See a truly cosmopolitan city in Bogotá, Colombia
2010-01-28
When compiling a list of the world's largest and most international cities, many
people overlook Colombia's capital of Bogotá. The city is a grand and amazing
metropolis comparable in size to San Francisco or Washington DC, and boasts a
population of approximately 8.1 million people.
Travelers have long been
mystified by Bogotá's mixture of classical style with modern culture that is
considered unique for the region. It is not uncommon to happen across
traditionally Spanish style cathedrals cooling the shadows of a massive
skyscraper, or footpaths thick with jungle vegetation running into vibrant urban
highways.
The city itself is flanked by mountains to its east and vast
expanses of sierra to the west, making finding one's way a touch simpler than
many major cities - a beneficial element when attempting to navigate the city's
20 or so districts.
With such a large city it may help to focus
particular days on a single district to maximize one's exploration time.
Visitors seeking a historical experience might enjoy the city's colonial
district, La Candelaria, while those desiring more bohemian and arty fare might
enjoy La Macarena. Tourists who like to party can hit up the nightclubs in
Parque de la 93, while sightseers might enjoy the modern marvels on display at
Teusaquillo.