnny Cay;Villa de Levya; the statues of San Agustn; Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona; Cartagena's Old Town; Zipaqura Salt Cathedral; salsa in Cali; and Mompox. Basics - essential pre-departure practical information including getting there, local transport, accommodation, food and drink, the media, festivals, sports and outdoor activities, health, culture and etiquette, shopping, travelling with children and more. Background information - a Contexts chapter devoted to history, nature, music, religion and recommended books, plus a Spanish language section and glossary. Make the Most of Your Time on Earth with The Rough Guide to Colombia About RoughGuides: Escape theeveryday with Rough Guides. We are a leading travel publisher known for our"tell it like it is" attitude, up-to-date content and great writing. Since1982, we've published books covering more than 120 destinations around theglobe, with an ever-growing series of ebooks, a range of beautiful, inspirational reference titles, and an award-winning website. We prideourselves on our accurate, honest and informed travel guides.