It took just a week for me to fall in love with Colombia, and just three months for me to be sure I’d never find a country quite like it. It has a landscape made for adventure and a culture that lends to relaxation, the perfect balance. 

There’s an impressive range of different territories to explore too, from wild jungles to long stretches of the Caribbean coast, and lush mountain ranges. 

I really believe there’s nothing you can’t do in Colombia. The culture is explosive and fun, the dancing is some of the best in the world, the hiking is fantastic, it has a fascinating history, and there’s delicious food in every region. 

If you’re looking for a well-rounded country that offers a bit of everything, and is still super budget-friendly, then Colombia is for you. 

Beautiful Cali! This is la Maria-Mulata sculpture in the heart of town. oscar garces/Shutterstock

Go Salsa Dancing in Cali

Cali is a vibrant city in the South of Colombia that is famous as the “capital of salsa dance”. Most people come and spend a few weeks in the city and take salsa classes. If you get the chance to go to a salsa club you’ll find yourself in awe of the way the locals turn and swivel, effortlessly keeping up with the live music as their colorful dresses make shapes on the dance floor.

Join the locals and dance the weekend away! Don’t worry if you’re a beginner or you’ve got two left feet, Colombians are super friendly and they love helping visitors learn how to dance, so you’ll pick it up in no time. 

Fancy dancing in the open air? Then head to El Rincon de Heberth. Check out Punto Bare for live music, go to La Topa if you want to get swept up in the crowds, and try out MalaMaña to get a taste of a typical night out for a Caleño (the nickname given to people from Cali).