A brief look at OAT’s new adventure to Colombia
Between the natural splendor of Argentina’s Patagonian plains and the Andes Mountains of Chile, and the fascinating cultures of Ecuador’s Amazon and the Sacred Valley of Peru, it’s no wonder that South America has become one of the top destinations for OAT travelers. But among the many countries of this diverse continent, one of the oldest and richest has also been the most inaccessible to Americans: Colombia. Now, following decades of conflict, this resilient nation is undergoing a cultural renaissance, and has opened itself up to the world once again.
Many OAT travelers have already chosen to explore one beautiful corner of Colombia on our optional extension to Colonial Cartagena, Colombia: The Emerald of the Caribbean—which has been so popular on our Panama Canal Cruise that we’re offering it on two other Small Ship Adventures in 2012: Ultimate Galápagos Exploration & Ecuador’s Amazon Wilds and Machu Picchu & the Galápagos. But while Cartagena is a lovely city, it’s only a taste of what this fascinating country has to offer. So, in response to growing demand from our travelers—many of whom ranked Colombia as one of their top destinations on the ballot of prospective adventures we sent out last year—OAT is happy to offer a new South American Land Adventure for 2012: Colombia’s Colonial Jewels & Caribbean Coast.
This 11-day journey takes us to three of Colombia’s gems—Bogotá, Santa Marta, and Cartagena—a trio of unique cities that highlight the country’s beautiful landscapes and colorful history. Of course, this adventure is about more than simply seeing the sights. It’s also a chance to interact with the friendly people of Colombia, who—after years of isolation—are eager to share their culture with us, and to welcome American travelers to their shores. We’ll meet Colombians from all walks of life, as we enjoy a Home-Hosted Dinner with a local family in Bogotá, canoe with the fisherman of an Afro-Colombian village, and take part in a traditional ceremony led by an indigenous shaman.
Immersive experiences like this wouldn't be possible without the help of our regional associates in South America, including Sandra Manosalvas, Product Manger in Quito, Peru; Gabriel Bohorquez, Regional General Manager for Central & South America; and David Guerra, Regional Finance Manager in Quito. Their insiders’ perspectives and local contacts not only help us to deliver a truly unique itinerary, but also to offer it at an excellent value. The creation of this adventure also benefited from the enthusiastic direction of OAT’s Executive Vice President & Chief Architect Mark Frevert, who drew inspiration for Colombia’s Colonial Jewels & Caribbean Coast from his own personal travels to Colombia. He believes that travelers will appreciate the chance to uncover the historic and cultural riches of this South American treasure for themselves.
Experience the beauty of Colombia in 2012 on our newest OAT Land Adventure—Colombia's Colonial Jewels & Caribbean Coast.