Latest News

Eight Colombian towns nominated for UN’s Best Tourism Villages 2025

By The City Paper Staff - May 15, 2025

From the snow-capped Andes to the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Colombia has nominated eight remarkably diverse rural towns for UN Tourism’s Best Tourism Villages 2025. These standout destinations—celebrated for their cultural depth, natural richness, and community-driven tourism—tell the story of a country where sustainability meets soul.

In separate accidents this month 75 foreigners pulled from open sea near Cartagena

By The City Paper Staff - March 21, 2025

Seventy-five foreign tourists have been rescued in two separate maritime accidents near Cartagena’s Barú Peninsula. A boat carrying 38 Europeans capsized Thursday, following a similar March 2 incident. Authorities cite rough seas and stress stricter maritime safety measures.

From vandalism to gang violence: Bogotá’s perception of insecurity on the rise

By Richard Emblin - February 28, 2025

Bogotá’s insecurity crisis worsens as masked attackers vandalize the historic Tren de la Sabana near Corferias. Mayor Galán implements new security measures, but rising homicides and gang violence fuel public concern. Authorities debate reinstating motorcycle passenger restrictions to curb crime.

Colombia’s tourism sector faces security challenges amid ANATO’s 44th edition

By Richard Emblin - February 27, 2025

Colombia’s ANATO tourism fair opens amid security concerns and President Petro’s no show during the opening cereomony. Industry leaders emphasized tourism’s economic importance, while Bogotá, Barranquilla and Santa Marta showcase growth, sustainability, and international partnerships to boost the country’s global standing.

Qatar Airways expands network with new flights to Bogotá and Caracas

By The City Paper Staff - January 22, 2025

Qatar Airways will launch two weekly flights connecting Doha to Bogotá and Caracas in summer 2025, becoming the first airline with non-stop Middle East-Colombia service. This expansion aims to enhance global connectivity and promotes trade and tourism.

Sacred Music, Sacred Territories: Colombia Es Música Sacra tributes the Putumayo

By Richard Emblin - January 15, 2025

The Colombia es Música Sacra tour arrived in Puerto Asís,Putumayo, with Camëntsá women from JASHNAN performing ancestral songs in a Catholic church. The event celebrated Indigenous resilience, cultural preservation, and reconciliation along the historic, extractive-ravaged Río Putumayo.

Medellín’s Comuna 13 rejects Pablo Escobar memorabilia

By Richard Emblin - January 7, 2025

Medellín’s Comuna 13 attracts nearly 900,000 visitors annually, blending vibrant art with community-focused tourism. The merchandise and tours glorifying Pablo Escobar have overshadowed the identity of a city rooted in culture and innovation.

Passport to Adventure: The Best Places to Travel in 2025

By The City Paper Staff - December 27, 2024

From the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand to the cultural depth of Japan and the sustainability-focused gem that is Slovenia, these five destinations offer travelers a chance to explore the world responsibly while enjoying unforgettable experiences in 2025!

La Alta Guajira: Colombia’s most beautiful and hostile desert

By María Claudia Peña - December 11, 2024

La Alta Guajira, Colombia, offers breathtaking desert landscapes, pristine beaches, and rich Wayuú culture. Visitors can explore sacred sites like Jepira, enjoy sustainable tourism, and experience authentic Wayuú traditions, showcasing the region’s beauty and resilience amidst modern challenges.

Bringing hope through Sacred Music to the Colombian heartland

By Richard Emblin - December 3, 2024

The International Sacred Music Festival of Colombia has embarked on a nationwide tour to deliver great classical works to audiences in remote communities. From Belalcázar, Caldas, to Aracataca, Magdalena, this festival directed by Marianna Piotrowska, promotes unity and reconciliation.

Quibdó: At the Heart of Chocó’s Cultural and Natural Heritage

By Richard Emblin - November 16, 2024

Nestled along the majestic Atrato River, Quibdó is a vibrant city where Afro-Colombian culture, lush rainforests, and colonial history converge. The city’s malecón offers breathtaking views of the river, bustling with traditional canoes and local vendors

Río Atrato: A watery lifeline at the heart of Colombia’s Pacific

By Richard Emblin - November 11, 2024

The Atrato River, flowing over 500 kilometers from the Farallones de Citará in Antioquia to the Gulf of Urabá, serves as a crucial waterway for Colombia’s Chocó department. As it passes through Quibdó, te departmental capital, the river becomes a bustling hub for commerce, connecting remote Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities.

Colombia Curiosity: Unearthing haunted legends and Otherworldly encounters

By Richard Emblin - October 31, 2024

Colombia has its share of haunted homes, haciendas and hotels that attract curiosity-seekers and adventurers. From chilling legends, to UFO sightings, and ghostly encounters, Colombia blends history with paranormal activities.

Colombia’s Ministry of Culture faces backlash over 500th anniversary of Santa Marta’s founding

By Richard Emblin - September 6, 2024

Colombia’s Ministry of Culture faces a backlash after downplaying Santa Marta’s 500th anniversary. Local leaders, including the mayor and the Academy of History of Magdalena, criticized Minister Juan David Correa for dismissing the event’s national significance.

Colombia’s Jet Fuel shortage leads to widespread flight cancellations

By The City Paper Staff - August 26, 2024

Colombia faces widespread flight cancellations as a jet fuel shortage, triggered by a refinery failure, impacts major airports across the country. Ecopetrol announced addtional A1 supplies will be delivered to aiports nationwide.

Oropouche virus emerges as public health threat in Colombia

By The City Paper Staff - August 5, 2024

The Oropouche virus (OROV) has been detected in Colombia for the first time, prompting concern among health authorities. As of July 30, 2024, a total of 8,078 cases have been reported across five countries in the Americas, including Colombia, Brazil, and Cuba.