Latest News

Colombia’s Avianca Close to Completing A320 Software Update

By The City Paper Staff - December 1, 2025

Colombia’s Transport Minister María Fernanda Rojas said on Monday that Avianca is close to completing mandatory software updates on its Airbus A320 fleet, with only 19 aircraft still pending intervention after a week of global disruptions triggered by what aviation experts describe as the largest recall in Airbus’s 55-year history. The grounding forced airlines across […]

An Avianca A320 on final approach to LAX, Los Angeles International Airport. Photo: Andrew Compolo/Airliners.Net

Avianca Grounds Most of Its A320 Fleet After Airbus Issues Safety Alert

By The City Paper Staff - November 28, 2025

Colombia’s flagship carrier, Avianca, announced Friday it has grounded more than 70% of its Airbus A320 fleet after the European manufacturer issued an urgent global bulletin ordering operators to carry out immediate software updates to prevent potential flight-control failures. The disruption, one of the most severe to hit the airline in years, comes as Airbus […]

Colombia’s Nevado del Ruiz and Global Rise of Volcano Tourism

By The City Paper Staff - November 7, 2025

Volcanoes are very visible when traveling through most of central Colombia and even though some remain dormant, hikers can climb up to the crater of the active Nevado del Ruíz

Coral Coves to Desert Shores: Colombia’s Most Unique Beaches

By Jacqueline de Klerk - October 18, 2025

There are countless stretches of beach in Colombia to explore, each with their own beauty and natural charm. Here four options fora carefree destination.

Colombians to Pay Higher Visa Fees with Trump’s “Beautiful Bill”

By The City Paper Staff - July 21, 2025

Starting October 1, Colombians and other foreign nationals seeking to visit the United States will face significantly higher visa fees, following the approval of new immigration measures contained in Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill”.

Bogotá and Avianca Launch South America’s First Official “Stopover” Program

By Richard Emblin - July 16, 2025

Bogotá and Avianca have launched StopOver Bogotá, South America’s first official stopover program, allowing international transit passengers to explore the city for up to 24 hours. The initiative aims to attract 472,000 additional visitors and boost tourism revenue for key attractions.

Singapore's Business District and Parliament building. Photo: Richard EmblinSingapore's Business District and Parliament building. Photo: Richard Emblin

72 Hours in Singapore: Where Colonial Heritage Meets a New Tomorrow

By Richard Emblin - June 18, 2025

Singapore is where futuristic gardens meet colonial grandeur, and Michelin-starred hawker stalls share the stage with bold global cuisine. In 72 hours, explore sacred temples, shop Orchard Road, sip a Singapore Sling at Raffles, and watch sunsets from Marina Barrage—this city-state is a curated rush of heritage, skyline, and flavor.

Avianca Expands Fleet in Strategic Deal with Singapore’s BOC Aviation

By Richard Emblin - June 6, 2025

Colombia’s flagship Avianca airlines has signed a lease agreement with Singapore-based BOC for nine Airbus A320neo aircraft, reinforcing its fleet expansion plans. The deal highlights Singapore’s growing aviation influence and global reference as a logitics hub for emerging markets.

Jakarta, Indonesia: A Timeless City in Endless Motion

By Richard Emblin - May 30, 2025

Jakarta, Indonesia’s vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern energy. From the historic streets of Kota Tua and lively Fatahillah Square to rooftop bars, colorful batik markets, and diverse street food, the city pulses with culture and contrast. It’s a dynamic gateway to Indonesia’s past, present, and future.

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.